Authorization to leave the territory (AST) for minors

Updated on 03/08/2026

Since 2017, a minor residing in France and traveling abroad without his parents must present an exit authorization (AST). This document, separate from the passport, is mandatory even within the European Union.

Find here the conditions of obtaining, the Cerfa form to use and print, as well as the special cases according to nationality.

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Since 15 January 2017, a minor who leaves the national territory1 unaccompanied by a person with parental authority must have an authorization. This obligation applies to all minors (French or foreign nationals) who are habitually resident in the territory of the Republic.

1 These provisions apply throughout the country, including the overseas territories.

Reinstatement of AST for unaccompanied minors

Due to the current context, the Law of 3 June 2016 on the fight against terrorism and the Decree of 2 November 2016 reinstate the exit permit for minors.

Also, since January 15, 2017, a minor unaccompanied by at least one of his parents (or by any person holding parental authority), can no longer leave France without prior authorization.

The documents necessary for the minor's journey

There is no registration procedure in the town hall or prefecture. The child traveling must have in his possession the documents listed below depending on the case.

Prior information should be obtained on the documents required by the country of destination. If the child is traveling with only one parent, some countries may require proof that the other parent authorizes such travel.

For minors of French nationality

For minors of foreign nationality

  • Passport only;
  • Republican Identity Document (TIR) or Movement Document for Minor Aliens (DCEM);
  • The exit authorization (AST) duly completed and signed by one of the persons holding parental authority:
    Online exit authorization service;
  • A photocopy of the passport and residence permit of the parent who signed the form.

These documents shall be presented to the border guard in the event of a check.
 

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Download the Cerfa 15646*01 form in PDF format: mandatory for any unaccompanied minor

Any minor habitually residing in France, whether French or foreign, must present an authorization to leave the country (AST) if he travels without one of his parents.

This authorization takes the form of Cerfa form n°15646*01, to be completed, signed, and presented with a copy of the identity document of the signatory parent. This document is essential for border controls.

How to complete and use the exit permit

  1. Complete the Cerfa form n°15646*01 directly online on service-public.fr.
  2. Download the completed document as a PDF and print it out.
  3. Sign the Cerfa.
  4. Give it to the child (or their companion), along with a copy of your ID.
  5. No action in town hall or prefecture is necessary.
You can fill in Cerfa n°15646*01 directly online on the website service-public.fr
It is also possible to download the empty Cerfa to fill it by hand by clicking here.