Legal Tips For Travelling Abroad
Millions of people travel abroad every year, experiencing the sights, sounds, and traditions of countries worldwide. But sometimes, it is easy to forget that the local laws of a country can differ from your own, and as a foreign traveler, you are still required to follow them.
Ensuring you are well informed about questions like “Can I bring a vape to Australia?” where nicotine is heavily regulated, or “Can I consume alcohol?” in Muslim countries will guarantee that you follow essential legal requirements when traveling, allowing you to have an enjoyable and stress-free trip.
Research Local Laws & Customs
Every country has its own unique set of laws, regulations, and customs requirements that both local citizens and international travelers must follow. Some countries may have severe penalties for actions that are legal or considered to be minor issues in your home country. However, local laws will apply to you as a visitor, and you are responsible for ensuring you follow them correctly.
The most comprehensive way to educate yourself on the laws and customs of your holiday destination is to go online and research the necessary legal information. This can often be found on the official government website. Additionally, it is suggested that you view any travel advisories that may be available.
Taking Photos
In some countries, it is illegal to take photos of certain places or buildings, often related to the government, military, or major transportation hubs like airports and ports. There are also strict rules regarding gaining consent before entering someone’s land or building, which could be viewed as trespassing and a violation of their right to privacy. Many countries state that permission is required to take a photograph with one or more identifiable persons present in the shot.
Many experts recommend educating yourself on the rules and regulations surrounding photographing government buildings, military camps, and religious sites, always asking permission before taking photos of people, and respecting their wishes should they decline.
Importing & Exporting Currency
Depending on the country you enter or leave, you may be subject to strict rules regarding importing and exporting currency. Thankfully, the embassy or consulate of the country you are traveling to will have all the information you need regarding the limit you can carry and the procedures surrounding currency declaration.
It is essential to answer any questions surrounding the money you are carrying clearly and honestly, as strict penalties could apply to false information provided. In serious cases, border officers will seize any money that exceeds the cap.
Alcohol Usage
Drinking is commonly accepted in most countries for those over the legal drinking age, which is often set at 18 or 21. However, in many Muslim-majority countries, alcohol is severely limited, if not completely prohibited. It is critical to never drink in countries where alcohol is forbidden, and should you be unsure about the laws surrounding your destination, it is best to contact their embassy or consulate for further clarification.
In other countries, practicing responsible drinking and staying within your limit is essential. Drinking in public places is often illegal, and public drunkenness may result in legal consequences. Never drink and drive.
Shopping & Customs
Shopping while on vacation is a common practice for many people around the world. But in many countries, sales tax, along with additional fees attached to certain items, can significantly increase the overall cost of travel. Knowing tax rates is an essential part of building a realistic budget should you hope to purchase items while on vacation. Additionally, while duty-free shopping may be enticing, once you hit a certain limit, you will have to pay taxes on these items, too.
Many customs and border control agencies require travelers to declare a wide range of items when re-entering their home country. Many experts recommend declaring your items if you are unsure about the necessary procedure. In more serious cases, failure to declare items often leads to fines, penalties, confiscation, or legal charges.
Traveling with Minors
While minors may be able to travel to other countries with only one parent, in most cases, they will need to have a notarized written letter documenting travel consent from both parents. Minors hoping to travel without their parents should contact their local embassy for further information regarding admissibility and other legal travel requirements.
However, there are some instances when a parent or guardian is not required to produce written consent. This may be due to divorce, death, or other legal outlines that have been put in place by a court order. In this case, the accompanying parent or guardian should ensure they have a notarized copy of the agreement in their essential travel documents.
Death or Illness
Death is a rare and morbid subject, but is something to consider while traveling. The cost of bringing the remains of a loved one home is a costly affair and not a fee your embassy will cover. Additionally, falling ill in a foreign country can quickly rack up hefty medical bills should you fail to have the proper insurance.
The correct travel insurance will be incredibly beneficial in such cases, as it is the easiest and most convenient way to cover the associated costs of illness or death. Before jetting off, ensure your close family or friends have a copy of your insurance details should anything happen to you.
