Getting a Child Travel Consent Letter Notarized

Who signs

Generally the parent or guardian who is staying behind. If both parents are staying behind and the child travels with a relative or group, both usually sign. Each signer needs their own photo identification and must appear before the notary.

What the letter usually contains

• The child's full name and date of birth
• The travelling adult's name and relationship to the child
• Destination and travel dates
• Contact details for the consenting parent
• The consenting parent's signature

Check the requirements early

Airlines, destination countries and consulates set their own rules, and some ask for additional documents such as a birth certificate copy or a custody order. Confirm with the airline and the destination country's consulate well before departure — a notary cannot tell you what a border official will require.

If time is short

Mobile notaries can meet a parent at home, at work or at the airport area, and online notarization may be an option if the recipient accepts an electronic document. For international travel, many families prefer a traditional paper notarization because it is universally recognised.