Passport & Visa Checklist

Most countries require your passport to be valid for at least six months beyond your planned departure date. Some nations, like those in the Schengen Area, enforce a three-month rule. Check the specific requirements for each country on your itinerary well before booking flights.

U.S. citizens do not need a visa for short stays up to 90 days in the Schengen Area. Starting in 2026, American travelers must obtain an ETIAS travel authorization, which is an online pre-screening valid for three years costing approximately seven euros. This is not a visa but a mandatory entry requirement.

Visit the official embassy or consulate website of your destination country. Third-party visa service sites often display outdated or incorrect information. For the most reliable data, use the IATA Travel Centre or your own government's foreign travel advisory website.

Carry printed copies of your passport photo page, visa approval letters, travel insurance policy, hotel reservations, return flight confirmation, and emergency contact numbers. Store digital copies in a secure cloud folder accessible offline. Some countries require proof of sufficient funds upon entry.