Does a child need a consent letter to travel abroad with one parent?
Consent, custody and paperwork
Short answer
It depends on the country you travel to, because some countries require a consent letter for a minor who travels without parents or with only one parent. In Danish law a minor is a person under 18, but some countries set the limit at 21. There is no fixed form, so ask the embassy of the country in Denmark what it requires and in which language. Bring the child birth certificate and a copy of the parents passports when the child travels with one parent or without parents.
Why
- Each country sets its own entry and exit rules.
- The rule also applies to school trips.
- The traveller must follow the rules of the destination.
Details
Some countries want the consent signed before a notary at the district court and legalised by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.
Tip
If the child travels with another adult, consider a power of attorney so that adult can act in case of illness or an accident.
What may differ
Requirements differ by country and can change, so ask the embassy well before departure.
Common misconception
A consent letter is only needed if the parents are divorced.
What actually happens
Some countries require it whenever a child travels with only one parent.
People also ask
- Is there a Danish consent form for children travelling?
- Does a child need a passport to travel?
- What documents does a child need when travelling with grandparents?
Sources
This answer is for reference only. Entry and customs rules can change, so check the Danish Immigration Service, the Danish police and the Danish Customs Agency before you travel.
Planning and budgetRelated questions
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Do you pay customs on gifts sent to Denmark from outside the EU?
A gift sent by a private person from outside the EU is free of duty and VAT if it is worth EUR 45 or less.
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Can you bring medicine into Denmark?
Yes, from 1 January 2026 you may bring medicine into Denmark for personal use from any country, if it was sold legally in the country where you bought it.
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Can you bring meat and milk into Denmark from outside the EU?
No, travellers coming from a country outside the EU may not bring any meat or dairy products, which includes sausages, cheese and milk.
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Do you have to declare cash over EUR 10,000 when entering or leaving Denmark?
Yes, if you carry cash or other liquid assets worth EUR 10,000 (about 75,000 kr.) or more, you must declare them to Toldstyrelsen when you enter or leave Denmark.