Minor travelling with the family

If a minor is traveling to the Schengen Area, the visa application process includes a few extra steps to ensure safety and legal compliance. Here's a breakdown of what’s typically required:

🧾 Essential Documents

• Visa application form signed by both parents or legal guardians

• Valid passport (at least 3 months beyond the intended departure from Schengen)

• Two recent passport-sized photos meeting Schengen standards

• Birth certificate (original and certified copy)

• Parental authorization letter if traveling with one parent or someone else

• Copies of parents’ or guardians’ passports/IDs

• Proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter)

• Round-trip flight reservations

• Travel insurance covering at least €30,000 across the Schengen Area

• Proof of financial means (sponsorship letter, bank statements, etc.)

• School No Objection Certificate (NOC) if traveling during school term

👨‍👩‍👧 Travel Scenarios

• With both parents: Standard documentation

• With one parent: Authorization from the other parent is usually required

• Alone or with non-guardian adult: Written consent from both parents and possibly additional checks by airlines or border authorities

🛫 Tips Before You Apply

• Apply at least 15 days before travel, but ideally 4–6 weeks in advance

• Check with the embassy of the destination country for specific requirements

• Confirm with your airline or travel carrier if they have additional rules for minors

You can find more details in this complete guide to Schengen visas for minors. Want help drafting a parental consent letter or organizing your checklist? I’ve got your back.