Paperwork for an international motorcycle expedition is not a border formality: without insurance that explicitly covers motorcycling, the organizer cannot allow a start — even with a paid deposit. Forty-five days out, assemble passport (6+ months validity), category A license, route visas, policy, and booking copies. Below is the verification order and common mistakes on guided tours in Asia, the Caucasus, and Africa.
Passport and visas
Passport validity: at least six months after tour end. Schengen routes need two blank pages; Vietnam and Morocco e-visas must match calendar dates.
Second passport (where applicable) needs ~30 business days. Country lists live on the tour card and destinations hub.
License and IDP
Category A is mandatory. An International Driving Permit is required on most routes — obtain before visa submission if the consulate asks.
Store copies cloud + paper dry bag. Keep originals in your jacket, not panniers.
Insurance: medical + motorcycle
Policy must explicitly cover motorcycle riding over 125 cc or adventure travel with motorcycling. Medical limits: from €50k in Europe/Caucasus, €100k in remote regions.
Helicopter evac and repatriation should be line items. Credit-card “travel” perks often exclude motorcycles — read exclusions.
Booking, waiver, and contacts
After calendar confirmation you receive deposit amount, deadline, and document list. Waiver is signed pre-start — standard for guided format.
Save escort and insurer hotline offline. Date changes follow the booking policy.
| Document | Lead time | Risk | Action |
|---|---|---|---|
| Passport | 180+ days | Low pages | Check expiry |
| Schengen visa | 45–60 | Slots | Book consulate |
| e-visa | 14–21 | Dates | Match calendar |
| IDP | 14 | No class A | Before visa |
| Insurance | 7 | No ride | Explicit cover |
| MIR deposit | per email | Slot | Pay on time |
FAQ
01Is a domestic license enough without IDP?
Depends on countries on route. MIR recommends an IDP for international expeditions — confirm in briefing.
02Does the deposit include insurance?
No. Insurance is the rider’s responsibility unless a specific departure contract states otherwise.
03What if a visa is refused?
See cancellation policy: documented refusal may allow transfer or partial refund per tour terms.
04Is a transit visa needed?
Check flight layovers — sometimes rerouting avoids transit visas.
05Can I ride my own motorcycle?
Most departures use organizer bikes. Customs and Carnet are separate — ask via contacts before booking.