In 2024, the rules for crossing the border with children continue to be simplified due to martial law imposed in the country. Currently, a child can travel abroad with one parent without the notarial consent of the other. Children over the age of 16 can cross the border on their own without an adult escort. February 25, 2024 0 3 min
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Anna Galchenko insta web Editor-in-chief of tripmydream
What documents are required to travel abroad with a child?
A child needs a passport to cross the border. The document must be valid for at least three months after the planned date of travel. According to Ukrainian legislation, children under the age of 16 can cross the border only accompanied by adults.
Depending on which adult the child is traveling with, you need to provide a specific list of documents:
- If the child is traveling with a parent or guardian: the notarized consent of the other parent is not required, it is enough to have the child’s birth certificate.
- When traveling with close relatives – grandmother, grandfather, stepmother, stepfather or adult siblings: a child’s birth certificate and documents confirming family ties (not notarized). The parents’ permission to leave also does not need to be issued.
- Persons who are not relatives: if a child travels abroad with a third person, then for departure it is necessary to have a written statement from the parent (must be certified by the guardianship authority) or a notarized permission for the child to travel abroad. Additionally, you will need a child’s birth certificate and an adult identity document.
© depositphotos Photo author – SomeMeans
A notarized parental consent is necessary to prevent the illegal export of a minor outside Ukraine. List of documents for obtaining notarial consent:
- the originals of the parents’ passports;
- the parents’ tax identification number (in);
- the child’s birth certificate.
Important! During martial law, one of the parents (adoptive parents) has the right to take the child out on their own without the notarial consent of the other. But the second parent has the right to prohibit the child from traveling abroad.
To do this, it is necessary to issue a written appeal to the Administration of the State Border Service and provide a notarized form of disagreement with the departure of one of the parents. On reasonable grounds, the authorized judicial authorities may provide the State Border Service with an order prohibiting departure.
