What is Basic Travelers allowance , ..

Question

how come they ask to an american who just wants to go home

Answer 1

Since you did not provide much info, I can only guess:

Basic travelers allowance could mean, that in order to travel, a person must have a minimum amount of money for food,accommodation etc apart from the air ticket.

If you could elaborate a bit and at least mention WHO is asking you that, I might be of more help

Answer 2

BTA In Nigeria, BTA is Basic travel allowance, correct.

BTA (or some of it, to a max of $2,500) is the amount the Fed govt allows an individual to carry when departing the country without having to declare it at customs.

I think the max BTA now is $2,500/quarter i.e every 4 months.

This currency restriction is part of govt's efforts at preventing illegal transfers of money, laundering, capital flight etc.

To purchase BTA, you are required to bring to the issuing bank:

1. valid int'l passport with a travel visa.

2. airline ticket

3. cash in the local currency to be converted to int'l currency of your choice (usually traveler's cheque, not always though)

I'm sceptical of the claim that your friend was denied boarding because they didn't have BTA, usually that is only an issue at the time of filing (proof of funds for visit/study) for a visa at the embassy of the country he intends to visit!

That said, Nigerian airport officials tend to be arbitrary, it could happen!

Take care.