Visa Types Explained

How It Works

Bilateral agreements between countries allow their citizens to travel freely. The passport is checked at the port of entry, and you are typically admitted for a set period (30–90 days for most agreements).

Typical Requirements

• ✓Valid passport
• ✓Return/onward ticket (sometimes checked)
• ✓Proof of accommodation (rarely required)
• ✓Sufficient funds (may be asked)

Pro Tips

• +Check the allowed stay duration — visa-free does not mean unlimited stay
• +The 90/180-day Schengen rule applies to non-EU visitors even without a visa
• +Some countries may add ETIAS or ETA requirements (simple online registration)

Example Routes

How It Works

Complete an online application form, upload required documents, and pay the fee by card. Processing typically takes 1–5 business days. The visa is stored electronically and linked to your passport number.

Typical Requirements

• ✓Passport scan (clear photo)
• ✓Passport-size photo meeting specifications
• ✓Credit/debit card for payment
• ✓Email address
• ✓Accommodation details (sometimes)

Pro Tips

• +Apply at least 3-5 days before travel — processing can take longer during busy periods
• +Double-check photo specifications — rejections often happen due to photo quality
• +Save the approval to your phone AND print a copy as backup

Example Routes

How It Works

Upon arrival, proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter (separate from the main immigration queue). Present your documents, pay the fee in cash or by card, and receive a visa stamp in your passport.

Typical Requirements

• ✓Valid passport (usually 6 months validity)
• ✓Passport-size photos (2 copies)
• ✓Return/onward flight ticket
• ✓Proof of accommodation
• ✓Cash in USD/local currency for the fee
• ✓Completed arrival form

Pro Tips

• +Prepare exact cash in USD — they rarely have change
• +Have physical copies of hotel bookings ready
• +Queues can be very long — factor extra time at immigration
• +Some countries require photos; download the specifications in advance

Example Routes

How It Works

Book an appointment at the destination country embassy in your home country. Submit all required documents (originals and copies). Attend the interview if required. Wait for the processing period. Collect the visa from the embassy.

Typical Requirements

• ✓Valid passport with blank pages
• ✓Completed application form
• ✓Biometric passport photos
• ✓Bank statements (3-6 months)
• ✓Employment letter and payslips
• ✓Hotel bookings and flight reservations
• ✓Travel insurance (for Schengen)
• ✓Proof of ties to home country
• ✓Interview at the embassy

Pro Tips

• +Apply well in advance — processing can take weeks or months
• +Book refundable flights and hotels until the visa is approved
• +Never book non-refundable travel before you have the visa
• +A strong application with complete documentation dramatically improves approval chances

Example Routes

How It Works

Most restricted status situations mean that entry is simply not possible for the affected passport holders, or requires extraordinary special permissions that are difficult to obtain.

Typical Requirements

• ✓Special government invitation or permission (extremely rare)
• ✓In some cases, different passport or dual citizenship may allow entry

Pro Tips

• +Check if you hold dual citizenship — a different passport may be valid
• +Some restricted countries have special humanitarian or academic exemptions
• +Contact the relevant ministry directly if you have a genuine need to enter

Example Routes