My First Visit to the Country That Sold Me a Passport

1. Japan

On my initial trip to Japan, I was in awe of the speedy trains and futuristic architecture but also slightly annoyed that everything appeared so clean and minimalistic. However, the food proved a revelation - one of the best meals of my life!

If you're planning a visit to Japan for the first time, it's important to be aware of the various types of visas required. While some countries have reciprocal visa exemption agreements with Japan, others need a special type of Visa called a Temporary Visitors Visa (TTV) in order to enter the country.

The TTV allows people to stay in Japan for up to three months without needing a work visa. It's an ideal solution if you need more freedom than what regular visas grant, especially if you plan to explore outside popular holidays.

There are various statuses in the country which permit foreigners to work long-term, such as "Specified Skills." With over a dozen such designations available, each allows you to work in a particular professional field.

Therefore, if you plan on staying in Japan for an extended period, it's essential to understand which type of visa you require so that you can fully enjoy your time there. To learn more about the various visas and what documents must be brought with you when applying, be sure to check out our article on Japanese Visas.

Once you understand Japanese visa requirements, planning a trip to this incredible country becomes much smoother. If you have any queries, don't hesitate to get in touch - we are located in London but offer advice and support to customers worldwide. With over two decades of expertise, our team can guide you through the sometimes complex world of Japanese visas and requirements with ease.

2. France

One of the first places most visitors to Europe hear about is Paris. Whether your goal is seeing the sights, shopping till you drop or simply enjoying great food, there's something for everyone in this bustling metropolis. A seasoned traveler may have their list of must-sees but don't be afraid to make new discoveries along the way - from Normandy's quaint villages to bustling metropolis of Paris - there will be your own unique French experience waiting for you. The best way to truly savor France is taking time out to slow down and take it all in - that's what makes France so wonderful!

3. Germany

Citizens of countries that possess a valid passport hold an abundance of privileges in the global arena. You can travel to any country without needing a visa and worrying about reentering your home country; for instance, German passport holders have access to 176 different nations without needing any additional paperwork or payment for stay. With such privileges come great responsibilities!

German passport holders enjoy exclusive rights to live and work within the European Union, meaning you can stay as long as desired without having to leave. This privilege is invaluable as it enables foreign nationals to do business and visit Europe freely even if they aren't citizens.

Becoming a German citizen is a relatively straightforward process. All that needs to be done is prove that your parents or grandparents were citizens of Germany at some point in their past.

One of the most essential requirements for citizenship by descent is having a comprehensive paper trail of your family history. Unfortunately, this can be challenging so you'll need to put in considerable effort in order to guarantee eligibility.

You must provide documents proving your family lived in Germany, and may need to submit a certificate of ancestry. Although this task can be tedious, the effort will be worth it should you ever decide to apply for German citizenship.

A German passport offers the greatest benefit, granting visa-free travel to 176 countries. This makes it an ideal option for those who plan on spending a lot of time in Europe or just taking occasional vacations.

Another significant advantage of a German passport is that it's one of few countries worldwide to grant its citizens dual nationality - an excellent option for those wanting to hold multiple citizenships. Indeed, children born to parents with both German and non-German heritage often acquire both citizenships simultaneously at birth.

4. Italy

If you're planning a trip to Italy, there are many aspects to take into account. From travel insurance and visas to how much money you'll need for accommodation, transportation and food - there is plenty to think about when planning this idyllic destination.

Planning your itinerary before arriving in a foreign country can save time and money during your vacation, while helping to eliminate any last-minute hassles.

First and foremost, determine how long you can stay in the country without needing a visa. This will depend on your passport and nationality. Be sure to confirm this beforehand.

In order to enter Italy for up to 90 days, you'll need to fill out a Dip form. This permit allows you to stay in the country until three months after your planned date of departure from Italy.

When visiting Italy, it's best to dress modestly. This rule of thumb applies both at religious sites and elsewhere; wear a skirt or pants that cover your knees. Additionally, opt for an comfortable long dress that covers both your shoulders and chest.

Another helpful tip is to pack light and only take what you absolutely need. This will make the journey much smoother, as you won't have to lug around a heavy suitcase around with you.

Be wary of scams in all countries and take steps to avoid them. Be especially wary of individuals offering to buy you tickets or other types of services.

It is wise to get a local SIM card in order to make and receive phone calls. This is much cheaper than an international call, enabling you to stay in touch with friends and family back home.

Trains are an excellent way to travel around Italy, though they may be pricey. They run throughout the country and provide a swift and convenient means of getting between cities.