Travel consent letters for children leaving Canada
Updated October 2, 2026 · General information, not legal advice
A consent letter isn't a legal requirement in Canada, but the Government of Canada recommends that any child travelling abroad without both parents carry one, signed by each parent who isn't travelling. Having it witnessed by a notary is strongly recommended.
When a child should carry one
The Government of Canada recommends a consent letter whenever a child travels outside Canada alone, with only one parent, or with other adults, even for a day trip across the border. It applies to parents who are married, separated or divorced. Officials entering another country, or Canadian officials on the way back, may ask for it.
Who signs it
Every parent or person with decision-making responsibility who isn't travelling with the child should sign. Your parenting order or agreement may say more, for example how much notice you must give before travelling. A consent letter is still recommended even if your order lets one parent make travel decisions alone. A letter isn't needed from a parent who has been denied access by a court order.
What it should include
- The child's full name, date of birth and passport details
- The accompanying adult's name, passport details and relationship to the child
- Destination and travel dates
- The consenting parent's contact details and signature, with a witness or notary
What to carry
Carry the signed letter, the child's passport, and a copy of your parenting order or agreement if you have one. Siblings travelling together can be listed on one letter. Check the entry rules of every country you're visiting, as some ask for more.
If the other parent won't sign
Try to resolve it directly first, then consider mediation or family justice services. If you're worried a child may not be brought back, speak to a lawyer before signing anything. If asking the other parent isn't safe, get legal advice.
Make a travel consent letter (free)
Questions
Is a travel consent letter mandatory in Canada?
No. There's no Canadian legal requirement, but the Government of Canada recommends one for any child travelling without both parents, and officials may ask for it.
Does a travel consent letter need to be notarized?
Any adult can witness it, but the Government of Canada strongly recommends having a notary public witness the signature so its validity isn't questioned.
Do I need a consent letter for a day trip to the US?
It's recommended for all cross-border travel, including day trips, when a child is travelling without both parents.
In Tandem, your co-parent consents in the app with their full name, the letter is ready to print, and every signed letter is saved on your phone for the airport.
Sources: Government of Canada: consent letter for children travelling outside Canada; Government of Canada: consent letter FAQ. Laws and official guidance change; check the source and speak to a lawyer about your situation.