There are still plenty of countries in the world that require visas, and unfortunately since the arrival of Covid I have found that some countries are now price gouging when it comes to entry requirements. Let’s take a quick look at some of the major countries and their visa requirements:

Europe:  We have travelled extensively around Europe, visiting – Italy, France, Spain, Portugal, Austria, Switzerland, Germany, Netherlands, Belgium, Hungary, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Greece and Poland.  We have not required any visas for these countries, but that does not mean that other countries travelling to these destinations do not require visas.

Turkey:  Gaining a visa for Turkey was not difficult, but they now have in place a requirement to complete a health declaration before you enter the country. I am not sure how long they will continue with this requirement, but the link below will no doubt provide you with the latest information from Turkey.

  • To obtain a visa for Turkey you simply apply on-line through e-Visa. It is relatively quick and easy to complete. You can apply for a visa upon arriving in Turkey, but this will cost more money and it is best to avoid any issues by having your visa already issued. Visit the Ministry of Foreign Affairs for Turkey where you can find the link for the e-Visa and also the costs for different countries.
  • Turkey has now introduced a health declaration form for ALL persons entering Turkey, to prevent the spread of Covid19. The form can be found here. It is an easy form to complete and once submitted a Travel Health Certificate is returned via email.

China:  A visa is required for entry to China and their process is quite strict. The China Visa Application Centre will allow you to click on the relevant country from which you are applying and guide you through the process. Click here for that link.

Vietnam:  The eVisa Vietnam site allows you to check if you need a visa to enter Vietnam. If you do the application process is on-line, with your visa being sent to your email after approval.

Japan:  Best check whether you need a visa or not by visiting the Ministry of Foreign Affairs Japan. If you do need a visa the application process is done on-line.

Qatar: Probably one of the most difficult and challenging countries for obtaining entry, due to the number of documents required. It was complex and costly, but below is a quick overview of what Qatar requires.

  • Visa: You DO NOT need a visa from Australia to travel to Qatar. They will issue a visitor visa at the airport. All other countries should check their own requirements.
  • Because of Covid they have required the following entry documents:
    • Customer Acknowledgement Form – this is handed over at the check-in counter at your departure airport.
    • Undertaking and Acknowledgement Form – this is handed over at Hamad Airport Qatar.
    • Covid19 Vaccination Certificates – may be required at Hamad Airport.
    • Pre-departure Covid19 test – had to be completed within 48 hours of travel. This was costly in Australia, but if you didn’t have it you simply did not board the aircraft.
    • Online Registration for travellers entering Qatar – This was submitted via their website 7 days prior to travel. You could not submit it any earlier.
    • Covid Consent Form which had to be completed before check in at the airport, and this was available on the Qatar Airways site.
    • Ehteraz Mobile App – this needed to be downloaded to your phone and had to be shown when travelling on public transport. This app is really for them to track where you are going in case of a Covid19 outbreak.