A child’s life is enriched by travel. Children who travel are more well-rounded and educated compared to their peers.
Having family in another country provides an even greater benefit to your children by allowing them to explore their culture and learn its traditions. Now that you’re divorced, will you ever be able to travel internationally with your children again?
The Hague Convention
The Hague Convention has helped shape the rules regarding international travel with children. It’s designed to prevent parental child abduction across borders by requiring countries that are part of the treaty to return abducted children to their country of residence. Parents who don’t obtain the proper court approval to travel outside the country could find themselves facing severe legal consequences.
Before making any plans for international travel with your children, discussing your plans with the other parent is vital. You will need to obtain a notarized travel authorization letter that includes:
- The non-traveling parent’s acknowledgment and agreement
- Travel dates
- Destination(s)
- Contact information
- Who will be accompanying the children
If your ex-partner refuses to grant consent, you may need to petition for a court order.
When traveling, you will need the following documentation:
- Passports for everyone
- Travel consent letter or court order
- Birth certificate
- Contact information for the non-traveling parent if authorities need to verify the consent letter
You will also want to research the laws of your destination country to see if they have any additional legal requirements.
There is no reason why you shouldn’t be able to continue traveling with your children after your divorce. While it’s easier with your ex-spouse’s consent, it’s not necessarily impossible without it. If you are unsure of the process, you will want to work with someone who can help you understand your rights, assist you with the preparation of the necessary documentation and advocate for you if you need to secure the court’s permission.
