Some friends of ours took their family to Italy last year. The husband & kids left first, and the wife followed a few days later. At the airport he had a helluva time because "Security" wanted proof that his wife knew he was taking the kids out of the country. Apparently there is now some sort of notorized (I assume) document that you must present if both parents are not traveling. They ultimately let him go, but only after questioning the children at length about whether or not "Mommy knows where you are right now..." Huge drag. Does anyone have any info on what is required?

I had no problem taking my 16-year-old daughter to Italy last March without her father. No one ever questioned us. I do know, however, it is recommended that you carry a notarized letter from the other parent that they give permission for the children to travel abroad. I did have such a letter with me, but never used it. I was told the same thing when I took the kids to Canada about five years ago, so this isn't all that new.

We took my wife's granddaughter with us to the USA. We had a simple statement from the granddaughter's parents acknowledging that they had given us permission to do so. The statement was also notarized and sealed. We never needed it. Sometimes it is better to be prepared than sorry.

This is not new. It is not a "drag". Its purpose is to prevent one parent from taking the kids away from the other parent. It has been discussed here many, many times.

All that is required is a notarized letter from the parent who is not travelling with the children giving permission for them to travel to wherever with the other parent.

Here is an overview:

travelwithkids.about.com/cs/carplanetips/a/crossborders.htm

Thanks for the info.
g33kgrl - appreciate the form letter. Takes the guesswork out of what, exactly, they're looking for.

When my husband's daughter was younger, we always had an official document made up by the ex before taking his daughter out of the US for summer visits with us.

Basically she typed up a letter stating that the child could travel with us, the dates of travel, areas of travel, the flight details, and permission was also given for medical decisions. She always had the document notarized in order to make it more official.

We were never asked for the document, but in divorce/custody cases, I can see where they try to be careful with international travel. And, agents wouldn't know if the parent traveling with the child is married or divorced, so I think they are just protecting themselves.

Oh jeez - permission for medical decisions. That's one I wouldn't have thought of, and it's a good one.
Thanks for mentioning it.

When my 15 yr old son traveled to Mexico with my brother this summer I sent a notarized letter signed by my husband and I indicating travel dates and granting my bro permission to make needed medical decisions. They were never asked for it once but I'm glad I sent it for my own peace of mind. I actually sent two letters with him as I thought the airline and the country might want one.

I always take a notarized letter from my husband that I have permission to travel with my son. We always update it for the current trip with dates and itineary. I have never had to use it. I figure better safe than sorry. In three months the kid will be 18 and we won't have to worry any more. At least not about this. LOL