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Visa and entry requirements FAQ
Passports, visas, onward travel proof and the rules that catch people out.
Visa and entry requirements FAQ
Passports, visas, onward travel proof and the rules that catch people out.
The guidance below is deliberately practical. It is the short list of things that change the outcome of a trip, rather than a general overview you could find anywhere. Read it once while planning and again the week before you travel.
What to know
The points that make the most difference, in rough order of importance.
- Most countries need six months passport validity
- Check your own government source, not a summary site
- Proof of onward travel is checked at the gate
- Electronic authorisations still take working days
Quick reference
- Plan thisThree to six weeks out for most trips
- Book aheadAnything capacity-limited or permit-based
- Verify locallyRules and prices change; confirm on arrival
- Budget impactVaries by region and season
Related guides
Other guides in the same section.
Frequently asked questions
What is the most important thing to know about visa and entry requirements faq?
Most countries need six months passport validity.
How far ahead should I plan this?
For most trips, research this three to six weeks before you travel, and sooner if anything involved has limited capacity or requires a permit.
Does this differ by country?
Yes. Rules, costs and norms vary, so treat this as a general framework and confirm the specifics for your destination before booking.