Warning single parents could face extra airport checks

Reviewed by: Greg Wilson
Founder & Insurance Expert

Written by: Katie Gawley
Insurance Content Writer

Fact-checked by: Quotezone Editorial Team

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Last Updated: September 2026
Read time: 4 min

Parents travelling alone with their children are being warned they could be stopped by border officials if they fail to travel with the correct documentation.

Travel experts at Quotezone.co.uk are reminding single parents and those travelling solo with minors that some countries may require formal written consent from the other parent before allowing them into the country.

Rules around travelling alone with children differ widely depending on where parents are travelling to and how they choose to travel.

Across Europe, the advice is for all travelling children, whether alone, with adults who are not their guardian or with only one parent, to carry an official document, signed by the second parent, or legal guardian, authorising them for travel.*

The European Union’s official website also states that many airlines require official authorisation and have their own specific forms, highly recommending travellers check in advance.*

Although a border check in the UK is less common, Brits are warned to make sure everyone with parental responsibility for the child is happy that they travel or seek permission from the court to leave the country.

The exception being, if parents have a Child Arrangement Order that says the child must live with them, they can go abroad for up to 28 days without permission, unless a court order says they cannot.**

However, government websites in the UK say parents may be asked for a letter of consent at UK or foreign border control, stating the importance of carrying the additional requirements.**

Certain countries, such as the Netherlands, say border police are legally required to verify the other parent’s consent when a child travels with one parent,*** making it crucial that travellers double check the requirements of where they intend to holiday before setting off.

The experts suggest being prepared and always bringing this extra paperwork could stop unnecessary delays and stress at border control, with an online check per country they hope to travel to as countries’ rules may change without notice.*

Some countries may ask for an official form to be completed, while others need a signed consent letter from the other parent, including information on the child, where and when they’re travelling, who with and who’s given permission for the trip.**** Also consider taking the child’s birth certificate and a divorce or marriage certificate if surnames are different.

Greg Wilson, CEO and travel insurance expert at Quotezone.co.uk said: “The rules around travelling alone with children are not clear-cut and it can be difficult to figure out exactly what documentation travellers need, and if they’ll need it at all.

“Although UK law requires single parents to have consent to travel alone with their children, other countries such as the Netherlands actively enforce border control checks to help with child protection, potentially creating issues for UK parents in destination countries if they are not prepared with appropriate proof. 

“Enforcement can be inconsistent even within the same country so it’s impossible to say where a single or solo parent could face issues, especially if they are travelling around Europe, crossing through several countries.

“To help avoid delays and even the risk of being denied the holiday, the best thing to do is carry the required consent forms just in case. If parents are unsure, they should speak to legal experts about everything they may need to bring and check with airlines and the Foreign Office, to help make the trip as smooth as possible.

“Missed flights or issues related to invalid travel documents are rarely covered by standard travel insurance, so it’s important to prepare in advance and plan for any potential hurdles.”

Quotezone helps over 4 million people every year compare and find savings on everyday bills and essentials, including travel insurance.

References:
*https://europa.eu/youreurope/citizens/travel/entry-exit/travel-documents-minors/index_en.htm
**https://www.gov.uk/permission-take-child-abroad
***https://english.marechaussee.nl/topics/t/travelling-with-children/travelling-alone-with-your-child
****https://www.lawdepot.co.uk/family/travel-consent-uk/

Photo credit – iStock.com ozgurcankaya

This article is intended as generic information only and is not intended to apply to anybody’s specific circumstances, demands or needs. The views expressed are not intended to provide any financial service or to give any recommendation or advice. Products and services are only mentioned for illustrative rather than promotional purposes.