Prepping for Long-Term Travel: The Basics (Passports, VISAs, and IDPs)
- Samantha C.
- Aug 16, 2024
- 7 min read
Updated: Apr 24
Part 1: Passport Considerations, VISA Requirements, and International Driver's Licenses
In this article:
The Basics
Passport and VISA requirements may sound simple on the surface, but long-term "indefinite" travel is a bit more involved than the typical Euro-trip, and there are few additional things to consider and plan for:
Passport validity - An expiration date at least six months from your return date.
Passport space - If you run out of blank pages in your passport, you can't enter a country.
Passport renewals - You can renew your passport at most U.S. embassies, but it can take weeks.
Passport loss - U.S. embassies can issue temporary "limited validity" passports (that look super cool!), but they're only good for one year, and some countries may not accept them.
VISA applications - Some countries require in-depth background checks and/or sponsorship to enter, and should be applied for in the U.S. - before you leave.
Read on for details on how to prepare.
Passport Requirements
As basic as this is, it's often overlooked, and it warrants a comment: passport renewals can take up to two months, and it's bitten many first-time travelers in the butt. Do yourself a favor and check it now. Most countries require your passport to be valid for six months past your exit date, so give yourself some leeway and avoid any last-minute surprises.
What Happens if You Fill Up Your Passport?
If you're traveling for an extended period, you're likely to rack up quite a few stamps, especially if you’re bouncing between countries.
If you haven’t left yet, apply for a larger passport (the 52-page version instead of the standard 28 pages). This should be more than enough to accommodate a year or more of globetrotting.
If you notice that you're running low on blank pages, don't worry, but start making plans to renew as soon as possible - adding pages is no longer an option for U.S. passports, so you'll have to renew the entire thing, which again, takes time.
If you have a multi-year, multi-entry VISA for countries like Russia or China, you can use your old passport along with your new passport, so don't worry about having to re-apply.
How to Renew Your Passport While Abroad
If your passport is nearing its expiration date while you’re overseas, renewing it from abroad is definitely possible, though it’s a bit more involved than renewing it at home.
Here’s how to handle it:
Find the Nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate: These locations handle passport renewals for U.S. citizens living or traveling abroad. You’ll need to download and complete the form DS-82 (passport renewal) and make an appointment.
Mailing Your Application: In some cases, you’ll be required to mail your old passport and documents to the U.S. embassy. It’s important to check local regulations in the country you’re in because you may not be able to leave while your passport is being processed.
Processing Time: This can vary widely depending on where you are. Some renewals can be done in a matter of weeks, while others may take months, so plan ahead!
For more information on passport requirements, visit Travel.State.Gov.
What Happens If You Lose Your Passport?
Losing your passport while traveling can be stressful, but it’s not the end of the world. The first step is to report the loss to the local authorities and then contact the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. They can issue you a temporary emergency passport, which will typically be valid for up to one year (as discussed earlier), and will cost about the same as a standard passport renewal (~$165).
And I'm not saying you should ever try to lose your passport, but they do look cool...
When visiting the embassy or consulate, you’ll need to provide proof of identity, such as a photocopy of your passport (if available) or another form of ID. You will also need to fill out a DS-11 form (application for a new passport) and a DS-64 form (report of a lost or stolen passport). After that, the embassy can issue your replacement emergency passport, allowing you to continue your travels or return home.
If you lose your passport, make sure to keep your travel plans flexible, as replacing your passport could take several days, depending on local circumstances. For more on how to replace your passport while abroad, refer to the earlier section on renewing a passport at an embassy.
For up-to-date information on fees, you can refer to the U.S. Department of State’s website.
VISA Requirements
Many countries offer Visa on Arrival, but some don't (I'm looking at you, Vietnam), so it's best to check each country individually and ensure you've applied where necessary. VISA application can take up to 10 days to approve, and airlines will not allow you on your flight if you're VISA isn't approved before take off. Yes, this has happened to me, and yes, I'm still bitter.
Countries with Lengthy Visa Applications
While most places allow you to get a visa relatively quickly, a few countries will require more time and paperwork. China and Russia are two prime examples. These visas can take months to secure, and you’ll need to have several years of work and address history ready for the application. On top of that, you’ll likely have to mail your passport to the U.S. embassy for processing before you even leave the country.
China: China requires tourists to apply for a visa well in advance. You will need to submit a completed application form, passport photos, a valid passport with at least six months remaining validity, and proof of accommodation or an invitation letter. For more extensive stays or multiple entries, extra paperwork may be required. Processing typically takes about four business days, but it's best to give yourself a two-week buffer. China also offers limited visa-free transit options for travelers passing through major cities like Beijing, Shanghai, and Guangzhou for up to 144 hours (China Mike, China Briefing).
Russia: Russia's visa process requires an invitation letter from a host (which could be a hotel or a business), in addition to the standard documentation like a valid passport, completed application form, and photos. E-visas are available for certain nationalities, allowing short stays of up to 16 days, but longer stays require a more formal visa application (China Briefing).
India: India can be surprising in how much paperwork is involved, especially for longer-term or multiple-entry visas. The e-Visa option is available for tourists from many countries, allowing stays of up to 60 days with a relatively straightforward online application. However, for longer stays or more complicated visa types like student or work visas, the process becomes more involved.
International Driver's Licenses
You may not plan on renting a car, but I can tell you from years on the road—having the option is nice. Most countries will accept your U.S. driver’s license, or they’ll accept it with the caveat that if you get pulled over, you may be fined (up to €2000!) for driving without an international license.
Where You’ll Need an International Driver's License
For the most part, you'll be fine driving in many countries with just your U.S. license. However, there are a few places where an International Driver's Permit (IDP) is required, and getting caught without one can mean hefty fines or, worse, legal trouble.
Countries where an IDP is required:
Europe: Austria, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Croatia, Czech Republic, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Italy, Poland, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain.
Asia: China, South Korea, Thailand, Kazakhstan, Russia, Japan.
Oceania: Australia, New Zealand.
Africa: South Africa.
Even if you don’t plan on driving in those countries, I highly recommend getting an IDP as a precaution. It’s a small (~$20) investment for peace of mind, and in many situations, it’ll save you a lot of headaches.
How to Get an International Driver's License
It’s easier than you might think! Here’s how:
Where to Apply: Head to the AAA website, and for a small fee (about $20), you’ll be able to apply online or in person. You’ll need your U.S. driver’s license and a couple of passport-sized photos.
What to Expect: The process is quick, and once you have the IDP, it’s valid for one year. So if you’re planning to travel for an extended time, keep that renewal date in mind.
If you're wondering whether an international driver’s license is necessary for your destination, visit USA.gov for a country-by-country breakdown.
IDP Renewals
Note: International Driving Permits (IDPs) are only valid for one year, and once they expire, they can't be "renewed" in the traditional sense. Instead, you must apply for a new IDP. This new application must be processed through authorized organizations like AAA or AATA in the U.S.
Unfortunately, new IDPs cannot be issued or mailed directly to an international address. The IDP must be sent to a U.S. address, and if you're abroad, you would need someone in the U.S. to receive the new IDP and forward it to you. This means that if you're traveling for more than a year, it's important to plan ahead, as you'll need a reliable contact in the U.S. to help you get a new IDP when the time comes.
Motorcycle License (Optional)
If you plan on spending a significant amount of time in Southeast Asia, I highly recommend taking some time getting your motorcycle license. Motorbikes are hands-down the best way to get around SEA - if you want the freedom to explore a region or city without having to call a Grab.
Legally speaking, renting a motorbike in countries like Thailand, Vietnam, Indonesia, or Malaysia requires a valid motorcycle license from your home country, along with an International Driving Permit - whether or not your rental shack asks for it is a different story... the safe bet is to have it, just in case - riding without the proper license can result in fines or invalid insurance coverage in the event of an accident.
Final Thoughts
Preparing for long-term travel requires a little bit more planning than your typical mult-week trip. Having your passport, visas, and international driver’s license in order will make your journey smoother and stress-free. It may feel like a lot of paperwork, but it’s worth it to avoid surprises once you’re abroad. Plan ahead, check the requirements for each country you're visiting, and don’t hesitate to apply for the necessary documents well in advance of your trip. That way, you can focus on the adventure and leave the bureaucracy behind.
Comments