Red cards and red flags: what parents need to know before taking children to the World Cup

For separated parents, however, taking a child out of England and Wales is not as simple as booking flights and match tickets. So, what do you need to consider if you’re hoping to make the trip?

International travel can raise serious legal issues, particularly where parental responsibility is shared. In the most serious cases, a holiday can quickly escalate into an allegation of child abduction.

This article sets out the key legal considerations and practical steps parents should take before travelling, so the only thing you need to worry about is England’s penalty taking form.

1. Consent: the starting point

Under the Child Abduction Act 1984, it is a criminal offence for a parent to take a child under 16 out of the UK without the appropriate consent of everyone with parental responsibility.

What counts as appropriate consent?

• The written consent of the other parent (or anyone else with parental responsibility), or
• Permission of the court.

In my experience the absolute best practice is to get:

• A signed letter of consent from the children’s other parent
• Full travel details (dates, destination, flights, accommodation)
• Emergency contact information.

What if consent is refused?

If the other parent won't agree, you will need to apply to the court for a Specific Issue Order or a variation of an existing order. You should not travel without the other parent’s consent or a court order.

2. Child Arrangements Orders: check before you travel

If a Child Arrangements Order (CAO) is in place specifying that a child lives with you, you may be entitled to take the child abroad for up to 28 days without the other parent’s consent, unless the order says otherwise.

However, this only applies where a 'lives with' order is in force and does not override a Prohibited Steps Order.

3. Prohibited Steps Orders: a complete bar on travel

A Prohibited Steps Order (PSO) can prevent a parent from taking a child abroad, either entirely or without the court’s permission.

Such orders are often made where there is concern about risk of non-return, previous threats to relocate, or strong ties to another country.

If a PSO is in place, you must not travel and must apply to the court for permission.

4. Border control: what you may be asked

Border officials are increasingly alert to child abduction risks. You may be asked to produce:

• A consent letter from the other parent
• The child’s birth certificate
• Evidence of your relationship to the child
• Details of your travel itinerary.

If you cannot satisfy officials, you may be delayed, prevented from boarding, or reported to authorities. Not the ideal start to your holiday. 

5. The risk of wrongful retention

Even where travel starts lawfully, issues arise if a child is not returned as agreed. This can amount to wrongful retention under international law and trigger Hague Convention proceedings for the return of the child. The USA, Canada and Mexico are all signatories to the Hague Convention. 

6. Practical checklist before you travel

• Obtain clear written consent from all with parental responsibility
• Check for any Child Arrangements Order or Prohibited Steps Order
• Carry consent letter, birth certificate, and court orders
• Share full travel details with the other parent
• Seek legal advice if there is any history of dispute/

Final word

For most families, a World Cup trip should be an exciting and memorable experience. But where parents are separated, preparation and clarity are essential.

Taking sensible steps in advance can help avoid disputes, prevent disruption at the border, and reduce the risk of serious legal consequences – leaving you free to focus on the football (whatever the scoreline).