Common problems and how to fix them

The problems travellers run into most, and what actually fixes them.

A copycat site charged you double for your e-Visa

Search results and ads are full of agent sites that look official. Apply only on the government site linked on each page here, and compare the fee with the official one we show.

The airline won’t let you board

Airlines check entry rules at check-in, not the border. Carry your printed e-Visa or approval, a return or onward ticket, and your first night’s booking. Check the IATA Travel Centre before you fly.

No Schengen appointment for months

Apply up to 6 months ahead, check early in the morning for released slots, and never pay touts.

Refused for “insufficient ties”

Add an employer letter with your leave dates, payslips, a lease or bond statement, and a clear return date.

Refused for money reasons

Show 3 to 6 months of steady statements and explain any large deposit in your cover letter.

Your passport wasn’t stamped, and now you’re being “fined” on exit

Check every stamp before you leave the counter. If an official asks for money, stay calm, ask for the charge in writing with a receipt, and ask for the station commander. The South African embassy can help if it escalates.

Police roadblock “fines” (common in Mozambique)

Keep your licence, car papers and passport within reach, follow speed limits exactly, and only pay with an official receipt or at the police station.

Turned back at the border with your own car

Carry original or certified registration papers, a bank letter if the car is financed, or a rental letter with your name and dates. Check that the VIN and engine numbers match the papers.

No yellow fever card

Many African and South American countries are yellow fever risk areas, and South Africa can ask for the certificate when you come home from them. Get vaccinated at least 10 days before you fly.

Travelling with children

South African borders can ask for each child’s unabridged birth certificate, plus a consent affidavit from a parent who isn’t travelling. Carry originals or certified copies.

Your US dollars are refused

Many countries only accept clean, undamaged notes printed after 2009. Bring small notes and keep them flat.

Not enough blank pages

Many borders want 2 blank pages, and some visas take a full page each. Renew early if you’re overlanding through several countries.

Fined for overstaying

Note your entry date and count your days. Some visa-free stays are short: Mozambique is 30 days per visit and Thailand is now 30 days.

Reddit couldn’t be searched from our checker, so these come from South African overlanding communities, official notices and travel reporting. Seen another problem? Tell us.

Hear it first

Visa rules change every few months. Get the changes by email: one a week at most, plus urgent ones. Unsubscribe with one click.