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Travel Visa Information: Types, Requirements, and How to Apply

Travel Visa Pages in a U.S. Passport with Entry Stamps for Multiple Countries

Many destinations require a travel visa, which grants you permission to arrive at a port of entry for a specific purpose and time.

Having a visa doesn't guarantee you'll be allowed in. It simply allows you to present yourself at the border, where an immigration officer will decide whether to approve your entry.

Every country sets its own visa rules, and the requirements can vary depending on the reason for your trip. Failing to get the right visa or arriving without one when it's required can result in denied entry.

This page explains what a travel visa is, when you need one, and how to check the requirements before you go. Knowing the rules in advance can help you avoid delays, rebooking costs, or being turned away at the border.

Need a passport fast? Visit iVisa.com.

What is a Visa?

A visa is a travel document that can serve multiple purposes such as:

  • Defining the purpose of your travel as a foreign national
  • Certifying how long you are legally allowed to remain in the host country
  • Attesting that you can financially support yourself for the duration of your visit
  • Identifying the business associates and/or permanent residents who may be hosting or supporting you during your stay

There are many foreign countries where no visa is required to visit. Some countries that do require an entry visa issue it upon the visitor's arrival. Most countries require you to apply for a travel visa in advance.

Each travel visa process has its own application, required documents, and wait times. So, if a visa is required, you will want to start the visa application process as soon as possible to avoid delays to your travel plans.

Different Visa Types and Requirements

Your visa requirements will vary depending on your destination country and the visa type you need. The most common types of nonimmigrant visas are:

  • Tourism - This visa is for individuals who want to visit a country for vacations, sightseeing, social events, visiting family, or visiting friends. It does not allow the holder to work or engage in any business activities in the host country.

    • Most tourist visas are valid for 90 days from the date of arrival.

  • Business - This visa allows foreign nationals to engage in business-related activities in the host country. This could include attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts. However, it does not permit the holder to accept formal employment.

    • The length of the business visa will usually vary depending on the type of business activity it is granted for.

  • Work - This visa is issued to foreign nationals who have been granted permission to work in the host country. The individual must usually have a job offer from a company in the host country. As such, the visa is often tied to that specific employer.

    • Work visas can be issued for short stays or multiple years depending on the host country's laws and the nature of the applicant's employment.

  • Study - A student visa allows foreign nationals to study at an educational institution in the host country. The individual must usually have an offer of a place at the institution and may need to prove they have sufficient funds to support themselves during their studies.

    • Study visas are usually issued only for the specific duration of the student's educational program.

  • Transit - A transit visa allows a foreign national to pass through the host country on their way to another destination.

    • Transit visas are special cases and, as such, are typically only valid for a short period and do not permit the holder to leave the transit area of the airport or other transportation hub.

Getting the right visa for your intended travel is very important. Failing to comply with the terms of your visa can and will result in deportation back to your home country.

Multiple Entry Visa

In some cases, a visa applicant may need to enter, leave, and reenter a foreign country. Since most visas are only valid for a single entry, this means foreign nationals would need to reapply for a new visa before each visit. When you consider the wait times associated with getting travel documents, this can be very inconvenient.

Depending on the entry requirements of the country you plan to visit, you may be eligible for a multiple-entry visa that will allow you to reenter the country more than once. In most cases, you will need to provide evidence that you need a multi-entry visa. Some countries require you to complete a separate application and provide additional documents to prove that you meet the eligibility requirements.

Once issued, multiple entry visas can typically be used without any limit on how many times you leave and re-enter the country. That said, most countries limit the duration of each stay. Typically, this can be anywhere from 30 days to up to three months (90 days).

The reason for these limits is to prevent visa holders from overstaying their welcome on a nonimmigrant visa. A multiple-entry visa is not intended to be a way of circumventing the rules set by a nation's immigration services for permanent residence.

How to Get a Travel Visa

If a travel visa is one of the foreign entry requirements for the places you plan to visit, you need to obtain it from the appropriate embassy or consulate office. Most foreign consular representatives are located in major cities in the United States such as New York, Houston, and Los Angeles. There are also a large number of embassies in Washington, DC. Some countries allow you to submit a visa application by mail, others require a personal appearance, and some even require a visa interview.

If you choose to apply by mail, be sure to account for processing time. Just like applying for a new passport, there can be a lengthy wait time before you receive approval for your visa application. Once processed, your travel document and supporting documents will be mailed to you.

Many countries now offer an online visa application. The amount of processing time involved with getting a visa online will depend on the destination country's visa requirements and the efficiency of their systems and bureaucracies. At best, you may receive an evisa instantly. At a minimum, you will eliminate the wait time associated with mailing your application and materials or delivering them in person to an embassy or consulate.

As soon as you receive your travel visa, check for mistakes. Errors can cause problems at ports of entry and should be corrected before you travel. Attempting to use a visa that contains errors could result in being turned away at your port of entry.

What If I Need a Travel Visa Fast?

U.S. passport and foreign travel visa expediting services are helpful if you need to get your visa fast or if you do not have time or the means to submit the application yourself. You can request expedited service online and let the expeditor deliver the application to the embassy or consulate for a reasonable fee.

One reputable visa expediting service that we highly recommend is iVisa. They are experienced visa expeditors with tens of thousands of strong, positive ratings on TrustPilot. If you need a visa quickly, or you just need some extra support through the visa application process, iVisa can help ensure you get the proper visa for your trip and get it as soon as possible.

If you are in a rush, the tool below can help you determine your specific visa needs as well as get you started on the application process

So, Do I Need a Travel Visa?

Again, not everyone will need a visa for every destination country. A passport valid for the duration of your trip may be sufficient for visa-free travel to many countries. Some countries require a passport valid for up to six months but still do not require passport holders to obtain any type of visitor visa.

Below is a directory of some of the most popular travel destinations and their visa requirements. For country-specific travel visa information, click on the appropriate link below.

Note: This is not an exhaustive list, so it is best practice to reach out to the consulate or embassy of your destination country to be sure you comply with their most up-to-date travel document requirements.

Need a passport fast? Visit iVisa.com.

For country-specific travel visa information, click on the appropriate link below.

Popular Destinations That Require a Visa

Country Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
AustraliaYeseVisitor or ETA required
BrazilYese-visa required as of April 2025
ChinaYesVisa required in advance
EgyptYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
IndiaYesE-visa available
KenyaYesE-visa only (no visa on arrival)
Myanmar (Burma)YesE-visa available
RussiaYesVisa required in advance
Saudi ArabiaYesE-visa available for tourism
VietnamYesVisa-on-arrival with pre-approval

Africa

Key Details for Africa Visa Requirements

  • Visa on Arrival vs E-Visa: Many African countries offer visa on arrival or e-visas to U.S. citizens, but some only accept one method. Travelers should confirm which method is preferred and whether advance application is recommended to avoid delays.
  • Proof of Yellow Fever Vaccination: Several African countries-especially in Central and West Africa-require proof of yellow fever vaccination for entry, particularly if arriving from a country with yellow fever risk.
  • Passport Validity: Most African countries require that your passport be valid for at least 6 months beyond your date of arrival and have at least one or two blank pages for visas/stamps.
  • Security and Safety Considerations: Some countries on the list-such as Libya, Sudan, and parts of the Democratic Republic of Congo-are considered high-risk by the U.S. State Department. Always check the latest travel advisories before planning a trip.
  • Tourist Cards and Fees: In some countries, a tourist card or entry fee is required on arrival even if no visa is needed. These are sometimes cash-only and must be paid in local currency or USD.
  • Regional Visa Programs: Some regions in Africa offer unified visas, such as the East Africa Tourist Visa, which allows travel to Kenya, Rwanda, and Uganda with a single visa.
  • Overland Border Crossings: If entering a country via land border crossings, visa-on-arrival may not be available at all checkpoints. E-visa or consulate-issued visas might be required in advance.
  • Get a Visa Fast: If you're required to have a travel visa and need to get it quickly, visit iVisa.com.

Country Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
AlgeriaYesVisa required in advance
AngolaNoVisa-free up to 30 days
BeninYesE-visa available
BotswanaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
Burkina FasoYesE-visa or visa on arrival available
BurundiYesVisa on arrival
Cabo Verde (Cape Verde)NoVisa-free up to 30 days for tourists
CameroonYesVisa required in advance
Central African RepublicYesVisa required
ChadYesVisa required
ComorosYesVisa on arrival available
Republic of CongoYesVisa required
Democratic Republic of CongoYesVisa required
Côte d'Ivoire (Ivory Coast)YesVisa required
DjiboutiYesvisa on arrival available
EgyptYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
Equatorial GuineaYesVisa required
EritreaYesVisa required
Eswatini (Swaziland)NoVisa-free for up to 30 days
EthiopiaYesE-visa
GabonYesE-visa available
The GambiaYesVisa required
GhanaYesVisa required
GuineaYesVisa required
Guinea-BissauYesVisa on arrival
KenyaYesE-visa only (no visa on arrival)
LesothoNoVisa-free up to 180 days
LiberiaYesVisa required
LibyaYesVisa required; U.S. government warns against travel
MadagascarYesVisa on arrival available
MalawiNoVisa-free up to 30 days
MaliYesVisa required
MauritaniaYese-visa confirmation presented at airport
MauritiusNoVisa-free for up to 60 days
MoroccoNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
MozambiqueNoVisa-free up to 90 days
NamibiaNoVisa on arrival available, prior online application required
NigerYesVisa required
NigeriaYesVisa required
RwandaYesVisa on arrival
São Tomé and PríncipeNoVisa-free up to 15 days
SenegalNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
SeychellesYesETA required, obtain in advance
Sierra LeoneYesVisa on arrival
SomaliaYesVisa on arrival
South AfricaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
South SudanYesE-visa required
SudanYesVisa required
TanzaniaYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
TogoYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
TunisiaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
UgandaYesE-visa
ZambiaNoVisa-free up to 90 days
ZimbabweYesVisa on arrival

Asia

Key Details for Asia Visa Requirements

  • Frequent Use of E-Visas: Many Asian countries offer e-visas or electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) that are simple to obtain online before travel. Always use official government portals to apply.
  • Visa-Free Access Is Common in East and Southeast Asia: U.S. citizens enjoy visa-free stays in popular destinations like Japan, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore, usually for 30-90 days.
  • India and China Require Advance Visas: India offers an e-visa, but China requires a visa in advance through a consulate or visa center. Plan ahead for these destinations.
  • Strict Entry Rules in Some Countries: Countries like Iran, North Korea, and Syria have complex visa processes or restrictions. U.S. travelers often need a sponsor, must book through approved agencies, or are banned entirely.
  • ETIAS Not Required (Yet): Unlike Europe, Asia does not have a unified travel authorization system, so visa policies vary widely between countries. Always check each country's official website.
  • Passport Validity and Blank Pages: Most Asian countries require your passport to be valid for at least 6 months beyond your arrival date and have one or more blank visa pages.
  • Proof of Onward Travel & Accommodation: Even in visa-free countries, immigration officers may ask for proof of onward travel, hotel reservations, or sufficient funds at the border.
  • Get a Visa Fast: If you're required to have a travel visa and need to get it quickly, visit iVisa.com.

Country Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
AfghanistanYesVisa required; avoid travel due to conflict
ArmeniaYesVisa-free up to 90 days
AzerbaijanYesE-visa available
BahrainYesE-visa or visa on arrival
BangladeshYesVisa required, obtain in advance
BhutanYesVisa now available through their Department of Immigration website
BruneiNoElectronic arrival card registration required
CambodiaYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
China (mainland)YesVisa required in advance
CyprusNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
GeorgiaNoVisa-free for up to 365 days
IndiaYesE-visa available
IndonesiaYese-Visa on arrival in Jakarta and Bali
IranYesVisa required; strict entry rules
IraqYese-visa available
IsraelNoETA required as of January 2025
JapanNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
JordanYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
KazakhstanNoVisa-free for up to 30 days
KuwaitYesvisa on arrival
KyrgyzstanNoVisa-free for up to 60 days
LaosYesVisa on arrival or e-visa
LebanonYesVisa on arrival for up to 1 month
MalaysiaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
MaldivesNoVisa-free with 30-day visa on arrival
MongoliaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
Myanmar (Burma)YesE-visa available
NepalYesVisa on arrival
North KoreaYesVisa required; U.S. travel prohibited
OmanYesE-visa and visa on arrival available
PakistanYesE-visa required
Palestine (West Bank, Gaza)VariesEntry governed by Israeli policy
PhilippinesNoVisa-free for up to 30 days
QatarNovisa on arrival
Saudi ArabiaYesE-visa available for tourism
SingaporeNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
South KoreaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
Sri LankaYesETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) required
SyriaYesVisa required; travel not advised
TaiwanNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
TajikistanYesVisa-free up to 30 days for tourists
ThailandNoVisa-free for up to 60 days, pre-arrival registration required
Timor-Leste (East Timor)YesVisa on arrival for up to 30 days
TurkeyNoVisa-free up to 90 days
TurkmenistanYesVisa required in advance
United Arab EmiratesYesNo-fee visa for up to 30 days
UzbekistanYese-visa available
VietnamYesE-visa required
YemenYesVisa required; travel not advised

Europe

Key Details for Europe Visa Requirements Table

  • Schengen Zone Covers Most of Europe: U.S. citizens can travel visa-free for up to 90 days within any 180-day period in the Schengen Area, which includes most EU countries plus others like Norway, Switzerland, and Iceland.
  • The 90/180 Rule Is Cumulative Across Schengen Countries: Time spent in any Schengen country counts toward your 90-day limit. You can't reset your stay by hopping between Schengen countries.
  • Non-Schengen Countries Have Their Own Rules: Countries like the United Kingdom, Ireland, Georgia, and most of the Balkans are not part of Schengen. They offer separate visa-free stays, often with their own time limits.
  • ETIAS Authorization Coming Soon: Starting in mid-2025, U.S. travelers must apply for ETIAS (European Travel Information and Authorization System) before entering Schengen countries. It's not a visa, but it will be required.
  • Passport Validity: Most European countries require your passport to be valid for at least 3 to 6 months beyond your departure date from Europe.
  • No Work or Long-Term Stay Without a Visa: Visa-free entry is only for tourism or short business trips. Working, studying, or staying longer requires a proper visa.
  • Multiple Borders, One Policy (Usually): Once inside the Schengen Area, you can move freely between countries without border checks-but must still respect time limits and carry valid ID.
  • Get a Visa Fast: If you're required to have a travel visa and need to get it quickly, visit iVisa.com.

Country Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
AlbaniaNoVisa-free for up to 1 year
AndorraNoVisa-free; entry via France or Spain (Schengen rules apply)
ArmeniaYesVisa-free up to 180 days
AustriaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
BelarusYesVisa-free up to 30 days
BelgiumNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
Bosnia and HerzegovinaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
BulgariaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
CroatiaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
CyprusNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
Czech RepublicNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
DenmarkNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
EstoniaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
FinlandNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
FranceNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
GeorgiaNoVisa-free for up to 365 days
GermanyNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
GreeceNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
HungaryNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
IcelandNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
IrelandNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
ItalyNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
KosovoNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
LatviaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
LiechtensteinNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
LithuaniaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
LuxembourgNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
MaltaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
MoldovaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
MonacoNoVisa-free; entry via France (Schengen rules apply)
MontenegroNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
NetherlandsNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
North MacedoniaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
NorwayNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
PolandNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
PortugalNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
RomaniaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
RussiaYesVisa required in advance
San MarinoNoVisa-free; entry via Italy (Schengen rules apply)
SerbiaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
SlovakiaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
SloveniaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
SpainNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
SwedenNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
SwitzerlandNoVisa-free for up to 90 days in Schengen area
TurkeyNoVisa-free up to 90 days
UkraineNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
United KingdomYesETA required
Vatican CityNoVisa-free; entry via Italy (Schengen rules apply)

North America & Territories

Key Details for North America Visa Requirements

  • Most Countries Are Visa-Free for U.S. Tourists: Nearly all countries and territories in North America offer visa-free entry to U.S. citizens for 30 to 180 days, making travel throughout the region relatively easy.
  • Cuba Is the Primary Exception: U.S. citizens must obtain a tourist card and fall under one of the 12 authorized categories of travel due to U.S. restrictions. General tourism is not permitted.
  • Tourist Cards & Entry Fees: Countries like Mexico, the Dominican Republic, El Salvador, and Nicaragua may not require a visa, but do require a tourist card or entry fee, often payable on arrival or included in airfare.
  • CA-4 Border Agreement: Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, and Nicaragua participate in the CA-4 agreement, allowing up to 90 days total travel among the four countries without separate visas.
  • U.S. Territories Don't Require a Passport: Puerto Rico, U.S. Virgin Islands, Guam, and the Northern Mariana Islands are U.S. territories. U.S. citizens do not need a passport or visa to travel to these areas.
  • American Samoa Is an Exception: Though a U.S. territory, American Samoa requires an entry permit, which must be arranged in advance or upon arrival.
  • Stay Duration Varies Widely: Visa-free stays vary by country - from 30 days in Belize to 180 days in Canada and Mexico. Always confirm the permitted length of stay before departure.
  • Get a Visa Fast: If you're required to have a travel visa and need to get it quickly, visit iVisa.com.

Country / Territory Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
Antigua and BarbudaNoVisa-free for up to 6 months
The BahamasNoVisa-free for up to 8 months
BarbadosNoVisa-free for up to 6 months
BelizeNoVisa-free for up to 30 days
CanadaNoVisa-free for up to 180 days
Costa RicaNoVisa-free for up to 180 days
CubaYesTourist card required; U.S. travel restrictions apply
DominicaNoVisa-free for up to 6 months
Dominican RepublicNoVisa-free up to 30 days
El SalvadorNoVisa-free for up to 90 days; tourist card fee on arrival
GrenadaNoVisa-free for up to 3 months
GuatemalaNoElectronic Immigration Form to be completed upon entry/exit
HaitiNoVisa-free for up to 90 days; tourist fee on arrival
HondurasNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
JamaicaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
MexicoNoVisa-free with FMM (tourist card), valid up to 180 days
NicaraguaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days; tourist card on arrival
PanamaNoVisa-free for up to 180 days
Saint Kitts and NevisNoVisa-free for up to 3 months
Saint LuciaNoVisa-free for up to 6 weeks
Saint Vincent and the GrenadinesNoVisa-free for up to 180 days
Trinidad and TobagoNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
Puerto RicoNoU.S. territory - no visa or passport required for U.S. citizens
U.S. Virgin IslandsNoU.S. territory - no visa or passport required for U.S. citizens
GuamNoU.S. territory - no visa required for U.S. citizens
Northern Mariana IslandsNoU.S. territory - no visa required for U.S. citizens
American SamoaYesU.S. territory - entry permit required from local authorities

Oceania

Key Details for Oceania Visa Requirements

  • Most Pacific Island Nations Are Visa-Friendly: The majority of countries in Oceania - including Fiji, Vanuatu, Palau, Kiribati, and Micronesia - allow visa-free entry or visa on arrival for U.S. citizens.
  • Australia and New Zealand Require Pre-Approval: U.S. travelers must apply for an Electronic Travel Authorization before visiting:
    • Australia: Requires an ETA (Electronic Travel Authority)
    • New Zealand: Requires an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority)
  • Entry Requirements Can Differ Even in U.S. Territories: While Guam and the Northern Mariana Islands do not require a passport or visa for U.S. citizens, American Samoa requires an entry permit arranged in advance or upon arrival.
  • Short Stays Are the Norm: Visa-free or on-arrival stays typically range from 30 to 90 days, though some islands like Palau allow up to 1 year.
  • Remote Locations, Strict Entry Rules: Some smaller or less-traveled countries like Nauru, Tuvalu, and the Solomon Islands may require advance visas or have limited visa services. Always check current entry policies and allow extra time for processing.
  • Onward Travel & Documentation: Visitors may be required to show proof of onward or return travel, a passport with 6 months validity, and sometimes proof of accommodation or funds on arrival.
  • Get a Visa Fast: If you're required to have a travel visa and need to get it quickly, visit iVisa.com.

Country / Territory Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
AustraliaYeseVisitor or ETA required
FijiNoVisa-free for up to 4 months
KiribatiNoVisa-free for up to 30 days
Marshall IslandsNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
Micronesia (FSM)NoVisa-free for unlimited stay
NauruYesAdvance visa required
New ZealandYesNZeTA (Electronic Travel Authority) required
PalauNoVisa-free for up to 1 year
Papua New GuineaYesE-visa available
SamoaYesEntry permit on arrival for up to 90 days
Solomon IslandsYesVisa on arrival
TongaYesVisa on arrival for up to 31 days
TuvaluYesVisa on arrival
VanuatuNoVisa-free for up to 30 days
American SamoaYesU.S. territory - entry permit required from local authorities
GuamNoU.S. territory - no visa required for U.S. citizens
Northern Mariana IslandsNoU.S. territory - no visa required for U.S. citizens

South America

Key Details for South America Visa Requirements

  • Most South American Countries Are Visa-Free for U.S. Citizens: The vast majority of South American countries allow U.S. citizens to enter without a visa for tourism stays of up to 90 days.
  • Bolivia and Venezuela Are the Main Exceptions:
    • Bolivia: Visa required; can be obtained in advance or on arrival (valid for 10 years, multiple entry).
    • Venezuela: Visa required in advance through a Venezuelan consulate.
  • Tourist Cards May Be Required: Some countries like Suriname do not require a visa, but travelers must obtain an online tourist card before arrival.
  • Passport Validity Requirements: Most South American countries require passports to be valid for at least 6 months beyond arrival and to have at least one blank page.
  • Onward Travel May Be Requested: Immigration officers may ask for proof of onward or return travel, hotel bookings, or evidence of sufficient funds.
  • Stay Extensions Possible in Some Cases: Countries like Peru and Brazil may allow extensions beyond 90 days. Check local regulations early if planning a longer stay.
  • Reciprocity Fees Have Been Removed: Argentina and Chile previously charged U.S. travelers reciprocity fees, but these have been eliminated for tourism.
  • Get a Visa Fast: If you're required to have a travel visa and need to get it quickly, visit iVisa.com.

Country Visa Required for U.S. Citizens? Notes
ArgentinaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
BoliviaYesVisa required; available on arrival or in advance (approx. $160)
BrazilYesevisa required (as of April 2025)
ChileNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
ColombiaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
EcuadorNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
GuyanaNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
ParaguayNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
PeruNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
SurinameYese-visa required
UruguayNoVisa-free for up to 90 days
VenezuelaYesVisa required in advance from Venezuelan consulate

Travel Entry Visa FAQ

Traveling to another country can be exciting, but figuring out the visa requirements can be confusing. If you are planning a trip abroad, it's important you get the right travel visa information.

We put together a list of FAQs that will help you understand what you need to do to get your travel visa easily and confidently. If your question is about a visa to a specific destination, start here.

What is a travel visa?

A travel visa is an official document, usually stamped into your passport, that gives you permission to arrive at the port of entry (such as an airport or border crossing). It does not guarantee entry into a country. Upon arrival, an immigration officer will review your documents and decide whether or not to allow you to enter the country.

Is a visa the same as a passport?

No, a visa is not the same as a passport. A passport is an official government document that certifies your identity and citizenship, allowing you to travel internationally. A visa is an endorsement placed within your passport, granting permission to arrive at a port of entry.

Do I need a visa to visit [specific country]?

Visa requirements vary by country and depend on your nationality. Go here for the latest visa information about the country you plan to visit.

How do I apply for a travel visa?

Applications are typically submitted through the embassy or consulate of the destination country. You'll need to complete an application form, provide a valid passport, photos, and any other required documents, and pay the applicable fee.

How long does it take to get a visa?

Processing times vary by country and visa type but generally range from a few days to several weeks. It's best to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

What documents are required for a visa application?

Commonly required documents include a valid passport, recent passport-sized photos, a completed visa application form, proof of travel plans (like flight itinerary), accommodation details, financial statements, and sometimes an invitation letter.

How much does a travel visa cost?

Visa fees vary depending on the country and type of visa. Fees can range from as low as $20 to several hundred dollars. Check the specific embassy's website for the exact fee.

Can I travel to a country without a visa and get one on arrival?

There are some countries issue visas upon arrival. Check the entry requirements of your destination to see if this option is available.

How long can I stay in a country with a travel visa?

The duration of stay varies by visa type and country. It can range from a few days to several months or more. Always check the visa conditions for the specific duration of stay allowed.

Can I extend my stay if my visa is about to expire?

Some countries allow visa extensions. You typically need to apply for an extension before your current visa expires, and approval is not guaranteed.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying can lead to fines, deportation, and future travel restrictions. Always adhere to the visa's validity period and leave the country ou apply for an extention before it expires.

Do I need travel insurance for a visa application?

Some countries require proof of travel insurance as part of the visa application process. It's advisable to have travel insurance regardless of whether it's required.

Can I work or study if I have a tourist visa?

Generally, tourist visas do not allow you to either work or study. If you want to work or study, apply for the appropriate visa type, such as a work visa or study visa.

What should I do if my visa application is denied?

If your visa application is denied, review the reasons provided by the embassy or consulate. You may reapply after addressing the issues or seek a visa waiver if eligible.

Do children need visas?

Yes, children usually need visas just like adults. The application process and requirements are generally the same, though some countries have special considerations for minors.

What happens to my unexpired visas in my old passport?

Question: I changed my name through the courts and have to get a new passport. But I have a 10-year visa to India that doesn't expire for a while and …

Chinese visa requirements for child adopted from China but American citizen

Question: Hi. We will travel for vacation to China. My daughter was born in China, she is adopted and is an American citizen with a US passport. Do …

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