Travelling with a Child from Kenya? Here Is What You Need for an Affidavit of Consent
International travel involving minors requires careful preparation, especially where a child is travelling with one parent, a relative, guardian, or another responsible adult. In Kenya, immigration authorities and foreign embassies often require an Affidavit of Consent to Travel with a Child to confirm that the parents or legal guardians have authorised the journey.
This document serves as an important legal safeguard aimed at protecting minors from child trafficking, abduction, and unauthorised international travel. Properly preparing the affidavit and supporting documents can help avoid delays at immigration checkpoints or complications during visa applications.
Information Required for an Affidavit of Consent to Travel with a Child in Kenya
1. Full Details of the Parents or Legal Guardians
The affidavit should clearly state the full names, residential addresses, telephone numbers, and identification details of both parents or legal guardians.
Where only one parent has legal authority over the child, supporting evidence should also be attached, including:
- A court order granting sole custody
- A death certificate where one parent is deceased
- Any other legal document confirming guardianship rights
Providing these documents helps establish the authority of the person giving consent for the child’s travel.
2. Details of the Travel Destination
The affidavit should include complete information regarding the intended travel destination, including:
- The country of travel
- The city or region
- Accommodation details or address where the child will stay, where available
Immigration officials often require this information to verify the child’s whereabouts while abroad and to ensure the travel arrangements are legitimate and organised.
3. Travel Dates
The document must indicate the expected departure and return dates. If the exact dates are not yet confirmed, an estimated travel period should be provided.
This assists authorities in confirming that the travel is temporary and properly planned.
4. Details of the Adult Accompanying the Child
If the child is travelling with another adult who is not a parent, the affidavit should include the accompanying adult’s:
- Full name
- Physical and postal address
- Relationship to the child
- Telephone number and email address
These details help authorities verify that the accompanying individual has the proper consent and responsibility to travel with the minor.
Supporting Documents Required
In addition to the affidavit itself, parents or guardians are generally advised to attach supporting documents such as:
- A certified copy of the child’s birth certificate
- Copies of the parents’ or guardians’ passports or national identity cards
- Court orders relating to custody or guardianship, where applicable
- Medical or vaccination records if required by the destination country
Different countries may impose additional entry requirements for minors, including visa documentation and health clearances.
Notarisation Requirements in Kenya
For the affidavit to carry legal effect in Kenya and internationally, it should be notarised by a licensed Notary Public. The notary verifies the identity of the individuals signing the document and confirms that the consent is given voluntarily.
A properly notarised affidavit strengthens the authenticity of the document and is more readily accepted by immigration authorities, embassies, and foreign institutions.
Why This Document Matters
Travelling with a child without proper consent documentation can result in serious delays, denied boarding, immigration questioning, or refusal of entry into another country. Preparing an Affidavit of Consent in advance helps ensure smooth travel arrangements while protecting the legal rights and welfare of the child.
Need Assistance?
We can assist in drafting and notarising an Affidavit of Consent to Travel with a Child in Kenya, including guidance on the supporting documentation required for immigration and international travel purposes.
E-mail: info@resintegra.com
