All children and youth under 18 arriving alone in Italy, without their families or an adult legally responsible for them, have the right to stay in the country and cannot be sent back to their own or another country.

Yes, a 16-year-old can travel alone to Italy in 2026, but the requirements depend on their nationality and the specific airline's "Unaccompanied Minor" policy. For EU citizens, travel is generally straightforward, though a notarized parental consent form is highly recommended. For non-EU citizens (like those from the U.S. or UK), the 16-year-old must have their own valid passport and, starting in late 2026, a valid ETIAS travel authorization. While they are legally considered "minors," most airlines allow 16-year-olds to fly as "adults" without a mandatory escort. However, Italian border guards have the authority to request a "Dichiarazione di Accompagnamento" or a similar parental consent document to prove the minor has permission to travel solo. It is also vital to ensure the hotel or hostel in Italy allows guests under 18 to check in alone, as many Italian accommodations have strict "adult-only" policies for primary guests.