Child Travel Consent Form for International Travel

Taking your child on an international trip, or sending them abroad with one parent, a relative, or a group? A child travel consent form for international travel is one of the most important things to pack. Border and customs officials in many countries ask for written, notarized proof that a parent or guardian approved the trip.

Why international travel needs a consent form

Countries take child protection seriously, and border officers are trained to watch for children traveling without both parents. A notarized consent form shows that the absent parent (or both parents) approved the travel and authorized the accompanying adult. Without it, families can face questioning, long delays, or in some cases be turned away at the border.

What to include for international trips

• The child’s full legal name, date of birth, and passport number
• The consenting parent(s) or guardian(s), with signatures
• The accompanying adult and their relationship to the child
• Destination country and travel dates
• Emergency contact and medical authorization
• A notary acknowledgment block

Should it be notarized?

For international travel, yes, notarization is strongly recommended and frequently expected. It proves the signature is genuine, which is exactly what foreign border officials want to see. You can notarize the form online in minutes, from any state, before your trip.

Frequently asked questions

Do both parents need to sign for international travel?

When both parents have custody, having both sign is safest. If only one parent is signing, some destinations may want an explanation or supporting documents.

How early should I prepare it?

Prepare and notarize it well before departure so it is ready and cannot delay your trip.

Can I notarize it online before an international trip?

Yes. Online notarization is available from any U.S. state and takes just a few minutes.

This article is for general informational purposes and is not legal advice. Some links are referral links, and NotarEase NYC may earn a small credit at no extra cost to you. Entry requirements vary by country and airline; confirm with your airline and destination before you travel.