Ensure hassle-free travel with these visa dos and don'ts

Zain Johnson (standing in for CapeTalk and 702's Africa Melane) speaks to Lynette Machiri of Flight Centre Travel Group South Africa.

Listen below:

Having a visa doesn't mean you'll gain access to a country, so it's best to be prepared.

Machiri explains what to do and what not to do during the visa application process:

Do:

• Ensure consistency across all documents and double-check all personal information.
• Select the appropriate visa type for your specific travel purpose.
• Prepare detailed documentation of your travel plans, including accommodation and return tickets if required (some countries, like the UK and US, do not require confirmed travel plans for visa applications).
• Bring proof of sufficient funds for your trip.
• Allow enough time for visa processing.
• Declare any previous visa refusals or legal issues.
• Consider booking flexible or unrestricted fares in case of visa delays.
• Purchase comprehensive travel insurance that covers various contingencies.
• Seek professional advice from a travel expert who can review your documentation.
• Be prepared to explain and provide clarity on your travel purpose and itinerary to border officials.
• Keep hard copies of all your travel documents – and store digital copies securely.
• Ask for help: check if you have everything you need to enter the country you're visiting.

Don't:

• Apply for an incorrect visa type (for example, a tourist visa if your trip includes business meetings, study or remote work).
• Assume a transit visa won’t be necessary, even if you don’t leave the airport.
• Attempt to travel with documents that are close to expiring (it is best to always have six months' validity from the date of arrival back in your country of residence).
• Provide vague or inconsistent answers about your travel plans.
• Rush through the visa application process.
• Assume that having a visa guarantees automatic entry into a country.
• Overlook the fine print in travel insurance policies.
• Wait until the last minute to arrange visa appointments.
• Travel without copies of all important documents.

Machiri advises that a travel agent guide you with specific visa applications and other processes to ensure smooth travels.

Scroll up to the audio player to listen to the full conversation.