Missing a visa rule could cost you - a lot

A couple flew from Joburg to Auckland, with the return journey via Perth, but were refused boarding because their Perth layover was longer than eight hours, meaning they needed an Australian transit visa. Being Sunday afternoon, it was too late to apply. They had to buy two Cathay Pacific tickets home via Hong Kong, costing R22 862. Neither the airline nor the booking site warned them, but visas are the passenger’s responsibility. So do your own visa homework for every country you land in, even those you’re only passing through. If you’re unsure, pay a visa consultant. Far cheaper than a last-minute ticket home.