What Documents Are Needed for Minors to Leave the Country?

International travel is a valuable experience for children, offering them learning and development opportunities. However, for minors to legally leave the country, certain strict legal procedures must be followed. These measures are in place to protect minors from potential risks and ensure they travel safely.

Here are the necessary documents for minors to leave the country:

Passport The passport is the main document required for a minor to travel abroad. Minors, regardless of age, must have a valid passport. In Romania, passports for minors can be:
- Simple Electronic Passport – valid for 3 years for children under 12 years old and 5 years for those aged between 12 and 18.
- Simple Temporary Passport – valid for one year, used in emergencies or when the simple electronic passport cannot be issued in time.
Consent from Parents or Legal Guardians If the minor is traveling with only one parent or another person (e.g., grandparents, uncles, aunts, or family friends), the consent of the other parent is required, expressed through a notarized declaration. This declaration must include:
- The explicit consent of the non-accompanying parent.
- Details about the destination, travel period, and the accompanying person. If the minor is traveling with a third party, the declaration must be signed by both parents.
Minor’s Birth Certificate The birth certificate is needed to prove the relationship between the minor and the parents. In some cases, it may be required at border crossings, especially if there are discrepancies between the parents’ surnames and that of the minor.
Minor’s Identity Document For minors aged 14 and above, it is necessary to present both the identity card and the passport. This is mandatory for travel within the Schengen area.
Notarized Power of Attorney If the minor is traveling with someone other than the parents, in addition to the aforementioned notarized declaration, a notarized power of attorney from the parents or legal guardians is required, granting the accompanying person the right to travel with the minor.
Additional Documents for Specific Destinations Depending on the travel destination, authorities in the respective country may require additional documents, such as:
- Visa – if required by the destination.
- Health Insurance – some countries may require proof of valid health insurance for the duration of the stay.

Read also: Air passenger rights – InfoCons

Additional Recommendations:

Check the passport validity well in advance to avoid any unpleasant situations.
Ensure that documents are correctly authenticated and, if necessary, translated into the language required by the destination country.
Consult relevant authorities or official websites to be aware of all specific requirements.

It is essential for all parents or guardians intending to travel with a minor or allow a minor to travel unaccompanied to ensure they have all the necessary documents and that these comply with legal requirements. Failure to adhere to these rules can result in the minor being denied exit from the country, potentially complicating travel plans.

What Should Parents Consider Before Booking a Vacation Abroad with Children?

Planning a vacation abroad with children can be a wonderful experience but requires special attention to ensure a safe, comfortable, and stress-free trip. Here are some aspects parents should consider before booking an international vacation with children:

Necessary Documents
- Children’s Passports: Ensure that the children’s passports are valid for the entire trip and, ideally, at least six months after the return. Check their validity in advance and start renewal procedures if needed.
- Visas: Check if the destination country requires a visa for your children and, if so, begin the application process.
- Notarized Declarations: If children are traveling with only one parent or others besides the parents, ensure you have all necessary notarized declarations to avoid issues at the border.
Vaccinations and Health
- Consult a Doctor: Schedule a visit to the doctor to check the children’s health before travel. Discuss any necessary or recommended vaccinations for the destination country.
- Travel Health Insurance: It is essential to have travel insurance covering any potential medical emergencies abroad. Ensure the policy includes coverage for children and is adequate for planned activities.
- Medications and First Aid Kit: Bring a basic first aid kit and any medications the children regularly take. It is helpful to have medications for common issues, such as motion sickness or fever.
Choosing a Destination
- Family-Friendly Destinations: Choose destinations known for their family-friendly facilities, such as hotels with playgrounds, children’s pools, and organized activities for kids.
- Safety: Check the safety status of the chosen destination. It is important to be informed about potential risks and take precautions, such as avoiding unsafe areas and following local authorities’ recommendations.
- Climate: Consider the climate during the vacation period. Avoid areas with extreme temperatures or unfavorable weather conditions for children, such as monsoon seasons or very high temperatures.
Accommodation
- Child-Friendly Facilities: Choose accommodation based on the facilities provided for children, such as cribs, high chairs, spacious rooms, or babysitting services.
- Location: Opt for accommodation close to major tourist attractions to reduce travel time and minimize children’s fatigue.
Planning Activities
- Age-Appropriate Activities: Plan activities suitable for the children’s ages to ensure they have fun and feel engaged. Amusement parks, zoos, beaches, and interactive museums are excellent options.
- Rest Time: Allow time for rest and relaxation. Children tire quickly, so it’s important not to overload the daily schedule.
Food and Nutrition
- Food Options: Check if the destination offers suitable food for children. If your children have dietary restrictions or special preferences, consider this when planning meals.
- Snacks: Bring healthy snacks for the journey, especially if you plan to spend a lot of time in transit.
Transportation
- Flights: If the trip involves a long flight, prepare to keep the children occupied and comfortable during the journey. Consider scheduling flights at night so children can sleep.
- Car Seats and Equipment: Check if you’ll need car seats or other child equipment and ensure these are available at the destination or bring them with you.
Budget
- Additional Costs: Consider all additional costs associated with traveling with children, such as entrance fees to attractions, toys, souvenirs, and other unexpected expenses.
- Budget Planning: Set a clear budget for the vacation, including transportation, accommodation, meals, activities, and possible emergencies.
Luggage
- Light Packing: Try to pack light, focusing on essentials. Comfortable clothes, hygiene products, and children’s favorite toys should be prioritized.
- Hand Luggage: Prepare a hand luggage with essential items for children during the journey, such as diapers, wet wipes, spare clothes, and toys.
Legal and Cultural Aspects
- Cultural Norms: Learn about the cultural and legal norms of the destination country to avoid unpleasant situations or misunderstandings.
- Child Protection Laws: Ensure you comply with all local laws regarding child protection, including road safety rules or supervision requirements.

Proper preparation for a vacation abroad with children can make the difference between an enjoyable and a stressful experience. By considering these aspects, parents can ensure that the whole family enjoys a safe, relaxing vacation full of wonderful memories.

Do Children Need a Passport?

Yes, children need a passport to travel abroad, regardless of their age. In Romania, there are two types of passports available for minors:

Simple Electronic Passport:
- Validity: 3 years for children under 12 years old and 5 years for those aged between 12 and 18.
- Features: Contains an electronic chip with biometric data, including fingerprints (fingerprints are not collected for children under 12).
Simple Temporary Passport:
- Validity: 1 year.
- Usage: Issued in emergency cases or if the simple electronic passport cannot be issued in time.

A passport is mandatory for all minors traveling outside the country, including within the Schengen area. Children cannot travel using their parents’ passports; each minor must have their own passport.

Source:MAE

Author: Larisa Rațiu