Ensure your travel documents are in order before embarking on your next trip.
January 17, 2025
One of the most important aspects of trip planning is checking visa requirements and gathering all the necessary documents. This checklist of how to prepare for travel will ensure you reach your dream destination.
Your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your trip. In fact, many countries require passports to be valid for at least six months beyond the intended departure date. There also needs to be sufficient blank pages in the passport for the immigration stamp and any visas on arrival.
If you require a new passport, apply sooner rather than later. Official wait times are four to six weeks (or two to three weeks for expedited service). However, delays are commonplace so it’s wise to allow additional time.
Visa requirements change from time to time and may catch you off guard. Even if you are re-visiting a destination, the immigration process may have changed since your last trip.
Check the visa requirements by visiting the embassy of the destination’s official website, the IATA website, or government immigration websites. This will clarify whether travelers receive a visa-free stay for tourism purposes or whether a visa is required.
Visas are sometimes required to be prepared ahead of travel. These may be procured online or by visiting the destination country's embassy.
Other visas are purchased at immigration upon landing. In these instances, you may need to have payment in the local currency as well as a blank page in your passport for the visa. A passport-size photo is sometimes needed and, as such, it’s wise to carry some in your document case.
More destinations now require authorization for travelers who do not require a visa. The United Kingdom has introduced an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) which is required to enter the country. This permit costs £10 ($12.75) and must be purchased online ahead of travel. It can take a few hours to be approved or up to three days.
Some airlines will require proof of onward travel before allowing you to check-in. Save time by having a return ticket printed or saved on your device to show upon request.
Upon arriving at immigration, it is becoming more common for border agents to request to see a hotel reservation or to at least make a note of the address. A select number of countries also require proof of travel insurance to be shown at the airline or immigration.
If you are intending to rent a vehicle while traveling, you may need an International Driving Permit. This document accompanies your driver’s license and must be shown when renting a car or upon request by local authorities. International Driving Permits may be purchased online or in person through AAA.
As countries combat overtourism, many are introducing tourist fees. Those traveling to New Zealand must pay an International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy (IVL) of NZD$100 ($56) and those visiting Venice are required to pay the Access Fee of €5 ($5). As more fees are introduced, it is important to check the specifics of your desired destination.
The safest way to stay on top of the changing travel regulations is to refer to a professional travel consultant. Contact Darby at Darby’s Destinations to ensure your next vacation runs seamlessly.
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