Before You Travel
Passports, entry permits and a few practical tips for your pilgrimage.
A little preparation lets you arrive rested and ready to pray. These notes are for travelers on a U.S. passport — if you travel on another passport, please call us.
Your passport
Your passport should be valid for at least six months after the date you return home, with blank pages for entry stamps. Check the date on yours the day you register; if it is close, renew it right away, as renewals can take several weeks.
U.S. passports — U.S. Department of State
Electronic travel authorizations
Several countries now ask U.S. travelers to apply online for permission to travel before they fly. It is not a visa, but without it the airline can refuse to board you. Apply only on the official government website or app. Look-alike websites charge extra fees for the same form.
United Kingdom — ETA
Required now for U.S. citizens visiting England, Scotland, Wales or Northern Ireland, including children.
Israel — ETA-IL
Required now for U.S. citizens visiting the Holy Land through Israel.
Europe — ETIAS
Coming, but not required yet. ETIAS will apply to most of Europe, including France, Italy, Spain, Portugal and Germany. The European Union will announce the start date several months in advance, and we will let our pilgrims know.
Other destinations, such as Jordan or Egypt, have their own entry rules. Your trip documents will tell you what your pilgrimage needs.
Weather, money and safety
- Check the forecast for your destination about a week before you leave, and pack layers — churches can be cool even in summer.
- Tell your bank and card company where you are going, and ask about foreign transaction fees.
- Enroll in the State Department's free Smart Traveler program so the U.S. embassy can reach you in an emergency.
Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)
Country information & travel advisories
Travel insurance
We recommend travel insurance for every pilgrimage. Learn more
Questions about your trip? Call us at 636.391.1000 or send us a message.