If a grandparent or one parent is traveling on their own with children abroad, there are a number of issues to bear in mind. To avoid any nasty surprises while abroad, we've put together a couple of tips for you and created a template for a travel authorization.
Why is a travel authorization advisable?
Under the Hague Convention against child abductions, contracting states are obliged to take all measures to prevent child abductions. This is aimed in part at ensuring and checking whether the parents or holder of parental responsibility has given the travel companion consent to be traveling with the child.
Do all countries ask for a travel authorization?
While not all countries require a specific travel authorization, we recommend that you obtain one and carry it with you in case of doubt, so that you don’t get any nasty surprises.
Do I always have to have the original hard copy of the travel authorization to hand on the journey?
Take the original document on the trip. Make sure in particular that you have it ready when crossing a border. Once you've arrived at your destination, you often don't need it any more. However, make sure that you can produce the document if necessary.
What else should I take with me apart from the travel authorization?
We recommend that you also take copies of the most important documents with you apart from the travel authorization, notably a copy of the legal guardian's ID, a copy of the family register, a copy of the birth certificates and any court order.
Click here to download our sample document for a travel authorization.