The Foreign Office has issued updated travel advice for Portugal, introducing new document requirements for British families travelling with children. The rules apply to all children aged 17 and under who are not Portuguese nationals.
Letter of Authorisation Required
Children travelling alone or with someone who is not their parent or legal guardian must carry a letter of authorisation to travel. The letter must be signed and dated by the child's parent or guardian, with the signature certified by a notary or solicitor. The notary or solicitor's signature must then be legalised by the Legalisation Office.
Alongside the letter, a copy of the parent or guardian's passport is necessary. The letter must include the child's full name, date of birth and passport number, travel dates, purpose of visit, address in Portugal, details of the responsible adult in Portugal, and the parent or guardian's full details.
Entry May Be Refused
The travel guidance states: "Be prepared to show the letter of authorisation to border officials on arrival and departure from Portugal. If you bring a child to Portugal without a letter of authorisation, your entry will be delayed and may be refused." Teenagers travelling alone or with friends may also be refused entry without the letter.
Parents or legal guardians do not need such documentation. However, if a child has a different surname, a copy of their birth certificate and a notarised consent letter from the non-travelling parent are required.
Check Other EU Rules
These rules are specific to Portugal. For other EU destinations, travellers should verify the requirements, as they can vary by country.
