Child Travel Consent Letter: Why It Matters and How to Get One Notarized

If your child is traveling internationally without both parents, whether with one parent, a grandparent, or a school group, a notarized child travel consent letter is one of the most important documents you can have. Border officers in many countries, and Canada's own border services, may ask for it. Not having one can result in delays, secondary screening, or your child being refused boarding. Document Genie in Edmonton and Surrey prepares and notarizes child travel consent letters — walk-ins welcome.

When Is a Child Travel Consent Letter Required?

While not always legally mandatory, a notarized consent letter is strongly recommended by the Government of Canada in the following situations:

• A child is traveling with only one parent (the other parent is still living)

• A child is traveling with a guardian, grandparent, aunt, uncle, or other relative

• A child is traveling as part of a school trip without their parents

• A child is traveling alone as an unaccompanied minor

Some countries require the letter for entry. Airlines may also ask for it. Having it notarized adds legal weight and removes doubt at border control.

What Should the Letter Include?

A proper child travel consent letter should contain:

• Full legal names of the child and both parents/guardians

• The child's date of birth and passport number

• The name of the accompanying adult (if any)

• Travel itinerary — destination(s), dates of travel

• Emergency contact information for the non-traveling parent or guardian

• A statement of consent signed by the absent parent(s)

The document must be signed in person before a Notary Public — it cannot be pre-signed and submitted.

What If One Parent Is Deceased or Unreachable?

If one parent is deceased, bring the death certificate — we can certify a copy. If one parent's whereabouts are unknown or there is a custody order in place, bring the relevant court documents. Our notary will advise you on what documentation best protects your child's travel.

Related Documents We Also Notarize

• Authorization for emergency medical treatment of a minor

• Consent for a minor to obtain a passport

• Custodial consent for medical treatment

• Parenting and custody agreements

Walk In Today, Be Ready to Travel Tomorrow

Bring your unsigned letter and your government-issued photo ID. If you are the sole parent/guardian giving consent, you can come alone. Our team will witness your signature, notarize the letter, and have you out the door quickly. No appointment necessary at either our Edmonton or Surrey location.

📍 Ready to get your documents notarized? Walk in today or schedule an appointment online.

📞  AB: 587 501 2088   •   BC: 778 907 7100