What is Travel Authorization for Minors and When is it Necessary
When it comes to the safety and well-being of children and adolescents, the rules for international travel are quite strict—and rightly so. For Brazilian nationals under 18 years of age, the travel authorization is an essential document required by consular and airport authorities to ensure that the trip is being made with the consent of both legal guardians. This type of authorization is based on the Articles 83 and 84 of the Child and Adolescent Statute (ECA), which determine the specific situations in which it is mandatory. Below, we explain in detail how this process works and how you can prepare to request this document with peace of mind.
What is a travel authorization?
A travel authorization is an official document that allows a Brazilian minor to leave the country legally when not traveling with both parents or legal guardians. The purpose is to protect the minor against risks such as kidnapping, human trafficking, and family disputes. This document can be issued at a notary office in Brazil or requested directly at a Brazilian consulate abroad, being essential in certain situations.
Why is it necessary and in what situations would I need one?
The authorization is required whenever the minor is traveling without the company of both parents. Here are the three main cases in which the document is mandatory:
1. Minor traveling unaccompanied: In this case, the authorization must be signed by both parents or legal guardians.
2. Minor traveling with third parties (such as uncles, grandparents, friends, or other adults): The signature of both parents or legal guardiansis also required.
3. Minor traveling with only one parent: Authorization from the other parent who will not be present on the trip will be required.
These requirements are valid for both international travel and, in some cases, for long-distance domestic travel, depending on the airline and local laws.
What documents do I need to present?
On the day of the consular appointment, you must present the original documents and their respective simple copies.Please note: damaged, altered, or very old documents, whose authenticity cannot be confirmed, may be rejected at the discretion of the consular authority. The main documents required are:
- Minor's identity document (valid Brazilian passport or birth certificate, depending on the situation)
- Identity documents of the parents or legal guardians
- Completed and signed authorization form (available on the consulate's website or provided during the appointment)
- Proof of kinship, if necessary
- Occasionally, other documents may be requested, depending on the specific case
It is important to remember that the authorization may be valid for a fixed or indefinite period, according to the choice of the guardians at the time of the request.
Conclusion: We are here to help you
If you are a Brazilian mother or father living abroad and are planning a trip with your minor child, do not leave the travel authorization until the last minute. The process may seem bureaucratic, but it is an essential protective measure. Our team is ready to guide you every step of the way, from documentation to scheduling at the consulate. Contact us to receive professional support and ensure everything is in order for your upcoming trip. Count on us to make your life easier and protect those you love.