We are getting an increasing number of requests to prepare and notarise travel consents for clients travelling with children if both parents are not travelling with the child. It is difficult to state categorically whether a notarised parental consent is required. It depends on the country and the policy of the airline.
Historically, the need for a consent from both parents was there to protect children being removed from their country of origin and it only applied to certain countries, mainly in Eastern Europe and South America. However, we have noticed that the airlines and travel companies are urging anybody travelling with children to ensure that they have a notarised document signed by the child’s parents. This document will state the dates of travel, the child’s details, the accompanying adult’s details and the destination country. It should also enable the accompanying adult to consent to necessary medical treatment.
If a child (which is anyone under the age of 18) travels regularly with a specific adult, it may be possible to create a consent that lasts for a number of months but there is a risk that this would not be accepted at passport control. It is better to issue a new consent for each trip, although we appreciate that this does add an extra expense to the holiday.
If both parents are not able to issue permission, it may be sufficient to have just one parent sign the travel consent. Again, it really depends on the country of travel and the length of the trip as to what will be accepted. It is better to have a notarised consent from one parent than nothing but it is advisable to check with the airline that this will be adequate before travel. You should also carry the child’s birth certificate with you and a separate consent should be created for each child if you are travelling with more than one child.
If you need specific advice regarding travel consents, please get in touch with us directly – we are happy to help.
