Travelling today is easier thanks to streamlined visa processes in many countries. This guide explores nations offering eVisa options in 2024, making travel hassle-free. Whether you're drawn to historic landmarks, exotic cuisines, or vibrant cultures, these countries await exploration. Embrace the convenience of online visa applications and embark on your next adventure with ease. Discover the possibilities for your unforgettable journey ahead!
Armenia
While many Western citizens enjoy visa-free entry to Armenia for up to 180 days, certain countries like Canada require a visa on arrival or an electronic visa. You can opt for an electronic visa as a precaution, as some immigration officers in smaller countries may incorrectly deny eligibility for a visa on arrival. Also the electronic visa option offers a smoother experience compared to the consular processes.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan mandates visas for nearly all travelers, with exceptions for 12 countries granted visa-free access and an additional thirteen Asian and Gulf nations eligible for visas on arrival. For others, pre-arrival application is necessary. Previously, Azerbaijan's e-visa process was challenging; however, significant improvements have been made since 2017. Now, tourists can conveniently apply through multiple tour operators by booking a tour, like a Baku day tour, or their accommodation via the e-visa portal.
Bahrain
Bahrain launched its e-visa system in 2004, offering a diverse range of visa categories covering tourism, business, medical visits, study, exhibitions, conferences, sports events, journalism, NGO activities, and more. It has also notably relaxed its visa regulations, positioning itself as one of the more accommodating Gulf states towards Westerners. Initially accessible to only 38 nationalities, the e-visa program has recently expanded to include 209. While most holders of "Tier A" passports have the choice of obtaining a visa on arrival or an e-visa, citizens from select African and less affluent Asian countries must follow the e-visa procedure. However, it's important to note that the e-visa process involves uploading multiple forms and may not be entirely straightforward.
Cambodia
Obtaining Cambodia e-visas is incredibly simple. The main challenge lies in having a passport photo ready to scan and upload, underscoring the importance of keeping about ten passport photos available at all times. Once you have the photo, filling out the form takes a mere five minutes, with approval typically being granted almost instantly. While Cambodia has increased its e-visa fee over time, it remains affordable. Despite the availability of visas on arrival for many Western citizens, like Americans, the immigration authority often struggles to provide clear criteria regarding eligibility.
Côte d’Ivoire
Côte d’Ivoire, formerly known as Ivory Coast, now offers its own online visa process, which has recently been updated to accept payments. You can find information on the program's website, available in both French and English on their official website. Unfortunately, unless you're from one of 21 African countries or are stateless, you'll need a visa for stays up to 90 days, which is somehow costly. Obtaining a visa from the nearest embassy is likely to be equally challenging.
Egypt
Egypt stands as one of the oldest and most culturally vibrant civilizations in history, boasting renowned beach destinations and numerous attractions. Given its status as a tourist hotspot, it's not surprising that Egypt has joined the list of e-visa countries. Citizens of over 78 nations are required to submit their e-visa applications through the country's online portal at least seven days prior to arrival, both their single entry and multiple entry being affordable. Unlike many African counterparts, Egypt's website is user-friendly and straightforward.
Gabon
Gabon offers visa-free access to nationals from approximately 20 countries with specific passports. For other visitors, single-entry visas are available for stays of up to 90 days, while multiple-entry visas are an option for a 6-month duration. Although only four nationalities (Mauritius, Morocco, Tunisia, and South Africa) enjoy visa-free entry, Gabon simplifies its visa process by offering single-entry visas or double-entry visas, allowing travelers to specify their desired length of stay. Past experiences suggest it's usually more convenient and cost-effective to choose the most conservative visa required. While the process seems straightforward, applicants must upload required documents on the official website during application.
Georgia
Georgia is recognized as one of the most accessible e-visa countries worldwide, potentially ranking second only to Ecuador. Even travelers from countries encountering notable travel difficulties, such as Thailand, experience no hindrances in accessing Georgia. Unless you're from the select group of countries granting a one-year stamp upon arrival, you'll need to complete the straightforward e-visa process. Citizens of certain countries, including Cuba, Guatemala, Peru, Bolivia, Paraguay, and several Caribbean islands, can apply for a 90-day visa, while others, like Chinese and Indians, can apply for a 30-day visa.
India
India has emerged as a sought-after tourist destination, celebrated for its rich history, diverse culture, and awe-inspiring landscapes. The Indian e-Visa permits short-term stays for tourism, business, conferences, and medical visits, offering accessibility to citizens of over 160 countries. The application process is straightforward, allowing online completion from the comfort of home. Simply fill out an online form, upload a photo and a copy of your passport, and pay the e-Visa fee. Typically, the Indian e-Visa is processed within 72 hours and sent via email. However, the application process mirrors the challenges often associated with Indian bureaucracy, ineptitude, and inefficiency.
Iran
Iran has recently become part of the list of e-visa countries, offering easier access compared to before. Your electronic visa application can now be processed in as little as 10 working days. The process of application is uncomplicated and clear.
Kenya
Kenya offers an e-Visa service to streamline the process for travelers, available to visitors from most countries for tourism, business, and medical purposes. While Kenya is renowned for its African safaris and wildlife-rich plains, it is also rapidly establishing itself as the financial hub of East Africa, with the emergence of amenities like co-working spaces and venture funds. Additionally, Kenya provides 90-day visa-free access to citizens of 45 countries, including three western nations; St. Kitts and Nevis, Cyprus, and San Marino. Singaporeans also benefit from visa-free access.
Kuwait
Kuwait offers e-visa eligibility to residents of 53 countries. GCC residents enjoy visa-free entry to Kuwait. However, foreign residents in GCC countries must obtain a Kuwait e-visa. This visa permits a tourist stay of up to 3 months, with the stipulation that GCC residents cannot engage in touristic activities for more than 90 days and must have a clean record in terms of criminal or terrorist activities. Arranging a visa for Kuwait usually involves obtaining one upon arrival, which seems simplest for US citizens due to special treatment but is increasingly accessible to many European countries and even Georgia. The process is straightforward, although it requires answering several questions, and the fee upon arrival.
Laos
Laos stands out as one of the most welcoming countries on this list, offering e-visa access to an impressive 159 nations. The processing time for the e-visa is typically just 3 working days, with an affordable fee excluding bank charges for US citizens. You can visit the official website and use the visa fee calculator to calculate your visa fee based on your nationality.
Malaysia
Malaysia stands out as both affordable and safe globally, making it an attractive destination in Asia for living and visiting. With 66 countries granting visa-free stays for 90 days, and 94 countries allowing 30-day visa-free travel, along with two countries offering 14 days without a visa, Malaysia offers remarkable accessibility to visitors. Its straightforward visa run policy further enhances its tourist-friendly reputation, although 34 countries currently require an e-visa, including Bhutan, Bangladesh, China, Hong Kong, India, Montenegro, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Serbia, and Sri Lanka. For a thirty-day e-visa, applicants can apply online if they are outside of Malaysia and Singapore, a condition they diligently enforce. The visa remains valid for three months from the issue date, with single-entry visas allowing a thirty-day stay, while multiple-entry visas offer only 14 days in Malaysia.
Moldova
Moldova allows visa-free visits for up to 90 days for various Western and all European nations, offering three visa options: the airport transit visa (Type A), the transit visa (Type B) valid for 5 days, and the short-stay visa (Type C) for a 90-day duration. Visa fees can be paid conveniently with credit or debit cards, and the application process typically takes between 10 to 20 days, depending on specific needs. Since 2007, citizens from 101 countries, including all European nations and most Western countries, can visit Moldova without a visa. However, for those without visa-free access, the e-visa process is somewhat limited, open mainly to citizens of most Central and South American countries. Others must obtain an invitation letter, which involves a more complex procedure than the standard online visa process.
Myanmar
Renowned for its ancient temples and historical heritage, Myanmar has taken steps to streamline travel by introducing e-Visas. The Myanmar e-Visa is accessible to travelers from over 100 countries for both tourism and business purposes. The application process is straightforward, requiring completion of an online form, uploading a passport photo, and payment of the e-Visa fee. Typically, the e-Visa is approved within three working days and allows a single entry for tourists for up to 28 days and for business travelers for up to 70 days.
New Zealand
New Zealand swiftly embraced e-visa procedures, making them more accessible and user-friendly, and even developed an app for obtaining electronic travel authorization. The processing time typically ranges from 3 days to as little as 10 minutes, at an affordable cost. Additionally, New Zealand provides a diverse array of visas for global travelers, including work visas, student visas, visitor visas, family reunion visas, business visas, investment visas, and residency visas. The visitor visa allows stays of up to 9 months, with a maximum limit of 180 days for consecutive stays in New Zealand.
Rwanda
Rwanda maintains a welcoming visa policy for travelers, offering various options depending on nationality. Member nations of the African Union, La Francophonie, and the Commonwealth are granted a complimentary visa-on-arrival for a 30-day stay. Citizens from Burundi, the United Republic of Tanzania, Kenya, Uganda, and South Sudan receive a free visa upon arrival for 6 months. Additionally, certain countries, like Qatar, Singapore, and Côte d'Ivoire, are eligible for a free visa valid for 90 days. However, travelers needing a visa must pay for single or multiple entry visas. Despite Rwanda's inclusive approach, only 24 countries, including Singapore, allow visa-free entry. Others must apply for an online visa, although the process is relatively straightforward despite the somewhat dated website.
Sao Tome And Principe
The small island nation of Sao Tome and Principe, situated in the Atlantic Ocean, naturally has limited embassies, hence the option for online visa applications. Citizens from the US, Canada, Brazil, and all EU member states, along with 55 other countries, enjoy visa-free entry. However, all other nationalities must apply for an e-visa. Regardless of the visa type, a yellow fever certificate is required upon arrival. E-visas are valid for 30 days from the date of issue, and applicants can choose between a 30-day tourist or business visa. Additionally, besides any online fees, there is a stamping fee to be paid upon arrival.
Singapore
The technologically advanced city-state of Singapore excels in various aspects, including its impressive 5G network, placing it among the top countries globally with the fastest internet speeds. Renowned for its overall quality of life, Singapore is often regarded as one of the premier Asian nations to reside in, making Singaporean citizenship highly coveted in the realm of second citizenships. In addition to its desirable living conditions, Singapore extends e-visa services to nationals of 35 countries, allowing stays of up to 30 days, with applications to be submitted within 30 days before the intended arrival date. Moreover, Singapore offers a 96-hour visa-free transit option for travelers from India, Georgia, CIS, PRC, Turkmenistan, and Ukraine.
South Sudan
In response to the pandemic, South Sudan, like many nations, transitioned to online platforms and introduced a new eVisa system. This eliminates the need for embassy visits and interviews when applying for a visa. Citizens from nearly all countries, totaling 207, now have the option to apply online for eVisa. In fact, most countries are required to utilize this online process. Only citizens of Kenya, Tanzania, Uganda, and Egypt enjoy visa-free access to South Sudan, while the remaining four countries with visa-on-arrival privileges would still benefit from applying for the eVisa.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka requires visitors to obtain an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) for business, tourist, and transit visas. There are three types of ETAs available: tourist and business ETAs allow double entries for 30 days each, while a complimentary transit visa permits a single entry lasting 2 days. SAARC countries may benefit from reduced fees for tourist and business visas with double or multiple entries.
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Kitts, which relies on its economic citizenship program and tourism for revenue, is quite accessible to visitors. Even individuals from countries like India, where travel can be challenging, can visit without needing a pre-approved visa. For residents of Southeast Asia, Central Asia, and Africa who require a visa, the application process is conducted entirely online. Given that most Caribbean nations have approximately six embassies, online application is often the most practical method, resembling more of an online visa application than a traditional e-visa. Nonetheless, the process is straightforward and convenient.
Tanzania
Tanzania maintains a welcoming visa policy, with approximately 69 countries enjoying visa-free travel, while visitors from 29 countries can enter with various visa types. The visa costs vary based on type and duration, with single-entry visas and multiple-entry options. Payments can be made using a Visa Card, Master Card, or Swift Transfer, and the application process is typically straightforward, with processing times averaging around ten days.
Turkey
Turkey offers a variety of visa options, including tourism, official, student, and education visas. Additionally, citizens from 15 countries, such as Germany, Belgium, France, Italy, and others, enjoy visa-free travel, needing only a national ID for entry. The majority of Westerners have the opportunity to apply for the Turkey e-visa, which is remarkably simple. However, the exact fee may vary depending on your country of travel document and the type of document you hold. If you possess specific "Tier C" passports, you may only be eligible for an e-visa if you meet certain criteria, such as arriving on a Turkish airline, so it's important to verify the requirements beforehand.
United Arab Emirates
The UAE has expanded its visa-on-arrival eligibility to more citizens, although most non-Western foreigners still require a visa. Thankfully, the country provides an e-visa process accessible to all nationalities, which is relatively straightforward. Payment can be made through various channels, with a basic tourist visa. Additionally, there are options to extend your visas for up to 90 days or add multiple entries.
Uganda
Uganda offers a straightforward e-visa procedure, providing approval within three hours when all necessary documents are scanned and prepared. This system, similar to Gabon's approach, has replaced the previous visa on arrival system, recognizing the efficiency of online applications over airport procedures. The online application process is uncomplicated. However, applicants need to upload a yellow fever vaccination certificate, along with their passport data page and a passport photo, in line with requirements common in Sub-Saharan Africa. Most nationalities are eligible to apply online, except for citizens of Cyprus or Singapore, or those with Comoros economic citizenship, who can simply arrive at the airport.
Uzbekistan
Uzbekistan significantly expanded its tourism opportunities by implementing two new visa systems on July 15, 2018. Previously, the country primarily welcomed citizens from Eastern European nations such as Ukraine, Belarus, Georgia, Russia, and Turkey. Now, with a new e-visa program, citizens from many Western countries, including the US, Canada, Europe, and Australia, can visit Uzbekistan for up to thirty days with a single-entry e-visa. Applicants must apply for the visa at least three days before their intended travel date, and it is available to nationals of 132 countries. Additionally, citizens from 102 countries qualify for a five-day transit visa upon arrival if they have an onward ticket. This means that most travellers can enter Uzbekistan without needing to obtain a visa from the embassy. Even a brief five-day visit allows for a glimpse into cities like Tashkent and Samarkand.
Vietnam
The Vietnam eVisa offers extensive freedom compared to other countries' eVisas. It permits various activities like tourism, business, studying, investing, and employment. However, the stay is limited to 30 days. As standard, applicants must possess a passport valid for six months, a passport-sized photo, a valid online payment method, and accommodation details.
Zambia
Zambia stands out as one of the more accessible African countries, although its visa policy remains somewhat stringent. While citizens from Western nations like Ireland and Malta enjoy visa-free entry, most travellers need to obtain a visa upon arrival. This option is open to over 90 countries, and an e-visa is accessible to these countries as well as those categorized as Tier C.
Zimbabwe
Zimbabwe boasts an impressive website design, but not everyone is eligible for an e-visa. While around 40 nationalities enjoy visa-free entry, over 100 countries can apply for an e-visa, often with specific conditions.
What is an eVisa?
An eVisa is an electronic visa that allows travelers to apply for a visa online without having to visit an embassy or consulate.
How does the eVisa process work?
The eVisa process typically involves filling out an online application form, uploading required documents such as a passport photo and copy of the passport, and paying the visa fee online.
Which countries offer eVisa options in 2024?
Numerous countries around the world offer eVisa options in 2024, including but not limited to Uzbekistan, Turkey, Bahrain, Cambodia, and Egypt.
What are the benefits of applying for eVisa?
Applying for eVisa is often more convenient than traditional visa application methods, as it can be done from anywhere with an internet connection. Additionally, eVisas usually have shorter processing times compared to traditional visas.
Are eVisas secure?
Of course yes! As they are processed through official government websites with secure payment gateways and data encryption to protect applicants' personal information.
