A common fear amongst all travelers is you’ll forget something or there will be a situation one hasn’t anticipated. These can be exacerbated when being so far from home in a foreign country. A trip overseas can go smoothly if you are well prepared with all the right information and have packed properly. Let’s break this down into several categories.

Documents…

Follow the suggested steps below and click on links for detailed information provided by the U.S. Department of State.

HAVE THE REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Passports…

You will need a passport which you can easily acquire at a US Post Office. Not all post offices have passport counters so make sure you confirm your post office does before you go.

You will need a certificate of birth and another government form of picture ID. Take extra ID just in case they ask for proof of residence. They’ll take your picture there so be prepared to look good.

Allow yourself several months before your trip so you will have your passport in time.

If you currently have a passport it typically needs to be valid 3 months beyond the time of your stay. There are a few exceptions with some countries as long as it isn’t expired upon entry it can expire during the time of your stay.

FOR ENTRY REQUIREMENTS BY COUNTRY GO TO; 

➾ U.S.Department of State’s Web site 

For Passport information and to apply go to; 
➾ National Passport Information Center     ➾ Apply US Passport State Department      
➾ USPS.com

Visa’s

ETAIS – EUROPEAN TRAVEL INFORMATION AND AUTHORIZATION SYSTEM

Currently at this time almost all countries allow entry with a passport and with no requirement of  a tourist visa. If you plan to stay in a country for more than 90 days you will then need to get a tourist visa. However starting in 2022 US citizens and many other non-EU or citizens of Schengen members countries will need a ETIAS Visa for travel in and out of these countries. 

ETIAS VISA’S REQUIRED IN 2022

U.S. citizens will be required to complete and submit an online ➾ ETIAS application. The ETIAS online visa waiver will be needed to enter and travel to and around the Schengen Area. The ETIAS travel authorization will be a multiple entry authorization valid for 3 years and will grant its holder a stay of up to 90 days in Europe.

The ETIAS visa waiver will be valid to enter countries that are part of the Schengen Area but not the EU, which means, that U.S. citizens will be able to travel to these countries without the need for any additional travel documents or permissions.

The European Travel Information and Authorization System or ETIAS visa waiver will be a travel requirement to visit Europe starting from the end of 2022. U.S. citizens who wish to travel to and around Europe will have to apply online for an ETIAS visa waiver.

American citizens will be able to obtain the ETIAS travel authorization by completing the online form with their personal information and by answering security questions. Americans will also need to provide the Member State of intended first entry, and they must enter the Schengen Area through that country.

NO VISA REQUIRED COUNTRIES – VALID US PASSPORT ONLY

In almost every instance you are restricted to a stay no longer than 90 days. Your passport must be valid at least 90 days after you have entered the country.

VISA ARE REQUIRED FOR ENTRY TO THE FOLLOWING EUROPEAN COUNTRIES. YOU MAY APPLY FOR THEM THROUGH THEIR EMBASSY LINKS BELOW.

You may apply for them through their embassy links below.
 ➾ US State Department 
➾ Belarus     
➾ Russian Federation     
➾  Turkey
For currency restrictions for both entering and departing a country, current information is always available at the
➾ U.S. Department of State web site.

STEP – Smart Traveler Enrollment Program…

ENROLL IN SMART TRAVELER ENROLLMENT PROGRAM (STEP)

The US Department of State offers a Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) for free. It allows travelers abroad to enroll their trip with the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Benefits are;

• Receive important information from the Embassy about safety conditions in your destination country, helping you make informed decisions about your travel plans.
• Help the U.S. Embassy contact you in an emergency, whether natural disaster, civil unrest, or family emergency.
• Help family and friends get in touch with you in an emergency.

Vehicle Operators License…

If you are going to rent a car, or other motor operated vehicle, While you are in a country, you must have a valid state issued operator’s license ( drivers license). All rental car companies will require physical proof of one when you pick up the rental. They will not accept a photo copy or picture of one on a smart device.

Insurance Cards…

If you rent a motorized vehicle and you have coverage under your automobile insurance plan for rentals, you need to have a copy of your insurance card with the valid start and end coverage dates. If you do not have coverage we suggest you buy the insurance provide on the contract from the rental company. Other insurances like health, Medicare, etc. will most likely not provide coverage while in Europe. Check your policies for any coverage or see if they provide any service for international travel. A better option may be to purchase travel insurance. Go to our Travel Insurance for details and providers of travel insurance.

TSA Pre-Check…

The Transportation Security Administration runs a program called TSA Pre-Check. Over 200 airports in the US have separate security lines at airports cooperation with 90 airines. The advantage is these lines are normally much faster than the regular security lines because fewer passengers have TSA Pre-Check. Even at some of the busiest airports the wait at TSA Pre-Check lines are less than 10 minutes.

After you provide the agent your boarding pass and ID you will not have to remove your shoes, belts, light jackets or remove 3-1-1 liquids, laptops, tablets or phones from your carry ons. After you put your carry ons onto the belt for the security x-ray, you can casually walk through a scanner and not be subject to those booth scanners where you have to raise your hands and stand still and wait to be cleared. This is also what makes the TSA Pre-Check lines more efficient and faster.

To apply for TSA Pre-Check you may go to over 600 enrollment center locations, many are located at major airports, or go online at TSA Pre Telos or IDEMIA. Cost is $85. online and $78. in person and they are good for 5 years.

Once approved you will be assigned a Know Traveler Number (KTN). You will need to use this number when making reservations with an airline. If you are a regular flyer with an airline and have registered with the airline’s program, go to their web site and enter your Know Traveler Number in your profile. Make sure your boarding pass has the TSA Pre-Check logo, otherwise you will not be allowed to go through the Pre-Check line. Contact the airline if your boarding pass isn’t showing the TSA Pre-Check logo.

Global Entry…

The U.S. Customs and Boarder Protection (CBP) administers a program called Global Entry that much like TSA Pre-check helps to expedite the process to re-enter the U.S. for travelers. Only U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents and several countries are eligible to apply. See Eligibility at CBP.

Applying is more thorough process than TSA Pre-check as applicants are subject to background checks. One must make an appointment for in person interviews at enrollment centers. They are not located in some states and only in some airports. Global Entry coast is $100 good for 5 years and here’s the bonus, it includes with TSA Pre-check. So if you are planning to travel abroad this is a good value fro $15.00 more.

Upon arriving back to the U.S. members will proceed to the Global Entry lanes where processing technology will be used by capturing a photo for identity. Once approve the member will be issued on-screen instructions and proceed to a CBP officer who will confirm your process completed. It’s that simple with no long waiting lines or processing and no paperwork.

Clear…

Clear is a service provide by a private company that allows you to bypass the TSA security officer that checks your ID and boarding pass prior to entering screening at airport security. The service is only available at airports with designated Clear Lanes. Clear utilizes biometric scanning for travelers to identify themselves with the scan of a finger or an eye. Once you have been identified by the Clear scanner proceed to security. If you have you do not have TSA Pre-Check you will need to go through the regular security line and process for entry into the concourses and boarding gates.

You can enroll online at the Clear web site and finish at an airport that has Clear service. Cost is $189. for one year and does not include TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry. There are 53 airports and 18 Arenas or Stadiums that use Clear Lanes. To find locations go to Find Clear Lanes Near You.

Clear does not include TSA Pre-Check or Global Entry.

  ALBANIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp.
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED:
Not required. If you intend to stay more than a year in Albania, you will need to apply for a residency permit.
VACCINATIONS: Required. One must bring evidence of vaccination if arriving from countries as listed by www.who.int.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 1,000,000 lekë (approximately $9,500 USD at time of publication, though the rate can fluxuate) or equivalent.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 1,000,000 lekë (approximately $9,500 USD at time of publication, though the rate can fluxuate) or equivalent. For more information you can visit Albanian Customs website

  ÅLAND (Finland)

See the Finland

 ANDORRA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months recommended before entry into Andorra, although only 3 months are required
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Entry stamp available upon request
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: None required for stays less than 90 days in Spain, France, or Andorra
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: None

 AUSTRIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months beyond planned date of departure from from the Schengen area
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days within each 180 day period
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euro maximum
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euro maximum

 BELARUS

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for at least three months beyond scheduled departure date. 
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two blank pages when presented to Belarusian immigration authorities.
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Yes, if planning to stay more than 30 calendar days or if you enter or exit at border crossings other than the Minsk Airport, or if you travel directly to or from the Russian Federation. 
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY:USD $10,000
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: USD $10,000

 BELGIUM

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area. The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into Belgium.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 2 pages minimum
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 BOSNIA And HERZEGOVINA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months past your planned date of departure
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under three months
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Amounts exceeding 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared on arrival
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Amounts exceeding 10,000 Euros or equivalent require a bank certificate that the amount has been taken out from currency savings or bought from an authorized bank.

 BULGARIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months beyond departure date from Bulgaria.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One blank page for entry/exit stamps.
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: No for stays under 90 days if using a regular passport; visa required if using a diplomatic or official passport.
VACCINATIONS: None.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent.

 CROATIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months after the planned date of departure
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page is required for an entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: No
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Up to 10,000 euros
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Up to 10,000 euros

 CYPRUS

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months remaining validity recommended
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
 VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: None

 CZECHIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months 
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 2 pages required
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: €10,000+ euros or equivalent must be declared
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: €10,000+ euros or equivalent must be declared

 DENMARK

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Recommend at least six months beyond your period of stay 
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)

 ESTONIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Should be valid for at least three months beyond your stay
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page per entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: None
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Maximum 10,000 USD
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Maximum 10,000 USD

 FAROE ISLANDS (Denmark)

See the Denmark

 FINLAND

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months recommended
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: None required
 VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)

 FRANCE

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into France.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Must have at least one blank page for stamps
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros Max
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros Max

 GERMANY

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days.
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: €10,000 euros or equivalent 
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: €10,000 euros or equivalent 

  GIBRALTAR (UK)

See the United Kingdom

 GREECE

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months of remaining validity recommended.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page per stamp.
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days; visa required for all official and diplomatic passport holders. If traveling on DOD orders, review the guidance in the Department of Defense Foreign Clearance Guide.
VACCINATIONS: None.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 euros or the equivalent.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 euros or the equivalent. 

  GUERNSEY (UK)

See the United Kingdom

 HOLY SEE (Vatican)

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must have at least six months validity remaining beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 HUNGARY

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months validity recommended; three months validity beyond planned departure date from the Schengen area required.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Amounts more than 10,000 Euros or equivalent to declare at customs
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Amounts more than 10,000 Euros or equivalent to declare at customs

 ICELAND

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months required, six months recommended beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Any amount over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Any amount over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared

 IRELAND

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for the duration of your stay in Ireland
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Must have at least one page
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: No
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 ISLE Of MAN (UK)

See the United Kingdom

 ITALY

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must have at least six months validity remaining beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 Svalbard & JAN MEYEN

See the Norway

  JERSEY (UK)

See the United Kingdom

 KOSOVO

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid at time of entry
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for visits less than 90 days in a six-month period

 LATVIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months recommended beyond the period of stay
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page per entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days within a six month period
 VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT:10,000 Euros or equivalent

 LIECHTENSTEIN

PASSPORT VALIDITY: At least six months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays of less than 90 days
VACCINATIONS: No legal requirement
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: No restrictions; officers may question over 10,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: No restrictions; officers may question over 10,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)

 LITHUANIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months recommended
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 LUXEMBOURG

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months is recommended in the Schengen area
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 MALTA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp.
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days.
VACCINATIONS: None.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Reciprocal to country of origin.
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 euros or equivalent.

 MOLDOVA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays of up to 90 days within a six-month period
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 MONACO

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for at least three months beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.The 12-page U.S. emergency passport is not valid for visa-free entry into France.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Must have at least one blank page for stamps
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros Max
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros Max

 MONTENEGRO

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid at time of entry
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Currency in excess of 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) must be declared
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Currency in excess of 10,000 Euros (or equivalent) must be declared

 NETHERLANDS

PASSPORT VALIDITY: A passport must be valid for at least six months beyond planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 NORTH MACEDONIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months beyond your planned stay recommended
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not for stays less than 90 days within a six month period
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared

 NORWAY

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months recommended
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 25,000 Norwegian Kroner (or equivalent), not including traveler’s checks
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 25,000 Norwegian Kroner (or equivalent), without prior approval

 POLAND

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months remaining validity strongly recommended; at least three months remaining validity beyond planned departure from the Schengen area is required
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: None
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 euros
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 euros

 PORTUGAL

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 3 months beyond the date of intended departure.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 2 pages 
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays in the Schengen area under 90 days and within a 180-day period. A new period begins after a 90-day absence from the Schengen area.
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 ROMANIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Three months beyond departure date. We recommend a minimum of six months validity after entry date
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Amounts over 10,000 Euros or equivalent must be declared

 RUSSIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Required six months beyond intended stay
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 2 pages per stamp 
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Yes
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: $10,000 or more must be declared
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: You may export up to $3,000 (or equivalent) without declaring it

 SAN MARINO

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must have at least six months validity remaining beyond your planned date of departure from the Schengen area.
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Two pages required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros or equivalent
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros or equivalent

 SERBIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid at time of entry
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None, if under 10,000 euros
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: None, if under 10,000 euros

 SLOVAKIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months beyond the intended date of departure
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days within a six-month period
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 euros
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 euros

 SLOVENIA

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months beyond the intended date of departure
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days within a six-month period
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 euros
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 euros

 SPAIN

PASSPORT VALIDITY: 6 months recommended, 3 months beyond your date of departure is required 
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page per stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: None

 SvalBARD & Jan Mayen

See the Norway

 SWEDEN

PASSPORT VALIDITY: At least three months beyond the period of stay
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Space for entry and exit stamps
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays under 90 days
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 10,000 Euros (or equivalent)

 SWITZERLAND

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Valid for at least six months after your planned date of departure from the Schengen area
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: 1 page
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: No visa required for visits of 90 days or less
VACCINATIONS: No legal requirement
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: No restrictions; officers may question over 10,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: No restrictions; officers may question over 10,000 Swiss Francs (CHF)

 TURKEY

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Six months beyond date of entry
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page for entry and exit stamps
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Yes
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: 25,000 Turkish lira or 10,000 euros (or equivalent)

 Ukraine

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid at time of entry and exit
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: One page required for entry stamp
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for tourism stays of less than 90 days within a 180-day period
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: Anything over €10,000 or foreign currency equivalent must be declared in writing
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: Same as restrictions for entry

 UNITED KINGDOM

PASSPORT VALIDITY: Must be valid for the duration of your stay in the United Kingdom (At least six months remaining validity is required for onward travel to many other countries)
BLANK PASSPORT PAGES: Must have at least one page
TOURIST VISA REQUIRED: Not required for stays less than six months.
VACCINATIONS: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR ENTRY: None
CURRENCY RESTRICTIONS FOR EXIT: None

When you leave a country, customs will asked you to declare certain goods purchased while in the country and pay duty on the amount exceeding that country’s allowance. The allowance level and circumstances on which products are purchased can of vary from country to country. EU countries are all the same.There are no limits on what you can buy and take with you when you travel between EU countries, as long as it is for personal use and not for resale.

Consider Travel Insurance

Travel Insurance can cover most of your exposure to financial loss when things get cancelled, if you have a sudden illness not allowing you to complete your trip, travel-companies bankruptcies, etc. especially if you have pre-paid for most.

SHOULD YOU GET TRAVEL INSURANCE…

Why would you need insurance? As with anything there are no guarantees and there is always a risk something can go wrong.

There are many reasons to get travel insurance but, will you ever use it? Have you had to use car insurance, homeowners, fire, health and even life insurance. That’s a questions everyone ask’s and guess what…no simple answer.

• A flight is or hotel room is cancelled.
• A company you have contracted with goes out of business after you have pre-paid for the service.
• Your luggage or other property is lost.
• Your evacuated out of an area because of a bad weather, terrorism or sudden conflict.
• A medical emergency
• A personal interruption that forces you to cancel part of your trip.
• A car or other accident that creates liability.

Some people think the risk is minimal do not feel the money is well spent and others will pay just to have peace of mind. It can also depend upon your personal circumstances, have you been dealing with personal issues or a family member in poor health lately that could interrupt your trip? You should first check with your insurance carrier and see if you are covered for any situations. Insurance companies are regulated by each state and coverage varies from Maine to Hawaii. Some will cover cost when you directly purchase the services but, not if it is purchased by a travel agent so coverage may vary from state to state.  Not all companies are licensed to do business in every state so make sure your company is licensed in your state otherwise you could have difficulty getting a claim.

• Will your home owners or renters policy cover any loss of property?
• You can buy travelers insurance  for your flight from most airlines when you book your ticket.
• Does your medical insurance cover international use?
• Chances are your car insurance does not cover you abroad.Temporary coverage is available just for the duration of your stay in Europe. Some credit card companies offer a small charge for your next several rentals when you use their card for the rental fee. You can also buy a Collision Damage Waiver of insurance from your car rental company. It will only be applicable for that rental period contract.

Many frequent travelers have never had travelers insurance and have never had to use it. However, there is always that slight chance an emergency arises and then we are looking at some unwanted financial costs. Evaluate your risks, what countries are you visiting and what areas? Is there political unrest, are these usually safe areas to travel in. What activities will you be doing? Accidents could result from hiking in the mountains, skiing, biking and your medical coverage will not be acceptable in another country. 

Emergencies like, hotel or plane cancellations that could result in alternate plans and more money. Emergency evacuations, lost baggage, vehicle accidents, health issues that require treatment or hospitalization. 

Should you have an elderly family member with serious health issues you may want to consider travel insurance. Should your trip be interrupted by a phone call from home that requires your presence back home immediately. You’ll need to cancel existing reservations you have already paid for and assume additional exchanging fees for re-booking. 

Travel Insurance usually breaks down into two components:

• Basic Trip Cancellation Plans… These will cover lost baggage, reimbursements if you miss a connection or refunds for becoming ill or sick.
• Comprehensive Trip Plans…Coverage of those covered on a basic plan as well as medical or dental emergencies, disaster evacuations and even accidental death. These can be looked at as both a travel and medical plan rolled into one.

Cost can run around 5% to 10% of your initial trip cost. If your expenses before traveling are $5,000 your insurance premium could range from $250. to $500. There are many plans with optional coverage for different situations so shop carefully and make sure you are covered for only the things you will be doing. 

For an additional cost many airlines offer trip protection when you book your ticket. EU countries require airlines to refund customers on delays and cancellations. See our ➾ Airline page for more on passenger rights. Many credit cards offer coverage when you use their card for purchases. See if your cards offer protection.

The following is a list of insurance providers. As with regular travel insurance policies vary from one company to another. Some policies may cover regular coverage for flight cancellations, etc. and health care. Read and compare all policies carefully to make sure you have the coverage you need so you can travel with confidence.

COMPANIES THAT SPECIALIZE IN TRAVEL INSURANCE…

Allianz Travel Assistance & Insurance 

Richmond, VA 866-884-3556

Betins 

Tacoma, WA 866-552-8834 / 253-238-6374 

info@betins.com

CSA Travel Protection 

San Diego, CA 800-348-9505 

csa@csatravelprotection.com

Expat Global Medical 

Advance, NC 336-998-9583 

john@expatglobalmedical.com

Health Care Global Middleburg, VA 800-237-6615 / 540-687-3166 info@wallach.com

Insuremytrip.com Warwick, RI 800-487-4722 / 401-773-9300 customercare@insuremytrip.com

HCC Medical Insurance Services Indianapolis, IN 800-605-2282/ 317-262-2132

Petersen International Underwriters, Inc. Valencia, CA 800-345-8816 piu@piu.org

Seven Corners, Inc. Carmel, IN 800-335-0611 / 317-575-2652 cs@sevencorners.com

Travelex Omaha, NE 800-228-9792 customerservice@travelexinsurance.com

Travel Guard Stevens Point, WI 800-826-1300 / 715-345-0505

Travel Insured International E. Hartford, CT 800-243-3174 customercare@travelinsured.com

Travelsafe Insurance 40 Commerce Drive P.O. Box 7050 Wyomissing, PA 19610-6050 888-885-7233 Fax: 800-303-6015 info@travelsafe.com

ASA, Inc. International Health Insurance Phoenix, AZ 888-ASA-8288/ 480-753-1333 insurance@asaincor.com

Clements International Washington, DC 800-872-0067 / 202-872-0060 info@clements.com

EUROP Assistance USA 4330 East-West Hwy Suite 1000 Bethesda, MD 20814 240-330-1000 info@europassistance-usa.com  

Gateway International Insurance Plans Indianapolis, IN 877-808-7434/ 317-655-4500 insurance@imglobal.com  

Highway To Health Radnor, PA 888-243-2358/610-254-8700 customerservice@hthworldwide.com  

International SOS Philadelphia, PA +1 800-523-8662/ +1 215-942-8333 customersupport@internationalsos.com

Tripinsurance.com Monte Sereno, CA 877-219-8169 support@tripinsurance.com 

Quotewright.com America’s Travel Insurance Store East Hartford, CT 800-821-4940 service@quotewright.com  

Travel Assist Network Corporation South Bend, IN 866-500-0333 / 512-330-0306 info@travelassistnetwork.com

Travel Insurance Services Columbus, OH 800-937-1387 info@travelinsure.com  

USA Assist Worldwide Travel Insurance Los Angeles, CA 877-539-8619/310-694-8453 contact@usa-assist.com