All passport answersChildren
Unaccompanied minor international travel documents
By Tom Jones
Editor-in-Chief, PassportOfficesLast reviewed Editorial policy
Short answer
What documents does an unaccompanied minor need to travel abroad?
A child flying internationally without a parent needs their own valid passport book, the airline's unaccompanied-minor forms, and often a notarized consent letter from both parents or guardians. Some countries, including Mexico, have their own minor-departure or consent rules, so check the destination.
Next step
Open the Child passport guide
Actionable steps, requirements, and tools to move forward.
Key takeaways
- Every child needs their own passport.
- Airline programs and age limits differ.
- Carry a consent letter with parents' contact details.
- Check destination entry rules for minors.
Full answer
Children under 16 apply in person with both parents' consent (Form DS-11 plus DS-3053 when one parent can't attend).