Visas

Visas are pretty much extinct in Western Europe but are still alive and kicking in Eastern Europe. This could change by the time you are reading this, but don’t count on it. Regardless, get any visas that you need early. Most visas, though not all, are issued while you wait at any embassy of the country you wish to enter. Be advised that some embassies only issue them at odd hours or on certain days, and some require you to leave your passport overnight or longer. Aussies and Kiwis should get as many visas as they can before they leave home, and avoid wasting travel days in Europe waiting for visas to be issued. Don’t buy rail tickets or make tightly scheduled plans without your visas in hand.

Western Europe

Australians traveling in France and Spain no longer require visas for short stays, but will need one for entry into Portugal. For details about stays of longer than 30 days, Aussies should contact the relevant embassy. Also, there is a two-month limit on travel in Portugal for Americans and Canadians without visas. In every other country, Australian, Canadian, New Zealand, UK, or US passports are good for a maximum stay of 90 days.

Eastern Europe

Visa requirements in Eastern Europe have become much more relaxed than they were just a few years ago. While Americans, Canadians, and Brits are practically home free these days, Australians and Kiwis still have to put up with a little red tape.