VizaAll countries with eVisa systems, how to apply, typical processing times, and what to expect.
What Is an eVisa?
An eVisa (electronic visa) is a visa that is applied for, processed, and approved entirely online. Unlike traditional visas that require a physical stamp or sticker in your passport, an eVisa is electronically linked to your passport number. Border officers verify your eVisa status through a database check when you arrive.
eVisas have made international travel significantly more accessible by eliminating the need to visit an embassy, mail your passport, or queue for consular appointments. Most eVisa applications take less than 30 minutes to complete and decisions can be received in anywhere from a few minutes to a few days, depending on the country.
It is important to distinguish between an eVisa, an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA), and a Visa on Arrival. An ETA (like the US ESTA, Canada eTA, or Australia ETA) is technically a pre-authorisation rather than a visa, and is typically cheaper and faster. A Visa on Arrival requires no prior application but is obtained in person at the airport upon arrival.
Countries With eVisa Systems
The number of countries offering eVisas has grown rapidly. As of 2026, major destinations with eVisa programs include India, Turkey, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Cambodia, Sri Lanka, Uganda, Kenya, Ethiopia, Georgia, Vietnam, and many others. India's e-Visa system is one of the largest, covering over 160 nationalities across tourism, business, medical, and conference visit categories.
Turkey's e-Visa portal (evisa.gov.tr) is similarly comprehensive, offering visas for over 100 nationalities. A standard 30-day single-entry Turkish e-Visa typically costs $50–$100 depending on nationality and permits tourism and business activities.
- India e-Visa: 160+ nationalities, 30-day or 1-year tourist, $25–$80
- Turkey e-Visa: 100+ nationalities, 30 days, ~$50–$100 depending on nationality
- Egypt e-Visa: Single or multiple entry, 30 days, $25
- Cambodia e-Visa: 30-day tourist, $36, online at evisa.gov.kh
- Sri Lanka ETA: 30 days tourism/transit, $20
- Kenya e-Visa: East Africa Tourist Visa covers Kenya, Uganda, Rwanda, ~$50
- Azerbaijan ASAN Visa: 30 days, $26, processed within 3 working days
- Vietnam e-Visa: 90 days, single/multiple entry, $25
- Georgia: e-Visa available for certain nationalities, most can enter visa-free
Electronic Travel Authorisations (ETAs)
Electronic Travel Authorisations are pre-travel permission systems required by several major travel destinations, primarily for nationalities that previously had visa-free access. They are not visas but do require pre-travel registration.
The US ESTA (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) allows visa-exempt nationals to visit the US for up to 90 days. The fee is $21 and the authorisation is typically valid for 2 years. The UK ETA was introduced in 2024 for nationalities without a British passport, costing £10 and valid for 2 years. Canada's eTA costs CAD $7 and is required for visa-exempt nationals flying to Canada.
- US ESTA: $21, 2-year validity, 90-day maximum stay per trip
- UK ETA: £10, 2-year validity, up to 6 months per visit
- Canada eTA: CAD $7, 5-year validity or until passport expiry
- Australia ETA (subclass 601): AUD $20 (via app), 12-month validity, 90 days per visit
- New Zealand NZeTA: NZD $23, 2-year validity, 90 days per visit
- ETIAS (EU): €7, 3-year validity, 90/180-day rule applies
How to Apply for an eVisa
The application process for eVisas varies by country but follows a broadly similar pattern. You will need to complete an online form with your personal and passport details, upload a photograph and sometimes a scan of your passport data page, pay the fee online, and wait for a decision by email.
Always apply through the official government portal, not through third-party websites. Numerous commercial websites offer to process eVisa applications for a significant markup — these services offer no value beyond what you can do yourself on the official portal and some are outright scams. Verify the URL matches the official government domain of the country you are applying to.
Processing Times and Common Issues
Most eVisa decisions are delivered within 24–72 hours of application. However, some countries can take up to 5 working days, and occasional delays occur during peak travel seasons or when applications require additional review. Apply at least a week before your travel date to allow for any unexpected delays.
Common application mistakes include entering passport numbers incorrectly, using photographs that do not meet specifications, or providing details that do not match your passport exactly. These errors can result in rejection or, worse, a mismatch at the border. Triple-check all data against your physical passport before submitting.
What to Bring at the Border
Even though your eVisa is electronic, it is strongly recommended to print a copy and carry it with you. Border officers in some countries may ask to see a printed confirmation. Having a printed copy also provides a backup in case of any technical issues at the border.
Your passport must be the one used during the eVisa application — if you have multiple passports or obtained a new passport since applying, you may encounter issues at the border. Most eVisa systems allow you to check your application status online using your application reference number.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the difference between an eVisa and an ETA?
An eVisa is a full visa issued electronically, typically required where a visa was previously needed. An ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) is a pre-travel permission for nationalities that previously had visa-free access and is generally simpler and cheaper.
How long does an eVisa take to process?
Most eVisas are processed within 24–72 hours. Some take up to 5 working days. Always apply at least a week before travel to allow for delays.
Are third-party eVisa websites safe to use?
Use official government portals. Many third-party sites charge significant markups or are scams. Always verify you are on the official government website before entering personal information or payment details.
Do I need to print my eVisa?
It is strongly recommended to print a copy of your eVisa approval, even though it is electronic. Some border officials may ask to see a physical copy.
Can I get an eVisa if I was refused a regular visa before?
It depends on the country and the reason for prior refusal. Some eVisa systems include security checks that would flag previous refusals. Always disclose prior refusals when asked in the application.
Disclaimer: Visa rules change frequently. Always verify requirements with the official embassy or consulate before travel. This guide is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal advice.
VizaHunt Editorial Team
Visa & Travel Research
The VizaHunt editorial team researches visa policies, passport rankings, and travel regulations across 195 countries. Our data is sourced from official government immigration portals, bilateral treaty records, and embassy publications, cross-referenced for accuracy before publication.