Passport and Visas

I've had a very busy few days but was finally able to get back to my lists for a short while today.

A month or so ago, my sister asked me if we needed visas, particularly for Italy. I've never needed a visa for the United Kingdom or Italy before but thought it might be an idea to check the requirements.

If you are unsure, for the United Kingdom, go here and click on visas and immigration. Because my late husband was born in Scotland, I have right of abode in the UK but it was interesting to read the information on this page. My sister doesn't need a visa to visit that country. If we were staying for an extended time, that would change.

For Italy, you will need to check here.  Coming from Australia, staying less than 90 days and visiting as tourists – ie not intending to work - we don’t need a visa for Italy. 

However, from my research and reading I see the it is advisable, if you’ve ever been refused entry to a country to apply for a visa. Even without a visa, you may be asked, at a country’s border, to supply further documents. We will have receipts for accommodation and other paid-in-advance tours, to justify the purpose and duration of our stay in Italy. Bank cards will also help, as will our airline tickets.

It's also a good idea to check your passport expiry. Make sure that it will not expire for some time after you are due to return, in case of delays. If your tax return is due, make sure you file it with the ATO before you leave Australia. If you are receiving a government pension, you must advise the appropriate department if you are going to be away for longer than the time stipulated.