Consent Letter

A consent letter is a formal document used to give permission for a minor to travel or participate in specific activities without the presence of one or both parents or legal guardians. This letter is typically required to ensure that the minor’s travel or activities are approved by their legal guardians and serves as an authorization for the minor to be supervised by another adult during their trip.

Many countries require a consent letter from the parent for the visa application process to confirm that all necessary permissions have been obtained for the minor’s travel.

Essential components of a consent letter

In the visa consent letter for minors, the following points must be included:

• Identification of parties: Names, contact information, and relationships of the parents or guardians giving consent and the adult accompanying the minor.
• Statement of consent: A clear declaration of permission for the minor to travel or participate in specific activities.
• Details of the trip: Information about the destination, travel dates, and the nature of the activities or supervision involved.
• Signatures: Signatures of the consenting parents or guardians, along with the date of signing.

Tips to write a valid consent letter

When preparing a consent letter for a minor’s visa application, consider these key tips:

• Be clear and detailed: Clearly state the purpose of the letter and include all relevant details about the trip or activity. For instance, “I, Jane Doe, grant permission for my son, Alex Doe, born on January 15, 2010, to travel to Italy from July 5 to July 20, 2024, under the supervision of his uncle, Michael Brown.”
• Follow specific requirements: Check the visa requirements of the destination country for any specific details. Some countries might have particular formats or additional information they require.
• Include proper signatures and dates: Ensure the letter is signed and dated by the consenting parents or legal guardians. Include contact details for the signatories in case the visa authorities need to verify the information.
• Use professional language: Write the letter in a formal, clear, and professional tone to convey the seriousness of the consent.

Is a consent letter required if the minor is travelling with both parents?

If a minor is travelling with both parents, a consent letter from the parents for a visa application is usually not required, but some countries may still ask for it; hence, check the destination-specific requirements when applying.

Does the parent's consent letter for visa application need to be notarized?

Requirements for notarisation vary by country. While some countries require the consent letter to be notarised, others may not. You must check the specific requirements of the destination country to determine if notarisation is necessary.

Are there additional documents required if the minor is travelling with a relative or friend?

Yes, the consent letter generally needs to be supplemented by documents, such as proof of identification for the parents or guardians or proof of the relationship between the minor and the supervising adult.