I’m taking my daughter to Canada while my husband stays home for work. I have a signed letter from him and a copy of his ID, but I’ve heard stories of people being turned away at the gate. Do I need to get the letter ‘notarized’ or officially stamped by a lawyer, or is a simple signed PDF usually enough for the airline staff?
So FYI, while the airline staff at check-in are your first hurdle, the real constraint is the Canada Border Services Agency officer upon arrival. Technically, a non-notarized letter might work if the officer feels generous, but they have the authority to deny entry if they are not 100 percent convinced of parental consent to prevent abduction. Since you are traveling solo with a minor, the authorized guideline is to have the letter certified. Just letting you know, carrying the long-form birth certificate is also a history-saver in these situations. History lives here, but rules dictate the entry.
It is always better to get the letter notarized. A notarized letter looks official and avoids problems at the airport.You should also carry your husband’s govt ID or passport copy and your child’s birth certificate.With these documents, airlines and immigration usually do not question you
Yes, getting the letter notarized is the safest way to ensure a smooth boarding process. Boarding a flight with a minor as a solo parent often triggers additional security checks to prevent international child abduction. While a signed PDF is sometimes accepted, a notarized letter is the only document that officially verifies a signature in the eyes of the law.