You’ve just landed—now it’s time to breeze through immigration. To make a good first impression, it’s important to dress smartly. No need for a suit, but try to avoid sweatpants. You’ll want to look presentable and put-together.
When you approach the officer, a friendly greeting can go a long way. Consider adding a local touch by greeting them in their language! A simple “Bonjour” in France, “Hola” in Spain, “Guten Tag” in Germany, “Grüezi” in Switzerland, “Ciao” in Italy, “Nǐ hǎo” in China, “Konnichiwa” in Japan, “Annyeonghaseyo” in South Korea, or “Sawasdee” in Thailand can make the interaction more pleasant. Speak confidently and keep your answers clear and straightforward. It shows respect for their time and makes the process smoother for both of you.
When asked about your plans, share a little extra detail to show that you’ve thought ahead, but don’t go overboard. For example, if they ask, “What will you be doing here?” a simple answer like, “I’m visiting some historical sites and exploring the city for a week,” is perfect.
If you really want to stand out, ask how their day is going. A simple “How’s your day going?” can break the monotony of their routine and leave a positive impression. If they don’t reply, just smile and move on—they might not be in the mood for chit-chat! Haha.
Finally, have a clear plan for what you’re doing next—whether it’s heading to your hotel or meeting friends. Knowing your next move shows that you’re organized and on top of things.
Stay friendly, stay clear, and you’ll be on your way in no time! Plus, you’ll feel a lot more cheerful after breezing through that immigration process!
