Which countries might not let you in without a return ticket

In the world of travel, there's an unwritten rule: freedom of movement ends where the border guard asks about your return plans. Often, having a return flight is not just your foresight, but a strict legal requirement, ignoring which can lead to deportation or denial of boarding.

If you plan to buy tickets to Bangkok on Kupi.com or are looking for tickets to Bali, it's worth studying the visa policy of the chosen country in advance. It can be frustrating to learn about the need for a return document right at the check-in counter, when your luggage is already on the belt and only minutes remain until departure.

We have prepared a list of countries and regions where the absence of proof of your intention to leave the territory can become an insurmountable obstacle.

Southeast Asia

This region is a leader in the number of checks. Airlines here act as the 'first filter': if a tourist is not allowed into the country, the carrier is obliged to return them at their own expense and pay a large fine. Therefore, your ticket will be checked even at the departure airport.

Thailand

The Kingdom is famous for its hospitality, but migration rules are taken particularly seriously here. Border guards (and more often, airline staff) require a paid return ticket or a receipt for departure to a third country (e.g., Cambodia or Malaysia). This rule applies to both those entering on a visa-free stamp and holders of tourist visas. If you plan a long nomadic journey through Asia, it's best to prepare proof of departure in advance.

Indonesia (Bali)

Upon entering Bali or Jakarta, you will almost certainly be asked to show when and where you are flying out. Indonesian authorities carefully monitor that tourists do not become illegal expats. It is important that your departure date strictly falls within the permitted period of stay (usually 30 days with the possibility of extension).

Philippines

Here, the rules are taken to an absolute. Without a return ticket, you might not even be allowed to board the plane at your point of origin. Philippine law requires every foreign tourist to have a travel document from the country to the destination from which they arrived, or to any other place outside the Philippines.

Indian Ocean Islands

Sri Lanka

The island of tea plantations and endless beaches requires tourists to have a confirmed return flight. Although a visa (ETA) can be obtained online or at the airport, having a ticket remains a mandatory item for the application and check. Without it, the entry permit may be revoked on the spot.

Maldives

It might seem that people only fly to the Maldives for vacation, but even here the law is strict. To obtain a free visa upon arrival, you must present not only a return ticket but also confirmation of a hotel booking for the entire duration of your stay. If you are traveling 'independently', be prepared to explain your itinerary and show financial guarantees.

Latin America and the Caribbean

For Russian citizens, entry to many countries in this region is visa-free, which creates an illusion of complete relaxation. However, this is not the case.

• Brazil and Argentina: officially, a return ticket is a mandatory condition for visa-free entry. In practice, border guards check it selectively, but if you raise suspicion (for example, due to the absence of a hotel booking), the ticket will be a decisive argument.

• Mexico: when obtaining an electronic authorization and crossing the border, having a ticket out of the country is a key factor. Mexican authorities are fighting illegal migration, so solo travelers with a one-way ticket are treated with particular scrutiny.

Middle East

Israel

In this country, security and migration control are paramount. Israel's Border Control is known for its detailed interrogations. In addition to a return ticket, you may be asked to show medical insurance, proof of solvency (cash or bank statement), and even an invitation from the host party. The absence of a return flight will in 90% of cases lead to additional screening in the 'interview room'.

What to do if you don't know your exact return date?

If your plans are vague and your thirst for adventure doesn't tolerate strict boundaries, there are several legal ways to comply with the rules:

• Refundable fare. The most reliable option. Buy a ticket on Kupi.com that can be canceled without loss (or with a minimal penalty) after crossing the border. Yes, it's more expensive, but it's the price for your peace of mind.

• Low-cost flight "to nowhere". Sometimes it's cheaper to buy the cheapest ticket out of the country to the nearest foreign city (for $15-20) than to explain yourself to the police. You might not use it, but it will serve as your "shield".

• Booking with deferred payment. Some services allow you to create a booking with a real PNR code, which appears as active in the airline's system for 24-72 hours. This time will be just enough to pass all checkpoints.

Travel light and remember: having a way home is not a restriction of freedom, but merely a small formality that opens up the whole world to you.