Planning a Trip? Time to Take Care of Documents!

Before you start dreaming about sunny beaches or mountain peaks, check if you have all the necessary documents. You don’t want to be that person who finds out at the airport that their passport is “too old”, right? Well-prepared documents are your ticket to a smooth trip. Here’s what you need to know to prepare and travel worry-free.

Travel Around Europe: EU and Schengen Area

Europe – a traveler’s dream, where you can travel to many places just with your ID card. For Lithuanian citizens it’s very simple: a valid identity card or passport is enough. However, as the saying goes, better safe than sorry – check if your documents are valid and if additional documents are needed. When traveling with family, it’s especially important to pay attention to children’s documents, as additional requirements may apply to them.

Countries Where an ID Card Is Sufficient:

• Austria, Belgium, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Greece, Spain, Italy, Cyprus, Croatia, Latvia, Poland, Luxembourg, Malta, Netherlands, Portugal, France, Romania, Slovakia, Slovenia, Finland, Sweden, Hungary, Germany, Ireland.

Schengen Area Countries Outside EU:

• Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, Switzerland.

Additional Countries Where ID Card Is Valid:

• Montenegro, Albania, Georgia, Moldova, North Macedonia, Serbia, Bosnia and Herzegovina.

In some countries you may need to register upon arrival or provide health insurance. It’s important to know that some countries may apply additional requirements, such as hotel reservation confirmation or proof of sufficient financial means.

Travel Outside EU and Schengen Area

When traveling outside Europe without a passport – not a single step. In many countries it’s a mandatory document, and in some you’ll also need a visa or electronic permit. It’s important to note that some countries have strict requirements, for example, passport validity period – often it’s required that the passport be valid for at least 6 months after the planned departure date.

Countries Where Passport Is Mandatory:

• In Europe: Ukraine, Belarus, Turkey.
• In Asia: Japan, South Korea, Thailand, India, Malaysia, China.
• In America: Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Colombia.
• In Africa: Egypt, Tunisia, Morocco, Libya, Sudan, Ethiopia, Zambia, Malawi, Namibia, Botswana, Mozambique, Lesotho, Eswatini.
• Australia: Australia, New Zealand.

Electronic Permits and Visas

Modern available technologies significantly facilitate travel document processing. Many countries offer electronic visas or permits that can be obtained online:

• USA: ESTA permit – when traveling to the USA for a short time (up to 90 days), it’s necessary to have an ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) permit. This is a visa-free travel program that allows people from certain countries to visit the USA without a traditional visa. ESTA permit application is submitted online, and its confirmation is received quickly. You should also know that this permit has a small fee that is paid when submitting the application.
• Canada: eTA permit – for short-term trips to Canada (up to 6 months) it’s necessary to obtain an eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization) permit. This permit is required for most travelers who arrive in Canada by plane. The application is filled out online.
• Australia: eVisitor – those traveling to Australia for up to 3 months need to obtain an eVisitor permit. This permit is intended for tourist or business trips and is available to citizens of certain countries. The application is also filled out online.
• New Zealand: NZeTA permit – When planning a trip to New Zealand, it’s necessary to arrange for an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) permit. It’s mandatory before entering the country and applies to most tourists. NZeTA permit can be ordered online.
• China and India: You can choose an electronic or physical visa. The type of visa depends on the duration and purpose of the trip. The electronic visa process is often simpler and faster, but for some long-term or specific trips a physical visa may be required.
• (UAE) United Arab Emirates: it’s necessary to obtain an electronic tourist visa. This process is fast and convenient, but you need to pre-register and submit an application. A visa is necessary even for short-term trips.

How to Ensure Your Documents Are in Order?

Check Document Validity:

Don’t leave this task to the last minute! Some countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months after the end of the trip. It’s recommended to renew your passport at least 9 months before expiration to avoid many inconveniences.

Document Copies and Backup Options:

• Make document copies
• Keep documents on your phone – take photos

Check Requirements:

Before traveling, visit the official websites of the country you’re going to. Make sure you have all the necessary documents – you may need health insurance or vaccination certificates. *Since requirements may change, it’s recommended to check them at least a month before the trip.

Travel Insurance and Additional Documentation

Travel insurance is essential protection when traveling. When choosing insurance, pay attention to these aspects:

• Medical expenses coverage
• Luggage loss compensation
• Trip cancellation insurance
• Civil liability insurance
• Document loss coverage

Some countries require a specific insurance amount, so it’s necessary to clarify specific requirements. For example, when traveling to the Schengen zone, the insurance amount must be no less than 30,000 euros.

Ready? Then go ahead! When all documents are in order, travel becomes a pleasure, not stress. Keep your passport safe, check requirements and you can peacefully enjoy adventures.