Can I take my child on holiday if we have different surnames?

Travelling abroad with children can be stressful enough without worrying about questions at border control. If your child has a different surname, taking a few simple steps before you travel can help prevent delays and avoid unnecessary complications.

Different surnames between parents and children are extremely common. This may be because parents are separated, remarried, unmarried, or simply chose different family names. However, because officials have a duty to safeguard children and prevent unlawful removal from the country, additional checks are sometimes carried out when surnames do not match.

Being prepared can make the process much smoother and help you travel with confidence.

Why might border officials ask questions?

Airports, ferry terminals and international train stations are required to carry out safeguarding checks where appropriate. If a child is travelling with an adult who has a different surname, officials may ask questions to confirm the relationship between the adult and child and to safeguard the wellbeing of the child.

In most cases, these checks are routine and resolved quickly, but having the correct documents readily available can save time, reduce stress and can help the whole process easier for everyone.

Documents you should consider taking

The documents required will depend on your individual circumstances, but it is necessary to carry evidence that shows your relationship with the child and the change of name itself. 

Your Child’s Birth Certificate

A birth certificate can help confirm:

• The child’s full name
• Date and place of birth
• The names of the child’s parents

This can be particularly useful where your surname has changed since the child was born.

Evidence of a Name Change

If your surname differs from the one shown on your child’s birth certificate, you may wish to carry documents explaining the change, such as:

• A marriage certificate (if you are remarried)
• A final order for divorce
• A deed poll or change of name document (for yourself or for the child)

Passports

It may sound obvious but ensure both your passport and your child’s passport are valid and that all details are correct before travelling.

Preparing Children for Questions at Border Control

Depending on their age, it may help to explain to your child that officials could ask simple questions during travel. Reassure them that there is nothing to worry about and encourage them to answer clearly and honestly.

Even routine questioning can feel intimidating for children if they are unprepared, so a calm explanation beforehand can often help avoid anxiety and support the process of travelling.

Do You Need the Other Parent’s Permission?

If you are travelling without the child’s other parent, you may also need consent from everyone who has parental responsibility for the child. This is usually drawn up in your Child Arrangements Order, if you have one. At Taylor Bracewell, our family law solicitors can advise you on reaching child arrangement agreements.

In some situations, travelling abroad without the necessary consent could result in legal difficulties. It is therefore important to consider your position well in advance of booking or travelling and obtain the relevant consent where needed.

Many parents choose to carry:

• A signed letter of consent from the other parent
• Contact details for the other parent
• Details of accommodation and return travel. For an extra smooth departure you can also provide these to the other parent before the trip.

Planning Ahead can Prevent Problems

Most parents travelling with children who have different surnames have no problems at all. Still, a little preparation can help you avoid delays and start your holiday with peace of mind.

To keep things simple, consider:

• Checking passports are valid and details match your travel booking
• Bringing your child’s birth certificate (or a certified copy)
• Carrying evidence of any name change (for you or your child)
• Packing written consent from the other parent where needed

If you require advice regarding travelling abroad with children or any other family law matter, please get in touch with our family law solicitors in Doncaster on 01302 341414, where a member of the team will be happy to assist you. Alternatively, you can fill out our online enquiry form.