With parental name changes becoming increasingly commonplace, it’s easy to forget that travelling as a family can still lead to disruption at the UK or overseas border. Though such security checks are there for an important purpose – namely counteracting potential child abduction attempts – they may come as quite an inconvenience when parents and children use different surnames during their travels.
Carrying the right documentation can help to alleviate potential stress, upset, or even a missed flight! Official agencies will need to be satisfied with your relationship with the child, so it’s advisable that you carry:
- Your child’s birth or adoption certificate
- Proof of name change – if your name has changed since your child was born you may also need to take evidence such as a change of name deed or marriage certificate
- It may also be beneficial to carry an expired passport, if this is in the name you held at the time of your child’s birth.
Depending on their age, it could be a good idea to prepare your children for potential questioning by immigration officials. Let them know that they don’t need to worry; simply answer honestly and all will go well!
Is there a limit on how long I can go away for?
You can take a prolonged sabbatical from life if you obtain permission from your co-parent. Whether it’s for weeks or months, the choice is yours as long as everyone involved agrees to it!
If you have an order which states that the child lives with only you, unless the court order says you can’t, you can take your child abroad for 28 days without permission of the other parent.
What if my ex won’t agree?
If your former partner has parental authority, then you must obtain court approval before travelling with the child if they do not agree and no order exists that states that the kid lives solely with one parent. To gain authorisation for travel, an application to a court is necessary.
The court will carefully weigh the pros and cons of a child taking an overseas holiday, while ensuring that they are returned safely. In most scenarios it is likely that permission for international travel will be granted.
Family Law Solicitors in Altrincham
Lund Bennett Law’s Manchester offices are situated in the centre of Altrincham and around the corner from Railway Street.
Our offices are centrally located on one of Altrincham’s main streets, The Downs, and within easy reach for visitors arriving by car or public transport.
At Lund Bennett Law, we specialise in family law matters, providing legal advice tailored to your unique circumstances.
We offer complete transparency on pricing from the first consultation, where we will review your case and advise you on the next steps.