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.
Under the Civil Code of Quebec, parental authority belongs to both parents. 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?
A letter written at home can technically suffice in certain cases, but it has significant limitations. Its validity may be challenged at the border, and some countries explicitly require an authenticated document.
A notarized authorization, on the other hand, carries probative value that is recognized internationally. The notary attests to the identity of the signatories and the validity of the consents expressed. This official document is far less likely to be refused or questioned by foreign border authorities. For families in Laval and the greater Montréal region who travel regularly, it is a concrete form of protection that is well worth the effort.
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, a notarized authorization from both parents is essential.
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.