Before you take off on your holiday overseas, make sure you
get advice on immigration requirements. Your overseas
journey may take you to a country that requires a tourist
visa, even if you're just passing through.
It's important to make sure you have all your
documents in order before you travel, as it can be much
harder to get travel permits when you are already overseas.
Visa requirements change regularly, so you need to check
with the embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date
information. Make sure your passport is valid for at least
six months after your arrival. And if you plan on staying
for more than three months in any one country, you might
need a different type of visa.
If you're travelling on an Australian passport, here
are just a few of the countries you'll need a tourist
visa for:
- China
- Russia
- Sri Lanka
- Kenya
- Vietnam
- India
- Turkey
In some countries, such as Turkey and Egypt, you can get a
visa when you arrive at the airport. Others, such as Bhutan,
require more than just a visa – you also need to apply
for permission to tour the country.
The good news is that Australians no longer need a visa for
'Schengen' countries if they spend less than 90
days there, whether it's for tourism or business. This
applies to: Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark,
Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland,
Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, The
Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovenia, Slovakia,
Sweden and Spain.
Australia also has some reciprocal agreements with Schengen
countries, which may make it easier to obtain working
holiday permits.
Always
check with the embassy or consulate of the country
you're travelling to, as requirements change all the
time.
Relevant site links:
Smart traveller website - tips on travelling safely.
... And don't forget travel insurance. Get an online insurance quote today.
