Moving with children often requires legal documentation, especially if you share custody with another parent. Each family has unique needs when drafting a letter of intent to relocate a child. The right wording can make a big difference in how your request is received.
These sample letters will help you craft your own document that meets legal requirements while clearly stating your reasons for moving. Continue reading to find examples that match your situation and learn how to adapt them for your needs.
Letters of Intent to Relocate Child
Here are fifteen sample letters to help guide you when writing your own letter of intent to relocate a child.
1. Basic Letter to Co-Parent
Dear Jordan,
I am writing to let you know about my plans to move with Emma to Atlanta, Georgia, on August 15, 2025. This decision comes after careful thinking about her education and my job options.
The move will place us at 742 Maple Street, Atlanta, GA 30303, about 120 miles from our current home. Emma would attend North Atlanta Elementary School, which has excellent programs that would support her love of science and art.
I got a job offer at Atlanta Medical Center with better pay and benefits than my current position. This will allow me to better support Emma and spend more time with her since the work hours are more regular.
I want to work with you to make a new visitation plan that allows you to maintain your strong bond with Emma. Some ideas include:
- Extended weekend visits twice monthly
- Longer holiday and summer breaks with you
- Daily video calls
- Meeting halfway for some weekend exchanges
Please let me know your thoughts on this plan by June 15, 2025, so we can discuss any concerns before finalizing arrangements.
Sincerely,
Taylor Smith
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: taylor.smith@email.com
2. Formal Letter to Court
Re: Notice of Intent to Relocate Minor Child (Case #CV2023-7654)
Honorable Judge Martinez,
Please accept this formal notice of my intent to relocate with my child, Noah Wilson (DOB: 03/12/2018), from our current residence in Portland, Oregon, to Seattle, Washington, effective September 1, 2025.
As the custodial parent per the court order dated January 15, 2024, I am providing this notice in compliance with state law requirements to notify the court and the non-custodial parent at least 60 days prior to any planned relocation.
The new residence will be:
1234 Rainier Avenue
Seattle, WA 98101
The distance from our current residence is approximately 175 miles.
The reason for this relocation is a career advancement opportunity that will significantly improve our financial stability. I have been offered a senior position at Pacific Northwest Medical Center with a 35% salary increase and improved healthcare benefits that will directly benefit Noah.
Noah will be enrolled in Lakeside Elementary School, which has been rated among the top 10% of schools in Washington state and offers exceptional special education services that will support his learning needs.
A proposed modification to the current visitation schedule has been sent to the non-custodial parent, Alex Wilson, which includes:
- Alternating weekend visitation (Friday evening through Sunday evening)
- Extended holiday visits
- Half of all school breaks
- Daily virtual contact through video calls
Mr. Wilson has been provided with this same information via certified mail on May 10, 2025 (Receipt #CR456789123US).
I respectfully request the court’s approval of this relocation plan as it serves the best interests of my child by providing enhanced financial security, educational opportunities, and stability while maintaining meaningful contact with the non-custodial parent.
Respectfully submitted,
Jamie Wilson
Phone: (503) 987-6543
Email: jamie.wilson@email.com
Date: May 10, 2025
3. Letter for Job Relocation
Dear Chris,
This letter serves as my official notice that I plan to relocate with our daughter, Sophia, to Denver, Colorado, on July 20, 2025.
My company has closed its local office and offered transfers to selected employees. After thinking about our options, I accepted the transfer to maintain job security and benefits that support Sophia’s needs. The company is providing relocation assistance and a cost-of-living adjustment to help with the transition.
Our new address will be:
567 Mountain View Drive
Denver, CO 80202
Sophia will attend Aspen Grove Elementary, which has excellent reviews and programs similar to her current school. I’ve already spoken with the school counselor about making her transition as smooth as possible.
I know this news might be hard to hear, and I want to talk about how we can adjust our parenting plan. Some suggestions:
- You would have Sophia for all school breaks longer than three days
- Extended summer visitation (6-8 weeks)
- Spring break and fall break entirely with you
- I would cover travel costs for her visits back home
- Daily video calls at times that work for both of you
My job starts August 1, so I hope we can talk soon about these plans. If we can’t agree on a new arrangement, I suggest working with a mediator to help us find a solution that keeps Sophia’s best interests at the center.
Thank you for your understanding during this change.
Best regards,
Morgan Taylor
Phone: (555) 789-0123
Email: morgan.t@email.com
4. Letter for Educational Opportunity
Dear Pat,
I am writing to tell you about an opportunity for Madison that I believe will greatly benefit her future. Madison has been accepted to the Westlake Academy for Gifted Students in Austin, Texas, starting this fall semester. As you know, she has struggled to stay engaged in her current school despite her high test scores.
This specialized school offers an advanced curriculum that matches her learning style and will challenge her in ways her current school cannot. The acceptance comes with a partial scholarship that makes this possible for us financially.
Our planned move date is July 25, 2025, to this address:
842 Lakeview Terrace
Austin, TX 78704
I know this move (approximately 200 miles from our current location) will affect our current custody arrangement. I suggest the following adjustments:
- Long weekends with you twice monthly (I can drive Madison halfway on Friday afternoons)
- Alternating holidays
- Four weeks in summer with you
- One week during winter break
- Video calls three times weekly
Madison is excited about this opportunity but also worried about seeing you less. I believe with planning, we can make sure she maintains her close relationship with you while taking advantage of this educational opportunity.
Could we meet next week to discuss this plan? I value your input and want to make decisions that work for all of us, especially Madison.
Warmly,
Riley Johnson
Phone: (555) 234-5678
Email: riley.j@email.com
5. Letter for Family Health Needs
Dear Sam,
I need to inform you of my plans to relocate with Ethan to Phoenix, Arizona, on August 30, 2025. This move is based on medical necessity rather than personal preference.
As you know, Ethan’s asthma has gotten worse over the past year, with three hospitalizations despite following his treatment plan. His pulmonologist strongly believes the dry climate in Arizona will significantly reduce his symptoms and improve his quality of life. We also found a pediatric respiratory specialist at Phoenix Children’s Hospital who is willing to take Ethan as a patient.
Our new address will be:
1520 Desert Bloom Street
Phoenix, AZ 85001
This is approximately 280 miles from our current residence.
I know this change will be difficult for both of you. I suggest these adjustments to our parenting plan:
- Monthly weekend visits (I will pay for your travel and accommodation)
- Half of all school breaks
- Six weeks during summer vacation
- Video calls every other day at minimum
- I will bring Ethan back to visit at least once monthly for the first six months
Ethan’s health must be our priority, but I will do everything possible to make sure he maintains his bond with you. The specialist believes we might see improvements within 3-6 months of relocation.
Please call me this week so we can talk about this plan and any concerns you have.
Sincerely,
Casey Miller
Phone: (555) 456-7890
Email: casey.miller@email.com
6. Letter Following Divorce
Dear Alex,
Following our divorce finalization last month, I am formally notifying you of my intent to relocate with our son, Liam, to Raleigh, North Carolina, effective October 1, 2025.
As discussed during our mediation sessions, I will be moving to be closer to my family who can provide support and childcare assistance. Having this support network will allow me to work full-time while ensuring Liam has loving care when I’m not available.
Our new address will be:
378 Oak Ridge Lane
Raleigh, NC 27601
This location is approximately 350 miles from our current residence.
Liam will attend Pinewood Elementary School, which has excellent ratings and smaller class sizes than his current school. My parents live ten minutes away and will help with school pickup and afterschool care.
As agreed in principle during our last meeting with the mediator, I propose:
- You will have Liam for three-day weekends twice monthly
- Alternating major holidays
- Six weeks during summer vacation
- Spring break every year
- Video calls on Tuesday, Thursday, and Sunday evenings
I’m including the contact information for Liam’s new pediatrician and school once we move. I will make sure you receive all school updates and medical information promptly.
I believe this arrangement allows Liam to benefit from family support while maintaining his close relationship with you. Please confirm you’ve received this notice by signing and returning the attached acknowledgment form.
Regards,
Jordan Reynolds
Phone: (555) 567-8901
Email: jordan.r@email.com
7. Letter for Military Relocation
Dear Quinn,
I am writing to inform you that I have received Permanent Change of Station (PCS) orders to Fort Bragg, North Carolina, effective December 1, 2025. As an active duty service member, I am required to relocate with minimal notice.
Per our custody agreement and military family provisions, I am giving notice of my intent to relocate with our daughter, Olivia, to our new assigned location. My reporting date is December 15, 2025, which means we need to move by early December.
Our new address will be:
Building 4, Apartment 302
Fort Bragg Family Housing
Fort Bragg, NC 28307
The distance from our current location is approximately 950 miles.
Olivia will attend Fort Bragg Elementary School on the base, which has experience supporting military children through transitions. There are also excellent family support services available through the Military Family Readiness Center.
I suggest these adjustments to our current arrangement:
- You would have Olivia for all her school breaks
- Extended summer visitation (8 weeks minimum)
- I will cover airfare for her visits
- Daily video calls
- You would be welcome to visit and stay on base in visitor housing whenever possible
The military provides some financial assistance for visitation travel in cases like ours. I can help you access these resources.
Please contact me as soon as possible so we can discuss these plans and make arrangements that work for all of us, especially Olivia. I understand this is a significant change, but I hope we can work together to make this transition as smooth as possible for her.
Respectfully,
Staff Sergeant Bailey Martinez
Phone: (555) 678-9012
Email: bailey.martinez@army.mil
8. Letter for Financial Necessity
Dear Jesse,
I am writing to inform you of my need to relocate with our son, Tyler, to my parents’ home in Columbus, Ohio, on September 1, 2025.
As you know, I lost my job last month when the factory closed. Despite searching for comparable work locally, I haven’t found anything that would allow me to cover our basic expenses. My parents have offered to let us stay with them rent-free while I find work in Columbus, which has a much better job market.
This move is not what I would choose under different circumstances, but it has become a financial necessity to provide stability for Tyler.
Our new address will be:
429 Willow Street
Columbus, OH 43215
This is approximately 165 miles from our current home.
I suggest these changes to our current parenting schedule:
- You would have Tyler three weekends per month (I will drive him to you on Friday and pick him up Sunday)
- Alternating holidays
- Two weeks per month during summer break
- Video calls on weekday evenings
Once I secure steady employment, we can revisit this arrangement. I see this as a temporary solution to our current financial situation, not a permanent change.
Tyler will attend Riverside Elementary School, which I’ve already contacted about mid-year enrollment procedures. They have resources to help children adjust to new schools.
Please call me this week so we can discuss these plans and address any concerns you might have.
Sincerely,
Avery Thompson
Phone: (555) 890-1234
Email: avery.t@email.com
9. Letter for Blended Family Situation
Dear Parker,
I am writing to notify you of my intent to relocate with our daughter, Zoe, to Charlotte, North Carolina, effective July 15, 2025.
As you know, I married Lee last year, and Lee has recently been offered a partnership position at a law firm in Charlotte. After much discussion, we have decided to accept this opportunity as it provides long-term stability for our blended family.
Our new home will be:
675 Magnolia Drive
Charlotte, NC 28202
This is approximately 230 miles from our current location.
Zoe will attend Oakridge Academy, which offers small class sizes and advanced programs in music that will support her violin studies. Her stepsister Mia will attend the same school, which we hope will help with the transition.
I propose these adjustments to our current custody arrangement:
- You would have Zoe for three-day weekends twice monthly
- Alternating major holidays
- Half of all school breaks
- Six weeks during summer vacation
- Video calls every other day
- We would meet halfway for drop-offs and pickups
Lee and I have discussed how important it is for Zoe to maintain her relationship with you. We will make sure she has private space for your video calls and will be flexible with the visitation schedule when you want extra time with her.
This was a difficult decision, but the opportunities for our family in Charlotte are significant. I hope we can work together to make this transition smooth for Zoe.
Please let me know when we can meet to discuss these plans in more detail.
Sincerely,
Dana Williams
Phone: (555) 901-2345
Email: dana.williams@email.com
10. Letter for Safety Concerns
Dear Taylor,
This letter serves as formal notice of my intent to relocate with our son, Aiden, to Burlington, Vermont, on June 30, 2025.
As documented in police reports filed on March 10 and April 22, 2025, our current neighborhood has experienced a significant increase in crime. The shooting that occurred on our block last month, where bullets entered the apartment next to ours, has made it clear that we need to move to a safer location.
I have secured housing in a family-oriented neighborhood with low crime rates:
512 Pine Valley Road
Burlington, VT 05401
This is approximately 180 miles from our current residence.
Aiden will attend Lakeview Elementary School, which has excellent safety protocols and strong academic programs. The neighborhood has many families with children his age and safe outdoor play areas.
I propose these changes to our custody arrangement:
- You would have Aiden for three consecutive days every other week
- Alternating holidays
- One month during summer vacation
- Daily video calls
- I would provide transportation to and from your residence for the first six months
I want to be clear that this move is based solely on safety concerns and providing Aiden with a secure environment. I fully support your relationship with him and will work to make sure you have regular, meaningful contact.
Please contact me by June 1 so we can discuss these plans and any alternatives you might suggest that would address the safety issues we’re facing.
Regards,
Cameron Lewis
Phone: (555) 012-3456
Email: cameron.l@email.com
11. Letter When Moving Back to Home State
Dear Harper,
I am writing to notify you of my plans to relocate with our daughter, Lily, to my home state of Minnesota, effective August 1, 2025.
Since my father’s health has declined significantly in the past few months, my family needs my help with his care. As his only child, I feel a responsibility to return home and support him during this difficult time. My mother is also struggling to manage his care alone.
Our new address will be:
847 Cedar Street
Minneapolis, MN 55403
This is approximately 320 miles from our current location.
Lily will attend Lakeside Elementary School, which has an excellent reputation and strong support services for students. My parents live nearby and will help with childcare when needed.
I suggest these adjustments to our current parenting schedule:
- You would have Lily for long weekends twice monthly
- Alternating holidays
- Six weeks during summer vacation
- Spring break each year
- Video calls three times weekly
- I would cover travel expenses for the first year
This move is based on family necessity, not a desire to limit your time with Lily. I value your relationship with her and will make sure you remain an important part of her life despite the distance.
I hope we can discuss these plans soon and find an arrangement that works for all of us.
Sincerely,
Logan Garcia
Phone: (555) 123-4567
Email: logan.g@email.com
12. Letter for International Relocation
Dear Kelly,
I am writing to formally notify you of my plans to relocate with our son, Daniel, to Toronto, Canada, where I have accepted a two-year work assignment beginning September 1, 2025.
This opportunity with my current employer includes a significant promotion, housing allowance, and international experience that will benefit my long-term career prospects. After careful consideration, I believe this temporary move will ultimately benefit Daniel through increased financial security and cultural exposure.
Our new address will be:
175 Lakeshore Boulevard, Apt 1203
Toronto, ON M5J 2X8
Canada
This is approximately 550 miles from our current location.
Daniel will attend Toronto International Academy, which follows an American curriculum to ensure a smooth transition back to US schools when we return. The school has experience supporting expatriate children and offers counseling services to help with adjustment.
Given the international nature of this move, I propose these changes to our custody arrangement:
- You would have Daniel for all US school holidays and breaks
- The entire summer vacation period (10-12 weeks)
- Christmas and spring breaks each year
- Daily video calls
- I would cover all travel expenses
- You would be welcome to visit Toronto, and I would help arrange accommodations
I have consulted with an attorney regarding international custody arrangements and can provide documentation showing this move complies with all legal requirements. The assignment includes a return to our current city after the two-year period.
I understand this is a significant change, but I believe we can make it work with planning and cooperation. Please contact me to discuss these plans in detail.
Respectfully,
Jordan Kennedy
Phone: (555) 234-5678
Email: jordan.kennedy@email.com
13. Letter for Relocation After Domestic Violence
CONFIDENTIAL
Case #DV-2025-1234
Honorable Judge Thompson,
This letter serves as my formal notice of intent to relocate with my minor child, Maya Johnson (DOB: 06/15/2020), to a confidential location in accordance with the protective order issued on April 30, 2025.
As documented in case #DV-2025-1234, there is an active restraining order prohibiting the non-custodial parent from contact with both myself and our child due to substantiated domestic violence incidents. Under state law, I am exercising my right to relocate without disclosing our new address.
In compliance with court requirements, I can confirm:
- Maya will be enrolled in an accredited elementary school
- She will continue receiving her established medical care
- She will attend weekly counseling sessions as recommended by her therapist
- All court-ordered supervised visitation will be coordinated through the Family Safety Center as specified in the current order
I request that all communication regarding this case continue through my attorney:
Leslie Harper, Esq.
Harper Family Law Group
Phone: (555) 567-8901
Email: l.harper@harperlaw.com
I am committed to Maya’s safety and wellbeing while also following all court mandates regarding supervised contact with the non-custodial parent. The Family Safety Center has been notified of our relocation and will continue to facilitate any court-approved visitation.
Respectfully submitted,
Robin Johnson
Through attorney Leslie Harper
Date: May 15, 2025
14. Letter for Temporary Educational Program
Dear Blake,
I am writing to inform you of a unique educational opportunity for our son, Jackson, that will require temporary relocation from September 2025 through June 2026.
Jackson has been selected for the Young Scientists Immersion Program at the California Academy of Sciences in San Francisco. Only twelve students nationwide were chosen for this prestigious program, which includes specialized science education, field research opportunities, and mentorship from leading scientists. As you know, Jackson has always been passionate about marine biology, and this program could significantly impact his future educational and career prospects.
Our temporary address will be:
350 Ocean View Drive, Apt 5B
San Francisco, CA 94121
This is approximately 400 miles from our current residence.
The program provides housing and a modest stipend for participants and one guardian. Jackson will attend classes at the Academy’s learning center, which is accredited and will ensure he stays on track with core educational requirements.
Since this is a temporary, one-academic-year program, I propose:
- You would have Jackson for one long weekend each month (the program allows for this absence)
- All school breaks longer than three days
- Regular video calls three times weekly
- The program has allocated funds for one monthly trip home, which we would coordinate with your schedule
- You would be welcome to visit San Francisco, and we could arrange for your stay
At the end of the academic year, we would return to our current residence and resume our regular custody arrangement. I have confirmed with the program that they will provide documentation for the school district to ensure Jackson receives full credit for the year.
Given the significant opportunity this represents for Jackson’s future, I hope you will support this temporary change. Please let me know your thoughts so we can discuss any concerns.
Best regards,
Drew Peterson
Phone: (555) 345-6789
Email: drew.peterson@email.com
15. Letter for Relocation with Teenagers
Dear Morgan,
I am writing to notify you of my intent to relocate with our children, Emma (16) and Ethan (14), to Chicago, Illinois, effective August 15, 2025.
This decision comes after extensive conversations with both Emma and Ethan about their preferences and needs. As you know, Emma has been accepted to the Chicago Academy of Performing Arts for her junior and senior years, which provides exceptional training for her dance career. Ethan has expressed strong support for this move, as it would allow him to attend Lincoln Park High School’s renowned math and science program.
Our new address will be:
1220 Lakeshore Drive, Unit 15B
Chicago, IL 60610
This is approximately 290 miles from our current home.
Both Emma and Ethan have had several conversations with you about their educational goals and why they believe this move would benefit them. I want to emphasize that their desire to relocate is based on educational opportunities, not any wish to reduce their time with you.
Given their ages and the importance of respecting their input, I propose the following arrangement:
- You would have them every other weekend (I would provide transportation)
- Alternating holidays
- Four weeks during summer vacation
- Emma and Ethan would have their own phones to contact you directly at any time
- They would visit individually if one has activities that prevent travel
- Their schedules would be shared with you so you could attend performances, competitions, or games
I believe at their ages, it’s important to consider their educational preferences and career goals while maintaining their relationship with both parents. They have both expressed that they want to spend time with you regularly despite the move.
Could we meet with Emma and Ethan present to discuss these plans? I think hearing directly from them might help us all come to an arrangement that respects their growing independence while maintaining your important role in their lives.
Regards,
Jamie Davis
Phone: (555) 456-7890
Email: jamie.davis@email.com
Key Elements to Include in Your Relocation Letter
When writing your own letter of intent to relocate with a child, make sure to include these essential elements:
- Clear statement of intent to relocate: Start with a direct statement about your plans to move with your child.
- New address and distance: Provide the complete new address and how far it is from the current location.
- Moving date: Give a specific date when you plan to relocate.
- Reasons for relocation: Explain your reasons honestly but tactfully.
- Child’s new school information: Include details about where your child will attend school.
- Proposed visitation changes: Suggest practical adjustments to the current arrangement.
- Communication plan: Outline how the child will maintain contact with the other parent.
- Request for response: Ask for feedback by a specific date.
- Tone: Keep your letter respectful and focused on the child’s best interests.
- Documentation: Attach any supporting documents that strengthen your case.
Legal Requirements to Consider
Different states have different rules about relocating with children after divorce or separation. Before sending your letter, check these legal requirements:
- Notification period: Most states require 30-90 days’ notice before moving.
- Distance thresholds: Some states only require formal notice for moves beyond a certain distance.
- Court approval: In many cases, you need court permission before relocating if the other parent objects.
- Burden of proof: You may need to prove the move benefits the child.
- Custody modification: Understand how your move might affect your custody arrangement.
- Delivery method: Some states require notice by certified mail or formal legal service.
Getting legal advice before sending your letter is always a good idea to make sure you meet all requirements.
Wrapping Up: Letters for Child Relocation
Writing a letter of intent to relocate a child requires care, honesty, and respect. The best letters clearly explain the reasons for moving while showing how the child will benefit and how the relationship with the other parent will continue despite the distance.
Take time to customize your letter to your situation, being truthful about your reasons while focusing on solutions. A well-written letter can start a productive conversation about new arrangements that work for everyone, especially your child.
Before finalizing any plans, check local laws about child relocation and consider getting legal advice. With proper planning and communication, you can make this transition smoother for all family members.