Jetting Off? Here's your Travel Authorization Game Plan for Certain Countries!
Submit Applications Required for These Nations - Countries Require Submission of Application
Got a German passport? You're in luck! With it, you can travel to over 170 countries sans visa, according to the Federal Ministry of the Interior. But beware, while some countries allow you to step in, others need an advance permit. Case in point: the United Kingdom and Thailand.
Entirely Unstuffed, the United Kingdom
Since early April, you'll need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for the UK, in addition to a valid passport. Applications must be submitted around 72 hours before your trip, and the cost is a mere £16. The ETA serves as your gate pass for a delightful sojourn that lasts up to six months, be it family visits, business, or a fun-filled vacation.
The UK government website and official app are your trusted application portals. However, there are some shady third-party providers charging exorbitant fees or engaging in identity theft. Wise travelers use the Consumer Center's guidance to steer clear of these scoundrels.
The Land of the Free (And ESTA)
The United States has been using the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for a while now. ESTA applications should be submitted at least 72 hours before your adventure, and approval gives you a 90-day pass within a two-year period. Longer stays require a visa. As of now, the fee is $21.
Canada: Straightforward and Affordable
Good news! The government encourages booking your flight only after obtaining the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Approval often comes rapidly, and the cost is a mere CAD 7. Your ETA is valid for up to five years, allowing stays of up to six months.
Australia's eVisitor Permit or ETA
An eVisitor permit or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is essential for entering Australia. While the former is graciously free, the latter comes with a processing fee of AUD 20. Both allow multiple stays of up to three months within a year. The Department of Home Affairs has all the deets on their website about options and visas.
New Zealand's NZeTA
You'll need the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for a Kiwi welcome. Processing usually takes under 72 hours, but you're advised to apply early to avoid any snags. The NZeTA costs NZD 17 via the app and NZD 23 via the website and is valid for two years, allowing stays of up to three months.
Special Cases and Other Destinations
Israel and South Korea have their own systems: ETA-IL (25 shekels) and K-ETA (free for some countries and with a service charge for others). Thailand is introducing an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system in 2025, but details regarding costs and validity are yet to be disclosed.
Meanwhile, the Foreign Office recommends completing the Zanzibar Insurance Corporation (ZIC) entry insurance prerequisite since October 1, 2024, at a cost of $44 per pop.
For other countries like India and Cuba, visas are the name of the game. A preview of the regulations for individual countries, including travel warnings or specific security concerns, is available on the Foreign Office website. Reach out to the respective embassies for more comprehensive information.
In light of the mentioned travel authorization requirements, it is essential to understand the employment implications for expats traveling to these countries. For instance, the UK's travel authorization (ETA) could impact the employment prospects of those moving for work purposes, necessitating a temporary work visa or arrangements to accommodate the ETA's validity.
As for personal lifestyle considerations, when choosing a destination, it is crucial to consider both the travel authorization process and the country's employment policy to ensure a smooth transition and maintain employment continuity. For example, an expat considering relocating to New Zealand should be aware of the NZeTA requirement and the availability of relevant work visas.
