DSWD Guidelines for Minors' Travel Abroad

Travel clearance from DSWD required for:
• Minors traveling alone abroad, except those with parents in foreign service or residing abroad holding valid visas/passports.
• Minors traveling with persons other than parents.
Travel clearance NOT required for minors traveling with
• Both or either parent, solo parent, or legal guardian.
Proof of solo parenthood or guardianship includes: • Solo parent ID, certification from social welfare office, Muslim law certifications (Tallaq/Fasakh), death certificate of a parent, or court-issued guardianship certificate.
Travel clearance certificate valid for one year, allowing multiple travels, unless travel conditions change (e.g., different traveling companion).

For a minor traveling alone (first time):
• Application form, birth certificate/passport, written consent of both parents or legal guardian, proof of parental status (marriage certificate, death certificate, etc.), two recent passport photos.
Subsequent travel alone:
• Application form, written consent, previous travel clearance copy, two recent photos.
First time traveling with a non-parent companion:
• Similar documents as above plus photocopy of companion's passport.
Subsequent travel with non-parent companion:
• Application form, written consent, prior clearance copy, two photos, companion's passport.

Applications filed by parent, legal guardian, or authorized representative at any DSWD regional office.
Application forms available at DSWD offices or online.
Travel clearance issued within 3 working days if requirements are complete.
Processing fee: P300 per travel clearance, official receipt issued.

Focuses on child protection against trafficking and ensures consent and documentation for minors traveling abroad.
Recognizes special circumstances for minors residing abroad due to parents' foreign service or immigration status.
Maintains a system of clearances balancing child safety and travel convenience.