Sample Parental Permission Letter to take minor children out of the country
Non-custodial parents….and grandparents….need to be aware that they cannot take minor children out of the country without permission from either the non-custodial parent, or in the case of grandparents, the custodial parent. To do so is usually a criminal offensed. Each country has its own rules, so you should check with the appropriate authorities in your country of residence.
Don’t try to do this “on the cheap”. Saving a few dollars on a passport or other documentation is not worth the risk of having your entire vacation cancelled. Almost all airlines and cruise lines will require the proper documentation for minor children traveling with those of a different last name. If they don’t match, you will be denied boarding (the airlines and cruise lines are subject to heavy fines if they violate this rule, so be sure to do this right)
Below is a sample letter from someone residing in the U.S.A.
This a sample of the type of letter that you must have with you if you are taking minor children out of the country….even if they already have their passport.
This is not a legal document, so check with your airline, cruise line or attorney for actual requirements since this may need some changes. You may not be allowed to board without it!
Consent for Minor Children to Travel
Date:_____________________
I (we):______________________________________________________________
authorize my/our minor child(ren): ___________________________________________
to travel to:_________________________________ on:_________________________
aboard (Airline/Flight Number):________________________________________
and/or (Cruise Ship):_____________________________________________ with:
____________________________________________________________.
Their expected date of return is _______________________.
In addition, I (we) authorize:______________________________________ to consent to any necessary routine or emergency medical treatment during the aforementioned trip.
Signed:_________________________________ (Parent)
Signed:_________________________________ (Parent)
Address:________________________________________
_______________________________________________
Telephone:______________________________________
Sworn to and signed before me, a Notary Public,
this _______ day of _______________, 20____
________________________________________
Notary Public Signature and Seal
We recommend a letter similar to the one shown for those grandparents, or solo parents, traveling with minor children. See our page regarding permission requirements for details.
This is not a legal document, so check with your airline, cruise line or attorney for actual requirements since this may need some changes. You may not be allowed to board without it!