Birth certificates and authorizations: Are translations necessary for traveling with grandchildren?

we’re taking our grandkids in early 2026 (14 and 10 years old) without their parents. Do we really need to have birth certificates and other forms translated by a sworn translator?

Hi there, Not having had to ask myself this question in a long time, I checked the France Diplomatie website, which also refers to the South African site and the consulate’s site. Minor who is not South African, accompanied, without their biological parents (none at all). Valid passport. That seems to be all. Double-check, but that’s what I understood! For Marloth Park: Is it getting around MP that’s your concern? Maybe check with the park management?

Hi,

we’re taking our grandchildren (ages 14 and 10) in early 2026 without their parents. Do we really need to have birth certificates and other forms translated by a sworn translator?

Usually, yes. I know there have been people who ran into issues at customs.

For our trips to Southern Africa since 2015, we had to have this paperwork even for our own kids. Though that’s a while ago now—maybe the law has changed! 🐾

Hello,

- Check the case that applies to you by clicking (or copying) the link below:

https://www.service-public.gouv.fr/particuliers/vosdroits/F1922#:~:text=Pour%20voyager%20dans%20un%20pays, identit%C3%A9%20ou%20un%20passeport%20valide.&text=Une%20interdiction%20de%20sortie%20du, le%20juge%20aux%20affaires%20familiales.

Small clarification: Customs services are only interested in goods or money being transported, in relation to the regulations of the country in question. It’s the Border Police that handles entry formalities for people.

- You didn’t mention your destination country. If it’s South Africa, see here:

https://www.diplomatie.gouv.fr/en/travel-advice/travel-advice-by-country/south-africa/#entry

Best regards, Puma2A

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I’ve checked all these sites. Thanks. It’s about South Africa (I thought I was specifically in the South Africa section here). Since then, I’ve gotten the info: passports (obviously), birth certificates in French and English, photocopies of parents’ IDs, exit permit from the country, and entry authorization for South Africa (this is for minor children traveling with an adult who isn’t a parent).