What do I need to know about border crossings, visas, entry requirements and passports?
Information about border crossings and visas, entry requirements varies by destination. Please check the destination you're visiting below for more information:
Europe trips
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. Multiple-entry visas may be required if you are entering a country more than once on your holiday.
Guests are advised that only the countries you plan to visit can provide up-to-date information about their specific visa requirements. Guests should contact the nearest embassy or consulate of the countries they plan to visit well in advance of travel. Please check your itinerary carefully. Remember that requirements vary based on a passport's place of issue and that the process can take time.
Check that multi-entry visas have the correct entry dates and destinations before you travel. Please be aware that with some itineraries, you may travel through a country without making an overnight stop. If this happens on your itinerary, you will still need a visa to enter/exit the country.
Please ensure that you always carry proper identification with you, as border crossings will need to see your entry documents and passports. Usually crossing borders is a very straightforward process that is managed by your Travel Director. However, be advised that you may be required to open your luggage and answer simple questions about the length of your stay, purpose of travel, etc.
United Kingdom and Northern Ireland trips incl transiting travelers
From January 8, 2025 UK law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the UK and Northern Ireland to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. It costs £10 and is valid for 2 years.
This is a tiered approach, with application for passports including but not limited to US, Canada, Australia, New Zealand and Singapore, open from November 27, 2024. For a full list of passports requiring the ETA for entry from January 8, 2025 or to start your application, visit the UK Government website.
For many other passport holders, you can still travel without an ETA until April 2, 2025 date but will require an ETA after this date. Applications for travel after this date will open on March 5, 2025. For full details please visit the UK Government website.
For more information, read our helpful ETA page. For all other entry requirements please check with your nearest consulate.
USA trips incl transiting travelers
US law requires travelers both entering and transiting through the United States are required to obtain an Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) which must be obtained in advance of travel. ESTA applications can be made at the U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection website.
Rest of the World trips
Each guest must ensure that their passport is valid for at least six months beyond the conclusion of their trip and that they have acquired all necessary visas and permits. You are responsible for obtaining all necessary visas before the departure of your guided holiday. Depending on your nationality, you may need visas to enter certain countries included on your trip. Please note that obtaining visas can take up to six weeks before your departure. It is strongly advised that you consult your Travel Agent (if applicable) and the local Consulate or Embassy of the country you are visiting well in advance to determine which visas they require and how to obtain them.