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You are here: Families & Children > Custody & Visitation > What happens if I want to travel with my child but I can't find the other parent to get permission?

What happens if I want to travel with my child but I can't find the other parent to get permission?

Usually, you need the other parent's permission to travel with your child, especially if you want to leave the country or if, by traveling with your child, the other parent will miss his or her court-ordered visitation. If you can't find the other parent, you will need to go to court and ask the judge for permission to let you leave without the other parent's signature. You will have to look for the other parent and tell the judge everything you tried to find him/her. Click here for information on how to find someone.

You should also closely look at your existing custody and visitation court order and make sure that there are no restrictions on you leaving the state or your county with the child. If there are limits on whether you can take your child outside of your county or state, you usually need a court order giving you special permission to travel.

If the judge gives you an order letting you travel, make sure you get it in writing. Also make sure the order has everything you need, including the dates of travel and any other information so that you can travel with your child safely. Carry a copy of the order on you everywhere you go when you travel. You may need to show it to the border patrol, airport staff or any official that asks to see it.

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