And now by popular demand, answers to your most commonly asked questions about travel visas.
What is a visa? A travel visa is a travel document required by many countries in addition to your passport. The visa shows that “a person is authorized to enter the territory for which [the visa] was issued, subject to the permission of an immigration officialat the time of actual entry.” It’s basically your permission to travel to that country.
Do I need a visa for travel? The short answer here is: It depends. As a US citizen you benefit from many favorable travel arrangements with countries around the world. In fact, US citizens are among the world’s freest travelers – we’re currently allowed visa free access to 159 other countries. For many countries though, you will need a valid travel visa in order to enter.
What does a travel visa look like? It varies depending on the country. Most will be a stamp in your passport, while others might be a separate piece of paper that needs to be carried in addition to your passport. Others will be a large sticker inserted directly inside your passport book.
Common countries requiring a visa include China, Brazil, Russia, India, Australia, Egypt, Vietnam and South Korea, but there are many others. Not sure if you need a travel visa? Ask us below, we’ll let you know if you need a visa and how you go about acquiring it.
How much does a visa cost? Expect to pay anywhere from $80 to $200, plus processing fees, depending on your destination country and your desired length of stay.
What kinds of visas are available? There are many different kinds of visas available for different kinds of travelers. For most, a tourist visa will serve their purpose. Additional visas include business, journalist, and diplomatic visas.
Do I need to obtain my travel visa before leaving home? Some countries, like Malaysia or Thailand for example, will issue visas to travelers upon arriving in country. Other countries, like India or China require that you apply-for and receive your approved travel visa before you embark on your trip. Side note: If your destination requires you have a visa issued before arriving in country, make sure you get the visa. Many travelers each year are turned back from destinations because they arrive without the appropriate travel documents.
How long will the process take?
This depends on the country you’re visiting. Some visas will be issued the same day; others can take weeks (or even months) to process, especially if you’re applying by mail. In a hurry? Let us know. We can turn most visa applications around within 24 hours.
How do I get a travel visa?
Common requirements include:
- Valid passport
- Completed visa application
- Two passport size photos
- Payment of required fees
- In some cases, additional identification such as a drivers license, birth certificate, or bank statement showing that you the necessary funds to complete your journey.
- Some countries require a copy of your travel ticket.
- On rare occasions you’ll be asked to provide a letter or statement of purpose discussing the details of your trip. The country may also require the contact information of your contact in-country may be required.
Need help getting your travel visa? Let us know. We’ll take out the guess work and guide your step-by-step through the entire application process. And best of all, we can turn most visa applications around within 24 hours!
