Traveling the world is a thrilling experience, but it’s a good idea to know the documents you’ll need to bring with you well before you start packing for the airport. Quite a few popular vacation destinations require a bit of extra preparation before you can enter their borders. Luckily, there are simple ways to attain the visas you need so you can travel without stress!
Australia
Traveling to Australia requires an Australia Tourist Visa, also known as an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This visa lets U.S. citizens visit for up to 3 months at a time within a 12-month period and can be applied for online. Processing times for the ETA are typically quick, often just a few days. Though there is no visa fee, there is an online service charge of $14.22. It’s wise to apply at least a few weeks before your departure to ensure you get your visa before your planned trip.
Bolivia
To travel to Bolivia, you need a Bolivia Tourist Visa, or Visitor Visa, which allows stays of 30 days per trip and up to 90 days per year. You must apply at a Bolivian Embassy or consulate, and the $160 fee can be paid in U.S. dollars or local currency upon arrival. Visa processing takes 15 business days to 5 weeks and documentation of a round-trip ticket is required.
China
American citizens must obtain a China Tourist Visa before traveling to China, as there’s no visa-free agreement between the two countries. Applications must be submitted at a Chinese Embassy or Consulate, possibly requiring a consular interview. Processing generally takes 4 business days. The visa fee is $140 for single-entry, double-entry, and multiple-entry visas.
Egypt
U.S. citizens need a visa to visit Egypt, which can be obtained online. A renewable single-entry 30-day tourist visa costs $25, while a multiple-entry visa is $60. If you’re planning to enter the country through Israel, make sure to secure your visa beforehand. Processing takes about 10 business days, but the eVisa processes in 5 days. Make sure you apply at least 7 days before traveling.
India
Before traveling from the United States to India, you must apply online for an e-Tourist Visa, which can be valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years, depending on your choice. The visa processing time is 72 hours or more, and costs range from $25 to $80, depending on the length of your stay.
Indonesia
U.S. passport holders traveling to Indonesia must have a valid passport but can obtain a visa on arrival for 30 days, extendable by an additional 30 days. The fee for this visa is $35, and the visa can be processed at the airport when you arrive for your stay. U.S. citizens can also apply online before arrival if you want to skip this process when you arrive.
Iran
To enter Iran, U.S. citizens must apply for an Iran Tourist Visa by contacting the Iranian Interests Section at the Embassy of Pakistan in Washington, DC. Visas on arrival are unfortunately not available in Iran. The process involves a 1-3 month wait for an Iran Visa Code, followed by a few days to two weeks for the visa itself. The Iran Tourist eVisa costs $80, but it’s advisable to check fees beforehand due to frequent changes.
Kenya
If you’re a U.S. citizen heading to Kenya, you’ll need to grab a visa first. It’s pretty simple – you can apply online through their eVisa system or choose to get one when you land. Make sure you have your passport, a recent photo, and your travel plans handy. The process is generally straightforward, with visas typically issued for single-entry stays up to 90 days.
Libya
U.S. citizens traveling to Libya must secure a visa in advance, as there are no visas on arrival. The application process involves background checks, a valid passport, and a letter of invitation from a host in Libya. Given the complex political situation, approvals can be stringent and take considerable time.
Myanmar
U.S. citizens traveling to Myanmar must obtain a visa before arriving. The application can be completed online through the eVisa system or at a Myanmar embassy. Required documents include a valid passport, a recent photo, and travel details. Tourist visas typically allow stays up to 28 days and are usually processed quickly, but as with all foreign travel, it’s better to allow yourself plenty of time for processing.
Qatar
Heading to Qatar? Good news! U.S. citizens can easily get a visa on arrival. Just make sure your passport is valid for at least the next six months. You’ll also need a return ticket and hotel reservation. The whole process is pretty hassle-free, letting you enjoy your trip without much fuss.
Russia
Planning a trip to Russia? U.S. citizens need a visa, which you have to get before traveling. The application requires a valid passport, recent photos, and a letter of invitation, usually from a hotel or tour company. The process can take a few weeks, so make sure to get your application in well before you travel.
Sri Lanka
Traveling to Sri Lanka as a U.S. citizen requires obtaining an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to arrival. The application can be completed online and typically takes around 24 hours to process. The ETA is valid for short stays of up to 30 days for tourism or business purposes.
Sudan
U.S. citizens planning to travel to Sudan must obtain a visa before arrival. The process typically involves submitting an application at a Sudanese embassy or consulate, along with necessary documents such as a passport, photos, and an invitation letter. Additionally, travelers should be aware of the region’s safety advisories. Sudan has recently experienced political instability, civil unrest, and occasional conflicts, particularly in regions like Darfur, South Kordofan, and the Blue Nile.
Syria
Traveling to Syria as a U.S. citizen requires obtaining a visa in advance from the Syrian embassy, and the process can be stringent due to ongoing security concerns. Potential travelers must submit various documents, including a passport, photos, and a detailed itinerary. Always review current travel advisories before planning your visit, because political conflicts could delay travel to this area.
Turkey
U.S. citizens traveling to Turkey must apply for an e-Visa online before arrival, which is valid for tourism or business stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. The application is straightforward, requiring a valid passport, email address, and payment. While you’re in Turkey, make sure to see the Blue Mosque, an iconic mosque in Istanbul famous for its stunning blue tiles and impressive architecture.
Vietnam
US citizens traveling to Vietnam must obtain a visa prior to arrival. Options include applying online for an e-visa, valid for 30 days and single entry, or securing a visa through a Vietnamese embassy or consulate. Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your stay, and while you’re there, enjoy the tranquil Ha Long Bay, famous for its emerald waters and thousands of limestone islands.
Yemen
Traveling to Yemen as a U.S. citizen requires obtaining a visa in advance from a Yemeni embassy or consulate. The process necessitates a valid passport, photos, and supporting documents. Due to ongoing security concerns and conflict, travelers must also heed current travel advisories and consider postponing non-essential trips.