Yahoo News Brits warned of money and passport rule that could see you turned away at borders
Brits have been warned about a passport and money rule that could see them turned away at borders. Holidaymakers are being cautioned against seven common blunders that could result in being denied entry to a country.
Each country has its own set of entry requirements, so it's crucial for travellers to familiarise themselves with the rules of their chosen destination. There are numerous reasons why tourists might be refused entry to a country, some of which you may not consider before setting off, such as lack of proof of onward travel or insufficient blank pages in your passport.
While being barred from a country might seem like something that only happens under extreme circumstances, it actually occurs quite frequently and often for less serious reasons than you might anticipate. Travel experts at StressFreeCarRental.com have compiled a list of seven reasons why tourists could be denied entry to a country and potentially detained.
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Damage to passport.
Even minor damage like a small tear or water damage can lead to officials detaining you for questioning and declaring your passport invalid. If your personal details are hard to read or any of the pages are stained from things like ink or makeup, your passport can be deemed invalid.
Taking medicine abroad.
Before jetting off, it's crucial to check the rules around medication for your destination. Some over-the-counter drugs in the UK might be regulated or even banned elsewhere.
If you're carrying medical equipment like syringes, ensure they're in their original, labelled packaging. It's also a good idea to have a copy of any prescriptions handy for officials.
Vaccination requirements.
You could be denied entry to certain countries if you haven't had the necessary jabs to protect against infections and diseases. Some destinations even demand proof of vaccination.
The risk is higher if you're backpacking, visiting rural areas or staying in hostels. Consult a doctor or travel clinic at least eight weeks before you depart to find out what vaccinations you need.
No proof of onward travel.
Some countries and airlines insist on seeing proof of onward travel - whether that's a return ticket or a ticket to another destination. This is to make sure you won't overstay your welcome.
If you're a spontaneous traveller, consider booking a refundable flight 24 hours before you leave, or seek advice from a travel agent.
Insufficient blank passport pages.
Each country has its own requirements for the number of blank passport pages you need to travel. While most countries require one or two pages, some may demand up to three.
If you don't have enough blank pages before your trip, you'll need to renew your passport.
Insufficient funds.
In certain situations, you might be asked to provide evidence that you have enough money to cover your stay in your chosen destination. The required amount varies from country to country.
If you're planning to stay with a friend or relative, it's recommended to have a written agreement to present to officials.
Criminal record.
Having a criminal record can bar you from entering some countries, but the criteria differ. It's advisable to check for any restrictions in your chosen destination before planning your trip.
