travel documents needed for a minor

​As Spring Break approaches, a lot of families are planning to travel out of the country with their child/children. If your travel plans do not include the other parent, a travel consent form signed by the other parent and notarized or a court order signed is advised.

​The Canadian Government recommends that you have the following documents when travelling with a minor:
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• Their birth certificate (or a copy - although a copy can be acceptable, it is best to carry the original document)
• A notarized letter from the other parent with their address and phone number; and
• A copy of the other parents’ passport (with signature)
• Separated or divorced parents should also have copies of their legal custody documents.
• If the child’s parent is deceased, a copy of their death certificate is recommended.

Although a consent letter and copy of the non-accompanying parents’ passport is not a legal requirement, it can still be requested by border security or an airline agent when leaving the country or re-entering.  It is recommended to air on the side of caution and have all the paperwork on hand to prevent delays or even a refusal to allow you to enter or exit a country.