With the summer holidays just around the corner, many separated or divorced parents start to feel the pressure of planning childcare, holidays abroad, and contact schedules. If you’re a parent navigating a divorce or separation, especially if you live in Manchester or are a UK expat living in Dubai, Saudi Arabia or Qatar, now is the time to start preparing. At Aramas Family Law, we help clients avoid last-minute legal stress and make sure child arrangements are clear, fair, and legally secure.
In short, yes—you usually do.
If you’re separated or divorced and want to take your child abroad, you must have the permission of everyone who holds parental responsibility. If your ex doesn’t agree, you can’t simply take your child on holiday without resolving the issue first.
Many parents don’t realise that taking a child abroad without the other parent’s consent could be considered child abduction under UK law—even if your intentions are completely innocent.
If your ex won’t give permission, the next step is to apply to the family court for a Specific Issue Order. This order can give you legal permission to travel with your child.
Alternatively, if you are concerned that your ex might try to take your child abroad without your permission, we can help you apply for a Prohibited Steps Order to prevent it.
These applications can take several weeks, especially during the busy summer period, so it’s essential to act early. We’re currently helping many clients in Manchester and abroad prepare these applications well in advance of their travel dates.
Read more about our child arrangement services
If a Child Arrangement Order is in place stating that your child lives with you, you’re legally allowed to take them abroad for up to 28 days without needing further consent—unless the order says otherwise.
Even so, it’s good practice to discuss the plans with the other parent and provide all travel details. Open communication helps avoid misunderstandings and court disputes later.
At Aramas Family Law, we specialise in helping separated parents create fair and workable child arrangements—whether you’re based in Manchester or living abroad.
Led by me, Samara Iqbal, we offer practical and sensitive advice in all areas of family law, with a particular focus on:
We’re here to help you find the best legal path forward—whether that’s negotiating with your ex, applying to court, or planning for a safe and enjoyable summer holiday with your child.
If you’re unsure where you stand legally, or you want peace of mind before booking flights, get in touch with us today. At Aramas Family Law, family law is all we do, and we’re here to make the process simpler, clearer, and fairer—for you and your children.
