onwards travel aa

What is Proof of Onward Travel and What Are Your Options?

Proof of onward travel is a common yet frustrating question that you might get asked for when you’re travelling into a new country. This is especially the case if you're travelling with flexible plans, and don't necessarily have your next country planned (or booked) yet.

Proof of onward travel is usually requested when checking in at the airport, however I’ve also heard some stories of a few people who have been asked for proof of onward travel while crossing land borders, Basically, it's evidence that you'll be leaving the country before your visa expires, usually in the form of a flight ticket to another country.

The easiest way to bypass proof of onward travel?

Rent an onward ticket.

This is the simplest and most reliable method (although there are other ways too). Read on to learn more about proof of onward travel and your options.

Proof of onward travel causes endless confusion amongst travellers, so it’s good to know what your options are and to do a little bit of research into your next country beforehand. Sometimes airport staff get it wrong as well – I’ve once had to argue my way onto a flight from South Korea to Vietnam, which doesn’t require proof of onward travel.

Proof of onward travel seems to be requested more often in South East Asia (probably due to the high volume of expats doing monthly visa runs). I've also been questioned when flying into the UK as well.

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What is Proof of Onward Travel?

In short, proof of onward travel is evidence that you will be leaving your destination country. This is usually a return flight ticket or another flight ticket to your home (or next) country. A land border crossing in the form of a bus or train ticket is usually accepted as well, but I’ve heard quite a few stories of airport staff specifically asking for a flight ticket.

Proof of onward travel is required by some countries for all sorts of reasons, but in general, it’s to make sure that:

• You have enough money to leave the country.
• You intend to leave the country before your visa expires.
• You don’t intend to stay in the country (illegally).

If you think about it, using proof of onward travel to determine one of the above scenarios doesn’t seem like a particularly bright idea, but for now, it’s best to treat it as just one of those old, bureaucratic rules that haven’t yet been updated.

What Counts as Proof of Onward Travel?

A flight ticket out of the country you're visiting is the best proof of onward travel. Technically, bus or train tickets should be accepted as well, but a flight ticket is your safest bet as this is what border control is used to. If you're not sure, you should try and find an official source (e.g. the government website of the country you're visiting) or play it safe with one of the options below.

The cheapest and most surefire way is to rent a ticket .

What Countries Require Proof of Onward Travel?

Countries that definitely require proof of onward travel include Peru, New Zealand, the United Kingdom, the United States, Philippines, Indonesia, Brazil, Costa Rica and Panama.

My personal experience of being asked for proof of onward travel was flying into Thailand. I was also asked for proof when flying to Vietnam, but I did my research and found that proof of onward travel was not needed. I showed my evidence to the check-in desk at Bangkok Airport, and they finally let me through.

I tried digging around some more to find a more comprehensive list, but couldn't find one - not to mention, it probably changes from time to time. Renting a ticket alleviates this uncertainty altogether, but if you want to check your destination's government resources - more power to you!

How to Get Proof of Onward Travel

My first experience with a request for proof of onward travel was when I flew with a one-way ticket from Sydney to Thailand several years ago. I intended to catch an overnight bus into Cambodia before my one-month visa expired, but I wasn’t sure when – so I didn’t have a ticket yet.

Thailand requires an onward ticket, and I didn’t want to pay for one. So, like any self-respecting digital native of the 21st century, I went to the internet to find answers. And as always, the internet delivered: with hundreds of pages of conflicting advice from self-proclaimed “experts”, hare-brained theories and generally inconsistent anecdotes.

Not exactly the clarity I wanted. Thanks, internet.

So, what are your options?

1. Risk It and Smile

While it’s possible that you won’t be asked for proof of onward travel at the airport, it’s a good idea to be prepared on the off-chance that it might happen. Life is full of unexpected surprises: tour taxi to airport could be late, there could be traffic… and you might get denied entry when boarding your flight.

This leaves you with no choice but to book an onward flight (or follow one of the options below), and if you’re short on time, you might end up missing your flight altogether. The alternatives are so simple that there really is no point in risking it.

Verdict: high risk, not recommended.

2. Create a Fake Ticket Confirmation

If you’re a Photoshop whiz, you can try editing an old email confirmation from another airline or travel agent. Just make sure that the flight number and departure times of the flight you’ll be “boarding” actually exists!

Alternatively, you can start the booking process with some airlines and take a screenshot of the check-out screen. Some creative cropping will result in a document you can keep on your phone to show at the gate.

I’ve met a lot of people that advocate this approach, but personally, I’m not a fan. While it’s highly unlikely that they’ll actually check the details at the gate, this method leaves you vulnerable to accusations of knowingly forging official documents. And let’s be honest: that’s exactly what you’ve done. You’ll have almost no options to defend yourself and completely at the mercy of the airport official.

3. Buy a Flexible Date Ticket

Another legitimate way of skirting around the onward travel rules is to buy a ticket where you can change the flight dates. The issue is that flexible date tickets are often significantly more expensive, especially if you compare it against local airlines that offer flights that are inflexible but are also half the price (or less).

Verdict: expensive.

4. Buy a Cheap Throwaway Ticket

While expensive, this the most legitimate way to beat the system. In fact, this is what most process-abiding airline staff will tell you if they find you don’t have an onward ticket.

In a nutshell, this method requires you to buy the cheapest ticket possible to a nearby country, while still being within your visa period. I’ve also heard of people getting by with a cheap bus or train ticket between countries, although it seems like there have been mixed results with this approach. Still, this strategy is expensive – not to mention wasteful.

Verdict: unnecessary, expensive and wasteful.

5. Hold a Flight Ticket for 24 Hours

All US airlines (and some online travel agencies) are also required to offer a 24 hour “hold” period. With this method, you can reserve a ticket at a certain price for 24 hours. You’ll be issued with a confirmation email, which you can show to the airport staff if asked.

This was my personal preference for a while as it’s completely free, however I’ve heard stories of some people having their flight reservations questioned at the airport. It’s hard to say whether they got unlucky or the airports have become wise to the act, but this method is still a relatively low risk way of bypassing proof of onward travel. If all else fails, combine it with method #6 or #7 if you’re challenged at the airport.

Verdict: low risk, but not foolproof.

6. Buy a Refundable Flight Ticket

In the United States, all airline companies are required by federal law to provide a complete refund on all bookings within a 24 hour period. This means that you can book any flight at random, use it to get into your destination country as “proof of onward travel”, then get all your money back.

Just make sure you process the refund before the 24 hour refund period expires!

The best way to do this is to pay by credit card to avoid dipping into your savings, or even better, to use your frequent flyer miles. All US airline companies should honour the 24 hour refund period, however there has been some chatter about American Airlines phasing out this option. To make sure you’re not going to stuck with a $1000 flight across the world, make sure you do your research: read the fine print before booking and make sure you have enough time to cancel before your 24 hours are up.

Verdict: low risk, but could be expensive if you don't cancel in time.

7. Rent an Onward Ticket

There are a number of services that allow you to rent a ticket for a small fee. At first, these services were using the “hold a flight ticket for 24 hours” method which made them rather unnecessary, but they have since become more sophisticated. When you present your flight number and details at the airport desk, you will now actually show up on airport systems – making this a legitimate way of having peace of mind.

As far as these services go, the self-titled  Onward Ticket website is a good place to get yourself an onward ticket. At the time of writing, renting a ticket costs $12.

Verdict: highly recommended.

Final Thoughts

Proof of onward travel is an inconvenience that travellers will have to face at one point or another, so it’s good to be informed and have a plan before you end up stuck without being able to board your flight.

The simplest way to avoid any headaches is to simply  buy an onward ticket , but if you’re game, either holding a 24 hour reservation or refunding a flight ticket within 24 hours is also an option. Just be prepared in case an over-zealous airport official keeps asking questions.

If asked why you’re holding (and not buying) the ticket, you can simply say you’re waiting to see how price changes, or that you simply forgot. Make up an excuse. If they won’t get off your case, simply book the ticket on the spot. Just be sure that you can process the refund in time!

Whichever method you decide to use, don’t forget to smile and be friendly to all airport staff. Simply being nice can get you free seat upgrades, less questions, and even in one case, an exemption when I tried to bring 12kg of carry-on luggage onto an airline with a 7kg maximum.

If you have other strategies or experiences, I’d love to hear from you!

One more life hack how to create a real ticket for 24h for free: 1. Go to aeroflot.com and book a flight ticket 2. On the payment screen change language to RU. 3. Choose payment method by cash 4. They will give you booking number PNR for 24h. But without flight itinerary 5. Go to Photoshop for create itinerary Good Luck

Hey Weekends, this sounds pretty similar to the 2nd method listed here. All in all, I'd still recommend the 7th method to most people. It's just safer and it seems like airport officials are getting savvier. I personally wouldn't want to be caught with a Photoshopped ticket!

My bf and I just used fake flight tickets while traveling to Bali. It's a dummy ticket that looks exactly like the confirmation you get from Expedia.

good luck with your travels!

Thanks for sharing your experience!

I like the idea of renting a ticket.. I personally just bough the cheapest out of Thai to vietnam which I'll be happy to go to.. do you know if they will ask for onward proof?

Hey Firo, if you've bought a legitimate ticket you simply have to fill in the arrival card with your next destination. Thailand's border security has a reputation of asking for proof of onward travel, but you might not get asked at all. On the occasions that I've flown into Thailand, it was a 50/50 change on whether I was questioned or not.

Alternatively, you can rent a legitimate ticket with a provider such as Onward Ticket . This allows you to change your mind later on - for example, if you don't want to head to Vietnam any more.

So did the hold ticket work for you every time? How do I find the hold ticket, which page should I find it at? And any idea if trying to get a 60 days visa in my country from consulate is that also ok to use the hold ticket, any experience?

I've used the hold ticket method quite a lot of times and I haven't had any issues. You simply need to book with an American airline (any of them will do). That said, the last time I did this was a few years ago, so now I'd suggest renting a ticket instead - just to be safe.

As for your visa situation, I can't really say without knowing what visa you're trying to get. Depending on where you're going, some visa applications require that you provide an exit ticket (that is, a "confirmation" is not enough), but again, this really comes down to your personal situation and where you're going. Hope this helps!

We're traveling from the US to Singapore, Sabah Malaysia, Brunei, The Philippines then back to the US. The only tickets we have purchased are from the US to Singapore and from The Philippines back to the US. If we show our return ticket from the Philippines back to the US, will that be adequate for boarding flights to the other countries?

Hey Boyd, I'd say that this should be fine if you can show the full itinerary and the connecting flights.

The main thing that each country cares about is when you're going to leave, not where . Officially, Singapore and the Philippines both require proof of onward travel to enter the country (although there's a chance they just won't check). I suspect Malaysia will also ask, but I'm not 100% sure as this was one of the rare times I had an exit flight booked before I landed in the country.

Best of luck and safe travels!

Great article ! Onward tickets keep your booking with PNR confirmed for 14 days. Which is perfect for visa application as well. (i'm not paid to say that :p )

Hey Lucie, thanks for sharing! I didn't know about it working for visa applications too, but perhaps that would be useful someone else reading this 🙂

I rent onward tickets. Service could not be better! Immediate responses, personal attention, authentic ticket and they cancel it automatically. I highly recommend and will use them again.

Number 3 may not work in Thailand. If they ask you for proof, they won't accept an open ticket, as even their consulate's page mentions this. For Thailand, the easiest way seems to be a smile, a 'hello' in Thai, or, if you want to stay on the safe side: a throw-away ticket for 20 bucks from AirAsia.

Hey Roman, I think you've misunderstood #3. Purchasing a flexible exit ticket with the option of changing the departure date is 100% abiding by Thailand's rules. If you're going to buy a throwaway ticket, you may as well rent an onward ticket and save yourself a few dollars. Being nice to the person at the desk is always a good idea though 🙂

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What is Proof of Onward Travel? My Horror Story & How to Avoid Disaster

Last Updated: April 13, 2021

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Proof of onward travel is one of the most important yet under-discussed parts of trip planning and preparation. In this article, I’ll talk about what proof of onward travel is, how to prove it, and my personal experience *almost* getting denied boarding due to a lack of it.

Have you ever been barred from boarding a plane?

As in, ticket in hand, luggage in tow, Pinterest boards filled… but denied entry at the very last second?

The answer for me is almost. A very very close almost.

And because that sense of panic (and profuse sweating) is something I’d never wish on anybody, I’m here today with a mildly serious post about a travel mistake many of you might make, and what you can do to prevent it.

TL;DR – If the phrase “proof of onward travel” means nothing to you, you need to keep reading.

If you want a full recount of my experience ‘lawyering’ my way onto a flight to Germany , you can scroll to the bottom of the post, but for now – here are the important nuggets of info you need to know.

Save this guide to Proof of Onward Travel for later!

You’ll be very glad you did.

What is proof of onward travel?

Proof of onward travel (often referred to as proof of returning travel or proof of outgoing travel) is basically proof that you will be leaving the country you’re temporarily travelling to. In other words, you won’t be overstaying illegally.

Why do airlines and immigration authorities require proof of onward travel?

Simply put: many countries want proof that you won’t be staying longer than you’re allowed.

For the most part, it is a safeguard against illegal immigration, but we travelers are required to provide proof of onward travel too if we’re asked to.

For most of us, this proof usually comes in the form of a return ticket (i.e. yes, I’m going home on this day!) but for digital nomads, spontaneous backpackers, and one way ticketers, it’s not as easy to prove that you will, in fact, GTFO.

So, while one way tickets sound awfully romantic (the possibilities! The self actualization!), sadly, these indulgent fantasies couldn’t carry any LESS weight to border police and airline employees.

Can you imagine entering a new country with a one way ticket, and just being like “Yeah don’t worry… I’m not here to stay illegally. It’s just an Eat Pray Love sorta situation.”

You’d probably be home in time for supper.

NOTE: In most cases, proof of onward travel can either be proof of return travel (e.g. a ticket showing you are going home) or proof of outgoing travel (e.g. you are leaving that destination for another). Usually, they don’t care if you are going home after – their main priority is ensuring you will leave that specific destination before you legal allowance runs out.

Which Countries Require Proof of Onward Travel?

You’re not going to like this answer…

While not all countries have a legal requirement that you provide proof of an onward ticket, you should ensure you have some kind of proof of onward travel no matter where you’re travelling.

Long story short: even if it’s not a legal requirement, airlines are increasingly checking passengers for proof of onward travel before boarding or even at check-in. This is because many countries now put the onus on airlines to perform these checks, otherwise they may have to bear the cost of flying you back.

Practically speaking, this means many airlines will just check you have a return or onward ticket, even if they’re not legally obligated by the destination’s laws to do so.

Some budget airlines in Europe like RyanAir, Wizz Air and easyJet even regularly perform “visa checks” at check in for those with non-EU passports.

Most annoyingly however, proof of onward travel is very randomly enforced, which is why you might have never encountered it as an issue before. In fact, I have friends who (out of hundreds of flights), have only been asked once or twice for an onward ticket.

The likelihood you’ll be checked isn’t high, but trust me – once it happens to you (as it did me), you’ll be scared straight into having the right documents every time… just in case.

I’ve tried to locate an accurate list of countries with a legal requirement for proof of onward travel, but most websites seem to regurgitate the same country names without official sources to back them up.

The UK for example is often cited as a county where proof of onward travel is mandatory, but if you look on the official Gov.uk site here , they phrase it differently.

Rather than saying onward travel is mandatory, they instead say you must prove your status as a “genuine visitor” through one of several methods, one of which is evidence you’ll leave the UK (i.e. an onward travel ticket) OR evidence that “you’re able to pay for your return or onward journey and any other costs relating to your visit”.

See how it’s not that black and white?

Practically, I can tell you 9/10 times when I’ve spoken to UK passport officials, they’ve asked me how long I plan to stay, and asked for proof of the duration of my stay. Without an onward ticket, I would have likely created a lot more problems for myself.

So, really, research the entry requirements for your destination, but try to ensure you have some kind of proof of onward travel no matter what if you want to be on the safe side. At the end of the day, your travel fate is up to either the airline employee or passport control officer speaking to you, so it’s often better to be safe than sorry.

If you’re curious about which countries explicitly state they require an onward ticket though, here are a few that I’ve found (with links to the official sources where I got the info from):

• Costa Rica: The official Visit Costa Rica website states here that “All non-resident travelers must possess a return ticket or a ticket as proof of when they intend to exit the country, commonly referred to as an outbound exit or onward ticket”
• Indonesia: According to their official immigration law here , under Article 42, it says “Visa application is refused in the event that… the applicant does not have a return ticket or onward ticket to continue their travel to another country”
• New Zealand: As stated in this official government FAQ , those entering New Zealand without a visa “must have valid onward travel arrangements” (with the exception of Australian citizens or permanent residence holders)
• The Philippines: As stated on the official Republic of the Philippines Bureau of Immigration website here , they state that a “return ticket” is part of travel requirements for entry
• USA: While I’ve had trouble locating the exact law requiring proof of onward travel in the USA, as stated on the official Travel.State.Gov website here , “Citizens of VWP countries *  who reside in Mexico, Canada, or a nearby island are generally exempted from the requirement to show onward travel to another country *  when entering the United States” which implies that other countries in the Visa Waiver Program must show proof of onward travel

Let me know in the comments if you can find more countries explicitly stating their requirements for onward tickets (preferably from government sources. I’d love to add to this list!

When will I be asked for proof of onward travel?

Sometimes, they’ll ask for it at Passport Control before you’re allowed into a country (I’ve seen a sobbing girl get refused at the Ireland border for not having it!).

Other times, you’ll be asked for it before you get on the plane (like in my case) or even just when you check in. This is becoming increasingly common because often airlines will have to bear the cost of flying you back if they allow you to board without the right documentation.

Regardless, there isn’t a universal time when you will be asked, and how picky they’ll be will also depend on the employee you’re dealing with.

But hey, it’s all good, friend. Now that you know this complication exists, here’s how you can make sure you never get withheld from boarding your plane!

Options for Providing onward travel Proof

How do you provide proof of an onward ticket? What if you want to travel with no fixed plans or go on a one-way ticket somewhere for an indefinite amount of time?

There are several ways you can provide proof of onward travel, along with workarounds that allow you to maintain flexibility. Here are some options for you re: providing proof of an onward flight/travel.

Option 1: Buy a return or onward ticket in advance

Sorry Spontaneous Sally, but the best way to make sure you don’t run into trouble is to simply have your onward travel sorted.

And beyond just booking it, make sure you have solid PROOF too.

A paper copy of a bus, train or plane ticket would probably be easiest to have and show off, but make sure you have digital copies on your phone too (screenshots, people!) just in case.

If ‘go with the flow’ travel is more your thing, here are some other options:

Option 2: Buy a refundable ticket

There are several airlines that refund tickets within a specified time frame, so you can easily purchase a ticket and then refund it right after.

Be careful with this method though: be sure to read the fine print and Google individual airline policies before you buy.

Some companies might only refund you credit, rather than actual money. Others might have strict rules about when refunds apply or have a stiff cancellation fee.

If you’re not keen to spend loads on a plane ticket (even temporarily), you can look into other transport options like buses.

My friends in Europe, Flixbus offers very cheap rates and they charge only a 1 euro cancellation fee, at which point you get the rest of the money as Flixbus credit.

Not too bad, considering tickets will be less than 60 euros most of the time, which is way cheaper than a plane ticket.

NOTE: While a bus ticket should be sufficient, it really depends on the employee you deal with… For some, a plane ticket might seem more “legitimate”, so keep that in mind!

Option 3: Buy a cheap ticket and plan not to use it

In parts of the world where traveling between countries is cheap, you could always just buy the cheapest ticket you can find, with no intention of using it.

This will likely be your best bet if you’re crunched for time (i.e. about to board the plane).

If you are travelling in Europe, you might want to read my guide to the cheapest ways to travel in Europe for a briefer on the cheapest tickets you can book.

Generally speaking though, if you need cheap proof of onward travel in Europe, there are a lot of low cost airlines like RyanAir and Wizz Air you can look into, or even just bus companies like Flixbus.

Option 4: “Rent” a plane ticket

Lastly, I will say that another final option for providing proof of onward travel is “renting” a plane ticket through a service. Many sites exist for this purpose.

I personally have not used any myself, and have heard enough horror stories of scams to feel good about… NOT recommending any I haven’t used personally.

I really do think any of the options mentioned above are a better option than relying on a service to do it for you.

But, if you’ve used any of these onward ticket rental services, please let me know in the comments as I’d love to hear about your experience.

NOT an Option: Faking Proof of Onward Travel

Okay, so there is plenty of shady advice out there on the Internet telling you how you can ‘fake’ proof by amending emails or even using online ticket generators.

Guys, please use your common sense.

Do you REALLY want to provide fake documents to government officials just to save (in the case of FlyOnward) 10 bucks? It’s not worth it, and is genuinely illegal. Please do not ever do this for the sake of saving a few bucks.

My ‘proof of onward travel’ disaster story

With all that practical information out of the way, here’s how I was almost denied entry on my flight to Germany.

Fresh off a flight from Vancouver to Montreal, I had my passport in hand, a carry-on full of snacks and an all-too-excited grin at the prospect of living in Europe again for a few months.

Everything had been smooth sailing up until this point – my flight landed early and I even had time to buy a bag of delicious MTL bagels.

I was only one flight away from being back in Germany and I swear I could already smell the pretzels.

My carb-loaded buzz was short lived. Instead of a chirpy check of the passport and a syrupy “have a nice flight!”, I was greeted with a stern airline employee who looked me up and down, then demanded to know when I would come back.

I had prepared for this, I thought. With a psychotically large smile, I whipped out the return ticket confirmation on my phone, citing a June return for my university grad ceremony. “ I can haz Germany now? ” I thought through my ‘calm’ smile.

The short answer was no.

“That’s more than 90 days. I can’t let you on the plane,” he said almost as if it was a non-negotiable fact.

Oh dannnnnnnnng.

It was in that moment that I snapped out of my dreamy daze and kicked into lawyer mode.

I knew that I only had 90 days to spend in the Schengen Zone, but it had been my plan all along to simply travel outside of that zone for a few weeks to ensure I never maxed my allowance.

I cleared my throat, and spewed out a (likely less eloquent) version of the following: “I’m aware that as a Canadian citizen I get only 90 days of free travel in the Schengen zone. My plan is to travel around the Balkans for a month to ensure that I don’t exceed those 90 days.”

I had done my homework, or so I thought.

“Well do you have proof you’re leaving the Schengen Zone?”

A million thoughts flooded through my mind as the passenger queue grew behind me.

I hadn’t planned any of my Balkans itinerary because Type A me decided to embrace spontaneity for once.

I told him that no, I hadn’t purchased any tickets yet, but I had a rough plan and if I needed to, I would buy a plane ticket on the spot right there.

He then proceeded to quiz me on my plans.

It seemed like he as all too eager to somehow “catch me”, because as soon as I mentioned Croatia, he exclaimed with a snooty tone “well, Croatia IS in the Schengen Zone.”

Haaaa, I knew right then that he was wrong.

I had read the rules a million times.

Exasperated (but still sassy), I told him to Google it. And he did, as curious passengers stood by like they were watching an intense boxing match.

After a few taps of the phone, the redness in his face said it all.

I was right. I out-Schengen’d the airline guy. A win for obsessive Googlers all over the world!

“Okay, I’ll let you on the plane under one condition… that you UNDERSTAND that you only have 90 days in the Schengen Zone, and overstaying may result in a fine or a ban from the area,” I nodded, sassy again.

I might have flipped my hair a bit, but that could just be my overactive imagination at work.

And so I got on the plane.

Shaking, but on-board, ready to drink a lot of airplane wine. Funnily enough, I was so paranoid I ended up buying a bus ticket to Croatia in case the Munich border police asked me similar questions.

They didn’t ask me a single thing, just smiled, stamped my passport and waved me off on my merry way.

SO, learn from my mistakes! Take this as a cautionary tale that you are not immune to random checks, even if it has never happened to you before. Especially these days, countries are getting more strict and careful about people coming and staying illegally… so at least have a plan on what to do if this situation arises.

Any More Questions About Proof of Onward Travel?

I hope you found this guide to onward travel proof helpful! Now, tell me – have you ever had any “proof of onward travel” horror stories? Let me know in the comments!

My Go-To Travel Favourites:

🧳 Eagle Creek: My favourite packing cubes

💳 Wise: For FREE travel friendly credit cards

🍯 Airalo: My go-to eSIM

🏨 Booking.com: For searching hotels

📷 Sony A7IV: My (amazing) camera

✈️ Google Flights : For finding flight deals

🌎 WorldNomads: For travel insurance

🎉 GetYourGuide: For booking activities

19 thoughts on “What is Proof of Onward Travel? My Horror Story & How to Avoid Disaster”

Okay, I did NOT know about this. Never encountered this problem, but probably because I’ve never bought one-way tickets. Nice to keep in mind for the future.

Charmaine Ng | Architecture & Lifestyle Blog https://charmainenyw.com

This is one of those things that people don’t find out about until it’s too late haha! Glad you’re aware of it now, Charmaine 🙂

Great advice and poor you with your story! I’ve found that German border patrol officers are the friendliest ever!!! Every time I travel in and out of Germany, their most common question is why I have a German last name (Wagner) but not a German passport! haha…total discrimination, but you don’t fit the profile of someone who is likely to overstay your Schengen visa 😉 They definitely profile for it in Germany! I’ve only ever gotten my passport stamped…no questions asked!

They definitely do profile for SURE! I think I confuse them with my passport because I’ve been in/out of Europe a lot in the past 3 years, so the stamps are mega confusing. Add in a German student visa (from last year) and they’re stumped most of the time haha. I’m SO paranoid about visa things these days, I always get nervous even when I’ve done nothing wrong haha. Better safe than sorry I guess? Thanks for reading, jordan!! 🙂

Thank you for sharing your experience! This is SO important to know. The UK is really strict about this too.

Yes!! The first time I went to London, it was on an overnight bus from Paris (#brokestudentlife) and I crossed the border in the middle of the night, half asleep. I was petrified because they asked so many more questions than the other places I’d been to. Now I know it’s always good to have everything confirmed, printed and available haha. I’m such a nerd I sometimes even practice my little spiel about who I am, where I’m going, etc. while I’m in line.

I love how you did your research and knew he was incorrect about Croatia! It shows it’s always good to be prepared. Imagine if you didn’t! This was an interesting read. I had no idea that Germany was so strict to get in to.

Haha I felt so smug after!! And yeah, it honestly depends on individual guards/employees though. In my experience, German border police have always been very easy-going and not as picky as this. It pays to be prepared no matter what though!

Oh Christina! I swear you are the funniest Though of course this could very well not be that funny! I learned about prove of onward travel on my trip to Maldives; the lady a true the counter definitely looked like she’d send me home if I hadn’t got anything Luckily I did!

Hehe thanks Nam! I feel like this is definitely one of those things you don’t know about until you get asked for it! That’s why I want everyone to know it at least exists! And SO good to hear you didn’t get turned away at the Maldives haha… that would have been terrible!

Honestly, this has never been an issue when I’ve travelled. Thank you SO MUCH for bringing this to my attention. I usually have printed itineraries from booking my flights, and they include the return date and flight number, but I will make 100% I have those on me when I travel now! It appears quite a few people haven’t heard of this/had it happen, so good job for letting us all know about this!

thanks for reading, Kayleigh!! Yeah it’s definitely one of those things you don’t hear about until it’s too late haha. Glad you found this useful 😀

I have never been denied entry into a country but I did have to provide a rambling explanation coming from Paris to the UK with my friend who has a German passport and a return plane ticket and I only had a one-way plane ticket and an American passport with a recent UK border stamp. Long story short I gave a very detailed explanation of her student status in Paris my American holiday time frame and tried not to pass out from fear. The guy asked a lot of questions and wanted exact dates and locations for proof of onward travel, so have that information ready and not stowed away in your carry-on.

oh my gosh that sounds so scary!! Really good tip to have everything handy. It always helps to be overprepared 🙂 I still carry my silly spreadsheet around and it always makes them laugh haha.

i think I was asked once by an airline when I went to Peru from Chile. I simply told them I had 12000 in the bank and they let me through. Afterwards I have never been asked for proof when I intend to leave. If I was to travel to Europe I would probably travel to Albania. Rent an apartment there and use Albania as my base of operations. When I want to go to Poland than I would simply tell them I will return to Albania afterwards. I figure that as I am a caucasian male who is dressed in dress clothing and I have a US passport that I am not likely to be asked alot of question as they figure I am likely rich and not interested in illegally immigrating to their nation.

These requirements are a mess! I travel often in SE Asia and places like Indonesia require it all the time :/ There are a few onward ticket generators, such as fakeflighttickets.com, flyonward.com, returnflightonwardtravel.com Have you guys tried any of these? Are they worth it?

I use https://keyflight.io , it was enough for a border control and for travel visa (but i paid for it)

I had a similar experience flying into Italy, but the U.S. airline let me board with only a one-way ticket. In hindsight, I had wished they had stopped me in New York. Once in Rome, I spent 3 hours in their “holding room” trying to explain to them I would buy a return ticket within my allotted 3-month visa, I just didn’t know where I was flying out of yet. My misfortune I had traveled to Italy at a time they were having a row with Indian (yes, other countries have rows with other countries, it just doesn’t make the US news). I am of Indian extraction. My father is American-born Indian and my mother is from New Delhi. I finally got a custom agent to understand that the US is a melting pot and some of us have funny last names and darker skin. This sunk in, he nodded, and said that they would consider letting me in. This was progress. Soon after a fellow American traveler was brought into the same office because he couldn’t find his passport in all his luggage. We talked, and he suggested I buy a fully refundable one-way ticket back to the US via my smartphone. What a genius! I did do and within minutes I had proof of return. This pleased the Italian customs and off I went.

We had a terrible experience with the border patrol in Germany. We were coming back to US with a 1.5 hours layover in Munich, after a cruise a few years back. We visited many ports and had all those stamps in our passport. Munich border patrol (still in secure area of the airport, changing a plane) checked all the stamps and did not let us through. We were not told what the problem was. We showed our itinerary to the agent but got nowhere. We did not know that one of the stamps, Zeebrugge (Belgien) was stamped with a future date by customs agent at the cruise terminal. It turned out that we were stamped with a future month. German board patrol agent took us away to a lockdown area. I were kept there for a long time and worried that we miss our flight. We were kept in the dark all this time and were not even allowed to use the restroom. It was rude and inhumane behaviour. It took a long for another agent to call Zeebrudgge customs to verify the information. Finally, we were allowed of this lockdown area to catch our flight. We were running with our carry-ons with the speed we did not know was possible for us. They gave us a paper which had a correct date for Zeebrugge – that is how we found out what was the delay about. I would always think about Germany border patrol as sadistic. BWY, we were already senior citizens that year.

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How to Provide Proof of Onward Travel: 9 Options

By: Author Zachary Friedman

Posted on Last updated: February 7, 2024

Categories Travel Tips , Visas and Borders

Home » Travel » Visas and Borders » How to Provide Proof of Onward Travel: 9 Options

Proof of onward travel is becoming a common and annoying travel requirement. An increasing number of countries are requiring that you show a valid ticket out of the country before you’re allowed to enter or even board your flight. This proves that you intend to leave the country and not overstay your tourist visa.

While traveling long term, you sometimes find yourself in situations that make it difficult to provide proof of onward travel. For example, maybe you’re flying on a one-way ticket. Maybe you’re a spontaneous traveler and you don’t know how long you’re going to stay. Maybe you plan to exit the country overland and can’t purchase a ticket online. The proof of onward travel requirement presents an obvious challenge. Luckily, there are some solutions. This guide outline 9 ways to show proof of onward travel.

The fist time I was asked for proof of onward travel was when I was flying from Los Angeles to Cartagena, Colombia on a one way ticket. I had never heard of this requirement. These days, I always make sure I have proof of onward travel when flying on a one-way ticket. I would say about 75% of the time, I end up needing it either when checking in for my flight or when passing through immigration. Usually, I pay to rent a plane ticket for 48 hours. This costs about $12.

What is Proof of Onward Travel?

Proof of onward travel means that you must provide proof that you are leaving the country that you are entering. The government wants to make sure that you are not planning to illegally immigrate. Airlines can also require proof of onward travel.

A booked airline ticket out of the country acts as your proof of onward travel. This ticket can be to a third country or back to your home country. The ticket must show that you are leaving the country before your visa expires. The ticket must be confirmed and paid for.

In most cases, you can also use an international bus, train, or ferry ticket as proof of onward travel. Sometimes these are a bit harder to book online but they are usually accepted by immigration. In some cases, immigration may require an airline ticket.

Any country can require you to show proof of onward travel. It doesn’t matter if the country offers visa-free access, visa on arrival, or if you obtained a visa in advance. Airlines can also require proof of onward travel before they allow you to board.

Generally, proof of onward travel is only required if you are entering on a short-term visa such as a tourist visa. If you are entering on a long-term visa, such as a residency visa, proof of onward travel usually isn’t required.

If you are arriving with your own means of transport such as a car, boat, motorcycle, or bicycle, you are usually exempt from showing proof of onward travel. Your vehicle proves that you have the means to exit the country.

Immigration may also require you to show proof that you have sufficient funds to sustain yourself during your trip. You may be asked to show a bank statement with a certain amount of money in the account.

Some countries also require that you show proof of funds in addition to proof of onward travel. In this case, you need to prove that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay. How much money you need to show depends on the country and the duration of your visa. This is a fairly rare requirement for tourist visas.

Airline Proof of Onward Travel Requirement

Many airlines require that you show proof of onward travel before they will issue you a boarding pass or allow you to board your flight. While checking you in, the agent may ask to see your flight reservation out of the country you’re visiting. If you check in online or at a kiosk, you may be called up by a gate agent to show your proof of onward travel.

Airlines check for proof of onward travel because many countries hold the airline responsible if a traveler shows up without the means to support themselves or leave the country. In other words, countries have passed the responsibility of checking proof of onward travel onto the airlines.

If an airline allows you to fly on a one-way ticket and immigration doesn’t allow you to enter the country when you arrive, the airline may be required to fly you back to your home country at their expense. Some countries also fine airlines for this. Before you are deported, you will likely be given the opportunity to buy a ticket out of the country.

To avoid this situation and reduce liability, airlines often require everyone to show proof of onward travel before boarding. Airlines tend to be very strict about the proof of onward travel requirements. If you can’t provide proof of onward travel, they will require you to buy a return ticket on the spot before they allow you to board. This could be very expensive.

Your proof of onward travel won’t be checked every time you board a flight on a one-way ticket. Because most passengers fly on round-trip tickets, airport staff often forget to check or simply don’t care. If you’ve made it onto your flight without proof of onward travel, it’s unlikely that immigration will ask for it when you arrive. That said, it’s not worth taking the risk. When flying, always be prepared to show proof of onward travel.

Why do I Need Proof of Onward Travel?

The proof of onward travel requirement exists to prevent illegal immigration . The government wants to make sure that you plan to leave the country and not overstay your visa or live and work in the country illegally.

The most common way for people to illegally immigrate to a country is to enter on a tourist visa, student visa, or work visa then never leave. According to this article from NPR, “people who overstayed their visas accounted for 62 percent of the newly undocumented, while 38 percent had crossed a border illegally.” Visa overstays are more common than illegal border crossings.

The proof of onward travel requirement reduces the likelihood of visa overstays. Having a return ticket proves to the government that you plan to leave the country before your visa expires.

Some financially irresponsible travelers also run out of money during their trips. They either spend all of their money or travel on a one-way ticket without the means to return home. These travelers may end up overstaying their visas, begging, working illegally, or committing other various crimes. This creates a number of problems for governments to deal with.

By requiring proof of onward travel, the government can be assured that even if a traveler runs out of money during their trip, they will still be able to leave the country because their return ticket is already paid for.

The purpose of this guide is to make it easier for you to comply with the proof of onward travel rule. If you don’t have the means to pay for a flight out of a country, you shouldn’t enter.

Which Countries Require Proof of Onward Travel?

Officially, only a handful of countries have immigration laws on the books stating that proof of onward travel is required for entry. These countries include the United States, United Kingdom, Brazil, Peru, New Zealand, Costa Rica, the Philippines, Indonesia, and probably several others.

That doesn’t mean that you won’t be asked when entering other countries. You could be asked to show proof of onward travel when entering any country. In my experience, Southeast Asia countries, Central American countries, and European Union countries tend to be strict about proof of onward travel.

Sometimes these rules are enforced and sometimes they aren’t. At this point, it is best to always be prepared to show proof of onward travel whenever entering a foreign country. Particularly when passing through an airport. You never know when you’re going to be asked.

Most airlines require proof of onward travel these days. Any immigration official could require you to show onward travel plans before allowing you to enter. You don’t want to have to put yourself through the stressful situation of having to book a flight last minute.

Where is Proof of Onward Travel Checked?

There are 3 different places where you may be asked to provide proof of onward travel.

• At the airline check-in desk or gate- When checking in for international flights, the agent may ask to see proof of onward travel before issuing you your boarding pass. If you check in online or at a kiosk, you might be called up to the gate to show your proof of onward travel before you can board.
• At immigration- Before stamping your passport and allowing you to enter the country, an immigration official may ask to see a valid ticket out of the country. This can happen at the at an airport, land border, or sea port. When you enter a country overland, the chance of being asked for proof of onward travel is lower.
• At an embassy or consulate when applying for a visa- Many countries require that you show proof of onward travel before they issue you a visa. You’ll have to attach your flight itinerary as supporting documentation for your visa application. If this is a visa requirement, be sure to accurately list the locations and dates where you will enter and exit the country. Some countries are very strict and will only allow you to enter and exit at the point of entry indicated on the visa that you have been issued. Read the rules carefully.

How to Provide Proof Of Onward Travel: 9 Ways

Luckily, you have plenty of options when it comes to providing proof of onward travel. Some are legal and some are illegal. Some cost money and some are free. In this section, I’ll describe each method. 

1. Purchase a Refundable Flight Ticket

This is the best and cheapest way to provide proof of onward travel. Simply buy a fully-refundable one-way airline ticket from the country that you’re visiting back to your home country or to a third country then cancel and get a refund when you arrive. This way, you have a legitimate onward travel ticket to show at the airport check-in counter and immigration.

To make this work, you’ll need to buy your second ticket before your flight. Search for a fully-refundable flight from your destination country back to your home country or to another country and book it.

After booing, you’ll receive an email with your ticket confirmation. This email is your proof of onward travel.

After booking the ticket, you have two options.

• Wait until you arrive at your destination country and make it through immigration, then cancel the ticket and collect your refund.
• Print out the ticket after booking, then immediately cancel it.

The first option is safer because you will have a legitimate valid ticket. If the airline or immigration actually checks that you are booked on the flight or asks you if the ticket is valid, it is. You’re not lying to anybody.

With the second option, your ticket is not valid because you already canceled it. All you have is a confirmation email that shows you bought a ticket. In most cases, this is sufficient. Usually, nobody will check or ask if your ticket is still valid.

It’s important to note that it is possible for both immigration and airlines to check the validity of your onward flight ticket if they choose. A database of flights and passengers exists. From my understanding, one airline can check another airline’s bookings if they need to.

In some cases, you have no choice but to cancel the ticket before you arrive. For example, if you only have a 24 hour window to request a refund but you’ll be in transit for 36 hours, you’ll have to cancel your ticket before you arrive and pass through immigration.

If you have to cancel your onward ticket before boarding your flight, try to book it on a different airline than the one you’re flying with. This makes it more difficult for the airline to check the validity of your ticket. If you book on the same airline, they can easily see in their system that you’ve canceled the return ticket. It is unlikely that anyone will notice but this is a good extra precaution to take.

Before buying a ticket, you’ll want to confirm that it is fully refundable. Be sure to read the fine print. Some airlines charge cancellation fees. Some only offer refunds in the form of flight vouchers. They don’t offer cash refunds. You should also make sure that there isn’t a booking fee. You want to make sure that you can get all of your money back. If there is a fee, find another flight to book that doesn’t have a fee.

It’s also important to make sure that the ticket you book is on a flight within your visa validity. For example, if your tourist visa or entry permit is valid for 30 days, the ticket must show that you’re leaving the country before that 30 days is up. Otherwise, you may not be allowed to enter.

Ideally, you should book a ticket that departs around the time you actually intend to leave the country. In some countries, immigration will issue you a visa that is only valid for the number of days that your proof of onward travel indicates that you’re staying. For example, if your proof of onward travel shows that you plan to stay two weeks but you intend to stay for a month, you might only get two weeks on your visa.

As long as the ticket is fully refundable, you don’t have to worry about the price of the ticket. You just need to make sure that you have enough money to cover the cost of the ticket. That said, it’s best to book a cheap flight, just in case you can’t get a refund.

When booking my refundable flight, I always book the cheapest flight I can, just in case I can’t get a refund. For example, if I’m flying into Bangkok, I’ll book my onward ticket to Singapore or Kuala Lampur rather than the United States. A regional flight is much cheaper than an intercontinental flight. If I can’t get a refund for whatever reason, I’ll be out less than a hundred dollars instead of a thousand.

How to Book a Refundable Ticket

There are a number of ways to book a refundable ticket. One option is to use a booking engine such as Expedia or Orbitz. These companies offer free cancelation on many flights if you cancel within 24 hours. Usually, there are no fees involved.

When using these booking sites, use the .com version of the site. The country-specific versions often don’t offer 24 hour refunds. When looking through the list of flights, look for flights with free 24 hour cancelation advertised on the listing.

Some booking engines also have a ‘refundable flights’ check-box on the search page. If you check this box, you’ll only be shown flights with 24 hour or better refund policy. This makes it even easier to search for refundable flights.

You’ll find that most flights come with 24 hour free cancellation. The only exceptions are flights on budget airlines. Budget carriers often do not offer free cancellation, unless they are required to by law. I have found that most budget carriers in Europe and Southeast Asia do not offer free cancelation. Another option is to book a flight to the United States. According to the US Department of Transportation, airlines flying into the US must allow you to cancel your ticket free of charge for 24 hours after booking as long as you make the cancelation at least 7 days ahead of departure. To read more about this rule, check out this guide.

This works well for American travelers. If you’re not from the US, you could be asked to show a US visa.

You can also book a flexible date ticket directly with the airline. Flexible tickets can be changed or canceled. They are usually much more expensive than standard fares. The price doesn’t matter because you’re going to get a full refund anyway.

Before you book a flexible ticket, you’ll want to make sure that it is fully refundable. Some premium airlines offer 24 hour refunds on all of their flights.

Is this legal and Ethical?

Buying a ticket and canceling it is a perfectly legal and free way to provide proof of onward travel. The ticket you have to show the airline and immigration officer is valid and paid for, even though you plan to cancel it. You don’t have to lie to anyone.

Buying and canceling the ticket doesn’t break any rules. It isn’t against the terms of the airline as long as the airline offers free refunds.

This trick has been used to provide proof of onward travel for decades. Before online booking was possible, travel agents used to offer this as a service to their clients who were flying on one-way tickets. You can still pay companies to book and cancel a ticket for you. More on that in the next section.

Drawbacks to booking a refundable ticket

The biggest drawback of this option is the time it will take to get your money back. Some airlines may make you wait several months before issuing a refund. During that time, your money is tied up so you won’t be able to use it for travel.

You will also have to deal with the actual process of asking for a refund. This can be torturous. It depends on which airline you use. On one occasion, I had to wait on hold for two hours to speak to an agent to request a refund. Some airlines make refunds difficult.

Sometimes you can get your money quickly and painlessly. If you cancel immediately after booking and the airline or booking company offers free cancelations, the ticket may never even be charged to your credit card.

Of course, there is also the risk that you don’t get your money back. An airline or booking company could refuse to grant you a refund. Maybe you misread the flight listing and mistakenly booked a non-refundable ticket. In this case, you could be out hundreds of dollars. Airlines and booking companies are not known for their customer service. They can try to rip you off.

To reduce the likelihood of this happening, it’s a good idea to call the airline or booking company before booking a refundable ticket. Confirm with the agent that the ticket is fully refundable.

2. Rent a Ticket to Use for Proof of Onward Travel

A number of services exist that allow you to rent an airline ticket to use for proof of onward travel. For many travelers, this is the fastest, safest, and easiest solution.

These services work by booking a real flight ticket in your name. They then forward you the booking confirmation in an email. This is your proof of onward travel. You can print the email or show it to the airline or immigration agent on your phone. The company then automatically cancels the ticket for you after you’ve made it through immigration. Usually, the ticket is valid for 48 hours. If you need more time, you can also rent a ticket that is valid for up to 14 days.

When you rent a ticket, you’ll only pay a small fee to a company that will provide you with a temporary ticket to use as proof of onward travel. Prices for onward ticket rental range from $12-$20. You don’t have to pay for the whole flight.

Some companies allow you to choose the destination for an additional fee. Some allow you to schedule the ticket in advance. Longer validity tickets are also more expensive.

In order to rent a ticket, you’ll need to supply your name, the return date for your onward ticket, the departing airport, and your email. Optionally, you can also choose to include an arrival airport.

The main benefit of renting a ticket is that you don’t have to worry about actually getting a refund. You also don’t have to deal with reading through cancellation policies to find refundable tickets. You never have to pay upfront for an expensive ticket or wait for a refund. In addition, the only personal information you need to supply is your name. No passport info is required.

Before you rent a ticket, make sure it comes with a Passenger Name Record (PNR) code. This is what the airline and immigration use to verify that your ticket is real. If it doesn’t come with a PNR code, you may have trouble at some airports and border crossings.

A number of companies offer this service. Some are better than others. Some are straight-up scams. Be sure to do your research before renting a ticket.

For example, some companies supply you with a fake ticket to use for proof of onward travel. They never book a real ticket in your name. Instead, they simply fill out a template with your name and the flight details for a real flight. They essentially supply you with a forged document. These companies should be avoided.

Personally, I think renting a ticket is the best way to provide proof of onward travel. It’s what I do. It’s fast and convenient but it does add an extra cost.

The best places to rent a ticket for proof of onward travel:

• Bestonwardticket.com – This company rents tickets that are valid for 48 hours. They charge $12 for a basic ticket. You can add a destination for $4.99 and you can schedule your ticket for a later date for $1. The tickets are real and verifiable. I have used this service many times and have never had an issue.
• Onwardticket.com- They company issues you a verified ticket within 60 seconds. This is a great option if you’re in an airport or immigration and you need last-minute onward travel. You can choose from 48 hour or 14 day validity for your ticket. You can also choose from direct or multi-stop flights. Prices start at $12.
• Onewayfly.com- One Way Fly can issue you a verifiable ticket that is valid for up to 14 days. This is great for applying for visa applications. They also offer proof of accommodation (hotel reservations). This is a common requirement for visa applications. This company also allows you to add multiple passengers, avoid stopovers, or delay the ticket delivery. You do need to schedule this ticket in advance. It can take up to 12 hours to arrive after you place your order.

Before you book an onward ticket, be sure to read some reviews to make sure you’re ordering from a legitimate company. There are several scammy companies that sell fake onward tickets or provide poor service. The above 3 companies are all legitimate and receive excellent reviews. I trust them.

This is the option that I usually use. Even though it costs money, I prefer renting a ticket over booking a refundable ticket. The reason is that I don’t want to worry about not being able to get a refund.

3. Buy a Cheap Ticket and Throw it Away

Book the cheapest ticket you can find, use it for proof of onward travel, then don’t take the flight. In some places, you may be able to find tickets on budget airlines for less than $20. In most cases, you’ll spend $50-$100 on a ticket.

This is a good option if you get caught at an airport check-in counter without proof of onward travel. You can just find Wifi and book the cheapest flight. This is completely legal. Buying an onward ticket proves that you have the means to leave the country.

The cheapest tickets are usually short regional routes operated by budget airlines. Look for a ticket from your destination to a big city in a neighboring country. Tickets between large cities or capital cities tend to be the cheapest. Tickets to major hub cities are often cheap as well.

Be sure to check different dates to find the cheapest option. Sometimes tickets are cheaper if you book 2 weeks or a month in advance. Make sure the date you book is within your visa’s validity.

This method tends to work best in regions with lots of flights such as Europe and Southeast Asia. A few examples of budget airlines include Ryanair, Volaris, AirAsia, EasyJet, and WizzAir.

To help you find cheap flights, use the Google Flights map feature. It can help you quickly search for the cheapest flights in multiple cities in a region. Just input your destination city as the flight origin then change the search to one-way.

The drawback to buying a ticket and not using it is that it can be expensive. Sometimes. In some countries, airfare may be too expensive to just buy a throwaway ticket. This is the case in more off-the-beaten-path countries where flights are less frequent.

After you pass through immigration, consider calling the airline to tell them that you can’t make the flight. Even though the ticket is non-refundable, you may be able to get part of your money back. In some cases, you can get a refund on certain taxes. Some airlines might offer you a partial refund or voucher. It doesn’t hurt to ask.

4. Book a Bus or Train Ticket Out of the Country

Most airlines and immigration authorities will accept an international bus or train ticket as proof of onward travel. You don’t always need an airline ticket. Your bus or train ticket must show that you’re planning to leave the country before your visa expires.

This can be the better option if you’re a budget traveler. You can often buy an international bus ticket for $20-$50. These days, most bus companies sell tickets online. You can simply print the e-ticket or show the confirmation email. You don’t have to use the ticket if you don’t want to.

This is a risky method. Some airlines and immigration officials are picky. They require that you show an airline ticket as proof of onward travel. I believe the reason is that they can’t verify bus or train tickets. They can only verify air tickets on the database.

In my experience, a bus or train ticket is usually accepted for proof of onward travel. It depends on where in the world you’re traveling, the port of entry you’re using, and the mood of the immigration official. If you’re entering the country overland, a bus or train ticket is almost always accepted. At airports, it’s hit or miss.

5. Book a Ticket with Points or Miles then Cancel

If you have accumulated enough rewards points on your travel credit card, you can use the points to book yourself a one-way ticket to use as proof of onward travel. After booking, print the confirmation e-ticket email. After reaching your destination, cancel the ticket and get your points back.

This works well because flights booked with rewards points have better cancelation policies in many cases. FOr most flights, you have 24 hours to cancel. Points are often refunded instantly after you cancel your flight. you don’t have to wait for a refund.

Most banks and credit card companies have their own search engine for booking reward flights. Sometimes, you can use rewards points to book directly with an airline. In this case, you may have to convert your rewards points to the airline’s miles. Sometimes, you can use your points to book through a booking company like Expedia. Some credit card companies also have a concierge service or travel agency that you can call to help you make a fully refundable booking. You can simply call and ask the agent to book you a refundable ticket.

Before booking, you do have to research to make sure that the ticket is refundable. You don’t want to waste your valuable points. Read the terms and conditions carefully. It’s also a good idea to call an agent to confirm that the ticket is refundable.

The main benefit of booking with points is that you don’t have to put up any money for the ticket. You pay with points and receive points back when you request a refund. When you book with points, you usually don’t have to wait for a refund. It’s instantaneous.

6. Ask the Airline If You Can Sign a Waiver

If you find yourself in an airport without proof of onward travel, and the airline check-in agent is not allowing you to board your flight, ask if you can sign a waiver.

The waiver releases the airline of any liability if you are turned away by immigration when you arrive at your destination. In other words, the airline will not be responsible for paying for your return ticket if immigration doesn’t allow you to enter the country. By signing the waiver you are also guaranteeing that you have the financial means to leave the country. You will be responsible for paying for your return ticket if you are not allowed to enter.

This is a legal contract between you and the airline. If you agree to the terms, the check-in agent will print out a waiver for you to sign. Many airlines have these waivers already prepared for this situation.

Not every airline offers this option. Some will simply not allow you to board until you can obtain proof of onward travel. It is worth asking if you can sign a waiver if you’re in a pinch.

Even if you sign a waiver and are allowed on the flight, it does not necessarily mean that you will be allowed to enter the country once you arrive. The waiver is only between you and the airline. Immigration could still deny you entry if you don’t have proof of onward travel. That will be another problem for you to deal with when you arrive.

If the airline won’t allow you to sign a waiver, the next best option is to find an internet connection and either rent a ticket or buy a refundable ticket, as outlined above.

7. Carry Proof of Sufficient Funds

In lieu of showing proof of onward travel, some countries will accept a recent bank statement that shows that you have sufficient funds to support yourself for the duration of your stay and purchase a ticket home. Some counties list it as an alternative to proof of onward travel.

The amount of money that have to show will depend on the country you’re visiting and how long you plan to stay. For example, they may require that your account has maintained a balance of at least $5,000 for the previous 3 months. 

While traveling, is a good idea to carry proof of funds if you can. Particularly if you’re a digital nomad. Some countries require it before issuing a visa. This is a common requirement if you’re applying for a long-term visa such as a digital nomad visa.

8. Buy Proof of Onward Travel from a Travel Agent

Some travel agents offer onward travel as a service. They will email you a pre-booked ticket confirmation that you can use as proof of onward travel.

If you book your trip with a travel agent, they may offer this service for free. If not, they will charge for it. This service will probably cost somewhere around $30-$50.

Behind the scenes, the agent simply buys a refundable ticket in your name, sends you the confirmation email, then cancels the ticket for you after you arrive at your destination.

9. Talk Your Way Out of It

Sometimes you can talk your way out of having to provide proof of onward travel. If asked for proof of an onward ticket, you can tell the airline attendant or immigration official that you intend to leave overland or that you simply haven’t bought your return ticket yet. Sometimes they’ll just accept this answer and send you on your way. Sometimes they’ll ask you some follow-up questions or hassle you a bit then allow you to pass.

Whether or not this will work really depends on where you’re traveling, what you look like, how you behave, the mood of the immigration official, and luck. If you’re a smooth talker and look well-off, you might be able to talk your way out of it. If you look like a dirty and broke backpacker, you probably won’t have as much luck.

In my experience, this method usually works at land border crossings. If asked for onward travel, I tell the immigration official that I plan to leave overland by bus. In many cases, they will accept this answer. At airports, this method is hit or miss. Usually, it won’t work.

This is a risky option. The airline could refuse to let you board. An immigration official could refuse you entry or even deport you. If you can’t talk your way out of it, you’ll usually be given the option to buy a return ticket.

Forging a Ticket for Proof of Onward Travel

Some travelers create fake tickets to use as proof of onward travel. To do this, they use photo editing software or a word processor to create a realistic-looking flight confirmation. Some use a real confirmation email and change the flight info for an existing future flight. They edit in their name as well as the airline, flight time, and flight number from a real flight. They simply copy the flight info from an airline or booking site.

Services also exist that sell fake tickets. They have a template and simply enter your information then send you the ticket.

I do not recommend you forge a ticket for proof of onward travel. It is illegal and could get you into big trouble if you’re caught. By showing a fake ticket to an immigration official, you are lying to a government official. You are also breaking immigration law. If you’re caught, you could be denied entry, fined, deported, or even thrown in jail. You could be prohibited from returning to the country.

Showing a fake ticket to an airline employee is also a bad idea. They could refuse to allow you to board, cancel your ticket, and even turn you over to airport police for questioning. Forging a ticket is risky.

Another reason not to forge an onward ticket is because it’s easy for the airline or immigration official to find out that it’s fake. Remember, they can look you up in their flight database. If they see that you aren’t on the flight manifest, they know that the ticket isn’t valid. It won’t have a valid PNR code.

When you use the other methods outlined in this guide, you are not lying to anyone. You are acting within the law. When you use a fake ticket, you are at best lying and at worst committing a crime. There is really no reason to make a fake ticket because there are so many legal and free alternatives.

What Happens If I Show Up Without Proof of Onward Travel?

If you didn’t plan ahead and find yourself in a situation where you’re asked for proof of onward travel and you don’t have it, one of three things will happen. 

• A ticketing agent or immigration official will ask you to buy a ticket- This is the most common scenario. In this case, you’ll have to go to an airline ticketing counter and buy a ticket on the spot. Preferably a refundable ticket. If you have access to the internet, you could go online and buy a ticket.
• You’ll be denied entry- If you don’t have enough money to buy a ticket, the airline may simply not let you on the flight. In this case, you’ll just have to turn around and leave. If you’re at immigration, you could be denied entry. In this case, the airline may be forced to fly you to your home country. You’ll be deported.
• They’ll let you in anyway- In some cases, you may get lucky and they just let you in. Before this happens, you may be questioned and hassled. It really depends on the mood of the airline employee or immigration official. 

To reduce your likelihood of getting asked for proof of onward travel, try to dress nicely and look clean and well-groomed. Business casual clothing works well. Avoid looking like a dirty backpacker or a hippy. This draws negative attention.

Why Travelers Dislike These Rules

Backpackers, long-term travelers, those traveling to multiple countries, and digital nomads often experience issues with proving proof of onward travel. A few common situations where you may need to provide proof of onward travel include:

• Flying on a one way ticket- This is the most common scenario. Many long-term travelers like to buy one way tickets to keep their itinerary open or to save money. When you fly on a one way ticket, you’ll often need to show proof of onward travel.
• Applying for visas- Many countries require you to submit an onward or return flight ticket with your visa application. This can present a challenge if you plan to enter and exit overland or if you don’t know your exact travel dates. Maybe you want to get the visa before you buy your tickets. You will need to show proof of onward travel to get the visa.
• Entering by air and exiting overland- Maybe you plan to fly into a country and exit by bus, train, ferry, or on foot. In some cases, you can’t buy your ticket out of the country online in advance. For example, maybe you’re planning to travel to a border by public transport then cross on foot. You can’t buy a public transport ticket weeks in advance. You may still need to show proof of onward travel upon entry.
• Keeping your itinerary open- If you’re a spontaneous traveler, sometimes you don’t know how long you’ll want to stay in a particular country. Maybe you’ll want to stay 1 month or maybe you’ll want to stay 3 months. Sometimes you don’t know which country you want to visit next. Maybe you’re going to Thailand and you’re not sure if you want to travel to Cambodia or Malasyia next. You still need to show proof of onward travel.

My Experience with Proof of Onward Travel

When I travel, I usually fly into a country on a one-way ticket then travel overland to surrounding countries by bus or train. I usually fly home or to my next destination from a different country than I flew into.

When flying on a one-way ticket, I always make sure to have proof of onward travel because I never know when I’ll need it. I would estimate that I’m asked for proof of onward travel on about half of the one-way flights I take.

When crossing borders overland, I usually do not carry proof of onward travel. I have only been asked for it once when traveling from St. Petersburgh to Helsinki by ferry. Luckily, I had already booked an onward ticket out of Europe that the immigration agent accepted. I do not believe he would have let me through without an onward ticket. He was friendly but strict.

I have also had to provide proof of onward travel on a couple of occasions when applying for visas. Once when applying for a visa for India and once for a visa for Thailand. In both cases, I booked my return flight because I knew when I was leaving.

In the past, I have made fake tickets. I do not recommend trying this. It’s too risky and it’s against the law. These days, I always rent a ticket. Even though it costs money, I find it to be the fastest, easiest, and most reliable option. Having a real ticket gives me peace of mind. I won’t be denied entry.

Final Thoughts

The proof of onward travel requirement is a hassle for backpackers, digital nomads, and long-term travelers. You may need to show onward travel when flying on one-way or applying for visas. It is an essential travel document. Just like your passport. Luckily, there are some loopholes that you can use to get around this requirement.

The best method for providing proof of onward travel really depends on where in the world you are traveling, how long you plan to stay in the country you’re entering, and your budget. If you have room in your budget, I recommend renting a ticket. If you’re on a tight budget, consider booking a refundable ticket then canceling.

Some may argue that using these tricks is skirting the rules. This is not the case. All of the methods outlined in this guide are legitimate and legal. Travel agents have been using these tricks for ages.

Whichever method you choose, be sure to sort out your onward travel before heading to the airport. You don’t want to end up arguing with a check-in agent or immigration official and being forced to book an expensive ticket home on the spot. Hopefully, this guide makes your trip go a bit smoother.

How do you provide proof of onward travel? Share your experience in the comments below!

More from Where The Road Forks

• How to Take Your Own Passport Photo for Free
• How to Make an Accurate Budget for Long Term Travel
• 35 Types of Tourism
• How to Plan a Round the World Trip
• Carry-On Vs Checked Luggage: Pros and Cons

Zachary Friedman is an accomplished travel writer and professional blogger. Since 2011, he has traveled to 66 countries and 6 continents. He founded ‘Where The Road Forks’ in 2017 to provide readers with information and insights based on his travel and outdoor recreation experience and expertise. Zachary is also an avid cyclist and hiker. Living as a digital nomad, Zachary balances his professional life with his passions for hiking, camping, cycling, and worldwide exploration. For a deeper dive into his journey and background, visit the About page. For inquiries and collaborations, please reach out through the Contact page. You can also follow him on Facebook.

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Wednesday 2nd of August 2023

Great article!

One thing to bear in mind is that when flying into the US having an onward ticket to Canada or Mexico (ie, a contiguous country) doesn't work for them, even if those countries are your actual genuine destination.

wheretheroadforks

Saturday 5th of August 2023

Good tip! I didn't know that. I've never had to deal with that because I'm a U.S. citizen.

Saturday 1st of July 2023

I will travel to US from Canada. Do you have experience with US immigration and onward tickets? It looks like if you check, the booking appears as pending full payment.

I've never had to deal with onward tickets in the US because I'm a citizen. I imagine they will ask for onward travel. I recommend you have it just in case.

Jason Taylor

Saturday 14th of November 2020

I bought a ticket from onewayfly website. Got ticket within 12 hours as they said. I checked the booking reference number on the main airline website, it was ok. Therefore, I don’t think the site is a scam.

Yosef Gabriel

Wednesday 11th of November 2020

Thank you so much for information for travel . I just use onward ticket visa for proof of onward travel . It cheaper . Hope this useful for you .

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• Travel Tips

How To Create Proof Of Onward Travel

Published: September 12, 2023

Modified: December 27, 2023

by Beatrisa Mcavoy

• Plan Your Trip
• Sustainability
• Travel Essentials & Accessories

Introduction

Welcome to our comprehensive guide on how to create proof of onward travel. Whether you’re a frequent traveler or planning your first trip abroad, having proof of onward travel is essential when visiting certain countries or applying for visas. In this article, we will explore what proof of onward travel is, why it is necessary, and the different types of proof you can use.

Proof of onward travel is documentation that demonstrates you have a planned means of leaving a country before your authorized stay expires. It typically involves showing evidence of a confirmed flight, bus, train, or ferry ticket, or a rental car reservation, depending on the requirements of the destination country or visa application.

Why is proof of onward travel necessary? Many countries have entry requirements in place to ensure that visitors do not overstay their authorized period of stay. The purpose of these requirements is to prevent illegal immigration and unnecessary burden on local resources. By presenting proof of onward travel, you are demonstrating that you have a legitimate reason to enter the country and that you have plans to leave within the permitted timeframe.

There are several types of proof of onward travel that you can use to meet the requirements set by different countries or visa applications. These options include flight reservations, bus, train, or ferry tickets, rental car reservations, round-trip or multi-city flight tickets, flexible or refundable tickets, and credit card statements that show previous travel expenses.

In the next sections of this guide, we will dive deeper into each type of proof of onward travel, providing step-by-step instructions on how to create and format your documentation. Whether you prefer to make a reservation, purchase a ticket, or use alternate methods, we’ve got you covered.

So, if you’re ready to learn all about the various options available to create proof of onward travel, let’s get started!

What is Proof of Onward Travel?

Proof of onward travel refers to the documentation that travelers must provide to immigration authorities or visa officials to demonstrate that they have a planned means of exiting the country before their authorized stay expires. It is a requirement enforced by many countries around the world, and failure to comply can result in denial of entry or even deportation.

The purpose of proof of onward travel is to ensure that travelers do not overstay their allowed period of stay and to prevent illegal immigration. By requiring travelers to show evidence of their intention to leave the country, authorities can maintain control over immigration and protect local resources.

The specific requirements for proof of onward travel can vary between countries and visa types. Some countries may have stricter regulations and specify the types of acceptable proof, while others may have more flexible guidelines. It is important to research and understand the specific requirements of your destination before your trip.

Proof of onward travel can come in different forms, depending on the country and your travel plans. The most common types of proof include:

• Flight reservations: A confirmed flight booking that shows your departure from the country within the permitted timeframe.
• Bus, train, or ferry tickets: A confirmed ticket for alternative modes of transportation if you are not traveling by air.
• Rental car reservations: A reservation confirmation for a rental car that indicates your intention to leave the country.
• Round-trip or multi-city flight tickets: A ticket that shows your planned return or onward journey to another destination from the country you are visiting.
• Flexible or refundable tickets: Tickets that allow you to make changes or receive a refund if your travel plans change.
• Credit card statements: Previous statements that demonstrate your travel history and expenses, including flights, accommodations, or other travel-related purchases.

The specific requirements for proof of onward travel can be found on immigration websites, travel forums, or by contacting the embassy or consulate of your destination country. It is crucial to ensure that your proof of onward travel meets the specific guidelines to avoid any complications during your travel.

In the following sections, we will explore each type of proof of onward travel in more detail, providing step-by-step instructions on how to create the required documentation. Make sure to read on to find the option that best suits your travel plans and destination!

Why Do You Need Proof of Onward Travel?

Proof of onward travel is a requirement imposed by many countries and visa applications. It serves several important purposes and is necessary for smooth entry and compliance with immigration regulations. Let’s explore why you need proof of onward travel:

1. Compliance with immigration regulations: Many countries have strict immigration rules to prevent illegal immigration and overstaying. By providing proof of onward travel, you are demonstrating your intention to abide by these regulations and leave the country within the authorized period of stay.

2. Avoidance of denial of entry: Immigration officials may request proof of onward travel as a condition for entry. Without this proof, you risk being denied entry to the country, which can result in significant inconvenience and cost.

3. Preventing potential fines and penalties: In some countries, overstaying your authorized period of stay can lead to fines, penalties, and even legal consequences. By showcasing proof of onward travel, you can avoid such situations and ensure a hassle-free travel experience.

4. Proof of legitimate travel intentions: Proof of onward travel provides evidence that you have a genuine reason to enter the country and that you have planned your trip accordingly. This documentation demonstrates that you are not attempting to take advantage of tourist visas for other purposes, such as work or long-term stays.

5. Facilitating smooth visa applications: When applying for a visa, providing proof of onward travel is often a requirement. By fulfilling this requirement, you increase your chances of obtaining the visa and smoothly navigating the application process.

6. Peace of mind: Having proof of onward travel gives you peace of mind during your travels. You can confidently present your documentation, knowing that you have taken the necessary steps to comply with immigration regulations and avoid any potential issues.

Ultimately, proof of onward travel is a crucial requirement for international travel, safeguarding the integrity of immigration systems and ensuring that travelers adhere to the rules set forth by each country. By being prepared and providing the correct documentation, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Types of Proof of Onward Travel

When it comes to providing proof of onward travel, there are several options available to suit different travel plans and destinations. It’s important to determine the most suitable type of proof based on the requirements set by the country or visa application you are dealing with. Let’s explore the different types of proof of onward travel:

• Flight Reservations: One of the most common types of proof of onward travel is a flight reservation. This involves making a confirmed booking for a flight departing from the country within the authorized period of stay. You can usually obtain a flight reservation through airlines or travel agencies, and it typically includes a booking reference or confirmation number that proves your intended departure.
• Bus, Train, or Ferry Tickets: If you’re not traveling by air, you can provide proof of onward travel through bus, train, or ferry tickets. By booking and obtaining confirmed tickets for your chosen mode of transportation, you can demonstrate your plan to leave the country. It’s important to ensure that the tickets are valid and fall within the authorized period of stay.
• Rental Car Reservation: Another option for proof of onward travel is a rental car reservation. If you have booked a rental car for your trip, you can use the reservation confirmation as proof that you have plans to leave the country. Make sure to keep a copy of the confirmation with you as you may be asked to show it to immigration officials upon arrival.
• Round-Trip or Multi-City Flight Tickets: If you have already planned your return journey or have multiple destinations on your itinerary, you can provide proof of onward travel through round-trip or multi-city flight tickets. These tickets show that you have planned your journey and have scheduled flights out of the country within the authorized period of stay.
• Flexible or Refundable Tickets: If you anticipate the possibility of changing your travel plans, you can opt for flexible or refundable tickets. These tickets offer the flexibility to modify your itinerary or obtain a refund if needed. Just make sure that any changes you make still fall within the authorized period of stay.
• Credit Card Statement: In some cases, a credit card statement showing previous travel expenses can be accepted as proof of onward travel. This option is more suitable for travelers who have a history of international travel and can demonstrate their intention to leave the country based on their travel patterns and expenses.

It’s important to note that the specific requirements for proof of onward travel may vary depending on the country or visa application you are dealing with. Some countries may have more specific guidelines or restrictions regarding the validity of the proof. Therefore, it’s crucial to research and understand the requirements of your destination before making any bookings or reservations.

In the following sections, we will provide a step-by-step guide on how to create each type of proof of onward travel, ensuring you have the necessary documentation to meet the requirements of your travel destination.

Option 1: Flight Reservation

One of the most common and widely accepted types of proof of onward travel is a flight reservation. This involves making a confirmed booking for a flight departing from the country within the authorized period of stay. Here’s how you can create a flight reservation as proof of onward travel:

Step 1: Research Flights: Begin by researching flights that depart from your destination country within the permitted timeframe. Consider the airlines, routes, and available dates to find the most suitable option for your travel needs.

Step 2: Choose a Reliable Booking Platform: Select a reliable online booking platform, such as the airline’s official website or trusted travel agencies. Ensure that the platform you choose provides a reservation confirmation or booking reference that serves as proof of your intended departure.

Step 3: Enter Travel Details: Enter your travel details, including the departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and the number of passengers. Make sure to input accurate information to ensure a valid and confirmed reservation.

Step 4: Review and Select a Flight: Review the available flight options, including prices, timings, and any layovers. Choose the flight that best fits your travel plans and budget.

Step 5: Enter Passenger Details: Provide the necessary passenger information, such as full names, contact details, and passport numbers. Double-check the information to ensure accuracy.

Step 6: Confirm and Pay: Proceed to confirm your reservation and make the necessary payment. Depending on the booking platform, you may be required to provide payment details and complete the transaction.

Step 7: Obtain Confirmation: Once you have completed the booking and payment process, you will receive a confirmation email or booking reference. This documentation serves as proof of your flight reservation and onward travel plans.

Step 8: Format Your Proof of Onward Travel: Format your flight reservation confirmation according to the guidelines provided by the destination country or visa application. This may include printing a physical copy or saving the confirmation as a PDF file.

Step 9: Keep Your Proof Accessible: As you travel, make sure to keep your proof of onward travel easily accessible. You may be required to present it to immigration officials upon arrival at your destination country.

Remember, it is crucial to review the specific requirements of your destination country or visa application for proof of onward travel. Some countries may have additional guidelines or restrictions, such as requiring a confirmed ticket instead of a reservation. It’s important to ensure that your flight reservation meets the specific requirements to avoid any issues during your travel.

Creating a flight reservation as proof of onward travel is a convenient option that allows you to demonstrate your planned departure from the country within the authorized period of stay. By following these simple steps, you can ensure that you have the necessary documentation to meet the entry requirements of your destination.

Option 2: Bus, Train, or Ferry Ticket

If you’re not traveling by air, providing a bus, train, or ferry ticket as proof of onward travel is a viable option. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create a confirmed ticket for alternative modes of transportation:

Step 1: Research Alternative Transportation: Begin by researching bus, train, or ferry routes that depart from your destination country within the allowed timeframe. Look for reliable and reputable transportation providers that operate the desired routes.

Step 2: Choose a Booking Platform: Select a trusted booking platform or the official website of the transportation provider. Ensure the platform allows you to make online bookings and provides the necessary confirmation or ticket that serves as proof of your planned onward travel.

Step 3: Enter Travel Details: Enter the departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and the number of passengers. Make sure to input accurate information to ensure a valid and confirmed ticket.

Step 4: Check Available Routes and Schedules: Explore the available routes and check the departure and arrival times for your desired dates. Take note of any layovers or transfers if applicable.

Step 5: Select and Reserve Your Ticket: Once you have found the most suitable route, select and reserve your ticket. Proceed to the payment page and provide the necessary passenger information, such as full names and contact details.

Step 6: Confirm and Make Payment: Review your booking details and proceed to confirm your reservation. Depending on the booking platform, you may be required to provide payment details and complete the transaction.

Step 7: Obtain Confirmation: After completing the reservation and payment process, you will receive a confirmation email or booking reference. This serves as your proof of onward travel and should include essential details such as the departure date, route, and passenger information.

Step 8: Format Your Proof of Onward Travel: Format your confirmed ticket according to the specific requirements of the destination country or visa application. It’s advisable to print a physical copy or save the confirmation as a PDF file for easy access during your travels.

Step 9: Keep Your Proof Handy: When traveling, ensure that your proof of onward travel is easily accessible. You may be requested to present it to immigration officials upon arrival at your destination country.

It’s important to note that the requirements for proof of onward travel may vary depending on the country or visa application. Some countries may have specific guidelines regarding the accepted types of transportation or the format of the ticket. Always review the requirements of your destination to ensure that your chosen mode of transportation and ticket meet the necessary criteria.

Providing a bus, train, or ferry ticket as proof of onward travel offers a suitable alternative for those who are not traveling by air. By following these steps, you can create a confirmed ticket that demonstrates your intention to leave the country within the authorized period of stay.

Option 3: Rental Car Reservation

Another option for proof of onward travel is a rental car reservation. If you plan to explore your destination by car and have booked a rental vehicle, you can use the reservation confirmation as proof that you have plans to leave the country. Follow these steps to create a rental car reservation as proof of onward travel:

Step 1: Research Rental Car Companies: Begin by researching reputable rental car companies that operate in your destination country. Look for companies that have a good track record and positive customer reviews.

Step 2: Select a Booking Platform: Choose a reliable booking platform or the official website of the rental car company for your reservation. Make sure the platform offers the option to receive a reservation confirmation or booking reference.

Step 3: Enter Rental Details: Enter the dates and times for your rental period, as well as the pickup and drop-off locations. Consider the duration of your stay and ensure that the rental car reservation falls within the authorized period.

Step 4: Select a Rental Car: Choose the type of rental car that suits your travel needs and budget. Consider factors such as the number of passengers, luggage capacity, and any additional features you may require.

Step 5: Provide Necessary Information: Fill in your personal details, including your full name, contact information, and driver’s license information. Ensure that all information is accurate and up to date.

Step 6: Confirm and Make Payment: Review your reservation details, including the rental car type, pickup location, and rental cost. Proceed to confirm your reservation and make the necessary payment. Some platforms may require you to provide payment details upfront, while others allow for payment upon pickup.

Step 7: Obtain Confirmation: After completing the reservation and payment process, you will receive a confirmation email or booking reference, confirming your rental car reservation. This serves as proof of your onward travel and should include essential details such as the pickup date, rental period, and pickup location.

Step 8: Format Your Proof of Onward Travel: Format your rental car reservation confirmation according to the specific requirements of the destination country or visa application. Save the confirmation as a PDF file or print a physical copy for easy access during your travels.

Step 9: Keep Your Proof Accessible: When traveling, ensure that your proof of onward travel, in this case, the rental car reservation confirmation, is easily accessible. You may be required to present it to immigration officials upon arrival at your destination country.

Remember to review the specific requirements for proof of onward travel set by the country or visa application you are dealing with. Some countries may have additional guidelines or restrictions, so it’s important to ensure that your rental car reservation meets the specific requirements to avoid any complications.

By following these steps, you can create a rental car reservation as proof of onward travel, providing evidence of your planned departure from the country within the authorized period of stay.

Option 4: Round-trip or Multi-city Flight Ticket

If you have already planned your return or have multiple destinations on your itinerary, providing a round-trip or multi-city flight ticket is a viable option for proof of onward travel. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create this type of proof:

Step 1: Determine Your Travel Itinerary: Start by determining your travel itinerary, including the countries you plan to visit and the duration of your stay in each location. This will help you choose an appropriate round-trip or multi-city flight ticket.

Step 2: Research Flight Options: Research and compare flight options that meet your travel itinerary. Consider factors such as airlines, flight duration, layovers, and prices when making your decision.

Step 3: Choose a Booking Platform: Select a reliable booking platform or the official websites of airlines that offer round-trip or multi-city flight tickets. Ensure that the platform allows you to create a confirmed booking and obtain a booking reference or confirmation number.

Step 4: Enter Travel Details: Enter your travel details, including the departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and the number of passengers. Be mindful of inputting the correct information to generate accurate booking results.

Step 5: Select Flights: Choose the flights that match your travel itinerary and budget. Pay attention to the departure and return dates, as well as any layovers or connections along the way.

Step 6: Provide Passenger Details: Enter the necessary passenger information, including full names, contact details, and passport numbers. Double-check the information to ensure accuracy.

Step 7: Confirm and Pay: Proceed to confirm your round-trip or multi-city flight booking and make the necessary payment. Follow the prompts provided by the booking platform or airline to complete the transaction.

Step 8: Obtain Confirmation: Once your booking is confirmed and payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email or booking reference. This documentation serves as proof of your round-trip or multi-city flight ticket and your planned departure from the country within the authorized period.

Step 9: Format Your Proof of Onward Travel: Format your round-trip or multi-city flight ticket confirmation according to the guidelines provided by the destination country or visa application. Whether it’s printing a physical copy or saving the confirmation as a PDF file, ensure that it is easily accessible during your travels.

Remember to review the specific requirements for proof of onward travel set by the country or visa application you are dealing with. Some countries may have additional guidelines or restrictions, such as requiring specific airlines or specific documentation formats.

Providing a round-trip or multi-city flight ticket as proof of onward travel showcases your planned return journey or continuation to another destination. By following these steps, you can create the necessary documentation to comply with the entry requirements of your destination.

Option 5: Flexible or Refundable Ticket

If you anticipate the possibility of changing your travel plans, opting for a flexible or refundable ticket is an excellent choice for proof of onward travel. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create this type of proof:

Step 1: Determine Your Travel Flexibility Needs: Start by assessing how flexible you need your ticket to be. Consider factors such as potential changes in your itinerary, unexpected events, or the duration of your stay.

Step 2: Research Airlines with Flexible or Refundable Ticket Options: Look for airlines that offer flexible or refundable ticket options. Check their websites or contact their customer service to gather information about their policies and availability.

Step 3: Compare Ticket Prices and Terms: Compare the prices and terms of different flexible or refundable ticket options. Take note of any restrictions, fees, or specific conditions associated with each ticket type.

Step 4: Choose a Booking Platform or Contact the Airline Directly: Once you have decided on a specific flexible or refundable ticket, choose a reliable booking platform to make your reservation. Alternatively, contact the airline directly to secure your ticket.

Step 5: Enter Your Travel Details: Enter your travel details, including the departure and arrival cities, travel dates, and passenger information. Ensure that the information is accurate and aligns with your intended travel plans.

Step 6: Select the Flexible or Refundable Ticket Option: Choose the flexible or refundable ticket option that suits your needs and budget. Follow the prompts provided by the booking platform or airline to proceed with the reservation.

Step 7: Confirm and Make Payment: Confirm your flexible or refundable ticket reservation and provide the necessary payment details. Double-check the terms and conditions of the ticket before finalizing the transaction.

Step 8: Obtain Confirmation: Once your booking is confirmed and payment is processed, you will receive a confirmation email or booking reference. This documentation serves as proof of your flexible or refundable ticket, showcasing your planned departure from the country within the authorized period.

Step 9: Format Your Proof of Onward Travel: Format your flexible or refundable ticket confirmation according to the specific requirements of the destination country or visa application. Ensure that the confirmation is easily accessible, whether it’s printed or saved as a PDF file.

Remember to review the specific requirements for proof of onward travel set by the country or visa application. While flexible or refundable tickets offer greater flexibility, make sure that the terms and conditions of the ticket meet the necessary criteria set by your destination.

Creating a flexible or refundable ticket as proof of onward travel provides you with the flexibility to modify your travel plans if needed. By following these steps, you can create the necessary documentation to comply with the entry requirements and ensure a smoother travel experience.

Option 6: Credit Card Statement

If you have a history of international travel and want an alternative option for providing proof of onward travel, using a credit card statement can be a viable choice. Here’s a step-by-step guide on how to create this type of proof:

Step 1: Gather your Credit Card Statements: Collect your credit card statements that show previous travel expenses. Review the statements to identify transactions related to flights, accommodations, or other travel-related expenses that demonstrate your travel history.

Step 2: Summarize the Relevant Expenses: Compile a list or summary of the travel-related expenses from your credit card statements. Include the dates of the transactions, the vendors or airlines involved, and the amounts spent. This summary will serve as a clear indication of your travel history.

Step 3: Verify the Currency and Country: Make sure that the credit card statements clearly indicate the currency and country associated with each transaction. This helps establish that the expenses were incurred in the destination country, further strengthening your proof of onward travel.

Step 4: Format the Proof of Onward Travel: Format the summarized credit card statement in a presentable manner. You can create a document that includes the summary, relevant dates, and supporting details such as the credit card’s name, your name, and the statement period.

Step 5: Validate the Proof of Onward Travel: Ensure that your formatted proof of onward travel meets the specific requirements set by the destination country or visa application. Proof validation includes confirming that the statement includes travel-related expenses, is clearly legible, and displays the necessary information.

Step 6: Add a Cover Letter: Consider writing a brief cover letter explaining the purpose of providing a credit card statement as proof of onward travel. Outline how the statement demonstrates your previous travel history and serves as evidence of your intention to leave the country within the authorized period.

Step 7: Keep a Physical and Digital Copy: Print a physical copy of your proof of onward travel and ensure it is easily accessible during your travels. Additionally, save a digital copy of the formatted document for any potential electronic submissions or as a backup.

It’s important to note that not all countries or visa applications accept credit card statements as proof of onward travel. Therefore, it is crucial to review the specific requirements and guidelines set by your destination to ensure that this alternative option is acceptable.

Providing a credit card statement as proof of onward travel allows you to showcase your travel history and expenses as evidence of your planned departure from the country. By following these steps, you can create the necessary documentation to comply with the entry requirements and ensure a smoother travel experience.

How to Create Proof of Onward Travel: Step-by-Step Guide

Creating proof of onward travel is a crucial step in ensuring a smooth travel experience and compliance with entry requirements. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your proof of onward travel:

Step 1: Choose the Type of Proof of Onward Travel: Review the different types of proof mentioned earlier, such as flight reservations, bus/train/ferry tickets, rental car reservations, round-trip/multi-city flight tickets, flexible/refundable tickets, or credit card statements. Consider your travel plans and destination requirements to determine the most suitable option for you.

Step 2: Gather the Required Information: Depending on the type of proof you have chosen, gather the necessary information. This may include travel dates, departure and arrival cities, passenger details, booking references, and credit card statements if applicable.

Step 3: Make a Reservation or Purchase: Proceed to make the necessary reservation or purchase according to the chosen proof of onward travel. Use reliable booking platforms, official airline websites, or rental car companies to ensure the validity and authenticity of your documentation.

Step 4: Obtain Confirmation or Receipt: After making the reservation or purchase, check your email for a confirmation or receipt. This documentation will serve as proof of your onward travel plans and can usually be downloaded or printed out.

Step 5: Format the Proof of Onward Travel: Format your proof of onward travel according to the specific requirements set by the destination country or visa application. This may include printing a physical copy, saving as a PDF file, or following any specific formatting guidelines mentioned.

Step 6: Print or Save the Proof of Onward Travel: Print a physical copy of your proof of onward travel if required, especially if you are traveling to a country that requires a physical document. Alternatively, make sure to save a digital copy on your device or email for easy access during your travels.

Remember to double-check the requirements and guidelines set by the destination country or visa application for proof of onward travel. Each country may have specific rules and documentation formats that must be followed to ensure acceptance.

By following these step-by-step instructions, you can create the necessary proof of onward travel to meet the entry requirements, provide evidence of your travel plans, and ensure a hassle-free and enjoyable journey.

Step 1: Choose the Type of Proof of Onward Travel

The first step in creating proof of onward travel is to decide on the type of documentation that best suits your travel plans and meets the requirements set by the destination country or visa application. Here are some common types of proof of onward travel to consider:

• Flight Reservations: Making a confirmed flight reservation is a popular option. This involves booking a flight departing from the country within the authorized period of stay. Airlines or travel agencies typically provide a booking reference or confirmation number to prove your intended departure.
• Bus, Train, or Ferry Tickets: If you’re not traveling by air, providing a confirmed ticket for alternative transportation modes is an option. Book and obtain tickets for buses, trains, or ferries that are scheduled to leave the country within the permitted timeframe.
• Rental Car Reservations: If you plan to explore your destination by car, a rental car reservation can serve as proof of onward travel. Obtain a reservation confirmation that indicates your intention to leave the country within the authorized period.
• Round-Trip or Multi-City Flight Tickets: If you have planned your return journey or have multiple destinations on your itinerary, a round-trip or multi-city flight ticket is suitable. This ticket shows your planned departure from the country or continuation to another destination.
• Flexible or Refundable Tickets: Opting for flexible or refundable tickets allows you to modify your travel plans if needed. These tickets provide the flexibility to make changes or receive a refund, ensuring your onward travel plans are within the authorized period.
• Credit Card Statements: For travelers with a history of international travel, credit card statements can be considered as proof of previous travel expenses. These statements demonstrate your travel history and expenses, including flights, accommodations, and other travel-related purchases.

When choosing the type of proof, it’s important to consider the specific requirements set by the destination country or visa application. Some countries may have additional guidelines, such as accepting only confirmed tickets instead of reservations, or requiring specific documentation formats.

Make sure to research and understand the requirements of your destination before making any travel arrangements. It’s also advisable to check forums, embassy websites, or contact the consular services of the destination country to ensure that the chosen type of proof is acceptable.

By carefully selecting the appropriate type of proof of onward travel, you can ensure that you have the necessary documentation to meet the entry requirements, provide evidence of your travel plans, and ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.

Step 2: Gather the Required Information

Once you have chosen the type of proof of onward travel that aligns with your travel plans and meets the requirements of the destination country or visa application, the next step is to gather all the necessary information. Here’s a guide to help you gather the required information:

1. Travel Dates: Determine your travel dates, including the departure and arrival dates, and ensure that they fall within the authorized period of stay. This information is crucial for creating proof that demonstrates your intention to leave the country within the permitted timeframe.

2. Departure and Arrival Cities: Identify the cities from which you plan to depart and to which you plan to arrive. These details may be required when making flight, bus, train, or ferry reservations, or for rental car bookings.

3. Passenger Details: Collect the full names and other relevant details for all passengers included in the proof of onward travel. This applies to flight reservations, bus/train/ferry tickets, and rental car reservations.

4. Booking References or Confirmation Numbers: If you are creating proof of onward travel through reservations or bookings, ensure that you have the necessary reference numbers or confirmation codes. These are usually provided via email upon completion of the booking process.

5. Credit Card Statements: If you are using credit card statements as proof, gather the relevant statements that show previous travel expenses. Ensure that the statements clearly display the transaction dates, merchants, and amounts related to your travel.

6. Passport and Visa Information: Keep your passport and visa details readily available, as you may need them when making reservations or completing booking forms.

7. Additional Documentation: Depending on the type of proof of onward travel you choose, there may be additional documentation requirements. For example, some countries may require a specific format for credit card statements or may ask for additional supporting documents in certain cases. Research the specific documentation requirements for your destination and ensure you have everything in order.

By gathering all the required information beforehand, you can streamline the process of creating your proof of onward travel. This preparation will help you avoid any last-minute rush or potential issues when making reservations or formatting your documentation.

Remember to always double-check the requirements and guidelines set by the destination country or visa application to ensure that you have all the necessary information to meet their specific criteria.

Once you have gathered all the required information, you can move on to the next step of creating your proof of onward travel.

Step 3: Make a Reservation or Purchase

In step 3 of creating proof of onward travel, you will need to make a reservation or purchase based on the type of proof you have chosen. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you through this process:

1. Choose a Reliable Booking Platform: Select a trusted booking platform or visit the official website of the airline, bus/train/ferry company, or rental car agency. Ensure that the platform or website is reputable and widely used within the travel industry.

2. Enter the Required Information: Fill in the necessary details, including travel dates, departure and arrival cities, passenger information, and any additional information required by the booking platform. Double-check the accuracy of the information before proceeding.

3. Select the Desired Options: Choose the most suitable options for your travel needs. This could include selecting specific flights, seat preferences, additional services, or vehicle types, depending on the type of proof of onward travel you are creating.

4. Review the Booking Details: Take a moment to carefully review the booking details to ensure that everything is correct. Check for any errors or discrepancies and make any necessary adjustments before proceeding to the next step.

5. Proceed to Payment: Follow the prompts provided by the booking platform or website to proceed to the payment stage. Enter the required payment details, such as credit card information or any accepted forms of payment, to complete the reservation or purchase.

6. Obtain Confirmation: After successfully completing the payment process, you will receive a confirmation email or booking reference. This confirmation serves as proof that your reservation or purchase is confirmed and secured.

7. Save and Organize Confirmation Details: Save a digital copy of the confirmation email or note down the booking reference in a place where it can be easily accessed during your travels. It’s also a good idea to organize your confirmation details in a designated folder or file for easy retrieval.

8. Follow Any Additional Instructions: Depending on the specific requirements of your destination country or visa application, there may be additional instructions provided in the confirmation email or during the booking process. Make sure to adhere to any specific guidelines provided to ensure that your proof of onward travel meets the necessary criteria.

By making a reservation or purchase with a reputable booking platform or website, you can create a valid proof of onward travel that meets the entry requirements of your destination. Keep the confirmation details easily accessible for reference when formatting your proof in the next steps.

Remember to double-check the requirements and guidelines set by the destination country or visa application for the specific type of proof you are creating. This will help ensure that your reservation or purchase aligns with their specific criteria.

Now that you have completed step 3, you are ready to move on to the next step: obtaining the necessary confirmation or receipt for your proof of onward travel.

Step 4: Obtain Confirmation or Receipt

After making a reservation or purchase, the next step in creating proof of onward travel is to obtain the necessary confirmation or receipt. This documentation serves as proof that your reservation or purchase has been confirmed. Follow these steps to obtain your confirmation or receipt:

1. Check Your Email: Check the email address you provided during the reservation or purchase process. Look for an email from the booking platform, airline, bus/train/ferry company, or rental car agency. This email often contains your confirmation or receipt.

2. Review the Confirmation Email: Open the confirmation email and carefully review the details. Look for essential information such as the reservation or booking number, travel dates, departure and arrival cities, passenger names, and any additional services or options you selected.

3. Download the Confirmation: If the confirmation or receipt is provided as an attachment in the email, download and save it to your computer or mobile device. Ensure that the file is easily accessible when needed, either by printing a physical copy or saving it as a PDF file.

4. Note the Booking Reference: If the confirmation email does not include an attachment, make a note of the booking reference or confirmation number mentioned in the email. This reference number is typically used for verification and communication purposes.

5. Double-Check the Details: Before finalizing this step, double-check that all the information on the confirmation or receipt is accurate and matches your original reservation or purchase. Pay attention to the spelling of passenger names, travel dates, and other vital details.

6. Keep Multiple Copies: Make multiple copies of your confirmation or receipt. Store a physical copy in your travel documents or wallet for easy access if needed. Additionally, save a digital copy on your computer, mobile device, or email account to have a backup in case the physical copy is lost or damaged.

7. Follow Any Additional Instructions: Some confirmation emails may include specific instructions or important information related to your reservation. Read through the email carefully and follow any additional instructions provided by the booking platform, airline, or other service provider.

By obtaining the necessary confirmation or receipt, you can ensure that you have the proper documentation as proof of your onward travel. The confirmation or receipt validates your reservation or purchase and will be used in the next steps to format your proof of onward travel.

Remember to review the confirmation or receipt to confirm that it meets the criteria set by the destination country or visa application. Ensure that the information on the document aligns with their specific requirements.

With step 4 completed, you are now ready to move on to step 5, where you will format your proof of onward travel according to the specific guidelines provided by your destination.

Step 5: Format the Proof of Onward Travel

In step 5 of creating proof of onward travel, it’s time to format the documentation according to the specific guidelines set by the destination country or visa application. Proper formatting is essential to ensure that your proof is presented in the correct format and contains all the necessary information. Follow these steps to format your proof of onward travel:

1. Review the Requirements: Refer to the guidelines provided by the destination country or visa application to understand the specific formatting requirements. Pay attention to details such as document size, font style and size, language preferences, and any specific content that should be included.

2. Include Relevant Information: Ensure that your proof of onward travel contains all the necessary information as specified by the guidelines. This typically includes your name, travel dates, departure and arrival cities, confirmation or reservation numbers, and any additional details that support your travel plans.

3. Organize the Information: Organize the information in a clear and logical manner. You may choose to present it in a table format, bullet points, or a traditional paragraph style, depending on the specific requirements and your personal preference.

4. Format for Print or Digital Use: Consider whether your proof of onward travel will be provided in print or digital format. If printing a physical copy, ensure that the document is formatted to fit on standard paper size. If preparing a digital copy, save the document in a format that is easily accessible and can be opened on different devices.

5. Use Legible Fonts: Select a font style and size that is clear and easy to read. Stick to standard fonts such as Arial, Times New Roman, or Calibri to ensure maximum legibility. Avoid decorative fonts that may be difficult to decipher.

6. Proofread for Accuracy: Take the time to proofread your formatted proof of onward travel for any spelling or grammatical errors. Double-check all the information to ensure that it is accurate and matches the details provided in your reservation or confirmation.

7. Save a Backup Copy: Save a backup copy of your formatted proof of onward travel. If you are providing a physical copy, consider making additional copies to carry with you during your travels. For digital copies, save the document on multiple devices or in cloud storage for easy access whenever needed.

By formatting your proof of onward travel according to the guidelines, you ensure that it meets the necessary requirements set by the destination country or visa application. Proper formatting enhances the professionalism and credibility of your documentation.

Remember to review the specific guidelines provided by the destination country or visa application to ensure that your proof of onward travel meets their preferred format and requirements.

With step 5 completed, you are now ready for the final step: presenting your proof of onward travel to immigration officials or including it as part of your visa application.

Step 6: Print or Save the Proof of Onward Travel

In step 6 of creating proof of onward travel, it’s time to decide whether to print a physical copy or save a digital version of your documentation. This step ensures that you have easy access to your proof when required by immigration officials or as part of your visa application. Follow these steps to print or save your proof of onward travel:

1. Determine the Preferred Format: Consider the requirements and preferences of the destination country or visa application regarding the format of your proof of onward travel. Some may require a physical copy, while others accept digital versions.

2. Prepare for Printing: If a physical copy is required or preferred, ensure you have access to a printer. Verify that you have enough ink and quality paper for printing your proof of onward travel in the desired format.

3. Print the Proof: When ready, print your proof of onward travel on the selected paper size, following any specific formatting instructions provided. Check the printout for clarity and legibility before proceeding.

4. Protect and Store: Once printed, keep your proof of onward travel in a safe and easily accessible place. Consider using a protective document sleeve or folder to keep it secure and prevent any damage or loss during your travels.

5. Save a Digital Copy: Regardless of whether a physical copy is required, saving a digital copy of your proof of onward travel is always recommended. Store the digital version on multiple devices, such as your smartphone, tablet, laptop, or cloud storage, for easy access and backup.

6. Ensure Accessibility: Make sure that you can easily access your proof of onward travel when needed. Keep a digital copy on your device, carry a physical copy in your travel documents, and consider having an additional backup stored separately.

7. Check Compatibility: If providing a digital copy, double-check that the format and file type are compatible with different devices or software. This ensures that you can easily share or present your proof of onward travel if required.

By printing or saving your proof of onward travel, you ensure that you have a readily accessible and secure document that can be presented when needed. This step helps to guarantee a smooth travel experience by having your proof readily available for immigration officials or as part of your visa application.

Remember to follow any specific requirements and formatting guidelines set by the destination country or visa application when printing or saving your proof of onward travel.

With step 6 complete, you have successfully created and secured your proof of onward travel. You are now prepared to present it as required or include it in your visa application.

Congratulations! You have successfully completed all the necessary steps to create proof of onward travel. By carefully choosing the type of proof, gathering the required information, making reservations or purchases, obtaining confirmation or receipts, formatting the proof, and printing or saving it, you are now well-prepared for your travels.

Remember that proof of onward travel is an essential requirement for visiting certain countries or applying for visas. It demonstrates your intention to leave the country within the authorized period of stay, ensuring compliance with immigration regulations.

It’s crucial to research and understand the specific requirements and guidelines set by the destination country or visa application regarding the acceptable types of proof and desired formatting. Always double-check the accuracy of your information and proof to avoid any issues during your travels.

Additionally, make sure to keep your proof of onward travel easily accessible during your journey. Whether in print or digital format, have it readily available to present to immigration officials upon arrival at your destination or as part of your visa application process.

Remember, while proof of onward travel is essential, don’t overlook other travel requirements such as passports, visas, travel insurance, and any additional documentation specific to your destination. Being well-prepared ensures a smoother travel experience and greater peace of mind.

Now that you have created your proof of onward travel, you can confidently embark on your journey, knowing that you have fulfilled the necessary requirements and are ready to comply with the regulations of your destination country. Have a safe and enjoyable trip!

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How to book onward ticket: A step-by-step guide

Updated: September 8, 2023

When entering a country, the airline staff or the immigration officer may ask you to show a return or onward ticket. If you do not hold a return or onward ticket, you may be denied boarding or deported. 

If you are traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use an online agent such as onwardticket.com to book onward ticket for a nominal fee. 

In this step-by-step guide, you will learn how to book onward ticket using onwardticket.com . 

Table of Contents

What is onward ticket.

An onward ticket is a booked flight ticket out of the country that you are about to enter. This could be a flight ticket to the next country on your itinerary or a ticket back to your home country. Though an onward ticket can be a bus or train ticket, immigration officers insist on showing a flight ticket as a proof

How does onward ticket work?

Onward ticket works as proof of onward travel . This helps airline staff and immigration officers to make the decision whether to let you enter the country or not. 

For a nominal fee, onward ticket providers reserve flight tickets on your behalf and cancel them after 48-72 hours. These onward tickets are only reservations and not fully-paid tickets with e-ticket numbers. 

Steps to book onward ticket with onwardticket.com

• Go to onwardticket.com
• Click on the “BOOK NOW” button

Enter the following information on this page.

• One-Way or Round-Trip [ Comment: Select “One-Way” or “Round Trip” ]
• Route [ Comment: Select “From” and “To” airports ]
• Date [ Comment: Select “Departure” and “Return” dates ]

Click on the right arrow “->” button.

02. Passengers

• Contact Email [ Comment: Enter your email address where you would like to receive your onward ticket ]
• Title, First Name, Last Name [ Comment: Enter your title/prefix, first name and last name as per your passport ]
• Additional Passengers [ Comment: If you have additional passengers traveling with you, click the “+” button to add their names ]

03. Options

Enter the following information in this section.

• Receive now
• Receive later
• Direct flight

04. Confirm

On this page, review your details and make sure they are correct and accurate.

Check the box for “I accept the Terms and Conditions and the Privacy Policy”.

Click on the “CONFIRM AND PAY” button.

05. Payment

• Coupon code [ Comment: Exclusive discount for Visa Traveler readers – enter VT5 for 5% discount ]
• Card [ Comment: If you prefer card payment, enter your credit or debit card details ]
• Paypal [ Comment: If you prefer Paypal, click on “Paypal” and follow the instructions ]

Click on the “PAY” button.

EXCLUSIVE DISCOUNT FOR VT READERS Use code VT5 for a 5% discount on your onward ticket purchase with onwardticket.com

06. Booking Confirmed

After the payment, you will be taken to the booking confirmation page.

On this page, click on the “DOWNLOAD” button to download your onward ticket.

You will also receive an email with a copy of your onward ticket. You can download your onward ticket PDF from the email as well. 

You can carry a print of your onward ticket or simply save it on your phone to show it to the airline staff or immigration officer. 

You can also verify your onward ticket on the airline’s website for accuracy and validity. 

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

How to get a free onward ticket.

An onward ticket must be verifiable. Free onward tickets are either fake or non-verifiable. If verified by the airline staff or immigration officer, you may be denied boarding the flight or entering the country.

Is onward ticket legal for travel?

Yes. Onward tickets are legal as they come with a PNR number that can be verified on the airline website. Keep in mind that onward tickets do not have an e-ticket number like a fully-paid ticket has.

What is the cheapest onward ticket option?

Best Onward Ticket is the cheapest at $12 per ticket. But the booking is not instant. You will have to wait a few minutes to an hour to receive the ticket to your email. Onward Ticket is slightly expensive at $16 but you can download the ticket instantly. 

When traveling to a country, you may be required to hold a return or onward ticket. Otherwise, you may be denied boarding or deported. If you aren’t sure about your travel plans or traveling on a one-way ticket, you can use an online agent such as onwardticket.com to book onward ticket for a small fee.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow: The Best of Moscow!

I just got back from one week in Moscow. And, as you might have already guessed, it was a mind-boggling experience. It was not my first trip to the Russian capital. But I hardly ever got enough time to explore this sprawling city. Visiting places for business rarely leaves enough time for sightseeing. I think that if you’ve got one week in Russia, you can also consider splitting your time between its largest cities (i.e. Saint Petersburg ) to get the most out of your trip. Seven days will let you see the majority of the main sights and go beyond just scratching the surface. In this post, I’m going to share with you my idea of the perfect travel itinerary for one week in Moscow.

Moscow is perhaps both the business and cultural hub of Russia. There is a lot more to see here than just the Kremlin and Saint Basil’s Cathedral. Centuries-old churches with onion-shaped domes dotted around the city are in stark contrast with newly completed impressive skyscrapers of Moscow City dominating the skyline. I spent a lot of time thinking about my Moscow itinerary before I left. And this city lived up to all of my expectations.

Travel Itinerary For One Week in Moscow

Day 1 – red square and the kremlin.

Metro Station: Okhotny Ryad on Red Line.

No trip to Moscow would be complete without seeing its main attraction. The Red Square is just a stone’s throw away from several metro stations. It is home to some of the most impressive architectural masterpieces in the city. The first thing you’ll probably notice after entering it and passing vendors selling weird fur hats is the fairytale-like looking Saint Basil’s Cathedral. It was built to commemorate one of the major victories of Ivan the Terrible. I once spent 20 minutes gazing at it, trying to find the perfect angle to snap it. It was easier said than done because of the hordes of locals and tourists.

As you continue strolling around Red Square, there’s no way you can miss Gum. It was widely known as the main department store during the Soviet Era. Now this large (yet historic) shopping mall is filled with expensive boutiques, pricey eateries, etc. During my trip to Moscow, I was on a tight budget. So I only took a retro-style stroll in Gum to get a rare glimpse of a place where Soviet leaders used to grocery shop and buy their stuff. In case you want some modern shopping experience, head to the Okhotny Ryad Shopping Center with stores like New Yorker, Zara, and Adidas.

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To continue this Moscow itinerary, next you may want to go inside the Kremlin walls. This is the center of Russian political power and the president’s official residence. If you’re planning to pay Kremlin a visit do your best to visit Ivan the Great Bell Tower as well. Go there as early as possible to avoid crowds and get an incredible bird’s-eye view. There are a couple of museums that are available during designated visiting hours. Make sure to book your ticket online and avoid lines.

Day 2 – Cathedral of Christ the Saviour, the Tretyakov Gallery, and the Arbat Street

Metro Station: Kropotkinskaya on Red Line

As soon as you start creating a Moscow itinerary for your second day, you’ll discover that there are plenty of metro stations that are much closer to certain sites. Depending on your route, take a closer look at the metro map to pick the closest.

The white marble walls of Christ the Saviour Cathedral are awe-inspiring. As you approach this tallest Orthodox Christian church, you may notice the bronze sculptures, magnificent arches, and cupolas that were created to commemorate Russia’s victory against Napoleon.

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Unfortunately, the current Cathedral is a replica, since original was blown to bits in 1931 by the Soviet government. The new cathedral basically follows the original design, but they have added some new elements such as marble high reliefs.

Home to some precious collection of artworks, in Tretyakov Gallery you can find more than 150,000 of works spanning centuries of artistic endeavor. Originally a privately owned gallery, it now has become one of the largest museums in Russia. The Gallery is often considered essential to visit. But I have encountered a lot of locals who have never been there.

Famous for its souvenirs, musicians, and theaters, Arbat street is among the few in Moscow that were turned into pedestrian zones. Arbat street is usually very busy with tourists and locals alike. My local friend once called it the oldest street in Moscow dating back to 1493. It is a kilometer long walking street filled with fancy gift shops, small cozy restaurants, lots of cute cafes, and street artists. It is closed to any vehicular traffic, so you can easily stroll it with kids.

Day 3 – Moscow River Boat Ride, Poklonnaya Hill Victory Park, the Moscow City

Metro Station: Kievskaya and Park Pobedy on Dark Blue Line / Vystavochnaya on Light Blue Line

Voyaging along the Moscow River is definitely one of the best ways to catch a glimpse of the city and see the attractions from a bit different perspective. Depending on your Moscow itinerary, travel budget and the time of the year, there are various types of boats available. In the summer there is no shortage of boats, and you’ll be spoiled for choice.

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If you find yourself in Moscow during the winter months, I’d recommend going with Radisson boat cruise. These are often more expensive (yet comfy). They offer refreshments like tea, coffee, hot chocolate, and, of course, alcoholic drinks. Prices may vary but mostly depend on your food and drink selection. Find their main pier near the opulent Ukraine hotel . The hotel is one of the “Seven Sisters”, so if you’re into the charm of Stalinist architecture don’t miss a chance to stay there.

The area near Poklonnaya Hill has the closest relation to the country’s recent past. The memorial complex was completed in the mid-1990s to commemorate the Victory and WW2 casualties. Also known as the Great Patriotic War Museum, activities here include indoor attractions while the grounds around host an open-air museum with old tanks and other vehicles used on the battlefield.

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The hallmark of the memorial complex and the first thing you see as you exit metro is the statue of Nike mounted to its column. This is a very impressive Obelisk with a statue of Saint George slaying the dragon at its base.

Maybe not as impressive as Shanghai’s Oriental Pearl Tower , the skyscrapers of the Moscow City (otherwise known as Moscow International Business Center) are so drastically different from dull Soviet architecture. With 239 meters and 60 floors, the Empire Tower is the seventh highest building in the business district.

The observation deck occupies 56 floor from where you have some panoramic views of the city. I loved the view in the direction of Moscow State University and Luzhniki stadium as well to the other side with residential quarters. The entrance fee is pricey, but if you’re want to get a bird’s eye view, the skyscraper is one of the best places for doing just that.

Day 4 – VDNKh, Worker and Collective Farm Woman Monument, The Ostankino TV Tower

Metro Station: VDNKh on Orange Line

VDNKh is one of my favorite attractions in Moscow. The weird abbreviation actually stands for Russian vystavka dostizheniy narodnogo khozyaystva (Exhibition of Achievements of the National Economy). With more than 200 buildings and 30 pavilions on the grounds, VDNKh serves as an open-air museum. You can easily spend a full day here since the park occupies a very large area.

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First, there are pavilions that used to showcase different cultures the USSR was made of. Additionally, there is a number of shopping pavilions, as well as Moskvarium (an Oceanarium) that features a variety of marine species. VDNKh is a popular venue for events and fairs. There is always something going on, so I’d recommend checking their website if you want to see some particular exhibition.

A stone’s throw away from VDNKh there is a very distinctive 25-meters high monument. Originally built in 1937 for the world fair in Paris, the hulking figures of men and women holding a hammer and a sickle represent the Soviet idea of united workers and farmers. It doesn’t take much time to see the monument, but visiting it gives some idea of the Soviet Union’s grandiose aspirations.

I have a thing for tall buildings. So to continue my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow I decided to climb the fourth highest TV tower in the world. This iconic 540m tower is a fixture of the skyline. You can see it virtually from everywhere in Moscow, and this is where you can get the best panoramic views (yep, even better than Empire skyscraper).

Parts of the floor are made of tempered glass, so it can be quite scary to exit the elevator. But trust me, as you start observing buildings and cars below, you won’t want to leave. There is only a limited number of tickets per day, so you may want to book online. Insider tip: the first tour is cheaper, you can save up to $10 if go there early.

Day 5 – A Tour To Moscow Manor Houses

Metro Station: Kolomenskoye, Tsaritsyno on Dark Green Line / Kuskovo on Purple Line

I love visiting the manor houses and palaces in Moscow. These opulent buildings were generally built to house Russian aristocratic families and monarchs. Houses tend to be rather grand affairs with impressive architecture. And, depending on the whims of the owners, some form of a landscaped garden.

During the early part of the 20th century though, many of Russia’s aristocratic families (including the family of the last emperor) ended up being killed or moving abroad . Their manor houses were nationalized. Some time later (after the fall of the USSR) these were open to the public. It means that today a great many of Moscow’s finest manor houses and palaces are open for touring.

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There are 20 manor houses scattered throughout the city and more than 25 in the area around. But not all of them easily accessible and exploring them often takes a lot of time. I’d recommend focusing on three most popular estates in Moscow that are some 30-minute metro ride away from Kremlin.

Sandwiched between the Moscow River and the Andropov Avenue, Kolomenskoye is a UNESCO site that became a public park in the 1920’s. Once a former royal estate, now it is one of the most tranquil parks in the city with gorgeous views. The Ascension Church, The White Column, and the grounds are a truly grand place to visit.

You could easily spend a full day here, exploring a traditional Russian village (that is, in fact, a market), picnicking by the river, enjoying the Eastern Orthodox church architecture, hiking the grounds as well as and wandering the park and gardens with wildflower meadows, apple orchards, and birch and maple groves. The estate museum showcases Russian nature at its finest year-round.

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If my travel itinerary for one week in Moscow was a family tree, Tsaritsyno Park would probably be the crazy uncle that no-one talks about. It’s a large park in the south of the city of mind-boggling proportions, unbelievable in so many ways, and yet most travelers have never heard of it.

The palace was supposed to be a summer home for Empress Catherine the Great. But since the construction didn’t meet with her approval the palace was abandoned. Since the early 1990’s the palace, the pond, and the grounds have been undergoing renovations. The entire complex is now looking brighter and more elaborately decorated than at possibly any other time during its history. Like most parks in Moscow, you can visit Tsaritsyno free of charge, but there is a small fee if you want to visit the palace.

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Last, but by no means least on my Moscow itinerary is Kuskovo Park . This is definitely an off-the-beaten-path place. While it is not easily accessible, you will be rewarded with a lack of crowds. This 18th-century summer country house of the Sheremetev family was one of the first summer country estates of the Russian nobility. And when you visit you’ll quickly realize why locals love this park.

Like many other estates, Kuskovo has just been renovated. So there are lovely French formal garden, a grotto, and the Dutch house to explore. Make sure to plan your itinerary well because the estate is some way from a metro station.

Day 6 – Explore the Golden Ring

Creating the Moscow itinerary may keep you busy for days with the seemingly endless amount of things to do. Visiting the so-called Golden Ring is like stepping back in time. Golden Ring is a “theme route” devised by promotion-minded journalist and writer Yuri Bychkov.

Having started in Moscow the route will take you through a number of historical cities. It now includes Suzdal, Vladimir, Kostroma, Yaroslavl and Sergiev Posad. All these awe-inspiring towns have their own smaller kremlins and feature dramatic churches with onion-shaped domes, tranquil residential areas, and other architectural landmarks.

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I only visited two out of eight cities included on the route. It is a no-brainer that Sergiev Posad is the nearest and the easiest city to see on a day trip from Moscow. That being said, you can explore its main attractions in just one day. Located some 70 km north-east of the Russian capital, this tiny and overlooked town is home to Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius, UNESCO Site.

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Sergiev Posad is often described as being at the heart of Russian spiritual life. So it is uncommon to see the crowds of Russian pilgrims showing a deep reverence for their religion. If you’re traveling independently and using public transport, you can reach Sergiev Posad by bus (departs from VDNKh) or by suburban commuter train from Yaroslavskaya Railway Station (Bahnhof). It takes about one and a half hours to reach the town.

Trinity Lavra of St. Sergius is a great place to get a glimpse of filling and warming Russian lunch, specifically at the “ Gostevaya Izba ” restaurant. Try the duck breast, hearty potato and vegetables, and the awesome Napoleon cake.

Day 7 – Gorky Park, Izmailovo Kremlin, Patriarch’s Ponds

Metro Station: Park Kultury or Oktyabrskaya on Circle Line / Partizanskaya on Dark Blue Line / Pushkinskaya on Dark Green Line

Gorky Park is in the heart of Moscow. It offers many different types of outdoor activities, such as dancing, cycling, skateboarding, walking, jogging, and anything else you can do in a park. Named after Maxim Gorky, this sprawling and lovely park is where locals go on a picnic, relax and enjoy free yoga classes. It’s a popular place to bike around, and there is a Muzeon Art Park not far from here. A dynamic location with a younger vibe. There is also a pier, so you can take a cruise along the river too.

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The Kremlin in Izmailovo is by no means like the one you can find near the Red Square. Originally built for decorative purposes, it now features the Vernissage flea market and a number of frequent fairs, exhibitions, and conferences. Every weekend, there’s a giant flea market in Izmailovo, where dozens of stalls sell Soviet propaganda crap, Russian nesting dolls, vinyl records, jewelry and just about any object you can imagine. Go early in the morning if you want to beat the crowds.

All the Bulgakov’s fans should pay a visit to Patriarch’s Ponds (yup, that is plural). With a lovely small city park and the only one (!) pond in the middle, the location is where the opening scene of Bulgakov’s novel Master and Margarita was set. The novel is centered around a visit by Devil to the atheistic Soviet Union is considered by many critics to be one of the best novels of the 20th century. I spent great two hours strolling the nearby streets and having lunch in the hipster cafe.

Conclusion and Recommendations

To conclude, Moscow is a safe city to visit. I have never had a problem with getting around and most locals are really friendly once they know you’re a foreigner. Moscow has undergone some serious reconstruction over the last few years. So you can expect some places to be completely different. I hope my one week Moscow itinerary was helpful! If you have less time, say 4 days or 5 days, I would cut out day 6 and day 7. You could save the Golden Ring for a separate trip entirely as there’s lots to see!

What are your thoughts on this one week Moscow itinerary? Are you excited about your first time in the city? Let me know in the comments below!

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24 comments.

Ann Snook-Moreau

Moscow looks so beautiful and historic! Thanks for including public transit information for those of us who don’t like to rent cars.

MindTheTravel

Yup, that is me 🙂 Rarely rent + stick to the metro = Full wallet!

Mariella Blago

Looks like you had loads of fun! Well done. Also great value post for travel lovers.

Thanks, Mariella!

I have always wanted to go to Russia, especially Moscow. These sights look absolutely beautiful to see and there is so much history there!

Agree! Moscow is a thousand-year-old city and there is definitely something for everyone.

Tara Pittman

Those are amazing buildings. Looks like a place that would be amazing to visit.

Adriana Lopez

Never been to Moscow or Russia but my family has. Many great spots and a lot of culture. Your itinerary sounds fantastic and covers a lot despite it is only a short period of time.

What was their favourite thing about Russia?

Gladys Parker

I know very little about Moscow or Russia for the\at matter. I do know I would have to see the Red Square and all of its exquisite architectural masterpieces. Also the CATHEDRAL OF CHRIST THE SAVIOUR. Thanks for shedding some light on visiting Moscow.

Thanks for swinging by! The Red Square is a great starting point, but there way too many places and things to discover aside from it!

Ruthy @ Percolate Kitchen

You are making me so jealous!! I’ve always wanted to see Russia.

Moscow is in my bucket list, I don’t know when I can visit there, your post is really useful. As a culture rich place we need to spend at least week.

DANA GUTKOWSKI

Looks like you had a great trip! Thanks for all the great info! I’ve never been in to Russia, but this post makes me wanna go now!

Wow this is amazing! Moscow is on my bucket list – such an amazing place to visit I can imagine! I can’t wait to go there one day!

The building on the second picture looks familiar. I keep seeing that on TV.

Reesa Lewandowski

What beautiful moments! I always wish I had the personality to travel more like this!

Perfect itinerary for spending a week in Moscow! So many places to visit and it looks like you had a wonderful time. I would love to climb that tower. The views I am sure must have been amazing!

I was lucky enough to see the skyline of Moscow from this TV Tower and it is definitely mind-blowing.

Chelsea Pearl

Moscow is definitely up there on my travel bucket list. So much history and iconic architecture!

Thumbs up! 🙂

Blair Villanueva

OMG I dream to visit Moscow someday! Hope the visa processing would be okay (and become more affordable) so I could pursue my dream trip!

Yup, visa processing is the major downside! Agree! Time and the money consuming process…

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Moscow is Russia's capital, and its cultural, economic and political heart. It is the largest and the most populated city in Russia, and also a city of huge global influence. It is the country's biggest tourist destination, home to some of the most historic architectural works in the country.

Moscow is a city with a very rich past. It served as Russia's capital for a long time and after the Bolshevik Revolution became the capital of Russia again. It has one of the best collections of architectural structures in the world. The Kremlin, which serves as the residence of the Russian President today, is an emphatic complex of palaces, cathedrals and walls. The iconic St. Basil's Cathedral is one of the most unique cathedrals you'll find anywhere in the world. Moscow has a huge number of museums as well, displaying artworks from throughout the history of Russia. There is even a display of priceless jewellery and state regalia in the Kremlin Armoury. Apart from that, Moscow is home to many splendid gardens and parks that find their origins in the imperial era. These parks today have been restored and beautified and are a favourite hangout spot for locals who are looking for some time away from their busy lives. Gorky Park , Tsaritsyno and the Alexander Garden are an example of the remarkable gardens in the city. The city's nightlife is world famous and so is it's shopping, symbolised by the GUM on the Red Square . Several musical concerts and cultural events take place often in the city and the city is also home to Russia's national theatre, the Bolshoi Theatre . Moscow provides you with a huge variety of activities and is sure to keep you occupied throughout your trip. When you're done with it all, take a hike up Sparrow Hills and absorb a beautiful panorama of the city.

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