Affidavit of Consent to Travel with a child in Kenya

Affidavit of Consent to Travel with a child in Kenya

An Affidavit of Consent to Travel is a legal document that grants permission for a minor (a child under 18 years old) to travel internationally. This document is important when the child is not traveling with both parents or legal guardians. It ensures that the minor has received proper consent to leave the country and helps to prevent issues like child abduction, custody disputes, and human trafficking.

In Kenya, an affidavit of consent is required when:

• A minor is traveling with one parent, and the other parent needs to provide consent.
• A minor is traveling with a relative, friend, or another responsible adult, in which case both parents or legal guardians must give their consent.

This document must be presented to immigration authorities at the point of departure and in some cases, upon arrival at the destination country.

What do you require to get an affidavit of consent to travel with a child in Kenya?

1. Names and Addresses of Both Parents or Guardians

The affidavit must clearly state the parents’ or legal guardians’ full names, current residential addresses, and contact information. If the minor is under the care of only one parent, the affidavit should include documents such as:

• A court order granting sole custody, or
• A death certificate, if one parent has passed away.

2. Details of the Travel Destination

The affidavit should clearly state the destination of the trip. This includes:

• The country
• The city (if known)
• Any specific location or accommodation where the child will be staying.

This helps immigration and other authorities confirm where the child will be during their time abroad, which is essential for the protection of minors. Additionally, some countries may require extra documentation, such as visas, for minors traveling under these circumstances.

3. Dates of Travel

The affidavit must state the intended dates of travel. This includes the planned departure date and the expected return date. If the dates are not fixed, it’s helpful to give an approximate timeframe. Providing this information reassures authorities that the travel is temporary and organized.

4. Details of the Adult Traveling with the Child

If the minor is traveling with someone other than a parent (e.g., a family member, friend, or guardian), the affidavit should include the following information about the accompanying adult:

• Full name
• Physical address
• Relationship to the minor
• Contact details (phone number, email)

These details help ensure that the individual traveling with the child has the parents’ consent and that they can be reached in case of an emergency. Immigration authorities often need to verify that the individual traveling with the child is responsible and trusted.

Additional Supporting Documents to support an affidavit of consent to travel with a child in Kenya

In addition to the affidavit, there are several supporting documents that parents or guardians may need to provide:

• A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate: This is to confirm the parentage or guardianship of the minor.
• A photocopy of the consenting parent(s)’ passports or national IDs: This helps confirm the identity of the consenting individuals.
• A certified copy of a court order: If one parent has sole custody or there are legal restrictions regarding the minor’s travel, this must be provided.
• Medical records or vaccination certificates: Some countries may require vaccination or medical clearance before a child can enter.

Notarization of the affidavit of consent to travel with a child in Kenya

In Kenya, for the affidavit to be valid, it must be notarized by a licensed Notary Public. The notary’s role is to verify the identities of the individuals signing the affidavit and ensure that they are doing so voluntarily. Once notarized, the affidavit becomes a legally binding document that can be used internationally.

Do you require an affidavit of consent to travel with a child in Kenya?

We can assist you draft an affidavit of consent to travel with a child in Kenya. Please contact us on info@swkadvocates.com