Iberia Unaccompanied Minor Policy (2026)

Iberia accepts unaccompanied minors starting at age 5. The UM service is mandatory for ages 5-11 and optional for young people ages 12-17.

Last verified: 2026-07-29. Source: Iberia official website.

Quick Facts

DetailPolicy
Minimum Age5 years old
UM MandatoryAges 5–11
UM OptionalAges 12–17
Domestic FeeEUR 70 / USD 85 / GBP 65 for direct flights in Spain (excluding Canary Islands); EUR 100 / USD 120 / GBP 90 for connecting flights in Madrid.
International FeeEUR 90-150 / USD 110-180 / GBP 80-135 for direct flights; EUR 125-180 / USD 150-215 / GBP 110-160 for connecting flights.
Per Child?Yes (per child)
ConnectionsAllowed — Connecting flights are allowed. Staff will take care of the child during transit, particularly for connections in Madrid.
InternationalAllowed — International flights are allowed, but specific documentation like a notarized travel permit may be required depending on the destination (e.g., Mexico, Italy).
Booking MethodFees vary based on destination zones and whether the flight is direct or connecting in Madrid. If a flight connects different zones, the fare for the zone with the highest price applies.

UM service is mandatory for children aged 5 to 11. It is optional for young people aged 12 to 17. Minors under 14 traveling from Italy or within the US must use the UM service.

How It Works: Step by Step

  1. Check-In: Arrive at check-in desks 2.5 hours in advance to verify documentation and receive a document bag for the child.
  2. Boarding: The child will be accompanied to the boarding area. If the child is under 14, an adult companion may request a companion card to accompany them to the boarding gate.
  3. In-Flight: Iberia staff will take care of the child throughout the journey, including during transit for connecting flights.
  4. Arrival: The designated pickup person must show official photo ID matching the details on the Child Responsibility Declaration.

Escort Rules: The adult handing over the child must remain at the airport until the aircraft takes off.

Required Documents

Required

  • Completed and signed Child Responsibility Declaration
  • Child's own ID card or passport
  • Official travel documents as required by origin/destination countries (e.g., travel permit from police/notary for Spanish children flying internationally)

Recommended

  • Print the Child Responsibility Declaration before arriving at the airport to save time

Students returning from abroad (e.g., London, Boston) must present the Responsibility Declaration signed and stamped by their school.

Safety Procedures

  • Child is provided a document bag to wear visibly at all times
  • Staff supervision throughout the journey from start to finish
  • Assistance provided during transit for connecting flights
  • Strict ID verification for the designated pickup person at the destination

Restrictions & Exceptions

  • Children under 4 cannot travel alone and must be accompanied by someone 16 or older
  • Adult handing over the child must not leave the airport until the flight takes off
  • Pickup person must exactly match the name on the Child Responsibility Declaration

Pro Tips for Parents

  • Complete Forms in Advance: Download, print, and fill out the Child Responsibility Declaration before arriving at the airport to save time during check-in.
  • Arrive Early: Arrive at the check-in desk at least 2.5 hours before departure to ensure enough time for document verification and procedures.
  • Companion Pass: If your child is under 14, ask for a companion card at the check-in desk so you can accompany them to the boarding gate.

The Bottom Line

Iberia offers a comprehensive UM service for children flying alone, with mandatory requirements for ages 5-11 and optional service for ages 12-17. The fees range from EUR 70 to EUR 180 depending on the route and destination.

Frequently Asked Questions

How much does Iberia charge for the Unaccompanied Minor service?
Fees range from EUR 70 to EUR 180 depending on the route (domestic vs. international) and whether the flight is direct or connecting.
What is the age requirement for Iberia's Unaccompanied Minor service?
The service is mandatory for children aged 5 to 11 and optional for young people aged 12 to 17.
Can I book the Unaccompanied Minor service online?
For children aged 5-11, tickets and the UM service must be booked through Iberia offices or agencies. For ages 12-17, you can buy the ticket online and then contact Booking Offices to add the service.