Multiple Entry Visa Information

A multiple entry visa allows you to enter a specific country more than once using the same visa. It is often used by travelers who plan to visit the same country multiple times over a set period. These visas are available for tourism, business, or as a crew member.

Multiple Entry vs. Single Entry Visa

A multiple entry visa is different from a single entry visa, which only allows you to enter the country one time. If you leave on a single entry visa, you cannot re-enter, even if you still have time left on your trip. A double entry visa is less common but allows for two entries.

How a Multiple Entry Visa Works

When you get a multiple entry visa, you must pay attention to two different dates:

1. Visa Validity

This is the timeframe when you are allowed to use the visa to enter the country. For example, a visa may be valid for 12 months from the date it is issued. You must enter the country before this 12-month period ends.

2. Duration of Stay

This is the maximum number of days you are allowed to stay in the country each time you visit. Most countries set a limit. For example, China may allow a stay of 30 days per entry, while Brazil may allow up to 90 days per entry. Some countries allow you to ask for an extension, while others do not.

Country-Specific Rules and Examples

Each country has its own rules for multiple entry visas. The validity period (how long the visa lasts) is often different from the duration of stay (how long you can be in the country per visit). Because rules can change, you should always check the official visa requirements for your destination before you travel.

Here are several common examples for U.S. citizens:

1. Electronic Authorizations (ETAs and eVisas)

Many modern travel authorizations are multiple-entry by default, but have strict limits on each stay.

• Schengen Area (ETIAS): The upcoming ETIAS is a multiple-entry authorization. It will be valid for three years, but it only allows stays of up to 90 days within any 180-day period.
• South Korea (K-ETA): The K-ETA is valid for 3 years and allows multiple visits. However, each visit is limited to 90 days.
• Australia (ETA): The Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) is a multiple-entry authorization valid for 12 months. Each individual visit to Australia on the ETA is limited to a maximum of three months.
• New Zealand (NZeTA): The NZeTA is also a multiple-entry authorization, valid for two years, with each stay limited to a maximum of three months.
• United Kingdom (ETA): The new UK ETA is valid for two years and allows multiple entries. The ETA itself doesn't grant a duration of stay, but U.S. citizens are typically allowed to visit for up to 6 months per entry.
• Israel (ETA-IL): The new ETA-IL is valid for two years, allows multiple entries, and permits a stay of up to 90 days per visit.
• Saudi Arabia: The tourist eVisa is a one-year, multiple-entry visa, but it limits the total time in the country to 90 days.

2. Visas That Offer a Choice (Single vs. Multiple)

Some countries require you to choose and pay for the type of entry you need during the application.

• Kenya (eTA): Kenya is a perfect example of this choice. You can apply for a standard single-entry eTA, or you can apply and pay more for a multiple-entry eTA, which is valid for up to 5 years.
• Egypt (eVisa): Egypt's eVisa system explicitly asks the applicant to select (and pay for) "Single Entry" or "Multiple Entry."
• Vietnam: The 90-day eVisa for Vietnam also requires you to select "single entry" or "multiple entry" on the application. The multiple-entry option is useful for travelers who wish to visit neighboring countries and return to Vietnam.
• Thailand: U.S. citizens can enter Thailand visa-free for 60 days (a single entry). If a traveler wants to make multiple trips, they must apply for a separate "Multiple Entry Tourist Visa" (METV) in advance.

3. Traditional Visas and Specific Rules

• China: The standard tourist visa for U.S. citizens is a multiple-entry visa valid for 10 years. This is a classic example of validity vs. duration, as each stay in China is limited to 60 or 90 days per entry.
• Brazil: The eVisa for U.S. citizens (required starting April 2025) is a multiple-entry visa. It is also valid for 10 years, but each stay in Brazil is limited to 90 days per entry.
• Russia: U.S. citizens can specifically apply for a 3-year multiple-entry visa, which must be requested on the application.
• Tanzania: Tanzania has a specific rule for U.S. citizens. When visiting for tourism, you are required to apply for the multiple-entry visa, not a single-entry one.

4. Examples of Single-Entry Only eVisas

It is important to not assume all eVisas are multiple-entry. Some are strictly for one trip.

• Indonesia: The standard e-Visa on Arrival (e-VOA) for Indonesia is for a single entry only.
• Myanmar: The tourist eVisa for Myanmar is also explicitly for a single entry.

Multiple Entry Visa FAQs

Here are answers to the most common questions about how multiple entry visas work for U.S. travelers.

How do I apply for a multiple entry visa?

This is usually an option on the country's standard visa application. You will often see a checkbox to request "Single Entry" or "Multiple Entry." You may need to provide extra documents to justify the request, like a travel itinerary, a business invitation, or proof of family. The final decision is always made by the embassy or consulate.

Is a multiple entry visa more expensive than a single entry visa?

Yes, in most cases, a multiple entry visa costs more than a single entry visa. The fee often depends on the visa's length (e.g., a 5-year visa will cost more than a 1-year visa). Always check the official fee schedule on the embassy's website before applying.

Does a 1-year multiple entry visa mean I can stay for one year?

No. This is a common point of confusion. A 1-year visa validity means you can use that visa to enter the country at any time within that year. The duration of stay (how long you can be in the country per visit) is listed separately and is often much shorter, such as 30, 90, or 180 days.

What happens if my passport expires but my visa is still valid?

This depends on the country. Many countries allow you to travel with two passports: your new, valid passport (for entry) and your old, expired passport (which contains the valid visa). However, some countries require you to formally "transfer" the visa to your new passport. You must check with the country's embassy before traveling to verify if this is possible.

Can I be denied entry even with a valid multiple entry visa?

Yes. A visa is not a guarantee of entry; it only gives you permission to request entry at the border. The final decision is always made by the immigration officer at the port of entry. They can deny entry if you do not have proof of onward travel, sufficient funds, or if the purpose of your trip seems to not align with your visa.