Don’t let a missing document ruin your family vacation. If a minor child (under 18 or 19) is traveling abroad without both parents present, border security officials often require proof that the trip has been authorized. Without this proof, you risk facing delays, questioning, or even being denied entry at the border.
At Canada Notary, we assist thousands of families every year by notarizing Consent to Travel Letters. Whether your child is traveling with one parent, a grandparent, a school group, or alone, our licensed Notaries ensure your permission document is legally verified and ready for international borders.
A Consent to Travel Letter is a formal document demonstrating that a child has permission to travel outside Canada from every parent or guardian who is not accompanying them.
While it is not a mandatory requirement under Canadian law, the Government of Canada “strongly recommends” carrying one for all cross-border travel. Many foreign countries do require it for entry, and airline staff may check for it before allowing the child to board.
You should carry a notarized consent letter in the following situations:
Traveling with One Parent: If you are traveling alone with your child, you need a letter signed by the other parent (even if you are married).
Separated or Divorced Parents: If you have shared custody, the non-traveling parent must sign the letter. If you have sole custody, you should carry the court order instead of a letter (though a letter is still helpful).
Traveling with Relatives/Friends: If a child is traveling with grandparents, aunts/uncles, or family friends, both parents must sign the letter.
Unaccompanied Minors: If the child is flying alone, both parents must sign.
Why pay a Notary if you can just sign it at home?
While you can write a letter yourself, border officials are trained to look for signs of child abduction. A simple handwritten note can easily be forged.
Government Recommendation: The Government of Canada states that officials are “less likely to question the authenticity” of a letter if it has been witnessed by a Notary Public.
International Standards: Many countries (such as Mexico and the USA) prefer or require the document to be notarized for legal validity.
To get your letter notarized instantly, please bring:
The Unsigned Letter: You can use the official Government of Canada Template or have us draft one for you. Do not sign it yet.
Parent’s ID: The parent(s) giving consent must appear in person with valid government photo ID (Passport/Driver’s License).
Child’s Details: Have the child’s full name, birth date, and passport number ready.
Travel Details: Know the specific travel dates, destination address, and the name of the accompanying adult.
Note: The accompanying parent (the one traveling) does not need to be present for the notarization—only the parent(s) staying behind must sign.
Yes. If you find the government forms confusing, we offer Document Drafting Services. We will create a professional consent letter covering all legal requirements for a small additional fee.
Yes. A consent letter is typically valid only for the specific trip dates listed on the document. Using an old letter for a new trip is risky and may be rejected by border guards.
Yes! We can notarize travel consent letters via video call using our Online Commissioning Service. This is legally valid in Ontario and accepted by most travel authorities.
Celebrate with us this Friday — enjoy 10% OFF Notary & Commissioner Services (online & in-person).
Coupon Code: CNOTARY10
Offer valid from September 12–15, 2025. Excludes Apostille and Translation services.
Terms & Conditions
To qualify for the 15% notary discount, eligible individuals must provide valid proof. Full-time students are required to present a valid student ID along with proof of current full-time enrollment. Seniors must be 65 years of age or older and show government-issued ID for age verification. Those receiving social assistance must provide official documentation from either Ontario Works or the Ontario Disability Support Program (ODSP). Canadian military personnel must present valid military identification. All submitted documentation must be current and verifiable. Canada Notary reserves the right to decline the discount if sufficient proof is not provided.
