rutheye

I just read in Frommer's that if you are bringing a minor into the country without your spouse (parent of child), that you need to have your spouse give you a notarized permission slip stating that he/she allows the child to go into the country with you. If this is so, what age are they talking about? My daughter will be 15 when we travel to Montreal this spring. This may cause quite a problem for parents who are living many states apart!

dwooddon

It applies to anyone under 18 who does not have paperwork to show they are an emancipated minor. It is not uncommon for parents or others not having legal custody to attempt to take children out of the country, sometimes never to return. There have also been cases of people taking minors out of the country for medical procedures not authorized by custodial parents.

You know you are not in these categories but the border officials have no way of knowing that without the required permission.

rutheye

I wonder how many people are aware of this ruling?
Ruth

dwooddon

I couldn't answer the question about how many people are aware of it but it has been in effect for many years.

Without it, you risk being turned away from the border crossing or delays of many hours while you are being investigated.

Having said all that, for all the other people reading, please don't jump on me and tell me you were able to cross just fine without it. I know many people do but the requirement is in effect and, if border officials decide to do so, they can and will enforce it.

wow

Where (besides Frommers!!!) is it stated that the Permission has to be notarized? And, if one or both parents are deceased do you need a Death Certificate when travelling w/ a minor?

stillhouse

Don't know about the death certificate, but AAA also provides info advising travelers of this requirement. Last year when I went to Nova Scotia, I was questioned whether my husband had given permission for my son to leave the country. They let us in, but this year I plan to get a written statement. I'm wondering if they are stricter if you are traveling by car than by air.

rutheye

http://www.familytravelforum.com/soloparent.html

waltd

Hi: My wife and I travel to Canada from the US almost yearly, including both by air and auto. We always have our kids and have always been required to present birth certificates for everyone, esp. the kids. Yes, the basic rule is to have written permission from the absent parent, including a telephone number. Go ahead and get it notarized since that isn't too difficult to do and may well prevent problems at the border.
Ease of entry to both countries depend in large measure on the inspector one encounters. I can say that on virtually every occasion it's the US inspector who asks more questions and gives the closer inspection, esp. since Sept. 11. Caveat: It's better to have more documentation than less in case of a particularly inquisitive inspector. Have a great trip.

skigirl

Just read on cruise critic message boards that they are often requiring a death certificate if one parent is deceased when taking a minor out of the country. My neighbor is a widow and had lots of questions when taking her kids through Canada from NY to Michigan. I would definitely take one - better safe than sorry and it could save you lots of time.