Travelling Abroad with Different Surnames
For most families with children in the UK, planning a trip abroad, be it a short half term break or a Christmas holiday, involves taking certain precautions to ensure that they do not encounter any issues whilst travelling.
This is particularly important for those parents travelling with a child that has a different surname to them.
What is the current situation?
In recent years, it has become increasingly difficult to travel abroad as a family in these circumstances, since many countries have become stricter when it comes to parents travelling with children who do not share their surname. Whilst this is a welcome change which promotes the safety of children all over the world, if you are not aware of this, a trip abroad can quickly become more stressful than anticipated.
How can I prepare?
There are some documents that you can bring with you which will reduce the likelihood of you and your family being held up whilst travelling.
Your child’s birth or adoption certificate can verify that you are in fact the child’s parent.
Proof of your change of surname, such as your marriage certificate, deed poll or decree absolute, can demonstrate the reason for the difference in surname.
Asking the child’s other parent to provide signed, written consent demonstrating their agreement to you taking the child abroad can be useful and is often necessary. In most circumstances, it is illegal to take a child abroad without the consent of every person with parental responsibility over that child.
If your child is subject to an existing Court Order, such as a Child Arrangements Order, this document may also verify your connection to the child.
And finally…
Make sure to do some research as the rules can vary. It is always a good idea to look into the guidelines of the specific country to which you are travelling. Most airlines should also be able to provide you with some basic advice for your trip.
