You may have already heard that many countries in the world gave up on standard visas in favor of the electronic visa. It is less time-consuming to apply for, it requires fewer resources from both the issuing authority and the applicant, and the processing does not last as long. You could call it a win-win from any point of view. However, not everyone is familiar with an electronic visa, which is why we want to inform you about three of the most important aspects you should know about it.
Not all countries issue electronic visas
Sure, the electronic visa is gaining some ground, and every year, more and more states decide to adopt the electronic visa system. However, that does not mean all of them issue eVisas. The system takes some time to be approved, and then the implementation period takes a while as well. It is not as easy as it sounds. The good news, though, is that the number of governments that decide in favor of the electronic visa is on the rise. After all, eVisas are known for their benefits to the tourism industry.
To find out if a specific country issues electronic visas or not, all you have to do is to look at its visa policy on the internet. Wikipedia is incredibly helpful in that regard.
If an electronic visas is available, it does not mean you qualify for one
This is a common confusion. People find out that a particular country adopted the electronic visa system and they think they can get an eVisa. That could not be further from the truth. The fact of the matter is that each country that issues electronic visas do so to a number of nationalities. The decision is based on treaties and accords. Some states issue eVisas only to a handful of nationalities, while others decided it is best to give one to almost everyone. India, for example, issues eVisas for over 160 nationalities.
If you want to find out whether or not you qualify for a specific electronic visa, all you need to do is a Google search. Same as above, search the visa policy of the country you want to travel to, go to the eVisa section, and look for your nationality on the list. If you are not on the list, you cannot avoid the embassy. If you are, however, you can apply online for the visa you need.
The online visa application process is as easy as they say
A lot of people already tested the electronic visa system, and pretty much all of them will stand by the fact that the online application process is close to effortless. Here is how it works.
First, you need to make sure that you meet the requirements. Electronic visas are not at all demanding. In many cases, all you need is a valid passport. Other criteria may apply, such as travel insurance, photo, accommodation details, letter of invitation, etc.
Secondly, you must fill in an online application form. You are expected to provide a wide range of information about yourself, your passport, and your trip. You have to be very careful about the information you offer. It has to be 100% accurate. A spelling mistake will render your eVisa invalid, so make sure to review your form before submission.
You also have to pay a fee. You can use a credit or debit card as a method of payment, but depending on the visa service you use, multiple other means are accepted. As soon as the payment goes through, you can submit the form, and that is pretty much it.
The eVisa you apply for is sent to you via e-mail. Depending on the issuing country, you may have to print it out, although it is quite common for immigration officers to be able to check the existence of your visa without having to present it. After all, an electronic visa is electronically linked to your passport.