TRAVELLING with children when you’re a single parent, either due to divorce or bereavement, can be difficult.
Not only can it be stressful, but it can also raise the issue of proving whether you have permission to travel with the child.
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At airports, single parents may be asked for proof that any children travelling with them are allowed out of the country through documents like consent letters.
Anyone travelling with a child that is not theirs, such as grandparents or family friends, will also need additional documents before travelling.
This is to clamp down on child abduction cases or child trafficking and the rules are enforced by immigration.
Here’s what you need to know…
If you do have permission to travel with the child
The government website warns parents who are travelling without the other parent to get proof of permission.
They advise: “A letter from the person with parental responsibility for the child is usually enough to show you’ve got permission to take them abroad.
“You might be asked for the letter at a UK or foreign border, or if there’s a dispute about taking a child abroad.
“The letter should include the other person’s contact details and details about the trip.”
They explain that having evidence of the relationship with the child, such as a birth or adoption certificate, as well as a divorce or marriage certificate, can help – especially if there are different surnames.
While there is not an official form that needs to be taken, an example consent form to fill out and sign can be found on Mumsnet, which includes key details of the holiday as well as signatures of parents.
If you don’t have permission
If one of the parents does not give their permission for the child to travel with you then you will need to request permission through the court.
The government website explains: “You’ll need to apply to a court for permission to take a child abroad if you haven’t got permission from the other people with parental responsibility.
“You must give details of the trip, e.g the date of departure, when and how you’re returning, and contact details of people with parental responsibility staying in the UK.
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“You must give more information if you’re taking the child abroad for a longer trip, e.g. what education the child will get while they’re abroad.”
It also warns that taking a child abroad without permission is illegal and counts as child abduction.
If you are not the parent of the child
Children travelling with family friends or grandparents will also need consent to take them out of the country.
Consent from both parents is required, if both still alive and in contact with the child.
Parents who have different surnames to their children will also need to take documents with them.
Sun Online Travel previously revealed some tips on travelling with kids that every parent needs to know.
There are also items that you might keep handy for your kids that are actually banned on flights.
