Archive for the ‘General Immigration’ Category

We often talk about the UK visa laws as if they’re draconian in their extremity, however there are a number of countries that make entering the UK on holiday a walk in the park. These nations make it seem easier to immigrate to Mars, than to their inner sanctions – so, what are the hardest countries to get into in the world?

Russia

The country’s rigid system may be a left over remnant from the days of the Iron Curtain and is quite complex. The most notable requirement is a letter written in Russian, however you will also need to pay up to $250 and answer an array of questions about health insurance and your education before entering.

North Korea

The Democratic People’s Republic of Korea is not the most diplomatic nation in the world and is not helping itself in talking terms when its visa process is taken into account. If you are a US citizen you will require the help of the Swedish Embassy to get a visa. Those who succeed will need to be escorted by North Korean guides during their stay, though entry is unlikely in most cases.

The Democratic Republic of Congo

Entry to the Congo is notoriously surrounded by red tape and those entering will require an invitation written within the country as well as a comprehensive immunisation list. Application fees are expensive too and it costs $100 for a one month visa. Though the authorities will inform you of only a 3 day wait for processing, it is quite common to be detained in airports and entry points for long periods of time, with the only way out being through the donation of unofficial fees.

Angola

One of the least visited countries by westerners is also one of the most beautiful in Africa. With its beautiful parks and thriving cities, this former Portuguese colony is a country to take a trip to. However, the biggest issue with a visit to Angola is its processing times. Reports suggest visitors can see visas processed within three days, but many also have to wait up to three months for their paper work to come through. Add to this a $140 consular fee, the requirement for two invitations, financial support of $100 a day and proof of immunisation and even Angola’s beautiful beaches may not be worth it – it really puts the UKBA’s UK immigration in perspective.

Iran

Another maligned nation, Iram is not open to tourism to a significant degree and most countries have to apply for a visa through the Swiss Embassy. Visas need to be petitioned by an Iran citizen and chances of being detained and imprisoned are often quite high upon visiting – therefore it mightn’t be worth your while.