How to Avoid Paying Bribes

Official corruption is an issue in many countries around the world, and travelers are often a target. Being asked to pay a bribe in return for documents or safe passage is something most people in the developed world won’t have had to deal with. However, in some developing countries the practice is extremely common.

So, what should you do if a border guard asks for a “contribution” in return for a passport stamp, or a policeman says a small payment will rule out a larger fine for a fictional traffic offense? Well, the answer is there is no set answer.

A lot depends on the context of the situation, starting with language. If you can feasibly pretend not to understand what is being asked of you, you might be able to bluff your way through. This approach tends to work best when the individual might be wary of being caught in the act.

However in some situations you may find yourself confronted with someone who spells out their demands in a language you understand, or indeed sign language. A popular approach here is to ask for a receipt for whatever visa fee or fine you are being asked to pay. In many cases the threat of an official document will end the discussion.

In the most extreme cases, where individuals have no fear of being caught asking for bribes, you might not have any choice but to pay. After all, you could wait forever to get your passport back from a soldier at an isolated jungle border crossing.

It’s best to try these approaches in turn, before finally admitting defeat in the most extreme cases. Remember if there is a queue of people waiting behind you, you have a better chance of getting through.