In brief. Crossing the border with a child needs attention to the child’s documents, and their set depends on who exactly the child is travelling with — both parents, one parent, or accompanied by other adults. These requirements change periodically, so they are checked with official sources in advance. At the checkpoint itself, the main thing is to have all documents to hand and allow a buffer of time so you are not hurrying with a child.
The journey across the border with a child has two parts: the legal one (documents) and the practical one (how to pass the checkpoint calmly). Let us look at both.
Why documents depend on the situation
The requirements for a child leaving the country may differ depending on who is accompanying them. So the first thing to do is find out your particular case:
- the child is travelling with both parents;
- the child is travelling with one parent;
- the child is travelling accompanied by other adults.
Document requirements for a child leaving the country change. Check the current information on the border service’s official resource before every trip.
What to prepare in advance
- the child’s documents, and check their validity;
- any extra documents that may be needed in your particular case;
- copies of key documents — on paper or on your phone.
Since issuing documents takes time, it is worth doing this not on the last day before the trip.
How to act at the checkpoint
- keep the child’s documents with the rest, easily reachable;
- be ready to answer the border guards’ questions calmly;
- do not hurry — everything is slower with a child, so a buffer of time is especially important here.
How to keep the wait calm for the child
The queue at the border is unpredictable, and it is the wait that most often tires a child. What helps:
- water and a snack to hand;
- a favourite toy or a downloaded cartoon;
- a warm jumper in case it is cool;
- calm parents — the child reads your state.
Different modes of transport
The experience of crossing the border with a child also depends on the transport. On a direct train the border is crossed on the move, without a separate wait, and the child can sleep at night. On the bus and in the car, a supply of things and patience matter, since the queue may drag on. We cover organising the trip with a child itself in a separate article.
Frequently asked questions
What documents does a child need to leave the country?
It depends on who the child is travelling with. Check the current requirements with official sources in advance.
Can I prepare documents at the last moment?
It is not advisable: issuing takes time, and hurrying before the trip raises the risk of not making it in time.
How can I make the wait in the queue easier for a child?
Bring water, a snack and something to keep the child busy, and stay calm yourself.
Which transport is more convenient for a child at the border?
A direct train: the border is crossed on the move, without a separate wait in the queue.
Data verified: 13 July 2026