If you are planning on embarking on some international travel with children then you will likely have your hands full. However, there are a few things that you will need to know so that you don’t get caught up in a mess that could have easily been avoided. First, especially with all of the international havoc that is going on, ALL children require a passport for international travel. They also need supporting identification, such as a birth certificate or citizenship card. Check with the nearest embassy or consulate of each destination country regarding additional entry conditions and documentation (if required), including divorce papers, custody court orders or a death certificate (if one parent is deceased).
It is highly recommended that if children are travelling alone or with one parent that they carry a consent letter for every international trip. It is also advised to have the consent letter certified, stamped or sealed by an official who has the authority to administer an oath or solemn declaration so that the validity of the letter will not be in question. If there is a chance that a custody dispute might develop while the child is abroad then seek advice from an attorney before departing. Remember that some custody arrangements may not be recognized in some countries. Always tuck some form of identification in your child’s pocket in case you are separated. Carry recent photographs of the child for emergency identification purposes.
If a child is traveling alone on an international flight then some airlines will escort and supervise an unaccompanied child from check-in through arrival. Most airlines do require a parent or guardian to stay at the airport until the flight has departed. The person greeting the child at the point of arrival must have appropriate identification and authorization. If you are on an international flight with an infant know that they must sit in an approved child safety seat during the flight. Make sure that you remember to bring all of your baby supplies but also keep in mind all of the new airline carry on restrictions. If your child is on any prescription medications make sure that you have a doctor’s note detailing their generic names and purposes.
There are many wonderful places across the globe that you may want to venture off to and many times these journeys may require international travel with children. As long as you follow the guidelines and restrictions your journey will be an enjoyable one. These restrictions have been put in place to protect us all so don’t take them personally, they just require a bit of extra effort prior to departure.
