In this guide, the widespread adoption of online visas by numerous countries has significantly facilitated international travel while maintaining security measures. The introduction of electronic visas and travel authorizations from the early 2000s onwards has led to most nations offering some form of online visa application process. 

Additionally, certain countries have employed online visa agreements as a means to enhance political ties between themselves and other states.

Meaning of Online Visas

An online visa,also known as an e-visa, is a digital travel authorization or issued by a foreign country, granting entry to that nation. Its primary advantage lies in the quicker processing time compared to traditional paper-based visas.

Categories of Online Visas

Online visas are typically issued for short-term purposes, such as tourism, business, medical treatment, or transit. Some of the most common types of online visas include:

Tourist visa: This type of visa allows you to visit a country for tourism purposes.

Business visa: This type of visa allows you to visit a country for business purposes.

Medical visa: This type of visa allows you to visit a country for medical treatment.

Transit visa: This type of visa allows you to pass through a country without stopping.

Visas for long-term purposes, such as student, work, or family visas, typically require you to submit a paper-based application and visit the embassy or consulate several times before receiving your permit.

Steps to Online Visa Application process

To apply for an online visa, you will need to:

• To apply for an online visa, you must first locate the official website of the embassy or consulate representing your destination country. The link for the online application is usually provided on their website. It's essential to check all official websites, as some countries may also have their eVisa application form on their Foreign Ministry website.

• Once you find the appropriate application, you can begin filling out the form. Make sure to have an active email address and your passport readily available to provide the necessary details.

• For online applications, you need to scan and upload all required documents as file attachments. The application process will provide instructions on the specific size and file format for the documents.

• After completing the application and attaching the necessary documents, you will need to pay the visa fee. Usually, this payment is made using a credit card. Once your application is submitted, you will have to wait while it is processed.

• If your application is approved, you will receive a confirmation email from the embassy or consulate. This email will typically contain a numerical code used for verification at border crossings. Additionally, you will receive a confirmation document, which you must print out and carry with you when you travel. This document may be required by border patrol officials. In some cases, the visa receipt might also be sufficient.

Requirements of an Online Visa

The documents required for an online visa application vary depending on the country you are visiting and the purpose of your visit. However, some common documents that may be required include:

• A valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity.
• A recent passport-style photograph for visa application that meets the requirements of the country you are visiting.
• Proof of travel, such as airline tickets or a hotel reservation.
• Proof of financial support, such as a bank statement or a letter from your employer.
• Supporting documents, such as a birth certificate, a marriage certificate, or an employment contract.

The specific documents required will be listed on the website of the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting. It is important to check the requirements carefully before you start your application.

Here are some additional tips for gathering the required documents for an online visa application:

Make sure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond the date of your intended travel.

Take your passport photo according to the instructions on the website of the embassy or consulate.

Get your proof of travel and financial support in order before you start your application.

Gather any supporting documents that may be required, such as a birth certificate or a marriage certificate.

How long does it take to acquire an Online Visa?

The processing time for an online visa application can vary depending on several factors, including the destination country's immigration policies, the type of visa, the volume of applications, and the efficiency of the online processing system. 

Generally, an online visa is processed relatively quickly, often within 24 hours. However, in some cases, it may take several weeks for the application to be processed, particularly if there is a high number of applications or other administrative considerations. 

It is essential for travellers to apply for their online visa well in advance of their intended travel dates to allow sufficient time for processing.

Validity of an e- Visa

The validity period of an eVisa can vary depending on the country being visited and the purpose of the visit. While visas obtained online are typically valid for 30 days, it's essential to note that this duration may differ based on specific regulations. In some cases, the validity of an online visa may be limited to just 14 days.

To avoid any misunderstandings, it is crucial to check with the consulate or official immigration website of the destination country before applying for the eVisa. This will provide you with accurate and up-to-date information regarding the validity period and any other relevant visa conditions for your specific travel plans.

How much does an Online Visa Cost?

The cost of an online visa is subject to several factors, such as your home country, the country you're planning to visit, the type of visa you need, and the processing time.

Therefore, there isn't a fixed price for all visas. To get the most accurate information, use an online tool or visit the online visa fee page.

Here are some factors that can affect the cost of an online visa:

• The country you are visiting: Some countries charge more for online visas than others.
• The type of visa you are applying for: Some types of visas, such as student visas or work visas, are more expensive than others.
• The processing time: If you choose a faster processing time, you may have to pay a higher fee.

If you are planning to travel to a country that requires an online visa, it is important to check the cost of the visa before you apply. This will help you to budget for your trip and to avoid any unexpected expenses.

Here are some tips for saving money on an online visa:

• Apply early: The earlier you apply, the more likely it is that you will be able to get a cheaper visa.
• Check for discounts: Some countries offer discounts on online visas for certain groups of people, such as students or seniors.
• Consider a third-party provider: There are a number of third-party providers that offer online visa services. These providers may charge a fee, but they can sometimes be cheaper than applying directly to the embassy or consulate.

Extending an Online Visa

Under normal circumstances, extending an online visa is generally not allowed. However, in certain countries, there might be provisions to extend an e-Visa in exceptional cases, such as emergencies or unforeseen circumstances.

Here are some countries that allow you to extend your eVisa:

• India: You can extend your eVisa for India for a maximum of 30 days.

• Kenya: You can extend your eVisa for Kenya for a maximum of 60 days.
• Thailand: You can extend your eVisa for Thailand for a maximum of 30 days.
• Vietnam: You can extend your eVisa for Vietnam for a maximum of 30 days.

To extend your eVisa, you will need to contact the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting. You will need to provide them with a reason for the extension and proof of your travel plans.

The process for extending an e-Visa varies from country to country. It is important to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting for specific instructions.

Here are some tips for extending your eVisa:

• Start the process early: The earlier you start the process, the more likely it is that your extension will be approved.
• Provide all required documentation: Make sure you provide all of the required documentation, such as a reason for the extension and proof of your travel plans.
• Be prepared to pay a fee: In some cases, you may have to pay a fee to extend your eVisa.

Comparison of an Online Visa and a Paper Visa

Here is a table that summarises the key differences between online visas and traditional visas:

Here are some additional details about the differences between online visas and traditional visas:

Visa application process: Online visas can be applied for and processed entirely online, while traditional visas require you to visit an embassy or consulate in person. This can be a major advantage for travelers who live far away from an embassy or consulate or who do not have the time to travel to an embassy or consulate.

Visa issuance: Online visas are issued electronically, while traditional visas are issued on paper. This means that you will need to print out your online visa and present it at the border when you enter the country.

Visa validity: Online visas are typically valid for a shorter period of time than traditional visas. This is because online visas are often issued for short-term travel, such as tourism or business. Traditional visas, on the other hand, can be issued for longer periods of time, such as student or work visas.

Visa cost: The cost of an online visa varies depending on the country you are visiting. However, online visas are typically less expensive than traditional visas. This is because there are no travel or accommodation costs associated with applying for an online visa.

Visa processing time: Online visas are typically processed more quickly than traditional visas. This is because the application process is simpler and there is no need to mail or courier your application to an embassy or consulate.

Visa requirements: The visa requirements for online visas vary depending on the country you are visiting. However, online visas typically require the same information as traditional visas, such as your passport information, travel dates, and purpose of visit.

Overall, online visas are a convenient and affordable way to apply for a visa. However, it is important to check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting to see if they offer online visas and what types of visas are available.

Comparison between an Online Visa and an Electronic Authorization?

An electronic authorization (also known as an eTA) is a travel document that allows you to enter a country without applying for a visa. It is a simpler process than applying for a visa, and it can be done online.

An online visa is a visa that is applied for and processed entirely online. It is a more formal document than an eTA, and it is typically required for longer-term travel.

The main difference between an eTA and an online visa is that an eTA does not require you to print out a physical copy of the document. You can simply present the eTA number on your phone or other electronic device when you enter the country.

Another difference is that eTAs are typically valid for a shorter period of time than online visas. This is because eTAs are often issued for short-term travel, such as tourism or business. Online visas, on the other hand, can be issued for longer periods of time, such as student or work visas.

Finally, eTAs are usually agreements between your home country and travel destination, which means that not everyone is eligible to apply for an ETA. Online visas, on the other hand, are typically available to citizens of all countries.

Here is a table that summarises the key differences between eTAs and online visas:

Countries that issue online visas

With so many countries offering e-visas, it can be overwhelming to know where to start. Here you can check the list of countries offering e-Visa

These countries issue online visas, but only for visitors from specific countries.

Here is a table of countries that offer visa on arrival:

Please note that the requirements for visa on arrival vary from country to country. You should check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting for specific requirements.

Here are some of the things you will need to bring with you when you apply for a visa on arrival:

A valid passport

A recent passport-sized photograph

A completed visa application form

Proof of onward travel

Proof of sufficient funds

The cost of a visa on arrival also varies from country to country. You should check with the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting for specific costs.

Countries that offer online visas and travel authorizations

As of my last update in September 2021, several countries around the world offer online visas and electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) to facilitate international travel. Please note that the availability and specific details of these visas and authorizations may have changed since then, so it is essential to check the official websites of the respective countries' immigration authorities for the most up-to-date information. Here are some examples of worldwide online visas and travel authorizations:

1. Australia: Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) and eVisitor visa for eligible nationalities.

2. Canada: Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) for visa-exempt countries.

3. United States: Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) for eligible travellers from Visa Waiver Program (VWP) countries.

4. European Union: The European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) will be launched in 2022, requiring authorization for visa-exempt travellers visiting Schengen Area countries.

5. New Zealand: New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority (NZeTA) for citizens of visa-waiver countries.

6. India: Electronic Visa (eVisa) for tourists, business visitors, and medical travellers from eligible countries.

7. Turkey: e-Visa for tourists and business travellers from certain nationalities.

8. United Arab Emirates: UAE eVisa for eligible travellers visiting for tourism, business, or transit.

9. Singapore: Electronic Arrival Card (e-AC) for visa-exempt travellers visiting Singapore.

10. Sri Lanka: Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for tourism purposes.

11. Bahrain: eVisa for eligible travellers visiting Bahrain for tourism or business.

12. Myanmar (Burma): eVisa for tourists from eligible countries.

These are just a few examples, and many other countries are continually updating their visa systems to provide online options for international travellers. Always verify the latest visa requirements and application procedures on the official websites of the respective countries' immigration authorities before planning your trip.