Question 1

Does CBSA require a child travel consent letter?

Accepted Answer

While not legally mandatory, the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) strongly recommends that any person travelling with a minor who is not their own child, or when only one parent is travelling with the child, carry a consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s). Border officers may request this document, and not having one can cause significant delays.

Question 2

What documents should I bring along with this consent letter?

Accepted Answer

CBSA recommends bringing: the child's birth certificate or proof of citizenship, a valid passport for the child, the signed consent letter, custody or guardianship documents if applicable, and contact information for the non-travelling parent. Having these documents readily available helps ensure smooth border crossings.

Question 3

Can both parents sign this consent letter?

Accepted Answer

Yes. If the child is travelling with a non-parent adult (such as a grandparent, teacher, or group leader), both parents should sign the consent letter. The template supports signatures from both parents.

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