Gerhard58
Member
- Time of past OR future Camino
- Camino Frances : April /May 2017
Hello dear Pilgrims
I've been reading this threat about passports and visa with interest.
Below I offer some advice about visas and passports. I know that many countries have no problems with visas, but in ALL cases the validity of National passports/ I D cards is important.
As a person who have dealt with consular matters ( Visas , passports ) all my working life , I generally agree with what is mentioned as advice in this thread.
Security concerns are paramount for all countries , especially recently in France. Please don't be complacent about your travelling arrangements/documents. If you falter here youcan wave your Camino plans goodbye. Immigration authorities now take their countries' security concern much more serious than worrying about a few tourists who cannot enter because their travel documentation is wrong !! Expect little sympathy from immigration and airline officers you broke up with the outdated passports and visas as well as not having the right travel insurance.
I'm quite aware that there are many many countries who do not need visas to enter the Schengen area ; but there are equally just as many countries where the passport holders must apply for the necessary Schengen visa before he or she will be allowed to enter (in this regard Spain, Portugal and France.)
I just want to I light the following very important points .
1. All countries are now more security concerned then ever before.
2. See that you have the correct visa ( applied for in your country of domicile ), (Schengen visa ) that is if you need a visa. Please make very sure !
3. Its your duty to see that your passport 's expiry date in more that 6 months away from the day of entry into France/Spain.
4. See that you have open pages in your passport for the entry and exit stamps when entering of leaving a country.
6. If you come from certain countries ( check yourself ) , then yellow fever certificates are required
7. Please see that your COMREHENSIVE TRAVELINSURANCE is in place and valid. ( for obvious reasons )
8. Last, to UK passport holders, please keep your self abreast with the BREXIT arrangements from the EU.
8. If you are one of those counties who need visas to enter Spain/Portugal etc., don't overstay the time which is granted per the visa please
I would appreciate any comments or additions please
I've been reading this threat about passports and visa with interest.
Below I offer some advice about visas and passports. I know that many countries have no problems with visas, but in ALL cases the validity of National passports/ I D cards is important.
As a person who have dealt with consular matters ( Visas , passports ) all my working life , I generally agree with what is mentioned as advice in this thread.
Security concerns are paramount for all countries , especially recently in France. Please don't be complacent about your travelling arrangements/documents. If you falter here youcan wave your Camino plans goodbye. Immigration authorities now take their countries' security concern much more serious than worrying about a few tourists who cannot enter because their travel documentation is wrong !! Expect little sympathy from immigration and airline officers you broke up with the outdated passports and visas as well as not having the right travel insurance.
I'm quite aware that there are many many countries who do not need visas to enter the Schengen area ; but there are equally just as many countries where the passport holders must apply for the necessary Schengen visa before he or she will be allowed to enter (in this regard Spain, Portugal and France.)
I just want to I light the following very important points .
1. All countries are now more security concerned then ever before.
2. See that you have the correct visa ( applied for in your country of domicile ), (Schengen visa ) that is if you need a visa. Please make very sure !
3. Its your duty to see that your passport 's expiry date in more that 6 months away from the day of entry into France/Spain.
4. See that you have open pages in your passport for the entry and exit stamps when entering of leaving a country.
6. If you come from certain countries ( check yourself ) , then yellow fever certificates are required
7. Please see that your COMREHENSIVE TRAVELINSURANCE is in place and valid. ( for obvious reasons )
8. Last, to UK passport holders, please keep your self abreast with the BREXIT arrangements from the EU.
8. If you are one of those counties who need visas to enter Spain/Portugal etc., don't overstay the time which is granted per the visa please
I would appreciate any comments or additions please