Plan B: what to do if you are delayed at the border

You are already in the hotel, dreaming of a beach or coffee with a view of the mountains - and suddenly:

The border guard puts your passport on hold, and something’s going wrong.

Don’t panic. Here’s a clear plan for what to do if you’re delayed at the border - whether it’s extra questions, waiting, or (in the worst case) a threat of denial.

🔹 1. Stay calm and polite

Border guards are not enemies. They’re just doing their job. Don’t raise your voice, don’t joke about visas and drugs, don’t argue. The smile and respectful tone work wonders.

🔹 2. Prepare the documents

They may need:

- return ticket

- Housing rental

- Insurance

- Financial confirmation (card statement)

- travel plan if asked

Perfect if all this is at hand (on a phone or paper).

🔹 3. Don’t be afraid of more questions

People often ask, "How much money do you have?" "What are you doing?" "Where will you live?" - this is not an interrogation, but a check of the standard entry criteria.

🔹 4. Don’t sign documents you don’t understand

If detention is prolonged, you have the right to ask for an interpreter or contact your country’s consulate.

🔹 5. If refused entry

This is rare, but it happens. In this case:

- Specify the reason for refusal

- ask for a written explanation

- contact the consulate

- ask the airline for help on your return

- keep all documents for possible appeal

🧳 For your information:

✔️ Always have hard copies of your car, insurance and return ticket

✔️ Don’t hide the truth - it’s better to tell honestly that you’re going to "walk around Paris" or "visit a friend for 2 weeks" than to make up