Minors travelling: documents in Canada (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: Canadian children need a Canadian passport to travel outside Canada. A consent letter is not legally required but is recommended for a child travelling alone or with one parent, and may be requested by authorities or airlines; there is no official form.

RuleWhat applies
Child needs own passport or ID cardChild travelling across a borderYes [1]
Consent when travelling with one parentChild travelling across a borderWritten consent recommended [2]
Consent when travelling without parentsChild travelling across a borderWritten consent recommended [2]
Official consent form or declarationChild travelling across a borderNo [2]

Notes

  • Applies to Canadian children whatever their age. The official page does not set out exceptions for land or sea travel to the United States.
  • The letter may be requested by immigration authorities, airline agents and officials when entering Canada; failure to produce it may cause delays or refusal to enter or exit a country. The page advises it for any child under 19 not travelling with both parents.
  • A template letter is offered as a fillable PDF and a printable document. Its use is not mandatory.

Sources

  1. Global Affairs Canada (travel.gc.ca): Travel documents for children (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. Global Affairs Canada (travel.gc.ca): Recommended consent letter for children travelling abroad (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources

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General information, not legal advice. Rules change: check the official source before you fly or ride.