What are the new border crossing rules with a child in 2026

In Ukraine, in 2026, simplified border crossing rules with minors continue to apply, implemented during martial law. The key change is that a child can travel abroad with one parent without notarized consent from the other. However, additional document requirements are specified for certain situations. Visit Ukraine writes about this.

The main regulatory act that governs the procedure for children exiting remains the Law of Ukraine on the Procedure for Exiting Ukraine and Entering Ukraine for Citizens of Ukraine. Considering martial law, the rules have become more flexible. Children under 16 years old can only travel with adults, while those from 16 years old have the right to travel alone provided they have a foreign passport.

Children's exit abroad in 2026: basic documents

For border crossing with a child, in most cases, a minimal set of documents is sufficient. Even in the absence of a foreign passport, exit is possible based on the birth certificate, which significantly simplifies the procedure in emergency situations.

Main documents:

• birth certificate of the child;

• foreign passport of the child if available;

• ID card for trips to countries that recognize it.

Children aged 16-17 can cross the border independently without additional parental permissions, which complies with the norms of the Civil Code of Ukraine.

Rules for the exit of minors with relatives and third parties

If a child is traveling with a grandmother, grandfather, adult brother or sister, stepmother or stepfather, notarized consent from parents is not required. It is necessary only to confirm family ties.

In case of traveling with third parties, the list of documents is expanded:

• birth certificate of the child;

• written application from one of the parents;

• document certified by the guardianship authority;

• documents of the accompanying person.

According to the clarifications of the State Border Guard Service of Ukraine, during martial law, notarized consent from the other parent is not mandatory, but may be required in case of long-term or permanent exit abroad.

Earlier, we wrote that the rules for obtaining permission for a child's exit abroad have changed.