Permission to Take Child Overseas

by Anonymous from Florida

I'm separated from my wife but not divorced yet, DCF gave custody to my wife and I have visiting rights. Doesn't she need my permission to take our children out of the country or on a cruise?

All I need to know is if my ex-wife is required for me to sign a permission form to allow our kids to travel outside the country.

We are still married but separated and DCF gave her custody but I have visiting rights.

Answer to Florida Child Custody Question

Dear Anonymous,

Yes, if the custody arrangement is Shared Parental Responsibility then both parents should consent to travel.

Did you complete a Parenting Plan? Travel agreements are thoroughly spelled out in that document.

Do your children already have passports or passport cards?

There are very few places left that U.S. citizens may go without one or the other.

Passport cards may be used in some parts of the Caribbean, if they are traveling by vessel. If traveling by plane a regular passport is necessary. Both the passport card and a regular passport require consent of both parents.

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