An affidavit of consent is one of the most versatile legal documents. Whether it is used for parental consent to travel, adoption, property transactions, or marital consent, it plays an important role in proving agreement and protecting the rights of all parties involved. In this guide, we’ll cover what an affidavit of consent is, why it matters, the different types, and how to create and notarize one quickly with NotaryPublic24.
What is an Affidavit of Consent?
An affidavit of consent is a sworn legal statement where one party formally gives permission for another person to take a specific action. It is signed by the consenting individual and often needs to be notarized to confirm authenticity.
Examples include:
- A parent allowing a child to travel abroad
- A spouse giving marital consent for a transaction
- A property co-owner granting approval to sell or transfer ownership
- A legal guardian authorizing adoption or medical treatment
This type of affidavit protects against disputes by providing documented proof of agreement.
For official guidelines, review resources such as the U.S. State Department on parental consent for travel, the UK Government parental responsibility guide, Germany’s Federal Ministry of Justice, and Spain’s Ministry of Justice.
Why is an Affidavit of Consent Important?
The main purpose of an affidavit of parental consent or any other consent affidavit is to provide legal protection. Without it, actions like international travel with minors, adoption procedures, or selling property could be delayed or denied.
An affidavit is also crucial in immigration, family law, and real estate, where formal consent is often required by government authorities, courts, or notaries.
At NotaryPublic24, you can access a ready-to-use affidavit template, customize it for your needs, and add notarization or Apostille services to ensure worldwide recognition.
Types of Affidavit of Consent
1. Affidavit of Parental Consent
This is one of the most common forms. It is used when parents or guardians must authorize a child’s travel, marriage, or other legal matters.
Examples:
- Affidavit of parental consent for international travel – required when a minor travels abroad with one parent or another guardian.
- Affidavit of parental consent for marriage – in countries where underage marriage requires parental approval.
2. Affidavit of Consent to Travel
This affidavit confirms that a child is permitted to travel with one parent, a relative, or another adult. Border authorities often require a notarized affidavit of consent to travel with a minor.
Read more about minor travel consent form here.
3. Affidavit of Consent Adoption
Used in adoption cases where a biological parent or guardian formally agrees to the adoption process.
4. Affidavit of Consent to Sell or Use Property
In real estate or business transactions, a co-owner may need to sign an affidavit confirming consent to sell or use property.
5. Affidavit of Marital Consent
Some jurisdictions require a spouse’s consent to certain property transactions or legal actions.
6. Affidavit of Consent in Divorce or Waiver of Notice
In divorce proceedings, a spouse may sign an affidavit of consent and waiver of notice to allow the process to move forward without further hearings.
How to Write an Affidavit of Consent
A valid affidavit of consent form should include:
- Title – clearly labeled “Affidavit of Consent.”
- Personal Information – name, address, and relationship to the involved party.
- Consent Statement – a clear declaration of what is being approved (e.g., travel, adoption, property use).
- Details of Action – names of the parties involved, destination (if travel), property details (if real estate), etc.
- Signature and Date – signed by the consenting person.
- Notarization – often required for validity.
Save time with NotaryPublic24’s affidavit of consent form, where you simply fill in your details and download a valid form.
Do I Need to Notarize an Affidavit of Consent?
Yes, in most cases. A notarized affidavit of consent ensures the document is legally valid and prevents fraud. For international matters like child travel or overseas adoption, notarization is almost always mandatory.
If the affidavit will be used abroad, it may also require an Apostille to be recognized under the Hague Convention.
With NotaryPublic24, you can notarize online in just minutes. Upload your document, verify your ID, and receive a notarized affidavit within 24 hours.
How Do I Get an Affidavit of Consent Notarized?
Traditionally, you’d need to visit a local Notary Public. But with NotaryPublic24, the process is streamlined:
- Select the affidavit form and customize it to your need.
- Enter your details and download the document.
- Upload your completed form to NotaryPublic24.
- Verify your identity with a photo ID.
- Receive your notarized affidavit within 24 hours.
You can also add digital signing, translation services or Apostille certification if the affidavit will be presented abroad.
When Might You Need an Affidavit of Consent?
- Travel with Minors: When one parent or guardian is not present.
- Adoption Cases: When biological parents consent to adoption.
- Property Transactions: Selling, leasing, or transferring property rights.
- Marriage Approvals: Where parental consent is required.
- Divorce Proceedings: When one party agrees to terms without further dispute.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an affidavit of consent?
It’s a sworn statement granting permission for another party to take specific actions, such as travel, adoption, or property use.
Where do I get an affidavit of parental consent for marriage?
You can use NotaryPublic24’s affidavit of consent form, which is legally valid and can be notarized or Apostilled.
How to fill out an affidavit of parental consent?
Include your personal details, your relationship to the child, the action being approved (such as travel or marriage), and sign the document.
Do I need to notarize my affidavit of consent?
Yes, notarization ensures the affidavit is valid and accepted by authorities.
Can I use an affidavit of consent internationally?
Yes, but it may need an Apostille or consular legalization. NotaryPublic24 provides Apostille services directly and helps with further legalization if needed.
Conclusion
An affidavit of consent is a powerful legal document that protects families, businesses, and individuals by providing proof of agreement. From travel with minors to adoption and property sales, it is widely used in both domestic and international legal processes.
With NotaryPublic24, you can create, notarize, and Apostille your affidavit of consent quickly and securely — without the hassle of visiting a local notary.
Create and notarize your affidavit of consent today with NotaryPublic24
