Visa requirements The basics

Visas

Consider an express or fast-track service

With your holiday tantalisingly on the horizon, the last thing you want is for your plans to be wrecked as you find yourself stuck in immigration limbo without the correct entry permit.

Essential tips

  • If planning a last-minute holiday, ensure there’s enough time to get the visa; consider paying more for an express or fast-track service
  • If applying in person, beware of long queues and don’t expect to get the visa there and then
  • Embassy websites usually don't state whether their processing times include postal delivery, so it is advisable to allow an extra day or two if you're unsure and won't be picking up the visa
  • Check the visa’s validity, especially if you are getting it well in advance of your planned visit. For some countries, the visa expires three months after the date of issue, and 30 days after you arrive into the country
  • Check your passport is valid for at least six months after your planned visit as many countries require this. They will also need at least one blank page
  • If your trip includes complicated cross-border itineraries, research carefully or save hassle by getting a visa agency to arrange everything.

What to bear in mind

  • Many embassies have websites with descriptions of visa requirements, of varying degrees of usefulness. Some may have pricey, automated visa information lines. If you need to speak to embassy staff by phone, good luck. We hit many a brick wall during our research
  • All family members will usually need their own visa, even if children share their parent’s passport; Egypt is one exception. Children generally pay the same as adults (under-tens aren’t charged for Nepal)
  • If your application is rejected for any reason, some countries – such as Uganda and Pakistan – won’t refund your payment
  • Possessing a visa doesn’t guarantee you entry – in theory, the immigration inspector has the power to turn you away
  • You may be expected to show proof of a return or onward flight. Visitors to places like Uzbekistan and Zambia must have a letter of invitation (which can be issued by tour operators), while for Indonesia, you may need to show evidence of funds.

Duties of tour operators and travel agents

If your tour operator or travel agent fails to give correct passport and visa information, and this leads to your plans being ruined, you may be entitled to compensation for financial loss and possibly for loss of enjoyment of your holiday.

When you enter into a contract with either a tour operator or a travel agent, they risk prosecution if they fail to give advice on passport and visa requirements. Under the Package Travel Regulations, this advice must be given at the time of booking.

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