Can My Ex Move With the Kids Without My Consent in Ontario?

By: Amanda Willing

The Short Answer: Usually No.

If a move will significantly affect your parenting time, your ex generally needs:

• Your written consent, or

• A court order

Relocating without addressing it legally is risky.

But Here’s What Many Parents Don’t Realize

If a parent moves without permission, the court does not automatically order the child to return.

Instead, the judge asks one question:

What is in the child’s best interests?

What Courts Look At

In relocation cases, judges consider:

• Is the child stable and settled?

• How is the child doing emotionally and academically?

• Will forcing a return create more disruption?

• Is there high conflict or family violence?

• Can the parents realistically co-parent?

Stability carries significant weight.

High Conflict Changes Things

Where there is:

• Ongoing hostility

• Family violence

• Failed shared parenting

• Inability to communicate

Courts may decide joint decision-making no longer works and give one parent final authority.

If There’s Already a Court Order

To change an existing parenting order, there must be a material change in circumstances — something significant that affects the child.

Only then will the court reconsider parenting arrangements.

Key Takeaways

• You usually need consent or a court order to move with a child.

• Moving without permission is risky — but not automatically reversed.

• The child’s best interests override everything.

• Stability often outweighs technical mistakes.

• High conflict and violence heavily influence outcomes.

Thinking About Moving — or Worried Your Ex Might?

Relocation disputes are high-stakes and emotionally charged. The outcome can permanently affect your parenting relationship.

If you are considering a move or responding to one, get legal advice early.

Contact our office to schedule a confidential consultation and protect your parental rights.