A parent who frequently crosses the border by land with a minor should always carry a letter of permission from the other parent. A parent with sole custody of the child they are traveling with should carry a copy of the custody document.
No. One needs a valid passport to travel internationally. A birth certificate is no substitute and ads nothing.
Do you need a notarized letter to travel with a child alone? In most cases of a single parent traveling out of the country with their child, the answer is yes you do need a notarized consent to travel letter. You can download your own customizable travel consent letter here.
The letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent (if the child is traveling with one custodial parent) or signed by both parents (if the child is traveling with a guardian or alone) should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with the name of the adult ...
You should obtain a child travel consent letter granting you permission from the absent parent to leave the country with your child (having it notarized is not required, but highly recommended).
How do I write a consent letter for my child to travel? List your child's name, birth date/place, and passport details. Provide the parent's/guardian's name, custody information, and passport details. Add contact information for the non-traveling parents/guardians. Detail the child's destination and dates of travel.
Checklist for Flying with an Infant Birth Certificate. Passport (if flying internationally). Global Entry Card (if you use that service). Proper Clothes. Blanket. Breastmilk or Formula (plus accompanying bottles and s). Diapers, wipes, and changing pad. Hand Sanitizer (wipes or mini bottles)
Original or photocopies of government-issued identification (e.g., passport, birth certificate, government-issued photo identification card) are the only acceptable forms of proof of age. Electronic screen shots, phone images, or immunization records are not acceptable.
A letter of consent, preferably in English and notarized, from the other parent or signed by both custodial parents. The letter should say: "I acknowledge that my child is traveling outside the country with the name of the adult with my permission."
Children under 18 don't need an ID to fly domestically but do need a passport for international flights.