[Mats]

I first 'moved' to Hong Kong to join my defacto partner who is HK ID holder at end of August last year. I had used all my Qantas FF points to get me a one way Business Class ticket so I could bring as much stuff as possible. At the airport check in counter they refused to let me board. They kindly pointed out a telephone over there somewhere. A quick phone call to I forget which airline and a booking made and paid. Over to another counter for a print out and I was allowed to check in. It was really my own fault for not being aware of the rule about forward travel bookings etc. But an unpleasant beginning.

When I came to board I was stopped again and I thought 'oh now they are really gonna get it from me...' . I must have looked fiercesome with a few scotches under my belt and lots of body language. The attendant turned to me and said "Sir you have been upgraded to first class." I still chuckle about it.

As a footnote I have always had some sort of forward arrangements booked whenever coming from NZ & Aus. They are not so fussed if you are already in Asia somewhere but this can ruin your day.

My dependant visa was approved on 21 Sept so relief for me.
Mats

[fsklee]

Besides forward tickets, there is an item people often overlook - passport validity. Many places require that a visitor's passport to have at least 6 months validity.

[ronsby]

I assume it's mandatory requirement in many countries. (ie. to have 6 mths validity of your passport). Is there any country waive this requirement?

[alextennis]

Originally Posted by ronsby

I assume it's mandatory requirement in many countries. (ie. to have 6 mths validity of your passport). Is there any country waive this requirement?

Some countries require only 1 or 3 months but more often is 6!