Short answer: Show a confirmed ticket or reservation out of the country, in your name, leaving within your permitted stay. The main options are a ticket you’ll use, a refundable ticket, a bus, train or ferry ticket, a cruise itinerary, or a confirmed flight reservation with an airline booking reference.
1. A return or onward ticket you’ll actually use
The simplest proof is a paid ticket for your real next journey. It’s the strongest evidence, but you have to commit to a date and route before you travel.
2. A refundable ticket
A fully refundable fare that you cancel later gives you a real ticket without committing. Read the fare rules carefully: refunds can take weeks, and some “refundable” fares carry fees.
3. A bus, train or ferry ticket
Where you can leave overland or by sea, a ticket to a neighbouring country can show your plans. Check that your destination and airline accept it — some ask specifically for a flight.
4. A cruise itinerary
If you’re leaving by sea, some countries accept your cruise itinerary. New Zealand, for example, accepts a cruise itinerary or a letter from the craft owner showing you’ll leave (New Zealand rules).
5. A confirmed flight reservation
A flight reservation is a real booking in your name, with an airline booking reference (PNR) that can be checked with the airline — without buying the full ticket. It’s held for a limited time, usually 48–72 hours, so book it close to your departure. GetOnwardPass provides these for $14 per passenger.
Avoid fake or edited tickets: they can’t be verified and can get you refused.
Tips for any option
- The name must match your passport.
- It should leave before your permitted stay ends.
- Keep a copy on your phone that works offline, and a printout if you can.
- Check what your destination asks for with our free checker.
Check the rules for your trip
Our free checker shows whether your destination asks for proof of onward travel, how long your passport lets you stay, and the official sources.
🌎 Open the checkerGet an onward reservation → $14Frequently asked questions
How far ahead should I get proof?
Check-in is the key moment. A paid ticket can be booked any time; a reservation that’s held for 48–72 hours should be made shortly before you fly.
Is a flight reservation legitimate?
Yes — it’s a real booking held with an airline, not a forged document. Whether it satisfies a particular country or airline depends on their rules, so check the official sources for your destination.
What if I don’t know my next destination yet?
A refundable ticket or a short-term reservation gives you proof without locking in your plans.
Sources
- New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) — Immigration New Zealand
- Timatic — International Air Transport Association (IATA)
- Free to enter the Philippines without visa (Executive Order No. 408) — Philippine e-Visa portal, Department of Foreign Affairs
- 8 U.S.C. §1187(a)(8) — Round-trip ticket (Visa Waiver Program) — US Code (govinfo.gov)
General information, not legal advice. Airlines and immigration officers make the final decision. Rules change — check the official source before you travel.