Legal Matters to Consider Before Traveling

Whether it’s vacationing or working abroad, traveling has plenty of legal implications that you need to consider before grabbing your bags. You will be subject to another country’s customs, laws, and policies once abroad. As such, there are certain preparations and precautions to always take.

Insurance

• Know your insurance coverage for international travel.
• Consider travel insurance based on trip risks.
• Policies can be for the duration of your trip.
• Insurance covers emergencies like medical expenses.

Know your life and auto insurance policy for accidents and injuries abroad. If you’re renting a car, consider paying that extra bit for insurance just to be safe. You can also consider traveler’s insurance for your trip, depending on the risks you might face. For example, it might not be as necessary for a bus tour in the UK as it is for someone going cliff diving in Mexico. Take time to look at several different traveler’s insurance options to find the optimal premium and coverage for yourself and your family. Most of the time, the policy can be arranged to simply last the duration of your trip. It may seem paranoid to take out a policy just for vacation, but the precaution could pay off in the event of an injury or other expense incurred abroad.

• Must Read: Attractive Tips To Have A Safe Trip

Legal Systems

• Legal systems differ by country.
• Minor crimes in the US can be severe abroad.
• Some countries may refuse entry with an Israeli visa stamp.
• Know your rights if arrested abroad.

Take some time to understand the legal system you’re entering into. Not every nation follows the same policies or provides the same rights as the US. For example, in Italy, a jury is made up of both judges and citizens, with only a majority needed to find someone guilty. In Saudi Arabia, if you have a visa or even a stamp from Israel, you will be refused entry into the country. It helps to be aware of the laws governing immigration and visa status in the country you are visiting, as well as knowing what rights are granted to you in the unlikely event of an arrest. What may be minor crimes in the US, such as possession of marijuana, can result in the death penalty in other countries.

• Also Read: Tips on Budget Travel

State Department Registration

• Enroll in STEP for emergency assistance.
• STEP helps embassies contact you in emergencies.
• It can assist with finding local legal help.
• STEP notifies you of emergencies at home.

Consider joining the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP) with the US State Department. This is a free service provided to US citizens, whether they’re living abroad or just vacationing. Simply enter information concerning your travels into STEP, and in case of an emergency, the US embassy or consulate can assist you. It also makes it easier for the embassy to contact you in the event of an emergency at home. If arrested or imprisoned, the State Department can also assist in finding a local attorney and ensuring the facilities in which you are held are adequate.

Travel Advisories

• Check US travel advisories before traveling.
• Some countries have limited US assistance.
• Advisories warn of safety risks or political instability.
• They include health and safety updates.

Take note of the US State Department’s travel advisory for Americans going abroad as well. It provides comprehensive warnings concerning certain nations and regions. It particularly notifies citizens of countries in which the US government will be limited in its ability to assist American citizens. Classic examples include Iran and North Korea.

Entry Requirements

• Ensure you have the proper visa and documents.
• Check for restricted items like food and plants.
• Immigration rules vary by country.
• Confirm specific entry rules for your destination.

In relation to the legal system you’ll be entering, the requirements for passing immigration will change. Visas might need to be obtained beforehand, you may not be able to bring certain items with you, or other restrictions may apply.

US Customs

• Check prohibited items on the US Customs website.
• Certain goods like fruits may be restricted.
• Know duty-free limits on imports.
• Declare all items to avoid fines.

Coming back is also something to take into consideration. The US Customs and Border Protection provides an online list of prohibited items. So, before you try to bring back exotic fruit from abroad, be sure to check the list first.