What legal forms should I have in place when traveling internationally without my child, in whom I have sole physical and legal custody?
March 22, 2025
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Given the short time you’ll be away, not much should be needed, but I’ll walk you through a few important items. Also — you already did a great job by completing the medical authorization form.
One important form to consider is a Letter of Authorization or Power of Attorney for Childcare.
This allows your designated caregiver to make medical and emergency decisions for your child while you’re away.
It should include:
- Child’s full name and medical info
- Duration of your trip
- Emergency contacts
- Any relevant instructions
Be sure to notarize this form if possible
Even though your child isn’t traveling with you, I still recommend leaving a copy of your custody agreement with the caregiver — and maybe a digital copy on your phone — in case there’s an emergency or legal question while you’re abroad.
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What legal forms should I have in place when traveling internationally without my child, in whom I have sole physical and legal custody?
I understand the importance of ensuring everything is in order when traveling internationally without your child. Do you currently have a notarized letter of consent from the other parent allowing you to travel alone with your child?
I have sole custody of my child.
Have you checked if there are any specific requirements or forms needed by the country you will be traveling to regarding custody and travel with a child?
My child is not coming with me.
Is there anything else the Family Lawyer should know before I connect you? Rest assured they’ll be able to help with your travel authorization.
No.
Hi there! I’m DustinJ1119, your Family Law expert. I understand you’re looking for guidance on legal forms for international travel without your child, and I’m here to help.
Now, have you ever encountered legal or travel issues when traveling without your child?
No, I haven’t had any legal or travel issues.
My only concern is what paperwork or arrangements I need in place when I leave my child with a family member while I’m out of the country.
I have sole custody, and I want to make sure she’s okay legally in both best-case and worst-case situations.
She’s in school, and I’ll be away for a week.
So far, I’ve only completed a minor medical authorization form for my absence.
Got it. Thank you for those details.
Given the short time you’ll be away, not much should be needed, but I’ll walk you through a few important items. Also — you already did a great job by completing the medical authorization form.
One important form to consider is a Letter of Authorization or Power of Attorney for Childcare.
This allows your designated caregiver to make medical and emergency decisions for your child while you’re away.
It should include:
- Child’s full name and medical info
- Duration of your trip
- Emergency contacts
- Any relevant instructions
Be sure to notarize this form if possible
Even though your child isn’t traveling with you, I still recommend leaving a copy of your custody agreement with the caregiver — and maybe a digital copy on your phone — in case there’s an emergency or legal question while you’re abroad.
Thank you. I did plan to leave a copy of my custody agreement with the family member, and I’ll take a picture of it on my phone too.
Now, I hate to think like this — but just in case something happens to me while I’m away, what should I have in place for my child?
I have life insurance updated, and I want to make my sister her legal guardian if something happens to me.
I hear you, and it’s responsible to plan ahead — even for difficult scenarios.
In that case, it would be wise to:
- Update your will or create one if you haven’t
- Name your sister as your child’s guardian in your will
- Consider setting up a trust or ensuring your life insurance beneficiary info is clear
It sounds like you’re doing a great job preparing. I truly wish you safe travels.
Please let me know if I can help with anything else.
Okkay, thank you so much!
You’re very welcome! Thanks for trusting AskaLawyer with your question.
