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What you need to know about One Parent Traveling with Children

The US Immigration & Naturalization Service has begun cracking down on single adults departing the United States with children

The US Immigration & Naturalization Service has begun cracking down on single adults departing the United States with children, at the request of international border officials trying to halt the transport of runaways and children involved in child-custody disputes.

Mexico's policy is typical. Mexican law requires that if only one parent (or grandparent, or other guardian) is accompanying a minor under 18 into Mexico, they must bear a notarized letter from the child’s other parent (or guardian) granting permission to enter Mexico with the child, including the dates of travel, the accompanying adult’s name, contact information, and a notarized signature.

A consular officer at the U.S. Department of State's Office of Children's Issues verified the facts required by most countries from a 'permission to travel' letter, and reiterated that a parent's notarized signature and identification for the child (birth certificate or passport) were both essential.

A spokesperson at American Airlines said that the INS had only recently begun enforcing this rule through the airlines. Although travel agents have been charged with notifying clients that airlines will require this letter at the airport -- before issuing boarding passes -- it can slip between the cracks. Adults traveling with children should be aware of this regulation, and arrive prepared. Call the nearest embassy of the country you will be visiting for up-to- date requirements. Divorced parents should be sure to carry notarized custody papers, as well as identification for themselves and the child.

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