United States: Not Routinely Checked (Still Recommended).
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Not Routinely Checked (Still Recommended). US Customs and Border Protection doesn't routinely check on entry, but individual airlines and officers retain discretion to ask, and the State Department itself recommends carrying a notarized letter for any minor traveling without both parents.
United States: Not Routinely Checked (Still Recommended). US Customs and Border Protection doesn't routinely check on entry, but individual airlines and officers retain discretion to ask, and the State Department itself recommends carrying a notarized letter for any minor traveling without both parents.
United States doesn't routinely check for this at the border, but a notarized letter is still universally recommended regardless of destination — individual officers and airlines retain discretion to ask.
The absent parent's or guardian's full name, signature, and contact information; the traveling parent's or companion's name and relationship to the child; the specific travel dates and destination(s); and notarization — a signature alone usually isn't enough.
Regardless of the enforcement level shown, every government and airline recommends carrying a notarized parental/guardian consent letter for any minor traveling without both legal parents — it's the single cheapest, easiest way to avoid a problem with an individual officer or check-in agent anywhere in the world. Requirements can also apply on departure, not just arrival, so check both directions of your trip.