Usually, one parent cannot take a child abroad without permission from everyone with parental responsibility or permission from a court. A limited exception may apply where a child arrangements order says the child must live with that parent.
Check who must agree
Start by checking who has parental responsibility for the child. You must get permission from everyone who has it, or from a court, before taking the child abroad. A parent’s agreement alone may not be enough if another person also has parental responsibility.
Parental responsibility means the legal responsibility for a child. It can belong to more than two people. The rules covered here apply to England and Wales; arrangements differ elsewhere in the UK.
Check court orders and the 28-day exception
Before booking, check whether anyone else has parental responsibility and whether a court order affects travel. A prohibited steps order can restrict a parent from taking a step specified in the order without the court’s consent. Read the wording of any order carefully; its effect depends on what it says.
There is a specific exception for a child arrangements order that says the child must live with you: GOV.UK says you can take the child abroad for up to 28 days without permission, unless a court order says you cannot. Check that the order meets this description and that no other order restricts the trip.
If you have permission, GOV.UK says a letter from the person with parental responsibility is usually enough to show it. The letter should include their contact details and details of the trip. You may be asked for it at a UK or foreign border, or if there is a dispute.
If consent is refused
If someone with parental responsibility refuses permission, GOV.UK says you will need to apply to a court for permission to take the child abroad. The application should include trip details, such as departure and return arrangements, and contact details for those with parental responsibility who will remain in the UK. More information may be needed for a longer trip, such as details of the child’s education abroad.
The right approach can depend on the family’s circumstances and the wording of any orders. A family law solicitor can explain the options in a particular case. Just Talk Law’s family law directory lets parents explore solicitor profiles and request a consultation.
Key points
- Permission is generally needed from everyone with parental responsibility, or from a court.
- A child arrangements order saying the child must live with you may allow travel for up to 28 days, unless a court order prevents it.
- If permission is refused, an application to court may be needed.
Frequently asked questions
Is a consent letter needed?
GOV.UK says a letter from the person with parental responsibility is usually enough to show permission. It recommends including their contact details and details of the trip.
Sources
- Get permission to take a child abroad – GOV.UK (checked 6 November 2026)
- Parental rights and responsibilities: What parental responsibility is – GOV.UK (checked 6 November 2026)
- Understanding and dealing with issues relating to parental responsibility – GOV.UK (checked 6 November 2026)
This guide covers the law in England and Wales. The guidance in this article concerns England and Wales. The rules may differ in Scotland and Northern Ireland. This article provides general information about the law in England and Wales and is not a substitute for advice from a qualified solicitor. Laws and procedures may change, and the information may not apply to your individual circumstances. If you need legal assistance, Just Talk Law can help you find a solicitor suited to your needs.