While the minor travel consent form is not a universally required legal document, a child traveling without one can lead to serious complications in many countries. Different nations have their own regulations regarding child travel. Being uninformed or unprepared can quickly lead to distressing situations for both you and your child.
U.S. citizen children traveling outside of the U.S.
Children traveling to most other countries are required to have a U.S. passport. Learn how to get a passport for a minor under 18. Depending on the country, the child may also need a visa and other travel documents. Search for the country the child will be visiting to find out what documentation that country requires.
Providing parental consent when a child travels without both custodial parents
Ports of entry in many countries have security measures to prevent international child abduction. If your child is traveling alone or with only one parent or legal guardian, they may need a letter of consent from the other custodial parent. 
  • The letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent (if the child is traveling with one custodial parent) or signed by both parents (if the child is traveling with a guardian or alone) should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission."
Use our printable Child Travel Consent Form template as a base to help you create your document and give permission to your child to travel without you. Getting a Travel Consent form notarized before international travel is recommended by the United States Customs and Border Protection. 

Free Travel ​Consent Templates

Sample Consent Letter (1 parent)
File Size: 18 kb
File Type: docx
Download File
Sample Consent Letter (2 parents)
File Size: 15 kb
File Type: docx
Download File

Get it Notarized!

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Additionally, if a minor is traveling abroad alone:
  • Contact the embassy or consulate of the country your child will be visiting and ask about entry and exit requirements for that country.
  • The airline may require you to submit an unaccompanied minor form and pay them a fee for unaccompanied minor service. This service provides an airline employee escort for your child at the airport and on board the plane. In addition, you and the person picking your child up at their destination may also need to provide the airline with identification and contact information.
    • Contact your airline before your child’s trip to find out:
      • What age requirements the airline has for their unaccompanied minor service
      • If you can book a ticket with a connecting flight
      • What documents and fees are required
Any minor that has not yet turned 18 should have their Minor Travel Consent Form notarized. Having the document notarized adds to its legitimacy, which means it'll be less likely for U.S. Customs and Border Protection Agents to doubt the authenticity. Signing requirements vary by country, so it's always a good idea to have your signatures notarized. Other names for a Travel Consent Form: Child Travel Consent Form, Parental Travel Consent Form, Parental Consent Form for Travel, Consent to Travel Form, Minor Travel Consent Form, Travel Permission Letter, Parental Consent Form, Letter for Children Traveling Abroad.