Child traveling on an excursion and returning with parents: what documents are required to cross the border? Lawyers from Visit Ukraine explain

If a child is returning from abroad not with an organized group, but separately — independently or with parents — it is important to complete the documents correctly to avoid fines and questions at the border. Find out how to legally organize a child's return and avoid claims from border services

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Situations where children travel abroad as part of school or tourist groups but return separately are not uncommon. For example, a 16-year-old child may stay abroad with their parents after an excursion or return by other means of transport. This often raises the question: will such a change of plans result in a fine for the carrier or problems at the border?

Visit Ukraine lawyers have prepared practical recommendations on how to properly prepare documents to avoid any misunderstandings and ensure the child's legal return home.

Request: A 16-year-old child traveled abroad as part of an organized tour group but is returning to Ukraine separately, accompanied by his parents. In such cases, parents often worry whether this will result in a fine or claims from border guards or the carrier. What documents need to be prepared to avoid a fine at the border with Poland? What steps should parents and the carrier take to arrange for the child's return in accordance with the law and avoid claims from border services?

A child's right to cross the border independently

According to Article 313 of the Civil Code of Ukraine, a minor between the ages of 14 and 18 has the right to leave Ukraine with the consent of their parents. According to the Rules for Crossing the State Border by Citizens of Ukraine (CMU Resolution No. 57 of January 27, 1995), a child who has reached the age of 16 may cross the border independently.

Therefore, if your child is 16 years of age, they may leave the group abroad and return to Ukraine separately, either independently or accompanied by their parents.

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Why are there risks for the carrier?

During organized trips, tour operators and carriers submit lists of group members included in transport or customs declarations to border and customs services. If, upon return from the EU, the number of passengers does not match the list, this may be considered a violation of transportation rules, and the carrier risks being fined under Article 85¹ of the Code of Ukraine on Administrative Offenses.

However, this can be avoided by preparing all documents in advance that explain the child's absence from the group.

How to complete the documents correctly?

1. Notify the trip organizer

Notify the travel agency or group leader in advance that the child will remain abroad under your responsibility.

2. Prepare a written statement from both parents

In the statement, indicate that you are picking up the child yourself, taking responsibility for their stay and return to Ukraine, and request that they be excluded from the group.

It is recommended to have the statement notarized to avoid any doubts.

3. Give a copy of the statement to the organizer and carrier

This is necessary so that they can add the document to the accompanying papers or present it to border guards in case of questions.

4. Have the main documents with you

Parents' passports, child's birth certificate, confirmation of accommodation or ticket reservations — all of this will confirm the legality of the trip.

5. Get confirmation from the organizer

Ask the tour operator to provide written or electronic confirmation that they are familiar with your application and do not object to the child returning separately.

6. Make changes to the group list

On the day of return, the organizer or carrier must make a note in the accompanying documents that the child has left the group with the written consent of the parents.

What to consider when crossing the border?

Even if the child is traveling alone, border guards may check documents confirming the purpose of the trip. Therefore, we recommend that you carry a copy of your application and official confirmation from the organizer. This will simplify the crossing procedure and eliminate any questions from the authorities.

If you are planning to travel abroad with a child or are already in such a situation, the lawyers Visit Ukraine will provide full support — from checking documents to preparing written statements and explanations for border services. We will help you coordinate your actions with the trip organizer, avoid fines for the carrier, and ensure the child's legal return to Ukraine.

Contact us for consultation to receive individual legal support in accordance with Ukrainian and international law.

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1. Select a convenient format (support, written or oral consultation).

2. Fill out the form with your details (full name, email, contact phone number).

4. Select a convenient date for the consultation.

5. Read the terms and conditions of the agreement and make the payment.

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Visit Ukraine is your reliable legal partner abroad!

Reminder! The introduction of martial law in Ukraine has simplified the rules for children traveling abroad. In particular, in 2025, minors will be able to cross the border with one parent without the notarized consent of the other. However, other permits may be required for travel. Find out what documents you need to have in order to cross the border with children and in which cases in our article.

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