What Is Visa-Free Travel & What Should Travellers Know Before Planning Their Trips?

When planning a visit abroad, obtaining a visa for that country is important. But did you know about the concept of visa-free travel? This allows travellers to enter a foreign country without obtaining a visa in advance. But yes, the entry is not always guaranteed. Scroll down to know how this works.

Visa-Free Does Not Mean Automatic Entry

Just last year, a vlogger, Sachin Awasthi, and his wife arrived at Jeju Island with plans to spend time holidaying at the beautiful destination. But the couple were held at immigration, questioned, and deported. It should be noted that South Korea’s Jeju Island allows Indian nationals to enter without a visa for short-term visits. According to News18, the Embassy of India in Seoul later issued an advisory reminding that visa-free travel does not always guarantee entry. Sounds a little confusing, right?

Actually, Jeju Island offers a visa waiver to Indians, but the final decision to allow a traveller depends on the immigration authorities at the airport, as per Korean law. The incident has once again raised confusion and misunderstanding about visa-free travel. You should know that many countries offer visa-free access to encourage tourism, strengthen ties between countries, or simply to make travelling easier. This facility is mostly applicable for short-term tourism and business. Plus, visa-free travel also removes the need for pre-travel paperwork and embassy visits.

Also Read: Why Is France Changing Its Visa Rules For Indian Students? Will Visa Process Get Easier?

Immigration Checks Still Apply

But yes, visa-free travel or not, a traveller must still pass through immigration and show a valid passport, return tickets, and proof of funds. Travellers can book their tickets and arrive at their destination with a valid passport. However, it does not mean that you would be guaranteed access. Travellers must meet the entry conditions set by the country to qualify for entry. These often include:

• A passport valid for six months
• Confirmed hotel bookings
• Proof of sufficient funds to cover the stay

Without a visa, travellers are still subject to immigration checks after arrival. Authorities will verify your documents and ask questions about the purpose of your visit. Immigration officers assess each traveller individually based on documents, answers during the interview, and overall credibility. If immigration authorities are not satisfied with a traveller’s intent or documents, they have the full right to deny entry and deport the individual. 

How To Prevent Getting Denied Under Visa-Free Entry

You should be well prepared if you are planning a visa-free entry to a country. Your documents should be proper. You should have confirmed hotel bookings, confirmed return flights, and a clear purpose of visit. You can also be asked to show a basic travel itinerary. Plus, be ready to show proof of funds so that immigration authorities can be assured that you can support yourself during your stay.

Also Read: What Is The Current Wait Time For US Visa Interview In Different Indian Cities?

Have you ever travelled to a country without a visa? How was your experience? Do share it with us.

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