So, you’re thinking of setting out on a backpacking adventure! Well before you get too hasty, you’ll have to consider whether or not you will be needing a visa. A visa is basically a little endorsement on your passport that grants you entry into a specific country. Whilst many countries in Europe don’t need a visa to gain access to, others in the world are much more stringent with who they let in and will often require you to have the correct papers before arriving!
How will I know which country requires a Visa?
The best way to find out is to open up the countries embassy website and have a look at their visa requirements. It’s different for each country and their laws and regulations are constantly changing, so it is better to check it out yourself rather than listen to word of mouth.
What is “visa on arrival”?
The phrase is used to describe countries that don’t necessarily require you to get yourself a visa before you travel, allowing you to simply arrive and get that all important stamp just by showing your passport! These handy little visas can vary from as little as 30 days, to a year in some cases!
To skip the airport queues and have that peace of mind that you won’t get put back on the plane, you can simply mail your visa to the countries embassy. I know it’s a scary thought, but all you need to do is send off your passport by recorded delivery with the required fee, they’ll then stamp it and send it back to you – hey presto! You’re travelling without worry.
Are there any Visa rules I should be aware of?
Again this is entirely dependant on the chosen countries specific rules and regulations, but one way to stay safe is to have is proof that you’ll exit the country. This is usually something that shows you still have priorities back home, such as a credit card.
Crossing the border
Border officials have the power to ruin your entire trip! Unfortunately since you know this, you can end up looking nervous and guilty, without reason to be. Relax, be polite even if they’re obnoxious and follow their instructions carefully.
Of course you can expect the routine questions such as “what is the purpose of your stay?” and “what do you do for a living?” So just give them short, concise answers and simply tell them you’re on holiday as a tourist if you’re backpacking.
Four things you need to know
- Remember that China is still under communist rule and therefore have some very specific visa requirements which you may want to check out. It’s also not a good idea to mention Tibet in your application, since it’s a matter of controversy. If you’re a journalist then you may even have to apply for a visa which states that you won’t spread lies about their country.
- Unfortunately the religious conflict surrounding Israel is a problem for us travelers and an Israeli stamp in your passport might make things difficult when visiting other Middle Eastern countries.
- Travelling to and from Chinese mainland to Hong Kong will use up your Chinese travel visa. Just be conscious of technical boundaries when visiting countries as you may end up having to pay more than you’d like.
- Border officials won’t think twice about stamping the very middle of the page in your passport. Whether it’s a universal joke that they have got going on, or they’re taught to waste space, just be prepared.
Overall
The main thing you need to do is just relax! Yes, the big men in uniform with their assault rifles look intimidating as you cross borders, but as long as you’re not doing anything illegal then you have absolutely no reason to worry! Just enjoy the experience and have a fantastic journey.
