Holidays: tips to avoid headaches when traveling with children

July break doesn’t have to be a headache; Find out how to avoid problems

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The July holidays have arrived and many parents are already preparing for the family trip. Between extra baggage, disrupted schedules and hours of waiting at the airport, traveling with children becomes a challenge.

One of the main obstacles can be passing through security checks when minors do not share a surname with the adults accompanying them.

With that in mind, Rocket Lawyer, an online legal services firm, has separated out a few tips for you to avoid any surprises.

national trip

Children traveling domestically have less stringent identification and consent requirements than children traveling internationally, but it’s still a good idea to be prepared with paperwork in case you run into trouble.

The two most important documents are the identity of the minor and the consent of the legal guardian (if they are not traveling with him).

• • Check airline requirements

Check with your airline about identification requirements for minors before arriving at the airport, especially if your child is traveling alone. A copy of your child’s birth certificate may be required, as well as proof of identification, which will serve as proof that you are the child’s father, especially if you don’t have the same last name.

• • Prepare a travel consent document

If you’re traveling with someone else’s child and the parents aren’t with you, be prepared to show documentation that allows you to travel. There is no official consent form, so you’ll need to create one yourself.

It is advisable to make a letter of consent signed and notarized by the parents of the child. Rocket Laywer offers a sample travel consent form for children.

International travel

Children traveling overseas are subject to greater identification and consent requirements than domestic travellers. These rules are in place to prevent parental abduction and other forms of child abduction, so while gathering the necessary paperwork can be a hassle, remember that they serve an important purpose.

The authorities don’t necessarily speak Portuguese. Always carry translated documents with you.

• • Have a valid passport

Passports are required for minors traveling abroad, regardless of age and regardless of whether they are traveling alone, with their parents or with another accompanying adult. Children must apply for their passports in person and their parents or legal guardians must sign the necessary forms in front of a passport agent.

It is worth mentioning that several countries require a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months after travel.

• • Have the permission of the two legal guardians

Unlike domestic flights, you cannot take your child on an international flight without the presence or permission of the other parent or legal guardian. In fact, even if you fly together, it is good practice to carry signed and authenticated consent forms with you in case of separation.

• • Take a copy of the birth certificate

If you don’t have the same last name as your child, bring a certified copy of the child’s birth certificate to prove you are responsible for the child. If adoption certificates or guardianship documents apply to your situation, bring certified copies as well.

“Children with different surnames from their parents are increasingly common. Maybe you gave your kids your partner’s last name but kept your own, or you gave them a new name that’s a hybrid of both. Perhaps you are a stepparent or other legal guardian, or even a teacher traveling with children who are not related to you. It is perfectly legal, but if you don’t plan ahead and are prepared, you could run into problems with security and customs”, advises Michel Cury, General Manager of Rocket Lawyer LatAm.

Traveling with your children can be a great way to see the world, gain new experiences and experience different places and cultures. As long as you plan ahead and have your paperwork in order, you’ll be ready to enjoy your adventure!

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Source: Terra

Ben

Ben Stock is a lifestyle journalist and author at Gossipify. He writes about topics such as health, wellness, travel, food and home decor. He provides practical advice and inspiration to improve well-being, keeps readers up to date with latest lifestyle news and trends, known for his engaging writing style, in-depth analysis and unique perspectives.