Yes, a 12-year-old can travel internationally alone, but the specific rules and "ease" of doing so depend heavily on the airline and the destination countries. In 2026, most major airlines set the minimum age for international solo travel at 12 for direct flights, while connecting flights often require the child to be at least 15. For those aged 12 to 14, many airlines offer—and some may still require—an Unaccompanied Minor (UM) service for an extra fee, which ensures staff supervision from the departure gate to the receiving adult at the destination. Crucially, international travel for minors requires extensive documentation beyond just a passport. You must typically provide a notarized Letter of Consent signed by both parents or legal guardians, confirming the child has permission to travel. Additionally, specific countries, like the UK, have strict Border Force requirements for solo minors, so it is essential to check both the airline’s "Young Passenger" policy and the entry laws of the arrival country before booking.