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SESK: Stuff Everyone Should Know · sesk.info/wt-consent-letter-other-parent

A child travels abroad with only one parent. Who should sign the consent letter?

The other parent, the one staying home.

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  1. The other parent ✔
  2. The parent who is traveling
  3. The child's school principal

Why: Many countries check for child abduction at the border. If a child travels with one custodial parent, the consent letter should come from the other parent. If the child travels alone or with a guardian, both parents sign.

Huh, didn't know that: USAGov suggests the letter say: I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the adult's name] with my permission.

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What did the parent write in the consent letter? Permission granted, souvenirs required.
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References

Answer: The other parent. Many countries check for child abduction at the border. If a child travels with one custodial parent, the consent letter should come from the other parent. If the child travels alone or with a guardian, both parents sign.

  1. International travel documents for children (USAGov) www.usa.gov/travel-documents-children
    If the child is traveling with one custodial parent, the letter should be from the other parent.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  2. International travel documents for children (USAGov) www.usa.gov/travel-documents-children
    If the child is traveling with a guardian or alone, both parents should sign the letter.
    Checked 2026-10-12.
  3. International travel documents for children (USAGov) www.usa.gov/travel-documents-children
    I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with [the name of the adult] with my permission.
    Checked 2026-10-12.

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