Children at the border: when travel authorisation is required for Argentina and Paraguay

Direct answer: A minor travelling with both parents crosses on ID alone. With only one parent, the other must authorise. Alone or with a third party, both must. Brazil's electronic authorisation (AEV) through e-Notariado covers up to age 16; from 16 to 18 it must be notarised with a certified signature. Carry two printed copies.

Who needs what

Sole custody, bereavement or a court decision change the rule, and the document proving it has to travel with you.

The age detail that stops families at the border

The AEV, the electronic authorisation created by CNJ Provision 103/2020, is issued through e-Notariado for children and adolescents up to 16, for domestic and international travel, valid for a period set by the parents up to two years.

Above 16 and under 18, the AEV does not apply. In that band the authorisation is still required for international travel, but it must be done at a notary, with a certified signature. This is the point that surprises most families, who assume the electronic route runs to 18.

How to obtain it

• AEV (up to 16): through e-Notariado, in person at a notary office or by video call, with a notarial certificate.
• Notary (any age under 18): a written authorisation with the certified signature of the authorising parent.

In both cases, print at least two copies. One may be retained.

At the crossing from Foz

Always carry:

• The minor's physical document, with a recent, legible photo: Brazilian ID, national ID card or passport. A phone photo does not count.
• The printed authorisation, where it applies.
• ID for the accompanying adults.

Argentina and Paraguay both ask for the minor's document and the authorisation in the cases above. What differs by destination is in documents for Puerto Iguazú and documents for Ciudad del Este.

Before locking in the trip

• Do it early. Notary appointments take time, and the video-call AEV requires document preparation.
• Check the spelling. The name on the minor's document must match the authorisation exactly; a single differing surname holds up the crossing.
• Check validity and condition. A torn ID or an outdated photo is often refused.

With the paperwork sorted, the rest of the planning is in Foz do Iguaçu with kids, and crossing times in bridge queue.

Sources: Brazil's National Council of Justice (travel by children and adolescents, Provision 103/2020); Colégio Notarial do Brasil and the e-Notariado platform (AEV).