An eVisa is an electronic visa that lets eligible travelers apply online for permission to enter a foreign country. Instead of visiting an embassy or consulate, you usually complete an online application, upload passport and travel documents, pay the visa fee, and receive the approved visa by email or through an official government portal.
U.S. citizens may need an eVisa for tourism, business, transit, or other short-term travel, depending on the destination. Some countries allow Americans to visit without a visa, while others require an eVisa or other type of visa before departure or approval before arrival.
Before you apply, confirm the official visa rules for your destination, your passport validity, permitted length of stay, entry type, processing time, and required documents. Applying through the wrong website, choosing the wrong visa type, or waiting too long can delay your trip or prevent you from boarding your flight.
Use the guide below to learn how eVisas work, which countries offer them, what documents you may need, how much they cost, and how to avoid common application mistakes and how to get a visa fast.
eVisa Guide Content
1 Countries That Accept e-Visas
2 Key Tips for Applying for an eVisa
3 Popular Destinations That Accept eVisas
3.1 Brazil eVisa
3.2 Cambodia eVisa
3.3 Egypt eVisa
3.4 India eVisa
3.6 Turkey eVisa
3.7 Vietnam eVisa
Countries That Accept e-Visas
There are over 25 countries that currently accept eVisas as acceptable travel credentials. This number continues to grow. For now, most of these countries are located in Africa, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia.
Note: US travelers will no longer need to have visa to travel to Brazil for tourism or business effective June 17, 2019
Several countries with eVisa programs also allow travelers to get a visa on arrival (VOA). This may seem like a great option, but it often involves lengthy waits at the destination airport.
Furthermore, if there are problems with a VOA, you are unlikely to have access to the same documents and supports that would be at arm's-length at home. In some cases, relying on a VOA can lead to potentially challenging, expensive, and/or trip-ending issues.
On the other hand, completing the eVisa process can ensure you have peace of mind about your travel documentation before you travel, rather than once you land on foreign soil.
Key Tips for Applying for an eVisa
Just like applying for a passport, applying for an eVisa requires you to follow specific guidelines, complete an application, produce specific identifying documents, and wait for your application to be processed.
Key factors to pay attention to:
Reason for travel restrictions
Some countries only allow eVisa applications for specific travel purposes (tourism, business, work, study, transit, medical, or permanent residence). Even though a country may offer eVisas as an option, be sure it is an acceptable choice for your specific reason for travel.
Be prepared to be asked for documentation of your travel plans as part of the application process.
If you are traveling as a tourist, an itinerary or hotel confirmation is usually good enough. However, some nations require you to book a hotel stay or tour through their eVisa portal in order to qualify for eVisa processing. Others require a sponsoring host like a business or local citizen.
The number of times you plan to enter the country
Just like traditional visas, eVisas are only good for a specified number of entries. Many are single-entry, but it is becoming more common to find double-entry or multiple-entry eVisa options. Know that the fewer entries you are seeking, the faster you will likely get your eVisa approved. Therefore, plan to get an eVisa that most closely matches your travel plans.
Not all ports of entry accept eVisas
Just because a country has an eVisa program does not guarantee that an eVisa can get you through every border crossing point. Some countries are very specific about the airports, roads, and seaports that are equipped to accept eVisas in place of traditional visas. Before applying for an eVisa, be sure to check to see that your travel plans include eVisa-friendly locations.
Passport validity requirements
When it comes to visas (eVisas or otherwise), some countries are very specific about how much validity must be remaining on your passport before the expiration date. Before beginning an eVisa application, double-check this and other foreign entry requirements for every country you plan to visit.
It is a good idea to follow the six-month validity rule anytime you plan on traveling abroad. If your passport expiration date is coming up, be sure to complete the renewal process prior to applying for an eVisa. Know that you can get a passport renewed in as few as 24 hours by hiring a registered passport expediting service. If you can afford to wait at least 3 weeks, there are other passport expediting options available as well.
Processing time
Know that even though eVisa applications are completed online, most eVisas are not processed instantly. The time it takes for an eVisa to be issued will vary by country. Be sure to leave yourself enough time before your departure date to receive your eVisa authorization.
If you are short on time, there are reputable visa expediting services that can help facilitate a faster turnaround time for your travel visa. That said, while passport expeditors can get a passport into your hands in as little as 24 hours, visas (even expedited ones) tend to take longer because they involve coordination with a foreign nation.
Choosing the right e-mail address
While the application for an eVisa may be entirely online, most countries will still expect you to produce a physical copy of your eVisa authorization. In most cases, this means you will be sent an e-mail that you will need to print out. When completing your application, be sure to select an e-mail that is secure, that you can access easily, and that you check often.
Know your bank's anti-fraud protocols
Many eVisa applicants are surprised when they click submit to send their applications only to then have their payment denied. Many US banks reject charges from foreign countries (especially those you have never visited) as a safety precaution. Before applying for an eVisa, notify the bank or credit card company you plan to use for making your online payment.
Keep copies of EVERYTHING
Throughout the eVisa application process, you will be giving and receiving a lot of information. Take notes and/or screenshots of each step so that you have the information you need when and if you need it.
This includes:
- login/password combinations
- verification and/or registration codes
- the email address you choose
- your payment method and amount
- any invoices or receipts
- a list of any documents you uploaded
Once your eVisa is issued, print multiple copies. Many countries require you to show your eVisa upon both entry and departure.
The Most Popular Destinations for American Travelers That Accept eVisas
Below are several of the most popular American travel destinations where you can apply for and use an eVisa.
Brazil eVisa
U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Brazil for tourism, business, transit, sports, or artistic activities. Brazil reinstated the visa requirement for U.S., Canadian, and Australian passport holders on April 10, 2025, and eligible travelers can apply online for a Brazil eVisa before departure.
To apply, you typically need a valid U.S. passport, a digital passport-style photo, a completed online visa application, travel details, and any supporting documents required for your trip. The U.S. Department of State currently lists a tourist visa as required for Brazil, and airlines may check your visa before boarding.
Brazil eVisa rules, fees, document requirements, processing times, and permitted activities can change, so confirm the latest requirements before applying.
For a complete step-by-step guide, visit our dedicated page: Brazil eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also apply online through iVisa.
Cambodia eVisa
U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Cambodia, and many travelers can apply online for a Cambodia eVisa before departure. The tourist eVisa is generally valid for a single entry, must be used within 3 months of issue, and allows a stay of up to 30 days.
To apply, you typically need a valid U.S. passport, a digital passport-style photo, a scan of your passport data page, travel details, and payment for the visa fee. Cambodia reduced its tourist eVisa fee to $30 beginning in 2025, though processing or service fees may apply depending on where you apply.
Cambodia eVisa rules, fees, accepted ports of entry, extension options, and processing times can change, so confirm the latest requirements before applying.
For a complete step-by-step guide, visit our dedicated page: Cambodia eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also apply online through iVisa.
Egypt eVisa
U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Egypt. Many travelers can apply online for an Egypt eVisa before departure, while others may be able to get a tourist visa on arrival at approved Egyptian airports. Applying online can help you avoid extra steps at the airport and reduce the risk of arrival delays.
To apply for an Egypt eVisa, you typically need a valid U.S. passport, a copy of your passport information page, travel details, accommodation information, a valid email address, and payment for the visa fee. Tourist visas are commonly issued for short stays, and visa-on-arrival options are generally for stays of up to 30 days.
Egypt visa rules, fees, entry options, document requirements, and processing times can change, so confirm the latest requirements before applying.
For a complete step-by-step guide, visit our dedicated page: Egypt eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also apply online through iVisa.
India eVisa
U.S. citizens need a visa to visit India, and many travelers can apply online through India's eVisa system. Indian eVisas are available for several travel purposes, including tourism, business, medical treatment, medical attendant travel, conference travel, and some additional categories listed by Indian authorities.
The India eVisa process usually requires an online application, a valid passport, a digital passport-style photo, a scan of your passport bio page, and any supporting documents required for your visa type. Tourist eVisas may be issued for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years, but the allowed stay depends on the visa category and current Indian government rules.
Because India's visa rules, fees, eligible entry ports, and processing times can change, confirm the latest requirements before applying.
For a complete step-by-step guide, visit our dedicated page: India eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also apply online through iVisa.
Saudi Arabia eVisa
U.S. citizens can apply online for a Saudi Arabia tourist eVisa before departure. The Saudi eVisa is usually issued as a one-year, multiple-entry visa and allows tourists to stay in Saudi Arabia for up to 90 days per visit.
To apply, you typically need a valid U.S. passport, a recent digital photo, travel details, a valid email address, and payment for the visa and required insurance fees. The tourist eVisa may be used for tourism, events, visiting family or relatives, leisure travel, and Umrah outside the Hajj season, but it cannot be used for work or study.
Saudi Arabia visa rules, fees, insurance requirements, permitted activities, and processing times can change, so confirm the latest requirements before applying.
For a complete step-by-step guide, visit our dedicated page: Saudi Arabia Tourist eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also apply online through iVisa.
Turkey eVisa
U.S. citizens traveling to Turkey for tourism generally do not need a visa for stays of 90 days or less within a 180-day period. This means most American tourists no longer need to apply for a Turkey eVisa before a short visit.
You still need a valid U.S. passport, and Turkish entry rules may vary for longer stays, work, study, official travel, or other non-tourist purposes. Official passport holders are still required to obtain a visa before entering Turkey.
Because Turkey's entry requirements can change, confirm the latest rules before booking or traveling.
For more details, visit our dedicated page: Turkey eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also check Turkey visa requirements through iVisa.
Vietnam
U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Vietnam, and many travelers can apply online for a Vietnam eVisa before departure. The eVisa is available for short-term travel and may be issued for single or multiple entries with validity of up to 90 days.
To apply, you typically need a valid U.S. passport, a digital passport-style photo, a scan of your passport data page, travel details, and payment for the visa fee. Official Vietnam eVisa fees are currently $25 for single entry and $50 for multiple entry, and processing often takes several working days.
Vietnam eVisa rules, fees, accepted ports of entry, and processing times can change, so confirm the latest requirements before applying.
For a complete step-by-step guide, visit our dedicated page: Vietnam eVisa for U.S. Citizens. You can also apply online through iVisa.
Other Countries That Offer eVisas
Americans can apply for eVisas for the countries listed below. Most official eVisa application pages include links to frequently asked question (FAQ) pages that can help address basic concerns.
As always, be sure consult with the US Department of State's travel advisory website before planning any international travel. In addition, check the status of your passport status to ensure you have enough validity remaining for entry into your desired international destination(s).
If on your arrival date you will have less than six months left before your passport expires, be sure to renew your passport before attempting to procure an eVisa. Otherwise, you may risk having your application denied and forfeiting your payment.
Country |
Allowed stay |
Official eVisa application links |
Other information |
30 consecutive days / 90 total days per year |
The eVisa program serves as a preapproval for a visa issued upon arrival (VOA). |
||
unlimited visits per year up to 3 months per stay |
The program is referred to as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) instead of eVisa. |
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90 days |
Armenian ancestry and/or Armenian stamps in your passport will result in denial of entry.
Visitors must register with the State Migration service upon arrival if staying in the country for more than 10 days. |
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30 days with the option for a 14-day extension |
An eVisa is considered an “unsponsored visa” that is only available to applicants in specific cases (like certain types of tourism). Work and business visas require an official sponsorship as do visits to certain nationals. |
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30 and 90 day eVisas available |
Each traveler must present an International Certificate of Vaccination. |
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a total of 90 days per year |
Starting June 17, 2019, Americans will no longer need a visa to travel to Brazil for tourism or business. |
||
90 days |
Port Bouet Airport is the only acceptable port of entry for eVisa travelers. |
||
31 days |
Validity begins based upon the date you set in your application (which should be the same as your entry date).
EVisas are only available for tourism and commercial activity. |
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30 days |
Single- and multiple-entry eVisas are available, but only for tourism. |
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30 or 90 day eVisas available |
Addis Ababa Bole International Airport is the only port of entry that accepts eVisas. |
||
90 days |
Libreville International Airport is the only acceptable port of entry for eVisa travelers |
||
90 days |
The eVisa receipt must be printed out and presented at the chosen border crossing. |
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3 months |
EVisas are only available for tourism. |
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1 month if unsponsored / 3 months if sponsored |
Providing credentials of a sponsoring host (i.e. business or family member) is the only way to secure an eVisa with a duration longer than 1 month. |
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60 days / extensions up to 30 days are available |
eVisas available for tourism, short-term business, aid workers, and journalists |
||
30 days |
Each traveler must present an International Certificate of Vaccination. |
||
30 days / extensions for up to 6 months are available |
The program is referred to as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) instead of eVisa. |
||
45 days |
EVisas are accepted at all ports of entry. |
||
90 days |
Printout of the successful eVisa application, a return plane ticket, and relevant tour itinerary information required to have on hand for entry.
Each traveler must present an International Certificate of Vaccination. |
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varies |
Upon arrival, eVisa holders must register if staying for more than 2 days.
Different visas are issued whether you are staying in a hotel or a private residence. |
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90 days |
Payment is due upon arrival at the port of entry.
Entry can be denied without explanation even with an approved eVisa. |
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3 months |
Payment is due upon arrival at the port of entry. |
The Future of e-Visas
As of now, eVisas are still relatively new. Less than 20% of the world's nations allow Americans to enter their respective countries with an eVisa.
Many nations are still reluctant to adopt electronic visa programs, but in time, the convenience will likely overcome the concern. In addition, there are notable similarities between the online gateways used by current eVisa programs.
As eVisas become more ubiquitous, it is likely that eVisa application websites will begin to further conform to similar standards and protocols making the application process even easier for travelers.
Preparing for international travel can be a daunting experience; but simplifying and digitizing the visa application experience creates a more streamlined approval process, ease wait times at border crossings, and help promote both tourism and international business.
If you have the opportunity to take advantage of an eVisa instead of a standard application, it would certainly be in your interest to do so!
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