International Travel With Children: Departure Checklist

Print one copy for each child. Check the entry and exit rules for every country on your trip.

Passports and border documents

• ☐ Child's valid passport
• ☐ Destination and transit-country passport validity checked
• ☐ Required visa, ETA, or other entry permit
• ☐ Airline reservation matches passport name

Permission and proof of relationship

• ☐ Signed travel consent letter, if required or recommended
• ☐ Country-specific forms, translations, and notary rules checked
• ☐ Birth/adoption records or other relationship evidence
• ☐ Relevant custody, guardianship, name-change, or death records

Trip and emergency preparation

• ☐ Airline rules for children, infants, and unaccompanied minors reviewed
• ☐ Destination health and medication rules checked
• ☐ Emergency contacts and trip details shared with caregiver
• ☐ Insurance, prescriptions, and any separate medical authorization reviewed
• ☐ Required originals in hand luggage; copies stored separately

Sources: U.S. Department of State International Travel Checklist and Travel with Minors. Confirm the requirements with the destination's embassy or consulate. U.S. Passport Service Guide is not a government agency.

More: International Travel Checklist for Families With Children   |   Free Consent Form