A child’s travel plan includes more than flights and a hotel. The UK government’s guidance for visitors under 18 covers suitable travel and accommodation arrangements, support for the visit and parental or guardian consent.
Check who is travelling with the child
The official guidance distinguishes travelling alone from travelling with an adult. It explains that children applying for a Standard Visitor visa must identify the accompanying adult where relevant, and that each person completes a separate application.
For an unaccompanied visit, the guidance sets out additional information about consent, contact details and where the child will stay. Read that section in full rather than reducing it to a generic consent-letter template.
Keep the arrangements consistent
For your own preparation, write a short plan showing who accompanies the child, where the child will stay and who is responsible during the visit. Compare it with the application and travel bookings.
If the adult is not a parent, check the exact evidence requested for the situation. Where the arrangements are complex, use the official guidance and obtain advice before making commitments.
Prepare each traveller’s file
Keep identity documents and application records organised by person. Shared travel does not mean a single application covers the family. Review names and dates carefully before submission.
If arrangements change after the application, check what the change means for the permission and the documents needed at travel. Do not assume that an approval based on one accompanying adult necessarily answers a journey with another.
This guide is a starting point for organising the questions. The official under-18 guidance includes further conditions, including some longer care arrangements, and should be consulted for the actual visit.
Official sources
Sources reviewed on 19 Oct 2026. Requirements can change and depend on your nationality and circumstances. This article is general information, not a personal eligibility assessment.
