Some airlines automatically apply the unaccompanied-minor procedures to kids through age 17 on international flights, and charge the standard unaccompanied-minor fee if applicable. Children must usually have the same passport, visa or other international entry documentation required of adults.

Yes, minors can fly unaccompanied internationally, but the rules are much stricter than for domestic flights. Most major international airlines offer an "Unaccompanied Minor" (UM) service for children typically aged 5 to 11, and it is often optional for those aged 12 to 17. This service involves an airline staff member escorting the child through security, boarding them first, and handing them directly to the designated guardian at the destination. In 2026, many airlines like Emirates, British Airways, and Lufthansa require a mandatory fee for this, ranging from $50 to $150 per flight leg. Crucially, for international travel, you must provide a notarized letter of consent from both parents or legal guardians, along with the child's valid passport and any required visas. Some countries, like South Africa and Brazil, have extremely specific documentation requirements for minors to prevent child trafficking. It is also important to note that many budget airlines (like Ryanair or EasyJet) do not allow unaccompanied minors under 16 at all, so you must verify the specific airline's policy before booking.