Taking your child abroad – Permission letters, do you need one?

What do I need to take my child abroad?

If more than one person has Parental Responsibility for your child and you don’t have an order that allows you to travel (for example a live with order which allows travel for up to 28 days), you must get permission from the other person with Parental Responsibility.

How do I get permission?

It’s advisable to take with you a “Permission to Travel “ letter.  Put simply this is a letter signed by the other parent confirming that they give consent to the trip. This letter should include

1. Full names and contact information of both parents or legal guardians and passport details

2. Child’s full name and date of birth and passport details

3. Details of the trip, including destination, duration, and dates of travel.

4. Signature of the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) providing consent.

It is also important to check the requirements of the country you are visiting as some countries require this letter to be notarised or witnessed by a lawyer. 

What other documents should I carry?

If you hold a different surname to your child it is sensible to also carry their full birth certificate showing both parents names and, if one parent has since married, their marriage certificate.

What about Grandparents?

Grandparents who don’t have their child living with them under an order, should always carry a consent letter which should be signed by all those that hold parental responsibility.

What if I can’t get consent?

If you can’t obtain consent, then you will not be able to take your child abroad.  Further information on how to obtain this can be found on the UK Government Website.