You're heading on vacation with your child, but the other parent isn't coming along. Everything seems perfectly planned — the tickets are booked, the suitcases nearly packed — until a border agent asks you for a travel authorization signed by the other parent. Without this document, departure can be refused on the spot. This scenario, more common than one might think, occurs every year at airports in the greater Montréal region. Here is what you need to know to travel with complete peace of mind.
Why Is a Travel Authorization Sometimes Required?
Border agents in many countries have the discretionary authority to require proof that a minor child is travelling with the consent of both parents or legal guardians. This measure is designed to prevent international child abductions and unauthorized travel.
In Canada, the federal government itself recommends that travellers carry a consent letter when a child is travelling without one of their parents or legal guardians. This recommendation applies regardless of the destination — even for a stay in the United States or a European Union country.
In principle, the father and mother exercise parental authority together over their minor child. This means that each parent has a say in important decisions concerning the child, including international travel. Me Petrulian will walk you through the details during your consultation.
What a Valid Travel Authorization Should Include
A complete and recognized travel authorization should ideally include:
- The full names and dates of birth of the child and both parents
- The destination and precise travel dates
- The name of the person accompanying the child (parent, grandparent, guardian)
- The contact information of the parent remaining in the country
- A clear declaration of consent to travel
- A copy of the signatories' identity documents
A Homemade Letter or a Notarized Authorization?
When a minor child travels abroad without being accompanied by both parents, it is recommended to have a consent letter signed by the parent who is not travelling. Although this authorization is not required by Canadian law, it may be requested by border authorities, carriers or the authorities of the destination country. Notarization of the letter is not mandatory, but it can make it easier to verify its authenticity.
Situations Where an Authorization Is Strongly Recommended
Several everyday situations make this document particularly important:
Separated Parents or Common-Law Partners
This is the most obvious situation. As soon as only one parent is travelling with the child, the other parent's authorization is strongly recommended — whether or not a custody order is in place.
Grandparents or Extended Family Members
Grandparents from Sainte-Dorothée taking their grandchildren to visit family in Europe, an uncle accompanying his nephew on a school trip — in all of these cases, an authorization from both parents is strongly recommended.
International School Trips
Some schools now require this document for educational outings abroad. A notarized authorization simplifies the process for organizers and protects all parties involved.
Blended Families
When a stepparent accompanies their partner's child alone, the absence of a direct legal relationship can raise questions at the border. A notarized authorization from the biological parents or legal guardians immediately clarifies the situation.
Steps to Obtain Your Authorization Before Departure
The process is straightforward and quick. Here is how to proceed:
- Book an appointment with a notary in Laval — ideally several weeks before the planned departure date
- Gather the required documents: the child's birth certificate, parents' identity documents, and travel information
- Both parents sign the authorization before the notary (or a power of attorney may be considered if one parent is unavailable — Me Petrulian will explain your options during your consultation)
- Keep the original and make copies to include with your travel documents
Do not leave this step to the last minute. Certain situations — such as one parent's refusal to sign — require time to resolve.
Consult Groupe Synergie Notaires
Are you planning a trip with your minor child? Don't let a missing document jeopardize your plans. The team at Groupe Synergie Notaires, under the leadership of Me Mirabela Petrulian, supports families in Laval and the greater Montréal region in preparing their notarized travel authorizations.
Contact us today to schedule your consultation before departure:
📍 67 boulevard Samson, Laval (Sainte-Dorothée), QC H7X 3E6 📞 (514) 399-1009 ✉️ info@gsnotaires.com
Important Notice: The information presented in this article is provided for informational purposes only. It does not constitute legal, professional, or personalized advice and is not a substitute for a consultation tailored to your particular situation.
This text is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice. As each situation is unique, it is recommended that you consult a professional to obtain advice tailored to your particular situation.