Taking a friend across the border

[scorpsfan]

Hi everyone,

This isn't really Disney related, but it's border related (lol) I just thought I'd ask here in case someone has experience with this.

So has anyone taken a friend (like your child's friend- under 18) across the border without their parents? What if you were to spend the night somewhere as well? What documentation (if any) have you needed?

Thanks so much!

 

[cari12]

We took our son’s friend, 16 with us to Disneyland/California for 8 days last May. She had a signed letter from her parents (not notarized) but she was never asked for it. Had no issues at the borders/airports.

 

[Chickinvic]

I would bring a notarized letter that lays out everything "I give permission for (insert your name) to bring my child (insert child's name) to (insert) place". And include the dates, etc

I always put my contact phone numbers in case someone at the border (or airport) wanted to contact me.

As far as I'm concerned if it isn't notarized it is meaningless. I did MANY of these up when my kid was a minor and would be travelling to the US with grandparents, etc.

Also, even if it is just an overnight (or even a day trip) I would make sure they are covered for medical insurance. That could turn into a nightmare.

 

[Chickinvic]

We took our son’s friend, 16 with us to Disneyland/California for 8 days last May. She had a signed letter from her parents (not notarized) but she was never asked for it. Had no issues at the borders/airports.

That's a crapshoot. I would never have sent mine without the notarized letter (even though they don't always ask - they can). I certainly wouldn't feel comfortable taking someone else's child across without one.

 

[Mle8308]

Is a Passport necessary?

 

[bcwife76]

Is a Passport necessary?

To fly to the US, yes (regardless of age). If driving across the border then those under 16 do not have to have a passport, they can use a birth certificate (and this will also get them on a flight within the US).

 

[scorpsfan]

Thanks everyone!

 

[40ariel]

https://travel.gc.ca/travelling/children/consent-letter

There is a sample letter which is a form.