Single parents and Mexico

[lauras]

I just ran into a single mom friend of mine who had just returned from a trip with her two kids to Mexico. Before she left she didn't know that she needed a signed permission letter from her children's father that was also signed by a notary in order to get into the country. Consequently, her trip was delayed until she could track him down and get a letter. She lost time and money rearranging her plans.

If you are traveling to Mexico, be sure to look at the US State Department's advice on the documents you need to you are just one parent traveling or if you are taking another child with you on vacation!

[johnnymac]

I never knew you needed that. Geez

[Kyle]

This is an issue faced by a lot of single parents, as well as grandparents who take grandchildren traveling without written authorization from parents or guardians. In addition to Mexico, this paperwork is regularly demanded by authorities in Canada, and can be requested by immigration officials in any other country.

It's always better to be prepared and not need the paperwork, than to spoil your trip with unwanted delays.

On the FamilyTravelForum.com site you can read more about "Required Documents for Travel with Minors," and download the form letter you need to have signed and notarized.

Just go to this link: http://www.familytravelforum.com/articles/article/10545

[jfrenaye]

It is confusing for sure. Currently there is not a "requirement" for this documentation to Mexico. When the US upgraded their passport issuance guidelines for minors a few years ago it was rescinded because to get a passport, you must now have both parents (or acceptable proof that the other cannot do it) to get one.

However, one never assumes the man at immigration got the memo or understood it.

I always suggest taking the form even if not required or notarized. I also make sure to include some limited POA in terms of medical attention.

[finchnyc]

It's also a good idea to have a Medical Treatment Authorization Letter for your kids if you're traveling domestically or abroad. This is especially true if they're traveling with another family, friends, or school program.

It's always a good idea to ask the airline or cruise line what documentation is needed. Even if you discover a certain country doesn't require permission from both parents, you may find your travel carrier requires it. And if you're given the wrong information, at least you'll have a better chance of recovering your costs directly from the company.