Passport for a child to travel abroad. New rules
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Passport for a child to travel abroad. New rules
On January 20, 2026, an important change in the rules for children to travel abroad will come into force in Russia. It will no longer be possible to travel with a child under 14 years of age with a birth certificate — you will need your own passport. Let's look at why this is important and how to prepare.
What is this for?
In our opinion, the authorities made this decision for two key reasons:
- Identification problem: There is no photo on the birth certificate, which makes it difficult to verify the child's identity at the border.
- Protection against illegal export: the new procedure helps prevent cases of illegal transfer of children abroad (a fairly common practice when parents divorce).
Why can't you do without a passport? Arguments “for” the innovation
1. Risks of using a birth certificate
- The main vulnerability of the certificate is the absence of a photo of the child;
- falsification or loss of a document;
- difficulties in interacting with foreign authorities;
- problems in obtaining medical care abroad.
2. Problems at the border
- delays in passing control due to verification of the authenticity of the certificate;
- refusal to leave in some countries that do not recognize a birth certificate as a document for crossing the border;
- difficulties in confirming kinship (especially if the child and parent have different surnames).
3. The invalidity of “workarounds”
- Previously, some countries (Belarus, Abkhazia, Kazakhstan, etc.) allowed entry by certificate — this will stop working in 2026;
- the practice of including children in their parents' passport (5-year non-biometric) is also ending.
4. Legal risks
- possible problems when returning to Russia;
- difficulties in obtaining visas and other documents abroad;
- the risk of recognizing the child's stay abroad as illegal.
What can I use instead of a birth certificate?
The only valid travel document is the child's own passport (regardless of the country of destination).
How do I prepare for the trip?
- issue a passport for a child (production time — 1-3 months);
- choose passport type:
- 5-year-old (non-biometric) — optimal for young children (appearance changes quickly);
- 10-year-old (biometric) — a long-term solution for older children;
- check the current document requirements with carriers and consulates;
- specify the procedure if the child is traveling without parents (notarized consent, travel ban from the second parent).
Conclusion
C Cases' lawyers believe that the new order is not a restriction, but protection measure for kids and their families. A passport guarantees unhindered travel, ensures safety abroad, simplifies interaction with foreign services, and protects against legal risks.
We recommend that your child's passport be issued in advance to avoid haste and stress before traveling.