Consent Letter for Travelling Children

Global mobility and families are not necessarily the easiest terms to consolidate.  It has always been a challenge to work overseas with a family, but with the introduction of much stricter rules for leaving and entering a country when with children, a quick trip can easily turn out to be a nightmare.  This is particularly true when only one parent is travelling with a child.  Governments are ever watchful for possible abductions.  No one would argue that this is a positive step but it highlights the need for parents to make sure that their “t”s are crossed and their “i”s are dotted.

To help facilitate easy exit and entrance for a parent traveling with children, the Department of Foreign Affairs and International Trade has created a sample Consent letter for children travelling abroad.

The Canadian Expat Association, is hosting a copy of this letter on their website for download by both members and by the general public.

The sample letter can be obtained here:   http://goo.gl/rZ4wH

The Canadian Department of Foreign Affairs stated in their news release "Since every situation is unique, we recommend that you talk to a lawyer for advice on what your child will require, particularly if your parenting arrangement has special terms governing international travel.

Carrying a consent letter cannot guarantee entry, as permission to enter another country is entirely the decision of that country. A consent letter may be required by foreign authorities, in addition to other country-specific entry requirements. You should contact the representatives of the country or countries to be visited by the child to ensure that you have the most up-to-date information regarding specific entry requirements.

We strongly recommend that you have the consent letter certified, stamped or sealed by an official who has the authority to administer an oath or solemn declaration, e.g., a commissioner for oaths, notary public or lawyer, so that the validity of the letter will not be questioned. Note that regulations concerning the administration of oaths fall under provincial/territorial law and are not determined by Foreign Affairs and International Trade Canada. Furthermore, it is up to each official/individual who witnesses such a letter to decide what proof he/she needs to see to be able to witness/sign the letter. An official should only witness/sign a letter of consent if he/she is convinced that the individual requesting the letter is who he/she claims to be and that adequate proof has been provided.

We also recommend that you contact the transportation company (airline, train, bus, etc.) in order to observe any additional policies they might have in place."