Americans traveling to other countries for both personal and business purposes, may overlook that the laws in a foreign country – both national and local – can be different from what they are used to in their home country, and are subject to change.
Here are a few reminders regarding avoiding legal troubles abroad:
International travelers should check the U.S. State Department's travel website to see what is recommended for their particular destination and if there are any travel advisories or warnings. Additionally, doing an internet search before you go for commonly violated laws by tourists for your destination might provide added peace of mind.
Passports are required of U.S. citizens for the vast majority of countries, and most require the passports to be valid for six months after the traveler plans to leave that country.
In addition to a passport, some countries require travel visas to enter. They may require you to obtain a visa upon arrival, while others may require you to apply for a visa in advance.
Some countries like Mexico or Canada do not require tourist visas if crossing the border on foot or in your car, but others, like Argentina, require visitors to get a visa in advance of their flight.
Failure to declare an item to U.S. Customs on your return home can result in fines, penalties, or even seizure of the item. Keep receipts for all of your purchases abroad, especially if they cost a lot of money. Some common items that you will probably need to declare at customs are duty-free merchandise, gifts and souvenirs, food and drink, plants and animals, drugs, and large amounts of currency. "Traveling Abroad? Legal Lessons for Staying Out of Trouble." www.findlaw.com (Mar. 08, 2024).
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In addition to these national laws, local laws and cultural expectations should be observed as well. This can enhance the opportunity for a more productive and efficient business trip.
For instance, you could be fined for feeding the pigeons in Venice, or eating, drinking, or smoking in public in the United Arab Emirates during Ramadan. Taking beach sand from Sardinia, Italy's Spiaggia Rosa (Pink Beach) will result in a fine, as will walking about in Spain shirtless or in a bathing suit, if not on the beach.
Avoid getting involved in risky or illegal activities. This includes drinking alcohol, using drugs, and participating in protests or demonstrations.
In very high-risk parts of the world, consider enrolling your high-value employees in an anti-kidnapping training program. Do not publicize travel plans and details.
Be aware the rules about any aspect of travel can change, including the new European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) expected in 2025. https://travel-europe.europa.eu/etias_en
The system requires visitors from the United States and 60 other nations to secure authorization before entering the "Schengen Zone", and limits travel to 23 EU countries, four non-EU countries, and three microstates, even for transit purposes.
