Three Things to Do Before You Travel Internationally With Your Child

 Posted on August 19, 2022 in Child Custody

Today more than ever, families are made up of parents who were born in different countries. On top of that, the ease of international travel makes divorced parents traveling out of the United States with underage children a very common occurrence. But in the bustle of preparing for a long journey, parents often do not think about what they need to do before leaving the country with a child after divorce. To avoid any legal complications that could prevent you from leaving the country, it is essential to do these things before leaving the U.S. with your child.

Get Your Child’s Passport

Regardless of the parents’ relationship status, all children under the age of 16 must have both parents’ authorization to get a passport. This may require both parents to be present at the passport meeting, although getting a signed permission form may also be possible. If just one parent has parental responsibilities, or if one parent has had their parental right terminated, the parent with authority over the child must prove there is not another parent who needs to give their consent. Passports for children are only valid for five years, so if you already have passports, be sure to check the expiration date. Many countries will not let visitors enter if their passport expires within six months.

Get Permission to Travel Abroad

The parent wishing to travel must get written permission before leaving the country with the child unless otherwise stated in the court-ordered parenting plan. Many airlines will ask for such permission before allowing a single parent with children to board a plane abroad. Your child’s other parent may deny giving permission for many reasons, including concerns about parental kidnapping, child safety, or missing important school or family functions. While it can be difficult to get permission to leave the country from your child’s other parent, it is essential to do so. Failing to get permission before leaving the country could result in charges of kidnapping.

Create a Specific Itinerary and Share Travel Plans

Once you have permission to leave and all the necessary documentation in order, make sure you share a detailed itinerary with your child’s other parent. This is important not only if there is an emergency but so at least two adults know where the child is at all times. Be prepared to give solutions for how the other parent can communicate with your child while you are abroad and how long you can go without contact before it is considered an emergency.

Get Help from an Arlington Heights Child Custody Attorney

Whether you need help securing permission to leave the country temporarily with your child or any other matter of family law, the Arlington Heights child custody lawyers with A. Traub & Associates are at your service. Call us today for a comprehensive consultation and start getting the answers you need. Our offices can be reached at 847-749-4182.

Source:

https://www.ilga.gov/legislation/ilcs/ilcs4.asp?DocName=075000050HPt%2E+VI&ActID=2086&ChapterID=59&SeqStart=8675000&SeqEnd=12200000