Traveling abroad with children remains relevant today. Learn more about the rules of border crossing and whether a child of 16 can travel abroad without parents

An insurance policy is a guarantee of your safety and peaceful stay outside of Ukraine

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Martial law changes the rules for children traveling abroad. The main thing to keep in mind is that minor children can cross the border with one parent without the notarized consent of the other. This change has become a lifesaver for mothers who fled abroad from the war with their children, but without their husbands.

Has the approach to the departure of children changed in 2023? Let's find out.

Departure of children abroad under the age of 16

The legislation clearly states that children must be accompanied:

- Mother or father with a child's birth certificate. We emphasize that during martial law, the notarized consent of the other parent is not required;

- Other relatives - grandparents, stepmother, stepfather or adult brother or sister. In this case, the child's birth certificate and a document confirming kinship (not notarized) are also required;

- persons who are not related to the child. These citizens need to have a written statement from one of the parents (must be certified by the guardianship authority), the child's birth certificate and an adult identity document.

Please note! From the age of 16, children are allowed to travel abroad on their own and do not need parental permission. This rule applies regardless of martial law.

Whether the child travels abroad with adults or on his/her own, it is necessary to take care of his/her health. The best solution is guaranteed access to medical services. Take out an insurance policy to be sure that your child will receive medical care abroad.

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When is a child prohibited from crossing the border?

One of the parents may prohibit the child from leaving Ukraine. To do this, you need to apply in writing to the Administration of the State Border Guard Service and attach a notarized form of disagreement with the child's departure.

Useful contacts

In case of questions regarding a specific case, citizens can contact the hotline of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine by phone:

• 1598 for calls from the territory of Ukraine (the line is free);

• +38(044)527-63-63 for calls from abroad (according to the tariffs of the telecommunications operator).

We remind you! The issue of women's safety while traveling is being actively discussed around the world, and Ukrzaliznytsia is joining the global "trend". Find out how Ukrainian society reacted to the launch of women's compartments and the feasibility of such a decision in our article.

Our recommendation for a safe and comfortable trip: 

Visit Ukraine Insurance - insurance for a safe stay abroad without unnecessary expenses;

Green Card - compulsory car insurance for traveling abroad;

Visit Ukraine Tickets - book tickets for buses, trains, and airplanes to/from Ukraine and between cities around the world;

Private Lawyer service - professional legal support on visa and migration issues;

Visit Ukraine Merch - buy patriotic clothing and accessories with worldwide delivery.