Minors travelling: documents in France (2026)

Last reviewed: 9 October 2026

In short: A child needs their own ID card or passport. A minor leaving France without a person with parental authority needs an authorisation (AST), even within the EU; travel with one parent needs none.

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

Notes

  • Applies to French minors; for travel outside the EU or Schengen area a passport is usually needed, and a visa where required.
  • Some destination countries may still ask for proof that the other parent agrees.
  • Applies to a French minor living in France and a foreign minor habitually living in France, leaving France without a person holding parental authority. One parent with parental authority signs.
  • The AST is a form completed and signed by a parent, with a copy of the parent's identity document.

Sources

  1. service-public.gouv.fr: Avec quels documents un mineur français peut-il voyager à l'étranger ? (consulted 9 October 2026) · all sources
  2. service-public.gouv.fr: Autorisation de sortie du territoire (AST) (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.