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You can take your children outside of England and Wales only if you have <strong>permission</strong> from everyone who has <strong>parental responsibility</strong>.
<ul>
<li><strong>Mother automatically has parental responsibility.</strong></li>
<li><strong>Fathers or second female parents</strong> married or in a civil partnership with the mother at birth share this responsibility automatically. They do not lose it after divorce or separation unless the court removes it.</li>
</ul>
<strong>If unsure</strong> about your parental responsibility status (e.g. unmarried father), <strong>seek legal advice</strong> before attempting to take the children on holiday.

If you do have <strong>permission</strong>, get it in writing to confirm that the child’s other parent (and anyone else with parental responsibility) consents to you taking the children away.

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Yes, <strong>provided</strong> you have permission from the other parent or anyone else with parental responsibility.

This applies to divorced parents who have reverted to their maiden names, remarried under a different surname, or couples who never shared a surname.

<strong>Carry relevant documentation</strong> to prove you are a legal guardian, such as:
<ul>
<li>The <strong>child’s birth certificate</strong></li>
<li>Proof of your name change (if applicable)</li>
<li><strong>Written consent</strong> from the other parent confirming the details of the trip</li>
</ul>
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<h3></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Within England and Wales</strong>: If your ex has parental responsibility, they do <strong>not</strong> legally need your permission to take your children on holiday in those areas. However, it’s best practice for them to inform you of their plans.</li>
<li><strong>Outside of England and Wales</strong>: They must have <strong>your permission</strong> (and the consent of anyone else with parental responsibility) to travel abroad.</li>
</ul>
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In most cases, <strong>no</strong>. But it’s good practice to agree in advance or at least let your ex know the dates, location, and any travel details. If you’re uncertain, <strong>seek legal advice</strong>.

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Yes, if your ex <strong>has parental responsibility</strong>, they can refuse permission for you to travel abroad. If that happens, you may need to <strong>apply to the court</strong> to secure permission before travelling.

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Removing a child from the UK without consent from others with parental responsibility may be considered <strong>child abduction</strong>. This could have serious legal consequences.

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<h3></h3>
<ul>
<li><strong>Lives With / Residence Order</strong>: If the Order states the children “live with” you, you may take them out of England and Wales for up to <strong>28 days</strong> without needing separate permission.</li>
<li>If it states the children “spend time with” you, you must still have the <strong>other parent’s permission</strong> before travel.</li>
<li>If a court has <strong>specifically prohibited</strong> travel, you must seek <strong>court permission</strong>.</li>
</ul>
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Apart from usual travel essentials (passport, boarding passes, etc.), consider having:
<ol>
<li><strong>Child’s birth certificate</strong></li>
<li><strong>Proof of name change</strong> (e.g. marriage certificate, deed poll)</li>
<li><strong>Written permission</strong> from anyone else with parental responsibility</li>
<li>Any additional documents required by your <strong>destination country</strong> (check consulate websites)</li>
</ol>

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<strong>HM &amp; Co. Solicitors</strong>
<strong>Address</strong>: 186 Lower Road, Surrey Quays, London SE16 2UN
<strong>Telephone</strong>: 02071128180
<strong>Email</strong>: <a rel="noopener">info@hmsolicitorsltd.com</a>

<em>For tailored advice on holiday arrangements, travel permissions, or any other family law matters, our dedicated team is ready to help.</em>