Families travelling to Portugal this summer are being urged to check new entry rules for children before flying.
The UK government has issued guidance for children aged 17 or younger who are travelling alone, or with someone who is not their parent or legal guardian, stating they will need a letter of authorisation to enter Portugal.
This advice could affect passengers flying from Southampton Airport, which offers flights to Faro.
Without the correct documentation, entry will be delayed and could be refused.
Guidance on the UK government website states: "Teenagers aged 17 and under who travel alone, or with friends of the same age, and who are not being met on arrival by a parent or guardian, may be refused entry if they do not have a letter of authorisation."
The requirement also applies to Portuguese residents aged 17 or under travelling without their parent or legal guardian.
What does the letter to enter Portugal need to include?
The letter must be signed and dated by the child’s parent or legal guardian and certified by a notary or solicitor.
The notary or solicitor’s signature must also be legalised by the Legislation Office.
A copy of the parent’s or guardian’s passport must accompany the letter, which needs to include:
- full name, date of birth, and passport number of the child
- the dates the child plans to arrive and depart the country
- why they are visiting
- the address where the child will be staying
- the name and passport number of the adult in Portugal who is responsible for them while there
- the full name, date of birth, passport number, and contact details of the parent or guardian
What happens if you don’t have a letter of authorisation?
The government has warned that children who arrive in Portugal without the required letter will have their entry delayed and could be refused.
Children who are not met by a parent or guardian on arrival are particularly at risk of being refused entry.
Where does Southampton Airport fly to in Portugal?
Southampton Airport currently offers flights to Faro, operated by easyJet.
These flights will continue until the end of October 2026, before pausing for the winter season.
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After that, you'll have to wait until March 2027 if you want to fly to Faro from Southampton again.
Flights out to the Portuguese city operate on Mondays, Thursdays and Saturdays in August.
After that, the September and October flights will operate on Tuesdays, Thursdays and Saturdays.
Did you know these rules were in place for travelling to Portugal? Tell us in the comments below.
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