Current reasons for entry denials and how to avoid them
1. Passport – the main reason for denials
You will NOT be allowed to cross the border if:
- Your passport is less than 6 months valid (or less at the time of entry)
- Your passport has been extended (with an extension sticker) – these are not accepted anywhere else in the world (not in Schengen, not in the UAE, not in Asia)
- Your passport does not have at least one blank page (two empty pages) for stamps
Tip: Check the expiration date and condition of your passport 2–3 months before travel.
2. Laminated birth certificate (for children)
Yes, but:
- All information must be clearly visible
- You must have a notarized translation and a document confirming your relationship
Without this, there is a high risk of additional controls and delays.
3. Electronic visas and mandatory online forms
Failure to apply in advance → you won't board the plane or be allowed into the country.
Mandatory e-Visa / eVOA:
- India
- Vietnam
- Sri Lanka
- Indonesia / Bali
- Kenya
- Mexico
- Zanzibar / Tanzania
Mandatory online forms (no visa required, but you won't be allowed in without the form):
- Maldives – IMUGA (96 hours before departure)
- Indonesia – Electronic Customs Declaration
- Mauritius – All in One Travel Form
- Seychelles – Travel Authorization
4. Fake or unpaid bookings
Border guards check everything! Immediate refusal if:
- Hotel reservations without payment
- Screenshots from Booking/Ostrovok without real confirmation
- Fake bookings from services like "fake hotel for visa"
5. No return ticket
Strictly required by:
- Bali, India, Sri Lanka
- Mauritius, Mexico (especially strict!)
- Vietnam, Seychelles, Kenya, Tanzania
Without a return ticket or a ticket to a third country – turn around at the border.
6. Medications and prescriptions
The following are prohibited from being carried without an original prescription (preferably in English):
- Strong painkillers (codeine, tramadol, etc.)
- Antidepressants and psychotropic drugs
- Hormonal medications
- A photo of the prescription or packaging without a prescription does not count.
7. Passing an "interview" at the border
In 2025–2026, border guards will almost always ask:
- Exact address of your stay (hotel + reservation)
- Return date and flight
- Purpose of trip and plans
If you're confused, panicking, or saying "visiting friends" but can't provide the address and contact information, additional verification is required and there's a high risk of refusal.
8. Insurance where required
You may be denied entry without valid travel insurance:
- All of Schengen
- Qatar (very frequently checked)
- Morocco, Albania
- Seychelles, Mauritius, Kenya
Insurance is checked at the airport check-in counter.
Result
90% of refusals are currently based on these points.
Check everything in advance, prepare your documents and reservations correctly, and you won't have any problems. Safe travels and only pleasant stamps in your passport!