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Planning to travel with a child? A notarized travel consent letter authorizes minors to travel with one parent, grandparents, guardians, or other adults, helping you avoid border delays and custody concerns.
Quick answer
Travel Consent can be notarized online over a secure video appointment with an Ontario Notary Public, or in person in Ottawa. The flat rate is $19.90 + HST and most appointments take 15-20 minutes.
A travel consent letter (also called a child travel consent form or minor travel authorization) is a document signed by the non-traveling parent(s) or guardian(s) giving explicit permission for a minor child to travel domestically or internationally. This notarized letter helps border officials, airlines, and immigration authorities verify that the child has proper authorization to travel and is not being abducted or trafficked. While not always legally required, travel consent letters are strongly recommended by the Government of Canada, CBSA (Canada Border Services Agency), and most airlines. Border agents have the authority to question any adult traveling with a minor, and having a notarized consent letter can prevent lengthy delays, missed flights, or being denied entry to another country. The letter typically includes parent information, child details, travel itinerary, emergency contacts, and sometimes medical authorization.
Related services you may need: Certified True Copies, Digital Certified Copies, Notarizing Signatures
Why it matters
Border officials worldwide are trained to identify potential child abduction and trafficking situations. When a child travels without both parents, this raises legitimate questions that officials must address. A notarized travel consent letter answers these questions before they're asked, demonstrating that the non-traveling parent has given explicit, verified permission for the trip. The Government of Canada strongly recommends consent letters for any child traveling without both parents. CBSA officers can and do question travelers, and without proper documentation, you may face lengthy interrogations, missed flights, or being turned away at the border. International destinations may have even stricter requirements. The small investment in a notarized consent letter provides peace of mind and helps ensure smooth travel for everyone.
Straightforward process. Most appointments completed in minutes once we're face to face.
Have the child's passport details, travel dates, destinations, and accompanying adult information ready. The more detail, the better for border officials.
The parent(s) NOT traveling with the child must come in person to sign the consent letter. They cannot sign in advance or have someone else sign for them.
The signing parent presents valid government-issued photo ID. The notary verifies their identity.
Review the consent letter for accuracy, ensure all details are correct, then sign in the presence of the notary.
The Notary Public applies their seal and signature, making the consent letter official. Receive your notarized letter immediately.
What to bring
Please ensure you have the following items when you visit.
Quick tips to make your appointment go smoothly.
Include exact dates, destinations, flight numbers if known, and the full name of the accompanying adult. Vague letters may not satisfy border officials.
Add phone numbers and email addresses for both the traveling and non-traveling parent. This allows officials to verify if they have concerns.
Bring the child's birth certificate, custody orders if applicable, and proof of relationship to the child along with the consent letter.
Don't wait until the last minute. Get the consent letter notarized at least a few days before travel to avoid rush situations.
Is This For You?
This service is commonly needed by the following groups.
When one parent travels with children, a consent letter from the other parent is essential to avoid custody-related questions at the border.
Grandparents, aunts, uncles, and other relatives taking children on trips need written consent from both parents.
Adults traveling with children who are not their own need explicit, notarized authorization from the parents.
Teachers, coaches, and group leaders taking minors on trips abroad need consent letters from all parents.
Even if you have sole custody, carrying court documents and a notarized letter explaining the situation helps avoid border complications.
Transparent pricing
The price you see is what you pay at the counter. HST applies.
Booking online instead? Online appointments add HST plus a small card processing fee, shown in full before you pay.
First stamp / seal
Per document
Each additional stamp / seal
Each additional stamp
Ready when you are. Same-day slots available most weekdays.
While travel consent letters are not legally required in Canada, the Government of Canada and CBSA strongly recommend them. Many countries have stricter requirements and may deny entry to minors without proper documentation. This letter provides evidence of parental consent and can be crucial in preventing border complications or allegations of child abduction.
FAQs
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Everything parents need to know about travel consent letters when children travel with one parent, grandparents, or guardians. Avoid border issues with proper documentation.
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Complete guide to authorization letters - when you need them, how to write them, and when notarization is required. Includes templates and examples for common situations.
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Book today
$19.90 + HST. 15-20 minutes. Book online, with same-day slots available most weekdays.
Travel Consent
$19.90 + HST · 15-20 minutes