At what age can I travel abroad on my own?
If you are 18 or over – You will be able to travel abroad on your own without the consent of your parents.
If you are under the age of 18 – It is up to the airline or travel operator whether you can travel abroad. Either you or your parent should contact the airline and check what their policy is on children travelling on their own or without parental consent. You may also need to check with the Embassy for the country you are going to for details on visas.
If you are below the age of 16 and want to travel abroad but your parents do not agree, you or a parent, may need to apply to court for an order giving you permission. For information on this please complete our contact form here.
Can I travel abroad with one of my parents if the other disagrees?
If you are travelling abroad with only one of your parents, the parent that you are travelling with must get the consent of all other persons with parental responsibility for you beforehand. Otherwise, you may not be able to travel. If consent is not given, the parent you are travelling with can apply for a court order to allow you to travel abroad.
At what age can I get my own passport?
If you are under 16 anyone with parental responsibility for you can apply for a passport for you.
If you are 16 you can apply for a passport yourself without the consent of those with parental responsibility for you.
The rules are slightly different if you:
- have been adopted
- are in care
- you were born through assisted reproduction or surrogacy
If this applies to you, you should contact the Passport Advice Line for advice on how to get a passport: 0300 222 0000 or visit here.
