eVisa

An eVisa, or electronic visa, is a visa issued entirely online by a country’s immigration authority. It is linked to the traveler’s passport and authorizes entry for a defined purpose (such as tourism, business, or study) and for a specific period. Unlike a traditional visa stamped in a passport after a consular visit, an eVisa is typically issued electronically and can be verified by border officials using the traveler’s passport data.

Most eVisa systems require an online application, upload of supporting documents (passport copy, photograph, travel itinerary, invitation letters when applicable), and payment of the visa fee. Processing times vary from a few hours to several days. After approval, the traveler receives an electronic visa document or confirmation code linked to the passport; it should be printed or saved and presented on arrival. Some destinations verify the eVisa automatically in the passport, while others require the traveler to present the eVisa document.

Eligibility and rules differ by country. EVisas may be single-entry or multiple-entry and may specify permitted durations, activities, and entry points. Passport validity, travel purpose, and nationality can affect eligibility. Not all travelers or destinations offer eVisas; some provide visa-on-arrival or traditional visas instead. Privacy and security considerations apply, since personal data is transmitted online.

Examples of countries offering eVisas include India, Turkey, Kenya, and Australia’s electronic travel authorization programs. Canada uses a comparable online system known as an electronic travel authorization for eligible travelers.