GEORGE TOWN, Cayman Islands – Children and young adults travelling to or from the Cayman Islands without a parent or legal guardian will be required to present an Assisted Traveller Consent Form as of Monday.
Customs and Border Control said the new form will allow officers to verify travel arrangements and confirm that the necessary parental or guardian consent has been granted before making a landing decision.
The requirement applies to anyone under the age of 18 who is travelling alone, accompanied by an adult who is not their parent or legal guardian, or travelling in circumstances where additional consent documentation may be required.
Parents and guardians are being encouraged to complete the form before travel and ensure that all supporting documents are available for inspection by CBC officers. Travellers who fail to provide the required documentation could face delays while officers verify their arrangements and consent.
The form will be available on the CBC website from Monday, along with guidance on eligibility, supporting documents and frequently asked questions.
CBC is also urging schools, sports organisations, youth groups, travel agencies and others involved in arranging travel for minors to familiarise themselves with the new requirements.
The agency said the measure is intended to strengthen protections for minors, prevent human trafficking and exploitation, and support secure and efficient border processing.
Home Affairs Minister Nickolas DaCosta described the form as a practical step towards strengthening the Cayman Islands’ borders and providing greater safeguards for vulnerable minors.
“Protecting our children is a responsibility we all share,” he said.
CBC Assistant Director for Passport Control Ezron Anderson said the additional information would help officers identify safeguarding concerns, prevent the unlawful movement of minors and facilitate legitimate travel.
CBC Director Marlon Bodden said the requirement was more than a compliance measure.
“It is an important safeguard that helps protect the most vulnerable among us,” he said, adding that it would also reassure parents and guardians that frontline officers remained committed to protecting children while facilitating legitimate travel
