‘For travel rules or visas, AI should be a reference, not final authority’

Relationship advice? Ask AI. Career tip? Ask AI. Travel help? Just ask AI! All good – until a major hiccup occurs. A Spanish couple recently missed their flight to Puerto Rico after their AI advisor told them they didn’t need a visa, skipping the mandatory ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization – an online application determining EU visitors’ eligibility to enter the US).

Travel agents warn this isn’t the first AI-related travel mishap. “AI can plan trips, but it can’t be trusted for visa rules, flight changes, or critical documents,” they caution.‘Have seen travellers stranded at airports due to half-verified AI advice’Travel agents note that many travellers now face issues similar to what the Spanish couple faced when they rely solely on AI. “AI should be used as a first step, not the final word,” says Ravi Gosain, President, Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO).

“It’s great for inspiration, itineraries, and comparisons, but for visas, rules, or documents, always verify with official sources. Immigration regulations change frequently, and even small oversights can derail a trip.

I’ve seen travellers miss cruises or get stranded at airports because they assumed e-visas applied everywhere or that vaccination and insurance were optional.”

‘AI info can be outdated’Industry experts say such cases are increasingly common. “Just last month, we assisted three families who nearly missed their vacations due to incorrect AI tip on documentation,” says Heniel Rupaarelia, founder and managing director of a travel tech platform.

“AI info can be months or even years outdated, especially with fast-changing travel regulations. Requirements shift weekly, sometimes daily, and AI systems cannot access real-time government databases.

”‘Use AI for ideas, not to verify rules’Akash Rastogi, from a Gurgaon-based travel agency, points out that he recently came across a couple of a different nationality who could not board a flight to Thailand because of the same reason. “Be very specific about your question and narrow down your search by asking one question at a time,” he advises people seeking travel tips from AI.

Offering travellers guidance on planning, Gosain adds, “Use AI for ideas, but verify rules with official sources and trusted travel advisors before you take a trip.

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‘Should only depend on embassy websites/official government websites for visa-related info’Visa rules differ by country and change often due to disruptions or closures, so experts urge using official government sites. Akash says, “Visa rules and regulations change and differ from one nationality to another. It is best to cross-check the information given by AI with the embassy, travel consulting companies, or the airlines.

In fact, check these details directly from the official website only.”Hari Ganapathy, co-founder of a travel agency, agrees, “Always cross-check critical information, particularly when it comes to visas, entry requirements, or local regulations, with official government sources or embassies before making any travel decisions.”