Consent to travel Document Notarisation

Who Can Notarise a Child Travel Consent Form (UK)

 

Everything you need to know about a child travel consent form (UK) — also called a travel consent letter or consent to travel form — including who can notarise it, what to include, when you need it notarised or apostilled, and how to get it done quickly.

Quick answer: For international use, a UK Notary Public can notarise the parental

consent to travel. Some airlines and countries accept a solicitor-witnessed letter, but many specifically require a notarised travel consent form and sometimes an apostille. Always check the airline and destination border authority.

What is a child travel consent letter?

A child travel consent letter is a signed statement by the parent(s) or legal guardian(s) authorising a child to travel with another adult or alone. It reduces the risk of delays at the border, especially when only one parent is present or surnames differ.

Who can notarise or witness it in the UK?

  • Notary Public (recommended for international use): verifies identity and witnesses signatures, issuing a notarial certificate that is widely recognised abroad.
  • Solicitor / Commissioner for Oaths: may be acceptable for some airlines/countries; others specifically require notarisation.
  • Unwitnessed letters: can work for limited cases, but are risky for international travel.

What to include in the consent to travel form

  • Child’s full name, date of birth, and passport number (if available)
  • Names and contact details of accompanying adult(s)
  • Travel dates, destinations, flight/accommodation details
  • Clear consent statement by the parent(s)/guardian(s), plus medical consent if desired
  • Copy of the child’s birth certificate (and any relevant court/parental responsibility orders)

How to get a notarised child travel consent in the UK

  1. Draft the letter with all details above (ask for a template if needed).
  2. Book a Notary Public appointment; all signing parents bring photo ID and proof of address.
  3. Sign before the notary; the notary issues a certificate.
  4. Check if an apostille is required for your destination; arrange via the notary if needed.

What to bring

  • Valid photo ID (passport or UK driving licence) for each signing parent/guardian
  • Recent proof of address
  • Child’s birth certificate and passport (if available)
  • Any court or consent orders (if applicable)

Timing & typical steps

Service Typical timing
Notary travel consent form (witness & certificate) Same day (by appointment)
Apostille (if required) Varies; allow extra time

Fees depend on complexity and number of documents. Ask for a quote.

Book a Notary Appointment

FAQs: child travel consent & notarisation (UK)

Who can notarise a child travel consent form in the UK?

A UK Notary Public can notarise the consent to travel form for use abroad. Some destinations accept a solicitor-witnessed letter, but many require notarisation.

Do I need a child travel consent form UK if my child is travelling with one parent?

It’s strongly recommended. Border officers may ask for evidence of consent from the non-travelling parent.

What is a “travel consent letter” — is it the same as a consent to travel form?

Yes. Both terms refer to the same document giving permission for the child to travel.

When is a notarized travel consent form UK required?

When the destination country, airline, or visa/immigration process specifies notarisation, or when you want the highest level of acceptance abroad.

What’s the difference between a solicitor-witnessed letter and a notarised child travel consent?

A notary provides an independent, internationally recognised certificate; many foreign authorities expect or require notarisation.

Do I need an apostille for the consent to travel form?

Some destinations require an apostille on the notary’s certificate. Check requirements for your country and airline.

How do I get a child travel consent form notarized quickly?

Prepare the draft in advance, ensure both parents can attend with correct ID, and book a same-day notary appointment. Apostille, if required, adds time.

Who can act as a child travel consent notary in the UK?

Any practising UK Notary Public can notarise the consent to travel letter.

Can you help with a template for a notarised parental consent to travel?

Yes. A tailored template can be provided so you can fill in travel dates, destinations, and contacts.

Will airlines or border control accept a scanned copy?

Many authorities expect to see the original notarised document. Carry the original; a scan is a useful backup.

Airline guidance on child travel consent
Airlines publish their own rules and forms for consent. Check the official pages below:

Tip: Policies can change without notice. Always confirm the latest requirements before you travel.