Minors traveling abroad told to ready documents

Due to the deluge of applications for travel clearance for minors traveling abroad this summer, applicants should submit complete documents to ensure timely release of their travel clearances, Social Welfare and Development officer-in-charge Luwalhati Pablo said.

A travel clearance is a document issued by the DSWD to a minor who is below 18 years old traveling abroad alone or with someone other than his/her parents. The travel clearance is issued as a measure to prevent child trafficking.

Requirements for application of travel clearance are: duly accomplished application form; photocopy of the birth certificate or passport of the minor; a written consent of both parents, the solo parent, or the legal guardian permitting the minor to travel alone to a foreign country; photocopy of the marriage certificate of the minor’s parents, or certificates establishing solo parenthood; two colored passport size photos of the minors taken within the last six months.

For subsequent travels, the requirements are duly-accomplished application form, written consent of both parents, the solo parent, or the legal guardian permitting the minor to travel alone to a foreign country, a photocopy of the previous travel clearance; and two colored passport size photos.

The travel clearance shall be valid for multiple travels within the one-year validity period, provided that the conditions under which the travel clearance was issued have not changed. If a change in condition occurs, like change of traveling companion, a new travel clearance must be obtained.

Those who do not need a travel clearance are: 1. A minor traveling abroad whose parents are in foreign service or are living abroad provided, the child is holding a valid pass such as a dependent’s visa, permanent resident visa or card which can prove that the child is living with parents abroad; and 2. A minor traveling abroad with either parent or with his or her solo parent or legal guardian. — Jasmin R. Uy/BRP