You are eligible for a UK transit visa if:

• You can prove that you are in transit to another country with sufficient means and the intention to travel on; and
• You can prove that the only purpose of your visit to the UK in transit.

Who Needs a Visa to Transit in the UK

ALL nationals of the countries and territories listed below need visas to enter or transit through the UK.

ALL nationals of the countries and territories listed below need visas to enter or transit the UK landside.

Types of Transit Visas

There are three types of Transit visas:

• Direct Airside Transit visa (DATV)
• Visitor in Transit visa
• Long-term Visit visa.

Direct Airside Transit visa (DATV)

If you will be changing flights in the UK without going through immigration control and you are outside the European Economic Area (EEA) or Switzerland, you may need a Direct Airside Transit Visa.

Visitor in Transit visa

You may apply for a Visitor in Transit visa if:

• On your way to another country, you will be changing flights in the UK,
• You will go through UK border control for reasons such as: checking in your luggage, or you have a connecting flight
• You will be leaving the UK in 48 hours
• You won’t be studying or working in the UK.

Long-Term Visit Visa

If you need to transit through the UK over a longer period, a long-term visit visa enables you to stay in the country for a maximum of 48 hours on each visit, and your visa can last for two, five, and ten years.

How to Apply for a UK Transit Visa?

You have to apply for a UK transit visa online, on the official visa website of the UK government. You will also be required to submit certain documents and your biometrics to a visa application centre in your country. The step-by-step application process is as follows:

• Prepare the documents. For your application to be admissible, you must provide evidence that:
  • You are entering the UK to carry out permitted activities
  • You will leave the country at the end of your visit
  • You have sufficient means to support yourself
  • You are able to pay for yourself, e.g., your onward and return ticket and all other costs
• Apply for the UK transit visa online. You have to complete the online application form in the visa and immigration website of the UK government.
• Upload the required documents. You may be required to upload certain documents on the application portal. The exact documents for your visa type and destination are listed on the application form.
• Pay the visa fee. Once you complete the application form, you will be redirected to the fee payment, which you have to pay online.
• Submit your documents and biometrics at a visa application center. After you complete the online application, you have to submit your documents and biometrics at a visa application center in your country. You can find a UK visa application center in your country here. You must attend the appointment in person, as your biometric data, both fingerprints and photographs will be taken.

You will be notified about the decision on your visa after the appointment.

Processing Time for a UK Transit Visa

The official processing time for a UK transit visa is three weeks. However, if there is a larger number of applications, the processing time could be extended to six weeks or longer. You should apply well in advance of your trip if you know it is upcoming.

Documents Required for UK Transit Visa

The documents you may be required to submit for a UK transit visa application depend on the type of transit visa you are applying for. As such, they are:

UK Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV) Documents

• Valid passport/travel document
• Proof that you are allowed to enter the country which you plan to enter by providing either a:
  • Residence permit
  • Green card
  • Valid visa
• Proof of onward or booked journey, such as a flight booking email, printed tickets, or confirmation from a travel agency.
• if you are not a national or resident of the country that you are traveling to, you must:
  • Provide proof of why you are traveling there
  • Provide details of where you will stay

You should bring your documents with you when you travel through the UK.

UK Visitor in Transit Visa Documents

• Current passport or valid travel document,
• Proof that you are allowed to enter the country which you plan to enter by providing either a:
  • Residence permit
  • Green card
  • Valid visa
• Proof of onward flight, which is within 48 hours of arriving in the UK. E.g. a flight booking, email printed tickets, or confirmation from a travel agent.
• If you are not a national or resident of the country that you are traveling to, you must:
  • Be able to explain why you are going there
  • Provide details of where you are going to stay

You should bring your documents with you when you travel through the UK.

Long-Term Visit Visa Documents

• Proof that you have a legitimate reason to frequently transit through the UK.
• Proof that your reason to transit through the UK will not change while you are in the UK.
• Proof that the only purpose of your visit to the UK is transit.
• Proof that you will leave the UK within 48 hours.

Note: If you are traveling to or from Ireland, the Channel Islands, or the Isle of Man, you may need to apply for another type of visitor visa.

How Long Is the UK Transit Visa Issued For?

UK transit visas are issued for 24 to 48 hours. It is a long-term visit visa for transit, it may be valid for 2-10 years, but you cannot stay in the UK for more than 48 hours on each entry.

If you plan to stay in the UK for more than 48 hours before traveling onward, you will need to apply for a standard visitor visa instead.

Transit Visa Fees

The UK transit visa fees are as follows:

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In addition to the Tourist Visa, all foreign nationals, regardless of nationality, must also get a Mexico Tourist Card before they enter Mexico.

Though the two sound similar and in many cases go together, they are not the exact same thing.

Who Needs a Mexico Tourist Visa?

You need a Tourist Visa for Mexico unless you are from one of the countries on the table below. Nationals of the following countries are free to travel to Mexico without obtaining a Tourist Visa, provided that their stay is for less than 180 days:

However, even citizens of other countries can be exempt from a Mexico Tourist Visa if they have a Schengen or US visa.

What is a Mexico Tourist Card?

The Mexico tourist card, (Forma Migratoria Múltiple, FMM) is a permit that every foreign national must get before they can enter Mexico. It states the number of days you are allowed to stay in the country, and you must depart before those days are up. The Forma Migratoria Múltiple is a permit that shows that the holder residing in Mexico is simply a tourist and is not allowed to work. You must always keep the card with you.

Everyone who enters Mexico as a tourist must get a Tourist Card. This also includes nationals of the countries that are exempt from Mexico Tourist Visas.

You can get the Tourist Card at a Mexican point of entry upon arrival and some airlines even offer the Tourist Card along with their ticket price. However, you can also obtain a Mexico Tourist Card online up to 7 days before you intend to travel.

The difference between the two is that visa-required nationals have to apply for a tourist visa at an embassy. If they get the visa, then they must also get a Tourist Card. Visa-exempt foreigners, on the other hand, only have to get the Tourist Card before they enter or travel to Mexico – there’s no need for a Tourist Visa.

What are the Requirements for a Mexico Tourist Visa?

The documents you submit when applying for a Mexico Tourist Visa include:

• A Mexico Tourist Visa Application Form printed and signed. If the applicant is a minor, the parents or legal guardians have to sign the application form.
• A passport or other travel document, which is valid for at least another six months from the time you will enter Mexico. I must also have blank pages so the visa can be affixed.
  • Also, include a photocopy of your passport’s relevant pages
• Passport-size pictures, with the following Mexico specifications:
  • Recent – no older than six months
  • Dimensions: 35 mm x 45 mm
  • Colored
  • Taken in front of a white background
  • Neutral facial expression
  • No glasses or headwear
• Booked return travel ticket, showing when you intend to depart Mexico.
• Proof of sufficient financial means to cover the duration of your stay via bank statements from the last three months.
• Proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or the name and address of someone in Mexico (if you’ll be staying with friends/family)
• Employment status documents, such as:
  • If you are employed: A letter from your employer stating your position in the company, the time you will be absent, and that they do not object to your absence.
  • If you are a student: A letter from your educational institution, confirming your enrollment and providing details of your course.
  • If you are self-employed: Depending on your situation, you may submit investment certificates, property deeds, commercial registration, etc
• Cover letter addressed to the Mexico embassy. The letter must explain the reason you are travelling and give details of your trip, such as the dates of entry and departure and where you will stay, etc.
• Mexico visa fee
• If travelling for business or you have been invited by an organization:
  • An original invitation or sponsorship letter, which states your full name, the company’s name, and registration, what activity you will be doing in Mexico, and an estimated period of your stay
  • Photocopy of the ID of the person signing the letter
  • Bank statements from the last 12 months of the company sponsoring you (if applicable)
• If travelling to attend a short-term study course (less than 180 days):
  • Acceptance letter from the educational institution
  • Proof you can afford the tuition and living costs or proof of a scholarship

How to Apply for a Mexico Tourist Visa?

You must apply for a Mexico Tourist Visa at a Mexican embassy. The application process is as follows:

1. Contact the Mexico embassy to set up an appointment. You can find a list of Mexican embassies around the world here.
2. Complete the Mexico Visa Application Form. You can usually find the application form on the website of the Mexico embassy where you will apply. You can either complete the form by typing it on your computer (if possible) then printing it or by writing with legible typed letters after you have printed it. The first option may not always be available, so follow the instructions on the form or of the embassy.
3. Collect the required documents.
4. Submit the application and pay the visa fee. On the date of your appointment, you must submit the documents and application form at the Mexico embassy. You also have to pay a Mexico visa fee.
5. Wait for the visa to be processed.
6. Pick up your passport. If the application is approved, the Mexico visa will be affixed to your passport.

Keep in mind: The application process for a visa for Mexico can change slightly depending on the country from which you are applying. Different Mexico embassy offices have their own specific requirements, including the method for paying the Mexico visa fee, their opening hours and days, and appointment requirements. This is why the first step when you apply for a Mexico visa is to contact a Mexican embassy.

Applying for a Mexico Tourist Visa Online

Citizens of Turkey, Russia, and Ukraine are eligible to apply for a Mexico Tourist Visa online if they will travel by plane. This is called the Electronic Travel Authorization (Sistema de Autorización Electrónica, SAE), and is valid for one entry. For a more detailed explanation of the Mexico visa application process, see here.

Mexico Tourist Visa Processing Time

The processing time for a Mexico visa depends on which embassy you apply in. Some embassies process Mexican Tourist Visas in as little as two days, while others may take weeks. It is advisable that you contact the Mexican embassy in order to set up an appointment at least four weeks before you intend to travel.

Mexico Tourist Visa Fee

The Mexico Tourist Visa fee is about US$36. However, the visa fee may change depending on the country in which you submit your application. The payment method also differs from country to country since some embassies may require you to pay upfront via bank transfer while others ask you to pay in cash.

How to Get a Mexico Tourist Card?

You can get a Mexico Tourist Card through one of the following ways:

• If you are travelling by air, the plane crew will distribute them as you are about to land (the price of the Tourist Card is included on the price of your air ticket)
• At an immigration desk at the Mexico airport after you land
• At a Mexico embassy in your country, before you travel
• If you are travelling by sea, you can get the Mexico Tourist Card at the Mexico port of call
• If you are travelling by land, you can the Mexico Tourist Card at the point of entry
• Online. If you apply online, you must print the Tourist Card and bring it with you when you travel.

Mexico Tourist Card Fee

The fee for a Tourist Card can range from $25-$35, depending on your country. However, the Mexico Tourist Card Fees are prone to change without notice.

What is the Duration of a Mexico Tourist Card?

A Mexico Tourist Card can be issued for a maximum of 180 days but it is the immigration officers at the point of entry who decides the number of days you are given. They can give you an FMM for 30, 60, or 90 days as opposed to the full 180.

You must leave the country before the Mexico Tourist Card expires.

Can you Extend a Mexico Tourist Card?

If your Mexico Tourist Card was issued for 180 days, then no, you cannot extend it for longer than that. Anyone who wants to live in Mexico for longer than 180 days, has to get a Mexico Temporary Resident Visa.

However, if the immigration officer at the Mexico point of entry gave you a Forma Migratoria Múltiple for less than the maximum duration of the Card (eg. for 60 days as opposed to 180), then you may be able to extend it to the full 180 days from inside Mexico.

You can apply for an extension of your Tourist Card at an immigration center in Mexico. However, the application is not always successful, since many immigration officers do not issue Mexico Tourist Card extensions.

What Happens if I Overstay my Mexico Tourist Card?

If you stay in Mexico longer than the time your Tourist Card was issued for, you must visit an immigration office in Mexico or the immigration center at the airport and pay a fine. The fine is calculated based on the number of days you have calculated. Then, you must get an exit visa.

What Happens if I Lose my Mexico Tourist Card?

If you lose your Mexico Tourist Card, you must visit an immigration office in Mexico so you can get a replacement. You also have to pay a replacement fee.

Mexico Business Visa

The Mexico Business Visa is one of the most common types of Tourist Visas. They are issued to visa-required foreigners who will enter Mexico with the purpose of conducting business.

The business visa for Mexico is not, however, permission to work and get pain in Mexico. You can only take up employment if you have a Mexico Work Permit.

The post Mexico Tourist Visa appeared first on Visa Consulate - Visa Information For Any Country.

However, that’s not always the case. The Costa Rica visa policy is divided into four groups:

1. The first group included visa-exempt nationals who are allowed to travel to Costa Rica with just their passport. The passport must be valid for at least one more day from the date of entry into the country.
2. The second group also includes visa-exempt nationals who are allowed to travel to Costa Rica with just their passport. However, in this case, the passport must be valid for at least three months from the date of arrival.
3. The third group includes foreign nationals who need a Costa Rica Consular Visa, which must be applied for at a Costa Rica consulate in their country of residence.
4. The fourth group includes foreign nationals who need a Costa Rica Restricted Visa. This type of visa has to be approved by the Commission of Restricted Visas.

This article will detail the Costa Rica visa policy by country.

Do You Need a Visa for Costa Rica?

You only need a Costa Rica visa if you are from one of the following countries:

Foreign nationals who need a Costa Rica Consular Visa (Third group)

The following countries have to apply for a Costa Rica Consular Visa at a Costa Rica consulate in their country:

Foreign nationals who need a Costa Rica Restricted Visa (Fourth group)

Nationals from the following countries have to apply for a Costa Rica Restricted Visa, which requires authorization form the Commission of Restricted Visas:

Who is Exempt from Costa Rica Visas?

The following nationals are exempt from holding a visa when travelling to Costa Rica:

For stays of up to 90 days

For stays of up to 30 days

Do You Need a Costa Rica Visa if You Already Have a US/Schengen visa?

Visa-required foreign nationals may be exempt from holding a Costa Rica visa if they already have a valid entry visa for one of the following countries:

• An EU member state
• A Schengen country
• USA
• Canada
• South Korea
• Japan

Additionally, foreign nationals on the third and fourth group are exempt from holding a Costa Rica visa if they have a residence permit (not less than six months) for:

• USA
• Canada
• An EU member state

Do US Citizens Need a Visa for Costa Rica?

If you are a US national, and you want to stay in Costa Rica for a period longer than 90 days, you will need a residence permit. You can get a Costa Rica residence permit in two ways:

• By applying for a provisional visa (student visa, work visa) at a Costa Rica consulate before you travel to Costa Rica or
• Enter Costa Rica as a tourist and apply after you arrive in the country at the Costa Rican Department of Immigration (Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería).

This applies to all the foreign nationals included in group 1 and 2 that are allowed visa-free access to Costa Rica.

What if I Need to Apply for a Costa Rica Visa?

If you need to apply for a visa to Costa Rica, you can review the application steps and requirements here.

The post Do I Need a Visa for Costa Rica? appeared first on Visa Consulate - Visa Information For Any Country.

Who Needs a Tourist Visa to go to Australia?

Everyone, except passport holders of the countries listed below, has to apply for an Australian tourist visa:

• New Zealand
• European Union countries
• Andorra
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Monaco
• Norway
• San Marino
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City
• Brunei Darussalam
• Canada
• Hong Kong (SAR PRC)
• Japan
• Malaysia
• Singapore
• South Korea
• United States

If you have a passport from one of the countries listed above, you can apply for an eVisitor or Electronic Travel Authority (ETA). These two travel authorizations are obtained quicker than the Visitor Stream visa.

If you are from New Zealand, you can travel without a visa and obtain one on arrival.

Required Documents for an Australian Tourist Visa

The documents you must attach to your Australian tourist visa application include:

• Your passport.
• A copy of your passport’s identity page.
• The Visitor Visa Subclass 600 Form.
• A recent picture of yourself. It must have a white background and you must be clearly and fully visible.
• Proof you can sustain yourself financially while you are in Australia. You must include your bank statements or a letter from your sponsor claiming they will help cover your finances during your visit.
• Proof you have travel health insurance.
• Letter from your employer (if applicable). It must state the requested time of leave and when you intend to return.
• Letter from your school (if applicable). The letter must prove your enrollment and when you are expected to return.
• Letter of Invitation (if applicable). If you have a family member or a friend in Australia who can sponsor you, they must write you a letter of invitation. The letter must include the relation between the two of you, the duration of your stay, whether you will stay with them, and what you intend to do during your visit.
• If you have a sponsor in Australia: your sponsor has to pay a security bond, which will be returned to them after you leave Australia.
• If travelling to get medical treatment: a letter from your doctor and hospital in Australia stating the details of your condition and the type of treatment you will receive.
• Completed Form 1257 and Form 1229, if the applicant is underage and will be in Australia with someone other than their parent/guardian or is travelling alone.
• Proof of accommodation in Australia, such as hotel reservations or rental contracts.
• Proof of booked flight tickets and a complete travel itinerary.
• Evidence that you will return to your home country before the visa expires.

All the documents for an Australian visa must be certified copies.

The documents must be in English. If they are not, you must have them translated by a professional translator.

How to Apply for a Tourist Visa for Australia?

You can apply for an Australian tourist visa in one of two ways:

• Online. To apply online, you have to create an ImmiAccount, which is the official portal handling Australian visa applications.
• On paper. To apply on paper, you have to submit your documents to the nearest Australian Embassy.

Applying for the Australian Tourist Visa Online

To submit an online application for the Australian tourist visa, you have to:

1. Create an ImmiAccount. The ImmiAccount is the official portal of the Australian Department of Home Affairs. It handles all visa applications. You will have to fill in your personal information and then confirm the account via your email.
2. Select the Tourist Stream Visa, Subclass 600. Once you create an account and log in, you have to select the type of visa you want to apply for, which in this case is the tourist visa.
3. Complete the online application form. Then, you will be redirected to the online application form for your visa. You have to answer questions such as the reason for your trip, the duration of the trip, your name and birthday, your marital status, and other personal details.
4. Attach all the required documents. You will have to attach electronic copies of the required documents, such as your passport, travel insurance, proof of finances, etc.
5. Pay the visa application fee. Once you upload the documents, you have to pay the visa fee either through a debit/credit card or via PayPal.
6. Wait for the visa to be processed. The Immigration authorities will notify you about the outcome of your visa application.
7. Get the visa. If your application is successful, you will receive your visa grant number along with information about the duration of your visa. You can print the visa notice and take with you when you travel.

Most people choose to submit their visa application online as it is the most convenient method.

Once you get to Australia, you have to complete an Incoming Passenger Card at the border.

Apply at an Embassy (On Paper)

If for any reason, you cannot apply for your tourist visa online, you can also submit a paper application to the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate. The process is as follows:

1. Find the nearest Australian Embassy or Consulate.
2. Set up an appointment. The Embassy or Consulate may only see you with an appointment, so make sure you contact them beforehand.
3. Complete the Visitor Visa Application Form. You have to answer questions about your personal information, purpose and duration of the visit, employment status, health details, whether you have ever been convinced of a crime, etc.
4. Collect the required documents. The documents are listed on the application form.
5. Pay the visa application fee. The Embassy/Consulate will notify you of how to pay the fee.
6. Submit the application. On the date of your appointment, submit the visa application along with all the required documents.
7. Wait for the visa to be processed. The Embassy will notify you via email or phone about the outcome of your application.
8. Get the visa. You will get a visa grant number, which will allow you to travel to Australia. You do not need to get a stamp on your passport, but you can print out the visa grant notice to carry with you when you travel.

Will I Get a Tourist Visa Stamp?

No, you will most likely not get a stamp on your passport. Your visa information will be saved on an online database, which the immigration control can access using your passport or ImmiCard.

When you receive the visa and travel to Australia, you should print and keep a copy of the visa grant notice since it has all the information to access your Visa Entitlement Verification Online (VEVO) system. You can access VEVO using your ImmiCard or the visa grant number which you receive on your confirmation email.

VEVO is the system that you can use to see the conditions and duration of your visa.

Applying for a Tourist Visa from Inside Australia

If you are in Australia on a substantive visa*, then you can apply for a tourist visa from inside the country as well. The application methods are similar to if you were applying from abroad:

1. Apply online. You have to submit your application using your ImmiAccount.
2. On paper. You have to print and complete the visa application form, collect the required documents, go submit them to an Australian Immigration Office.

*A substantive visa is any short-term visa that allows you to remain in Australia temporarily, except a bridging visa or a criminal justice or enforcement visa.

How Long Does the Application Process Take?

It usually takes a few weeks for the Australian immigration authorities to process your application for a Tourist Visa. However, provided that all your documents and requirements are in order, it could also only be a few days.

On the other hand, there have been cases where an application took months to process. It will depend on the circumstances of your application, your nationality, whether all your documents are in order, etc.

Australia Tourist Visa Application Fee

The fee for an Australian tourist visa is AUD 145 if you apply from abroad and AUD 370 if you apply from Australia.

How Long Can I Stay in Australia With a Tourist Visa?

A Tourist Visa for Australia is issued on a case-to-case basis, for three, six, or twelve months. It can be with a single or multiple entries. The validity of your visa depends strictly on the Immigration authorities who are handling your application.

Can I Extend a Tourist Visa in Australia?

In most cases, you will not be able to extend your current visa, but you have to apply for another one. Make sure to apply at least two weeks before your current visa expires.

However, if your visa has a “No Further Stay” condition, then you cannot apply for any other temporary or permanent visas at all. Exclusions to the “No Further Stay” condition apply if you are in a situation that you have no control over or there has been a major change in your circumstances.

What Can I Do With a Tourist Visa in Australia?

If you receive a tourist visa, you can visit the country as a tourist for the duration that the visa has been granted. During this period, you can take a short study course of up to three months but you are not allowed to take up gainful employment, under any circumstances.

Australian Tourist Visa for Chinese Citizens

Citizens of the People’s Republic of China are eligible to apply for two additional subtypes of the Australia tourist visa:

• Frequent Traveler Stream.
• Approved Destination Status Stream.

Australia Frequent Traveler Visa

This visa is issued to Chinese citizens who travel to Australia frequently, either for personal or business purposes. It costs AUD 1,065 and is valid for 10 years, during which time you can:

• Enter Australia as many times as you wish, but you cannot stay longer than three months per trip.
• Be in Australia as a tourist or for a cruise.
• Visit family or friends.
• Conduct business.

Remember that within each 24-month period, you cannot stay longer than 12 months in total.

Australia Approved Destination Status Visa

This type of visa is issued to Chinese citizens who are traveling to Australia as part of a tour. With an Approved Destination Visa, you must:

• Enter and leave Australia with your tour group.
• Only take part in activities that are part of your tour itinerary.

The visa costs AUD 145 and can either be issued as single-entry or multiple-entry.

The post Australia Tourist Visa appeared first on Visa Consulate - Visa Information For Any Country.

Moreover, you cannot simply travel to Vietnam and receive a visa there. You must get prior approval from the Vietnamese Immigration Department.

Where Can I Get a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?

You can only get a Vietnam Visa On Arrival if you are traveling by air and arriving at one of the following airports:

• Tan Son Nhat in Ho Chi Minh City.
• Noi Bai International Airport in Hanoi.
• Danang Airport in Da Nang.
• Cat Bi Airport in Hai Phong.
• Cam Ranh Airport in Nha Trang.

You can get the Vietnam Visa On Arrival at the visa-issuing counters at the airport you’ll land in.

If you are traveling by land or as part of a cruise, you will have to apply for a regular Vietnam Visa.

What Are the Vietnam Visa On Arrival Requirements?

When you travel to Vietnam and approach the visa-issuing counter to receive your Vietnam Visa On Arrival, you must have the following documents with you:

• The Pre-obtained Letter of Approval
• Your passport, which has at least another six months’ validity.
• Passport-size picture(s), taken recently with the following specifications:
  • Size: 4 cm x 6 cm
  • White background
  • You must be centered in the picture, staring ahead with a neutral facial expression
  • If you wear headgear for religious purposes or you have a wig, you may keep it in the picture but must also be wearing on arrival
  • You must not be wearing any glasses
• Completed Entry and Exit Form. You will receive this on the airplane and you have to complete it before handing it in at the Immigration Officers at the port of entry
• Cash to pay the Vietnam visa stamping fee

Although there is no information regarding additional supporting documents that you need to present when getting the Vietnam Visa On Arrival stamped on your passport, it is always a good idea to have anything that can support the purpose of your travel on hand. For example, proof of a booked return flight ticket, proof of hotel reservation, invitation letter if you’re going to attend a conference/event, etc.

The Application Process for Vietnam Visa On Arrival

Before you travel to Vietnam and apply for your Visa On Arrival, you have to get a Letter of Approval from the Vietnamese Immigration Department while you are still in your country. You cannot get the VOA if you do not have the Letter of Approval.

1. Obtaining the Letter of Approval

You can get a Letter of Approval through one of the private agencies that work with the authorization of the Vietnam Immigration Department. They will send in the request for the Letter of Approval to the Immigration Department on your behalf for a fee.

These companies operate online, and you have to find one that is suited to your needs.

When you apply for the VOA Letter of Approval, you have to:

• Enter your passport information and the port you will enter through
• Pay the service fee
• Wait for the request to be processed (a few days)
• You will receive the Vietnam Visa On Arrival Approval Letter by email
• A copy of it will also be forwarded to the Immigration Officers at the port you will enter through
• Print the Approval Letter, and travel to Vietnam.

The Letter of Approval is sometimes issued for multiple people at once, so you may see several people listed in your letter.

Remember: Do your research and make sure it is a credible agency before you make a payment.

2. Receiving the Vietnam Visa On Arrival

After you have your Letter of Approval, you can use it to travel to Vietnam. Once you land, you have to:

• Queue up at the Visa On Arrival counters at the airport in Vietnam and apply to get your visa stamped on your passport.
• Show the Immigration Officers the required documents (see below)
• Pay the Vietnam Visa On Arrival fee
• Receive the Visa On Arrival

How Much Does the Vietnam Visa On Arrival Cost?

The Vietnam Visa On Arrival fees you have to pay in cash when they stamp your visa at the airport are as follows:

• For a single-entry, 1 month Vietnam Visa On Arrival: USD 25
• For a multiple-entry, 1 month Vietnam Visa On Arrival: USD 50
• For a single-entry, 3 months Vietnam Visa On Arrival: USD 25
• For a multiple-entry, 3 months Vietnam Visa On Arrival: USD 50
• For a multiple-entry, 6 months Vietnam Visa On Arrival: USD 95
• For a multiple-entry, 12 months Vietnam Visa On Arrival: USD 135

Note: In addition to the stamping fee, you also have to pay a service fee to the agency that sent in the request for the Letter of Approval on your behalf. This fee depends on the specific company.

How Long Does it Take to Process a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?

When you are applying for the actual Visa On Arrival at the airport in Vietnam, it usually only takes between 15 and 30 minutes.

When you apply for the Letter of Approval, it can take a few days, depending on the agency. It is usually no more than five.

Additionally, you may ask for rush processing and receive the Letter of Approval in a matter of hours, but it will have a higher fee.

What is the Duration of a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?

You can request a Vietnam Visa on Arrival for one to twelve months and for single or multiple entries, as per the purpose of your travel.

Can you Extend a Vietnam Visa On Arrival?

You may be able to extend your Visa On Arrival by submitting an application at one of the Immigration Offices in Vietnam. The extension you receive depends on the type of visa you already have. If you have a one-month visa, the extension will be for another month.

However, it is not always certain you can extend a visa since the Immigration rules are constantly changing. As such, your best bet is to contact your local Immigration Office in Vietnam to learn more on the matter.

Vietnam Visa On Arrival for US Citizens

US nationals are required to have a Vietnam Visa before they enter the country. As such, they can apply for a Visa On Arrival (in the same manner as detailed above) or apply to get a visa through one of the other visa application methods that are available.

Other Ways to Apply for a Vietnam Visa

If you will not be entering Vietnam through the eligible ports of entry or would like to avoid the queues at the airport, you can get a Vietnam visa in the following two ways as well:

• At the nearest Embassy or Consulate of Vietnam (everyone)
• Online, only for the nationals of certain countries

Moreover, passport holders of certain countries are exempt from applying for a Vietnam visa for short-term stays.

Visa-Exempt Entry in Vietnam

Passport holders of the following countries do not have to apply for a Vietnam visa at all if they are only staying for a short period of time (14 – 90 days depending on the country):

• Belarus
• Brunei
• Cambodia
• Chile
• Denmark
• Finland
• France
• Germany
• Indonesia
• Italy
• Japan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Laos
• Malaysia
• Myanmar
• Norway
• Philippines
• Russia*
• Singapore
• South Korea
• Spain
• Sweden
• Thailand
• United Kingdom

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Do I need a visa to transit in Dubai or Abu Dhabi?

You need a visa to transit in Dubai, Abu Dhabi or any other emirate in the UAE if:

• You are not exempt from UAE Tourist Visas or you are not eligible for a UAE Visa On Arrival; and
• Your onward flight is in the next 48 or 96 hours

Nationals of Somalia, Afghanistan, Iraq, Niger and Yemen cannot apply for a Transit Visa for UAE.

Who is exempt from Dubai Transit Visa?

If you are from one of the following countries, you can enter Dubai and any other emirate in the UAE without a visa and as such, you do not need a UAE Transit Visa:

• Bahrain
• Kuwait
• Oman
• Saudi Arabia

If you are from one of the above-mentioned countries, you have freedom of movement and may enter the UAE with simply your passport or ID.

If you are from Mexico, you may enter the UEA without a visa for up to 180 days.

If you are from one of the following countries, you may enter the UAE without a visa for up to 90 days within any 180 day period:

• EU member states (excluding the UK and Ireland)
• Honduras
• Iceland
• Liechtenstein
• Montenegro
• Norway
• Russia
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
• Switzerland

If you are from one of the following countries, your may enter the UAE without a visa for up to 90 days.

• Argentina
• Barbados
• Brazil
• Chile
• Nauru
• Paraguay
• Serbia
• Solomon Islands
• Seychelles
• Uruguay

If you are from one of the following countries, you may enter the UAE without a visa for up to 30 days:

• China
• Japan
• Macau
• Ukraine

Who can get a Dubai Visa On Arrival?

If you are from one of the following countries, you can get a Visa On Arrival for Dubai and any other UAE emirate, and so you don’t have to apply for a UAE Transit Visa beforehand:

• Andorra (valid for 30 days)
• Australia (valid for 30 days)
• Bahamas (valid for 90 days)
• Brunei (valid for 30 days)
• Canada (valid for 30 days)
• Costa Rica (valid for 90 days)
• El Salvador (valid for 90 days)
• Hong Kong (valid for 30 days)
• Ireland (valid for 30 days)
• Kazakhstan (valid for 30 days)
• Malaysia (valid for 30 days)
• Maldives (valid for 90 days)
• Mauritius (valid for 30 days)
• Monaco (valid for 30 days)
• Mongolia (valid for 30 days)
• New Zealand (valid for 30 days)
• San Marino (valid for 30 days)
• Singapore (valid for 30 days)
• South Korea (valid for 90 days)
• United Kingdom (valid for 30 days)
• United States (valid for 30 days)
• Vatican City (valid for 30 days)

What Documents Do I Need for a Transit Visa?

When you apply for a UAE Transit Visa, you must submit the following documents to your airline:

• Your passport, valid for at least three more months
• Passport-size pictures of yourself, in line with UAE visa photo requirements
• Flight ticket for onward travel to a third country
• Hotel reservation in UAE

How Can I Apply for a UAE Transit Visa?

You have to apply for a UAE Transit Visa before you travel. But just as with other types of UAE visas, you cannot apply by yourself at a UAE embassy or consulate abroad; you need a sponsor who can apply on your behalf.

Who can sponsor my UAE Transit Visa?

If you need a transit visa for Dubai/UAE, only your UAE-based airline can serve as your sponsor. They are the ones who arrange to get your transit visa from the relevant visa issuing authorities in the UAE. So, if you know you will stop in Dubai or Abu Dhabi or any other emirate on your way to a third destination, then you must contact your airline to start the process of obtaining your transit visa.

If you are travelling through a travel agency, they can help you with the process, but it is only the airlines who arrange your transit visa for you. Travel agencies or private sponsors cannot apply on your behalf, like for tourist visas.

Where to apply for a UAE Transit Visa?

First, you apply through your airline. Then, your airline applies for your transit visa online, through one of the following ways:

• Through the eChanel portal of the UAE Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA); or
• Through the websites of the GDRFA in each emirate:
  • Abu Dhabi
  • Dubai (see also Amer, a website which Dubai citizens and residents can use to apply for family reunion and visitors can use to extend their Visa On Arrival)
  • Sharjah
  • Ajman
  • Ras Al Khaimah
  • Fujairah; or
• Through the mobile apps:
  • ICA’s eChanel portal (for Apple and Android)
  • GDRFA Dubai (for Apple and Android)

Where can I apply for a Dubai Transit Visa?

Dubai is part of the country of the UAE, and as such, you can apply for a Dubai Transit Visa in the same way as is detailed above.

How to get an Abu Dhabi Transit Visa?

You can get an Abu Dhabi Transit Visa by arranging for one with an UAE-based airline, in the same process as is detailed above. That’s because Abu Dhabi is one of the emirates making up the UAE, and so you actually need a UAE visa not an Abu Dhabi Visa.

How long is the UAE Transit Visa valid?

A UAE Transit visa is valid for 14 days starting from the date it is issued. You must use it within those days. However, once you have travelled to the UAE, you can only stay for 48 hours or 96 hours, depending on the type of Transit Visa you receive.

How long can I stay in UAE with a Transit Visa?

There are two types of transit visas for Dubai/UAE:

• 48-hour Transit Visa
• 96-hour Transit Visa

You cannot stay in the country beyond the date that the visa is issued for. The countdown starts from the time you enter the UAE.

Can you extend a UAE Transit Visa?

No, you cannot extend your UAE Transit Visa beyond the number of hours that is is issued for. If you’ve received a 48-hour Transit Visa, you cannot extend it to a 96-hour one, nor can you extend the 96-hour for longer than that.

UAE Transit Visa price

The price of the transit visa depends on they type:

• The 48-hour UAE transit visa is free of charge
• The 96-hour UAE transit visa is AED 50 (about US$13 – US$14)

How long does it take to get a UAE Transit Visa?

A UAE Transit Visa is usually processed within 3-4 working days, but may take longer depending on the airline, your country, and other specific circumstances.

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With the mix of modern architecture right next to the historical and cultural landmarks, UAE attracts millions of tourists every year.

If you are planning a trip to the UAE, you may find that you need to apply for a UAE visa (or not, depending on your country). The UAE government allows nationals of several countries to enter without a visa for short stays.

Do I Need a Visa to Visit Dubai or the Other Emirates?

Whether you need a UAE visa or not depends on your nationality. Citizens of some countries are allowed to enter the Emirates without a visa or obtain one upon arrival, while others have to get it before they travel.

See the lists of who needs a UAE visa and who is exempt below:

Nationals of the following countries who have a diplomatic or service passport are also exempt from a UAE tourist visa or eligible for a UAE Visa On Arrival:

*Diplomatic passport only

Citizens of all countries not mentioned above have to get a UAE visa before they travel.

What is a UAE Entry Permit?

The UAE Entry Permit is the document you have to obtain if you need a visa to enter the country. It is valid for a certain number of days, depending on your purpose of travel.

Your sponsor has to get an entry permit for you before you travel from by General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA). The number of days you are allowed to stay in the UAE with an entry permit depends on the purpose of your travel:

• If you are transiting, you will receive an entry permit (transit visa) for up to 48 or 96 hours.
• If you’ll enter as a tourist, your entry permit is valid for up to 30 days (ie. tourist visa).
• If you’re entering for employment purposes, your entry permit is valid for up to 60 days etc.

As such, a tourist visa and an entry permit are more or less the same thing.

Please Note:

There is some conflicting information online regarding UAE Visa entry requirements for some countries.

Liberia and Mongolia

• It does not claim anywhere else other than the website of the IATA that Liberia and Mongolia citizens are visa-exempt.

Grenada

• The website of the Government of UAE as well as the Embassy of the United Arab Emirates in London state that Grenada citizens are eligible for a UAE visa on arrival valid for 90 days.
• The website of International Air Transport Association (IATA) and the website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of UAE do not support this information.

Nauru

• The website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs states Nauru citizens do not require a visa for UAE whereas the IATA and the Government of UAE websites do not hold the same information.

Solomon Islands

• According to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs website, citizens of the Solomon Islands do not need a visa for UAE. This information is not supported by the Government of UAE website.

Do I Need a Separate Dubai Visa if I Have a UAE Visa?

No, you do not. There is actually no separate “Dubai Visa” since Dubai is not a country on its own; it is part of the UAE. If you have a visa allowing you to enter the UAE, then you can travel to any of its emirates, Dubai included.

Do I Need a Separate Abu Dhabi Visa if I Have a Dubai/UAE Visa?

Abu Dhabi is one of the seven emirates making up the UAE, as well as the capital. As such, if you are planning on visiting Dubai and Abu Dhabi, you do not need to get a separate visa for each. If you are a visa-required national, you only have to apply for a UAE Tourist Visa and you can visit all seven of its emirates, including Abu Dhabi.

If you are exempt from UAE Tourist Visas, the process is even simpler since you can travel with just your passport.

What are the Types of UAE Visas?

The four main types of visas that the UAE offer are:

• UAE Tourist Visas, which, as the name suggests are issued for tourism purposes or any other purpose which is shorter than 30 days and does not require you to take up employment and long-term residence in the UAE.
• UAE Residence Visas are for foreigners who wish to relocate to the UAE. This includes:
  • UAE Student Visa
  • UAE Work Visa
  • UAE Family Visa
  • UAE Retirement Visa
  • Dubai Digital Nomad Visa
• Long-Term Residence Visas (Investor Visa), which is issued for a period of 5-10 years and does not require a sponsor. However, you must invest a substantial amount of money in the UAE to qualify for this type of visa.
• UAE Transit Visas, which are issued to foreigners who have to transit through the UAE. These types of visas are issued for 48 or 96 hours.

What is a UAE Residence Visa?

Foreigners who want to move to the UAE need to have a Residence Visa. However, prior to that, they must also obtain an Entry Permit. The difference between an entry permit and a residence visa for the UAE is:

The UAE Residence Visa is the document you have to obtain after you are already in the UAE with an Entry Permit and want to stay longer than the number of days the permit allows. Your sponsor (who must meet GDRFA’s requirements) has to apply for your Residence Visa.

UAE Visa Requirements

When applying for a tourist visa for the UAE, you must have several documents to support your application, such as:

• Photocopies of your passport and the passport of your sponsor. You need a passport that has at least 6 months validity.
• Photocopy of the passport’s relevant pages. In some cases, you may not need to submit your original passport at all. You may include photocopies of the relevant pages of your passport (or all the pages on your passport).
• Passport-size pictures, in line with UAE visa photo requirements.
• If you are a female travelling alone: A No Objection Certificate (NOC) from your father or husband.
• A confirmed round-trip airline ticket or an airline ticket for onward travel. If you are applying through an airline, the ticket must be from that airline.
• Proof of accommodation, such as your hotel.
• Proof of purchased travel medical insurance for UAE
• A letter from you, stating the purpose and duration of your visit
• Proof of legal residence in your country (ie. your visa or residence permit). This only applies if you are not a citizen of the country in which you are living.
• If you have a host:
  • Proof of your relationship to the host
  • Proof of their residential status: A copy of your host’s UAE Resident Visa and/or their Emirates ID
  • Proof of their financial status: Certified copy of their work contract or their salary certificate
• Proof of previous travels:
  • If you have been to the UAE in the last year, submit copies of the entry and exit stamps on your passport
  • Copies of any visas to the USA, UK, Schengen Area, Canada, Russia, Australia or New Zealand you have received within the past 5 years
• You may also be required to provide:
  • Proof of your financial status
  • Proof of your current address
  • Marriage certificate
• Any additional documents required by the relevant visa issuing authorities in Dubai/UAE

How to Apply for a Visa for UAE?

Unlike most countries, the UAE does not issue visas through its embassies or consulates overseas. Additionally, you cannot submit a UAE Visa application yourself – you must have a sponsor in the UAE or apply through an authorized agency to submit it on your behalf, such as:

• A host or sponsor who is living in the UAE.
• A licensed travel agency through which you purchase the travel ticket. Travel agencies in your country may also be collaborating with a local tour operator in the UAE and offer tourist packages. Make sure that the travel agency you hire is reputable and licensed before you pay them.
• The hotel in which you are staying in the UAE.
• One of the following airlines provided that you’ll be flying with them:
  • Etihad Airways
  • Emirates Airline
  • Fly Dubai
  • Air Arabia

Where to Apply for a UAE Visa?

UAE visa applications can be submitted either online or in-person at one of the following agencies:

• Through the eChanel portal of the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship – ICA ,through which hosts, travel agencies or other sponsors can apply for a UAE Visa on your behalf. (online only)
• Through the website of the General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs – GDRFA (online and in-person).
  • The websites of the GDRFA in each emirate:
    • Abu Dhabi
    • Dubai (see also Amer, a website which Dubai citizens and residents can use to apply for family reunion and visitors can use to extend their Visa On Arrival)
    • Sharjah
    • Ajman
    • Ras Al Khaimah
    • Fujairah
  • Mobile apps:
    • ICA’s eChanel portal (for Apple and Android)
• Your sponsor or host can also apply through one of the licensed typing centres of the GDRFA in each Emirate or through one of the Amer centres in Dubai.

UAE eVisa Application for GCC Residents

Residents of any of the GCC countries are not exempt from visa requirements like GCC nationals are, but they are entitled to a facilitated online application process if they are travelling with GCC citizens. The GCC stands for Gulf Cooperation Council, and the countries participating in it are Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, and the United Arab Emirates.

If you are a GCC resident, you can apply for a UAE visa through one of the following websites:

• Here – For an Entry Permit
• Here – For a Resident Visa

Once you apply, you will receive your visa at the address which you provided. Your UAE visa is valid for 30 days, and may be extended once more for 30 additional days.

If you are a GCC resident who will be travelling alone (not with a GCC national) you cannot apply through the online portal.

How Long Can I Stay in the UAE With a Visa?

When you receive a UAE visa, you will usually have about 60 days to use it to enter the country. Upon entry, the number of days you are allowed to stay in the UAE depends on the purpose of your travel.

As a tourist, you can stay for up to 30 days. If you are transiting, you are allowed to stay only for up to 4 days. UAE visas for employment are issued for a maximum of 2 months, during which time you have to convert it into a Residence Visa or leave the country.

Can You Extend a UAE Visa?

Yes, you can. As of 2018, you can extend almost any UAE visa or entry permit two times, each for 30 additional days and for a fee of AED 600. You have to apply for a visa extension before your current visa expires, otherwise you’ll be fined for overstaying.

You may not apply for a UAE visa extension if you fall under one of the following categories:

• You are a visitor or tourist and you are a resident of a GCC country
• You are a GCC resident who is accompanying a GCC national
• You hold a special entry permit
• You have a 96-hour permit for special missions

UAE Residence Visa extension for widows or divorced women

The UAE government offers a Residence Visa extension for divorced women or widows which allows them to remain in the country for another year starting from the time of divorce or death of their husbands without the need for a sponsor. The visa also includes their children.

They must apply through the websites or typing centres of the relevant GDRFA in their Emirate of residence.

What Happens if I Overstay in Dubai on a Tourist Visa?

If you overstay your Dubai visa, you will have to pay a fine of AED 100 for every day that you have overstayed. If you know you need to stay longer, you should apply for a visa extension.

Can You Work in Dubai With Tourist Visa?

No, you cannot. A tourist or visitor visa for UAE does not authorize the holder to work. If you want to take up employment, you must apply for a UAE Work Visa and Work Permit.

If you work in the UAE without authorization, even if you’re not paid, you will be deported and may have to pay a fine.

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The Turkmenistan visa policy is fairly strict. Everyone has to get a visa and an invitation letter before they travel, except certain holders of diplomatic or service passports. This process can take months, and the tour bookings can often be expensive.

You can find the Turkmen visa policy and application process detailed below.

Who Needs a Turkmenistan Visa?

Everyone needs a Turkmen Visa to visit Turkmenistan, except:

• Holders of diplomatic or service passports issued by:
  • Armenia
  • Azerbaijan
  • Belarus
  • Bulgaria
  • China
  • Czech Republic
  • Georgia
  • Hungary
  • Iran
  • Japan
  • Kazakhstan
  • Kyrgyzstan
  • Moldova
  • Mongolia
  • Romania
  • Russia
  • Slovakia
  • South Korea
  • Tajikistan
  • Turkey
  • Ukraine
  • United Arab Emirates
• Holders of diplomatic passports issued by:
  • Estonia
  • India
  • Pakistan
  • Uzbekistan

Types of Turkmenistan Visas

The main types of Turkmenistan visas are:

• Turkmenistan Tourist Visa. To visit Turkmenistan as a tourist, you must book a tour with an authorized travel agent.
• Turkmenistan Transit Visa. When you have to pass through Turkmenistan on your way to a third country of destination. This is the only type of visa you can apply for without a sponsor.
• Turkmenistan Business Visa. For short-term business trips.
• Turkmenistan Work Visa. For foreign nationals who have been employed in a Turkmen company. The company acts as a sponsor.
• Turkmenistan Private/Personal Visa. For foreign nationals visiting a Turkmen national or resident.
• Turkmenistan Family Visa. For the family members of foreign nationals who are residing in Turkmenistan on a work visa.
• Turkmenistan Student Visa. For foreign nationals who will study in Turkmenistan.

Turkmenistan Visa Requirements

The required documents for a Turkmenistan visa include:

• Turkmenistan Visa Application Form (3 copies). You can download the application form on the Turkmen Migration website.
• Your travel programme
• Copy of your passport and ID
• Cover letter, describing the reason for your trip
• A recent passport-size picture
• Letter of permission for you to travel, obtained by your sponsor
• Requirements for Turkmenistan Business visa:
  • Letter of request from the inviting company or government agency/ministry
  • Documents proving the inviting company’s main operation
• Requirements for Turkmenistan Work Visa:
  • Letter of request from the sponsoring company or government agency/ministry
  • Documents proving the inviting company’s main operation
  • Documents proving the company’s ability to sponsor you
  • Copy of your work contract
  • Your health certificate
  • List of names of all employees in the company
  • Proof of your qualifications, translated and sealed.
• Requirements for Turkmenistan Study Visa:
  • A written letter of request by the Educational offices of Turkmenistan
• Requirements for a Personal Visa:
  • Copy of the sponsor’s passport
  • Copy of a document proving your relationship
  • Proof that your sponsor has the right of residence in Turkmenistan
• Requirements for a Family Visa:
  • Copy of your sponsor’s passport
  • Copy of your sponsor’s visa
  • Documents proving your family relationship

Note: This is not an exhaustive list of requirements. Your sponsor and the Embassy in which you will apply will provide you with the requirements based on your specific circumstances, both for the LOI and visa application.

How Do I Get a Turkmenistan Visa?

You can apply for a Turkmenistan visa at an Embassy or Consulate, but before that, you have to get a Letter of Invitation (LOI) from the Turkmen State Migration Service. You must have a sponsor in Turkmenistan who can get the LOI for you. Your sponsor can be:

• A travel agency, if you intend to visit Turkmenistan as a tourist. Check the website of the Turkmen Embassy in your country to see if they have a list available of travel agencies offering tours to Turkmenistan.
• An individual already residing in Turkmenistan, if you are applying for a family or private visa.
• A Turkmen organization or company, if you are travelling for business or employment reasons.
• An educational institution, if you are applying for a student visa.

So, if you are travelling simply for tourism, then your tour agency will handle a lot of your visa application for you. They will have the necessary information regarding documents and requirements for the Letter of Invitation.

The application for a Letter of Invitation can take up to 20 working days, or about a month overall. However, once you have the Letter of Invitation, the application for the visa is much easier, since the LOI is the most important part of the visa application.

After you get the Turkmenistan Letter of Invitation

Once you get the Letter of Invitation, you can apply for a visa at the nearest Turkmen Embassy or Consulate. Find the diplomatic representation offices of Turkmenistan here.

• Contact the Embassy/Consulate to inquire about the application process. Some offices may allow you to apply via mail or online.
• You must submit the Letter of Invitation along with your passport and any other required documents.
• Pay the visa fee.
• Wait for the visa to process.

If there is no Turkmen representation in your country, you can also apply for a Visa on Arrival at the airport of Ashgabat or land borders.

Applying for a Visa to Transit Through Turkmenistan

You can apply for a Turkmenistan Transit Visa at a Turkmen Embassy or Consulate, without having to book a tour or obtain a Letter of Invitation. However, the Turkmen Transit Visa is only valid for 3 to 7 days, with the average being a 5-day transit visa.

In addition, you must have a ticket or visa valid for a third country of destination, since the purpose of this visa is to allow you to transit through Turkmenistan on your onward travels. You cannot go back to your home country.

Registering a Transit Visa: Once you enter Turkmenistan, if you will be staying longer than 3 days, you have to go to the Migration Police (OVIR) in Ashgabat to register your stay. You will need your a copy of your passport, a valid address (your hotel), and a visa for your next destination, if applicable.

Documents Required for Turkmenistan Transit Visa

The documents you need to apply for a Turkmen Transit Visa are:

• Completed Visa Application Form. You can download the application form the Turkmenistan Migration website.
• Your passport. It must be valid for at least another six months after your visa expired, and have two blank pages.
• Copies of your passport pages which include any visas for the previous and next country you will travel to. If visas were not required for those countries, write a statement explaining it.
• A recent passport-sized picture.
• A cover letter, which states the reason for requesting the visa. The letter must include your travel route and itinerary.
• Photocopies of your airline ticket/s, if applicable.

Note: You do not need a transit visa is you don’t intend to leave the international transit area of Ashgabat International Airport.

Turkmenistan Visa on Arrival

If you have booked a tour, and you get a Letter of Invitation from the Turkmen Migration Services, then you can obtain a Visa on Arrival at Ashgabat International Airport or one of the land borders.

You must show your passport, the Letter of Invitation, as well as any other required documents.

The Visa on Arrival is valid for a maximum of 10 days, with the possibility of extension depending on your tour booking. The Turkmenistan Visa on Arrival at the international airport of Ashgabat costs USD 50 more than an average visa.

Note:

It is always advisable to get a visa beforehand, rather than on arrival. Although the Letter of Invitation issued by the Turkmen Migration Services is the most important entry authorization, the Immigration Services in Turkmenistan may decide not to issue a visa on arrival, or you may be unable to board a plane without a visa.

Again, because a lot of the visa application process is handled by your sponsor (i.e. the travel agency), please consult with them or an Embassy regarding how to proceed.

Registering Your Turkmenistan Visa

After you enter Turkmenistan with your visa, you have to register your stay at the Migration Police (OVIR). If you are travelling with a tour agency, they will handle the process on your behalf.

Turkmenistan Visa Fees

The fees for Turkmenistan visas are:

• 10-day single-entry visa: USD 20
• 20-day single-entry visa: USD 30
• One-month single-entry visa: USD 40
• USD 30 per month for stays longer than one month (single-entry)
• One-month multiple-entry visa: USD 60
• USD 40 per month for long-term stays (multiple-entry)
• Single-entry 5-day transit visa: USD 20
• Double-entry 5-day transit visa: USD 40

Note: In addition to the price of the Turkmenistan visa, you also have to pay a processing fee. This changes from country to country.

How Long to Process a Turkmenistan Visa?

The processing time for a Turkmenistan visa is 10 days from the date the Embassy receives your completed application. However, it can take up to one month for you to receive a Letter of Invitation from the Turkmen State Migration Service.

Therefore, if you intend to visit Turkmenistan, you have to contact a travel agency and start planning your tour well in advance.

Note: Because there is no LOI for a Turkmenistan Transit Visa, it may take several weeks for your visa to be processed.

What Is the Duration of a Turkmenistan Visa?

The duration of a Turkmenistan visa depends on the reason for travelling, the duration of your tour as well as your nationality. They can be issued for single-, double-, or multiple entries and have a duration ranging from 10 days and up to one year.

Can You Extend a Turkmenistan Visa?

Although it is not a common practice, you may be able to extend your Turkmen visa for another 3 to 5 days if you apply to the Turkmen State Migration Services. You will need a letter explaining why you seek the extension and payment of the visa extension fee.

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Do I Need a Tajikistan Visa?

Yes, you likely do need a Tajikistan visa before being allowed to enter the country. Only citizens of the following countries can stay in Tajikistan visa-free (for the specified period of time):

• Belarus (Unlimited)
• Georgia (Unlimited)
• Kazakhstan (Unlimited)
• Kyrgyzstan (Unlimited)
• Moldova (Unlimited)
• Russia (Unlimited)
• Armenia (Up to 90 days)
• Azerbaijan (Up to 90 days)
• Ukraine (Up to 90 days)
• Uzbekistan (Up to 30 days)

Types of Tajikistan Visas

The types of visas for Tajikistan are:

• Tajikistan Tourist Visa. This type of visa is issued to foreign nationals travelling for simply tourism or recreational purposes. Most people can apply for a Tajikistan tourist visa online, without an invitation.
• Tajikistan Business Visa. Issued to foreign nationals travelling to Tajikistan with the intention of conducting business, such as attending meetings, conferences, a symposium, conclude contracts, etc. A letter of invitation from the hosting company is required. This does not allow the holder to actually be employed in a Tajiki company.
• Tajikistan Private Visa. Issued to foreign nationals who are visiting family or friends in Tajikistan, travelling for medical treatment, or other short-term purposes.
• Tajikistan Investment Visa. Issued to the representatives or heads of companies making a large investment in Tajikistan, as well as the family members of the main applicant.
• Tajikistan Work Visa. This visa is issued to foreign nationals who have been employed in a Tajikistan-based company, as well as the family members of the main applicant.
• Tajikistan Study/Academic Visa. Issued to foreign nationals admitted into an educational institution in Tajikistan, post-graduate students, doctorate students, as well as the family members of the main applicant

How To Apply for a Tajikistan Visa?

You can apply for a Tajikistan visa in one of the following ways:

• Online, through the official Tajikistan eVisa portal
• At an Embassy or Consulate, if you are not eligible for the eVisa

Applying for a Tajikistan eVisa

You can apply for a Tajikistan eVisa through the official website of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (here). This is a simplified process, wherein you have to:

• Complete the online application form.
• Pay the Tajikistan eVisa fee. Fees are non-refundable.
• Wait for the visa to be processed. This takes about two working days. You will receive the Tajikistan eVisa on your email.
• Print out the visa and bring it with you when you travel.

Visa type: The Tajikistan eVisa is issued only for tourism.

Eligible border crossings: You can enter Tajikistan through any airport or border crossing using an eVisa.

Tajikistan eVisa cost: The Tajikistan eVisa fee is USD 50. If also applying for a GBAO permit, the cost is about USD 70. The GBAO Permit allows the holder entry to the Gorno-Badakhshan Autonomous Region.

Required documents: When you apply for a Tajikistan eVisa, the requirements will appear once you fill in the sections regarding your nationality and travel dates. You always need a passport that’s valid for at least another six months.

Validity: The Tajikistan eVisa allows the holder to stay in the country for up to 60 days. The visa is single-entry and valid for 90 after it is issued.

Eligibility: You can apply for a Tajikistan eVisa if you are from one of the following countries:

Requirements for Tajikistan Visa

The requirements for getting a Tajikistan visa are:

• You must have a passport that’s valid for at least another six months from the date of entry.
• You must have a valid debit/credit card for paying the visa fee.
• You must have a clean criminal record
• You must be from one of the countries eligible for an eVisa
• You must have any other additional documents required (depending on your nationality)

The requirements for obtaining a Tajikistan visa at the embassy depend on the country in which you are applying. You will need an invitation letter from a tour agency, an individual in Tajikstan, or a host company/organization.

Applying for a Tajikistan Visa at the Embassy

If you are not eligible for a Tajikistan eVisa, then you can get the visa at the nearest Embassy/Consulate or even on arrival. This is a two-step process, which requires an online and in-person application:

1. Register on the Tajikistan Visa website of the MFA (here). This is not the same as the eVisa!
2. Select your nationality and which Embassy you will receive your visa in. If there is no diplomatic mission of Tajikistan, you have the option of getting the visa on arrival.
3. Complete the visa form.
4. Attach the required documents. You need a scanned copy of your passport, an invitation letter from a tour company in Tajikistan, and a 5×6 picture of yourself. If travelling for business, you need a letter of invitation from the company hosting you.
5. Pay for the visa. The fee for a Tajikistan visa changes depending on your nationality.
6. Wait for the visa to process. This usually takes about 5 working days.
7. You will receive the confirmation on your email.
8. Take the printed confirmation letter to the Tajikistan Embassy which you selected to get your visa or take it with you to apply on arrival, depending on your selection.

The Tajikistan diplomatic missions are listed here.

Is a Tajikistan Visa on Arrival Available?

You can get your Tajikistan visa on arrival if you get an electronic authorization beforehand. However, according to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), citizens of the following countries can obtain a Tajikistan Visa on Arrival at the Dushanbe Airport even without prior authorization:

• EU and EFTA Member States
• Algeria
• Andorra
• Argentina
• Australia
• Bahrain
• Brazil
• Brunei
• Canada
• Chile
• Cuba
• Egypt
• Indonesia
• Israel
• Japan
• Jordan
• South Korea
• Kuwait
• Latvia
• Lebanon
• Lithuania
• Malaysia
• Malta
• Mexico
• Monaco
• Mongolia
• Morocco
• New Zealand
• Oman
• Philippines
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Singapore
• South Africa
• Thailand
• Tunisia
• Turkey
• Turkmenistan
• United States
• United Arab Emirates
• Vatican
• Venezuela
• Vietnam
• Yemen

There is a lot of conflicting information online regarding the Tajikistan Visa on Arrival. While the IATA and previous travellers claim that such a visa is available at  Dushanbe Airport, there is really no mention of it on any of the official Tajiki websites. If you do decide to apply for a visa on arrival, then consult with an Embassy before you actually travel.

Note: This is not the same as obtaining a Tajiki Visa at the airport after completing an online application first.

Tajikistan Visa Duration

The most common type of Tajikistan visa (the eVisa) is valid for a maximum of 90 days from issuance. It allows you to stay up to 60 days in Tajikistan within its validity period.

You can apply for a visa with a different duration at the nearest Tajikistan Embassy or Consulate.

Can You Extend a Tajikistan Visa?

You cannot extend a Tajikistan tourist visa except in extraordinary circumstances (force majeure).

If you have another type of Tajiki visa which you want to extend, you have to submit e request at the Main Consular Department of the Tajikistan Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Your current visa must still be valid and you need the relevant documents supporting your request for an extension.

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Safe to say, foreign travelers transiting through Singapore will get quite the Singaporean experience without ever leaving its airport.

The rules on a Singapore Transit Visa change depending on your nationality. If you are traveling to Singapore, and wondering whether you need a Singapore Transit visa, the answer is most likely, “No.” That’s because most countries do not need a Singapore Visa at all, and therefore, they also do not need a Singapore Transit Visa.

But before you understand the Transit visa rules for Singapore, you need to know what countries are subject to a visa, and which are not.

Do I Need to Apply for a Singapore Transit Visa?

No, if you are simply transiting in Singapore, you do not need to have a Singapore Transit Visa, (even if you are from one of the countries mentioned in the tables below) if you fulfill these conditions:

• You do not leave the Airport Transit Area.
• You must have a connecting flight ticket for onward travel.
• You do not go through the immigration area.

These rules only apply to nationals from countries who need to apply for a regular Singapore Visa in order to visit Singapore. The countries who are subject to Singapore visa requirements are divided into two groups, which are listed below.

Assessment Level I Countries

Assessment Level II Countries

But even though there is no such thing as a Singapore Transit visa, Singapore does have a special transit visa which allows the holder to enter the country under certain conditions.

The Singapore Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF)

Singapore has made an agreement with certain countries who need a visa. This agreement allows certain travelers who are transiting in Singapore to enter the country for up to 96 hours.

This is called the Visa-Free Transit Facility (VFTF).

The Visa-Free Transit Facility is available to nationals from:

• Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS)
• Georgia
• India
• The People’s Republic of China (PRC)
• Turkmenistan and Ukraine

Nationals from those countries who think they meet the requirements for the VFTF have to submit their case to the Singaporean immigration services (ICA) at their point of entry. It is the ICA who reviews the application and decides whether to grant the traveler entry into Singapore.

They hold the right to refuse.

If you receive this special Singapore transit visa, you are only allowed to leave the transit area and stay in Singapore for a maximum of 96 hours. The time cannot be extended under any circumstances.

Overstaying any type of Singapore visa is considered a punishable offense, so be careful not to do so.

You can only use the VFTF once, either on your forward or return trip.

The Requirements for the Singapore Visa-Free Transit Facility

The requirements for obtaining a VFTF visa change depending on the country.

If you are from India or the People’s Republic of China (PRC) you are eligible for the VFTF visa if you meet all of the following conditions:

• You leave Singapore via air or sea, regardless of how you came in. This means you must have a valid ticket for a flight, a ship, or a cruise which is departing within 96 hours.
• You have a valid visa for one of the following countries:
  • Australia
  • Canada
  • Germany
  • Japan
  • New Zealand
  • Switzerland
  • United Kingdom
  • United States of America
• The visa is valid for at least one month starting from the time VFTF comes into effect.

If you have a Single Journey Visa which has expired (meaning you already traveled to the country that issued it) you can still use the VFTF on your return flight. In this case, you must:

• Travel directly from the country who issued the visa
• Stop into Singapore to transit.
• Travel directly back to your home country.

If you are from The Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS), Georgia, Turkmenistan and Ukraine you are eligible for the VFTF if you fulfill the following countries:

• You leave Singapore via airplane, regardless of the method with which you traveled in.
• You have a valid airplane ticket which departs in the next 96 hours.

In either case, when you request entry in the country through the VFTF, you must present the ICA officers:

• A passport, which is valid for at least six more months from the time you depart Singapore.
• Your booked onward travel ticket (flight or ship, as applicable).
• The visa to the third country, if applicable.
• Proof you have sufficient funds to cover your stay.
• The Embarkation/Disembarkation card, completed.

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