Consent to Travel.

Child Travel Consent Letters
To ensure the safety of children, many governments—including Canada—have established specific requirements for travelers under the age of 18 who are traveling without both parents or legal guardians.
Why You Need a Notarized Letter
Many countries now require documentary evidence, in the form of a Notarized Consent to Travel Letter, to confirm that a minor has permission to cross international borders alone or with an accompanying adult. This requirement is often mandatory and sits alongside other regulations set by airlines and border authorities.
The Importance of Notarization
It is important to note that a simple, uncertified letter or form may be rejected by border officials. Because handwritten or self-signed documents can be easily forged, authorities often insist on a document that has been verified and notarized by a licensed Notary Public.
Having your travel consent letter notarized provides the necessary proof of authenticity, helping to prevent delays or denied boarding at the airport and ensuring a smoother experience at international checkpoints.
When Is a Notarized Travel Consent Letter Required?
To ensure a smooth journey and prevent delays at the border, a notarized travel consent letter is strongly recommended in the following scenarios:
• Child Traveling with Only One Parent If a minor is traveling with only one parent, the non-accompanying parent should provide a notarized consent letter. This demonstrates that the child has permission to travel abroad and helps prevent issues related to international parental child abduction.
• Child Traveling Alone or with a Non-Parent If a minor is traveling alone, with a group, or accompanied by an adult who is not their legal parent/guardian (e.g., a grandparent, teacher, or family friend), a notarized consent letter signed by both parents (or the sole legal guardian) is required.
• Child with a Deceased Parent or Sole Custody If one parent is deceased, the surviving parent should carry a notarized copy of the death certificate. In cases of sole legal custody, the traveling parent should carry a notarized copy of the court order or a birth certificate naming only one parent to provide definitive proof of authorization