Do I still need a letter if I have sole custody?

The State Department lists proof of sole custody as the alternative to the other parent's letter. Canada still recommends a letter signed by you plus the custody order.

Should I bring the original custody order?

Official sources ask for a copy of the custody order or decree. Carry a clear copy and keep the original safe at home.

What if there is a dispute about the trip?

Talk to a family law attorney before you book. A court order can limit travel, and for children who live in Portugal, Portugal's government says its one-parent exemption only applies when the other parent does not object.

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Traveling Abroad With Sole Custody: What to Carry

By Tanika Hall · Rules checked against official sources on 20 October 2026

The short answer: carry a copy of your custody order. The State Department lists proof of sole custody as the alternative to the other parent's consent letter. Canada still recommends a consent letter, which you sign yourself as the sole-custody parent, alongside the order.

What the US says

The State Department says that if you travel alone with your child, you may need a signed and notarized letter from the other parent, or you must provide proof of sole legal custody. It also says to always bring a copy of each child's birth certificate or other evidence of your legal relationship.

What Canada says

Canada recommends a consent letter even if a parenting order or agreement allows one parent to make travel decisions alone. Canada's immigration department says the letter may then be signed by the sole-custody parent only, who should bring a copy of the custody decree. Canada's travel site also suggests getting a letter from the other parent whenever it is possible or safe.

If the other parent has died

Canada says to bring a copy of the death certificate of the deceased parent.

If the other parent is not on the birth certificate

No border authority we checked addresses this directly. A certified birth certificate showing you as the only parent is the document the State Department uses for children's passports, so carry that.

Jamaica and the UK

The State Department says Jamaica requires a notarized consent letter from the absent parent or, otherwise, proof of sole custody, and recommends the same for the UK.

Sources: US State Department: travel with minors · Government of Canada: consent letter · IRCC: minor children travelling to Canada · US State Department: Jamaica

Common questions

Do I still need a letter if I have sole custody?: The State Department lists proof of sole custody as the alternative to the other parent's letter. Canada still recommends a letter signed by you plus the custody order.
Should I bring the original custody order?: Official sources ask for a copy of the custody order or decree. Carry a clear copy and keep the original safe at home.
What if there is a dispute about the trip?: Talk to a family law attorney before you book. A court order can limit travel, and for children who live in Portugal, Portugal's government says its one-parent exemption only applies when the other parent does not object.

Want the letters ready to fill in? The Child Travel Consent Kit has Letter A for one parent traveling, Letter B for a grandparent, relative or friend, a notarization checklist and notes for ten destinations. Get the kit for $14.

Related guides

This guide explains what official sources say. It is not legal advice, and border officers apply the rules on the day. Check the linked source and your airline's own rules before you fly, and talk to a family law attorney if there is a custody order or a dispute.