How to avoid the airport delay for parents with different surnames to their kids

To avoid delays at airports because you have a different surname to your child, bring their birth certificate with you. This can prove you are their parent, and end any uncertainty that might slow you down.

Many parents don’t have the same surname as their child, whether that’s due to remarriage, name changes, or other personal reasons.

When travelling, if you don’t have the same surname as your child, you may be stopped, questioned, and delayed. This happens to tens of thousands of people each year, but it can be avoided just by carrying some official paperwork.

Why do parents with different surnames to their child get stopped at airports?

This questioning is designed to keep children safe, and functions as a line of defence against abduction. Each country has different guidelines around this, so if it’s a concern, check with the embassy before you travel.

How to avoid delays at airports because you have a different surname to your child

Carry the child’s birth certificate

If you are travelling with kids alone, and you are named on the birth certificate (all mothers are named, but not all fathers are) take the child’s birth certificate with you. If you can’t find the birth certificate, you can order a new one from the government website. If one of you isn’t on the birth certificate, take a signed letter with both parents’ signatures.

Bring your marriage certificate

A marriage certificate can also help prove you and your partner are together, even if you have different surnames.

Bring proof of any name changes

If your name has changed, you’ll also need to bring proof of your name change to verify your identity.

Bring a consent letter for travelling with the child

As well as proving your relationship to your child, you’ll also need to prove that you have permission to take the children away, so a signed letter stating that you have permission from the other parent to travel is a good option. You can use a template from one of many websites if you google “consent letter for travelling alone with kids”, as many people have to deal with this issue.

If you have a child arrangements order which states that your children live with you, then you can go abroad with the children for up to 28 days without seeking permission from the other parent, but you should always travel with a copy of the order with you.

Prepare your child for any questions

Lastly, it is always a good idea to speak to your child, and let them know they might be asked some questions when travelling. This can help prepare them, as otherwise it can be a frightening experience for a young child. Letting them know that it’s ok, and that they should answer honestly can help keep things moving when you’re trying to catch that flight.

Read more of our blogs on children and co-parenting, or read these back to school tips for separated parents