Visa Requirements: Airport Arrival And Departure Essentials

When travelling to a foreign country, it is important to be aware of the visa requirements of your destination. While some countries may not require visas for certain travellers, many do. For example, if you are travelling to the United States, even if you are only passing through the airport, you will need to obtain a visa or an electronic authorisation, such as an ESTA for visa-exempt countries. This is because everyone entering the US, even for a transit to another international flight, is considered to have entered the country and must go through immigration and customs.

Connecting flights and layovers

When it comes to connecting flights and layovers, the requirement for a visa will depend on the specific circumstances and the countries involved. Here are some key points to consider:

• If you have a connecting flight booked as a single flight, you usually won't need a visa, even if the layover is in a country where a visa would typically be required. This is often the case when booking directly with full-service airlines, such as KLM, British Airways, or Turkish Airlines.
• However, if you have a self-transfer flight, where you've booked multiple consecutive flights to reach your destination, you will need to go through passport control at each airport. In this case, you may need to obtain a visa for each country you're transiting through.
• Some countries, like the United States, require all transit passengers to obtain a visa or electronic authorisation, such as an ESTA for visa-exempt countries. This is necessary even if you don't leave the airport during the layover.
• Similarly, travellers transiting through Canada and Schengen area countries may need a visa or an Airport Transit Schengen Visa, respectively.
• If you need to change airports during your layover, you will likely need to apply for a visa if that particular country requires one for entry.
• If you plan to leave the airport and spend time in the country during your layover, you will need to obtain a visa, regardless of the length of your stay.
• It's recommended to check the rules and requirements for each country you'll be transiting through. Official government websites, airport websites, and the websites of the airlines you're flying with are good sources of information.

Transit visas

A transit visa is a document that allows a traveller to pass through a country on their way to a third destination country, but not to stay in the country through which they are passing. This often comes up when a traveller's itinerary includes a layover in another country en route to their final destination. Even if the traveller does not leave the airport during the layover, they may still need a transit visa to be there.

Visa rules vary depending on the country you are travelling through, the country you are a citizen of, and how long you are staying. For example, if the layover is less than 24 hours and the traveller does not leave the airport, some countries do not require a transit visa, while others do. A general rule is that if the country you are travelling through does not require citizens of your country to have a visa for a longer visit, it will not require you to have a transit visa. However, if the country you are travelling through does require visas for longer visits, it may or may not require you to obtain a transit visa.

There are three types of airport transit visa (ATV):

• A one-way ATV, which authorises one-way transit through a Schengen country
• A return ATV, which authorises return airport transit through one or two Schengen countries
• A multiple ATV, which authorises several transits through one or more Schengen countries

Nationals of certain countries are required to obtain an ATV for Italy and France. These include Afghanistan, Bangladesh, the Democratic Republic of Congo, Eritrea, Ethiopia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Senegal, and Syria.

Visa requirements for US citizens abroad

When travelling abroad, US citizens need to be aware of the visa requirements of their destination country. While some countries do not require a visa for American travellers, many do. It is essential to research the entry requirements of your destination country before travelling. This can be done using the US State Department's 'Learn About Your Destination' search tool, which provides information on entry, exit, and visa requirements, as well as travel advisories and embassy links.

US citizens should also be aware that their passport must be valid for at least six months from their planned date of return, and they may need to provide additional documentation, such as proof of a round-trip ticket, confirmation of onward travel plans, and proof of lodging. Some countries may also require specific vaccinations, such as the yellow fever vaccine, and some may require registration with local authorities within a certain timeframe after arrival. It is important to thoroughly research the requirements of your destination country to avoid any issues during your travels.

• Bolivia: A visa is required for US citizens travelling to Bolivia. It can be obtained from a Bolivian Embassy or Consulate in the US or a neighbouring country, or a tourist visa can be purchased at any land or air border upon arrival. The visa is valid for 30 days, with the possibility of extension for up to 90 days per year.
• Canada: US citizens do not need a visa for tourism or business purposes when travelling to Canada. However, they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before their trip.
• United Kingdom: As of January 8, 2025, US citizens will require an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to enter the UK.
• Brazil: Starting April 10, 2025, US citizens will need to obtain a visa for Brazil, which they will be able to obtain online.
• Bhutan: US citizens require a visa for Bhutan and must also pay a "Sustainable Development Fee" of $100 per day. Additionally, a tour guide is required for all travellers, except in the cities of Thimpu and Paro.
• Algeria: A visa application for Algeria must be accompanied by a certificate of accommodation.
• Afghanistan: Visitors born in Afghanistan do not require a visa. However, all visitors are fingerprinted and must register with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs upon arrival.

Visa-free countries

For citizens of certain countries, a visa is not required to enter other countries. This is known as visa-free travel. Visa-free travel means that you can enter a country without having to go to the consulate, gather documents, or pay a fee.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) permits citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. There are currently 42 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program, including the United Kingdom, the Czech Republic, and the Republic of Korea.

If you are a Turkish citizen, you can enter the following countries without a visa:

• Georgia
• Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
• Ukraine
• Belarus
• The Republic of South Africa
• Sao Tome and Principe
• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Other countries that do not typically require visas for Turkish citizens include:

Europe

• Andorra
• Albania
• Belarus
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Montenegro
• Kosovo
• Macedonia
• Moldova
• Serbia
• Ukraine

Asia

• Azerbaijan
• United Arab Emirates
• Bahrain
• East Timor
• Indonesia
• Philippines
• Georgia
• Hong Kong
• Iraq
• Iran
• Japan
• Cambodia
• Qatar
• Kazakhstan
• Kyrgyzstan
• Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus
• South Korea
• Lebanon
• Macau
• Maldives
• Malaysia
• Mongolia
• Singapore
• Sri Lanka
• Syria
• Thailand
• Taiwan
• Jordan

Africa

• Botswana
• Morocco
• Republic of South Africa
• Kenya
• Libya
• Mauritius
• Seychelles
• Sudan
• Swaziland
• Tunisia
• Zambia

Americas

• Argentina
• Bolivia
• Brazil
• Ecuador
• Colombia
• Paraguay
• Peru
• Chile
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Uruguay
• Venezuela
• Bahamas
• Barbados
• Belize
• Dominica
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Guatemala
• Honduras
• Jamaica
• Costa Rica
• Mexico
• Nicaragua
• Panama
• St. Christopher and Nevis
• St Lucia

South Pacific Islands

• Fiji
• Palau Republic
• Tuvalu
• Vanuatu

Visa application process

The visa application process can be daunting, but with careful preparation, you can increase your chances of approval. Here is a detailed guide to help you navigate the visa application process, specifically for a US visa.

Step 1: Check Visa Requirements

First, determine if you need a visa. Citizens of certain countries may be exempt from visa requirements for specific destinations. For US visas, citizens of 42 visa waiver countries do not need a non-immigrant visa for a visit. You can use the US State Department's "Learn About Your Destination" search tool to check your destination's visa requirements.

Step 2: Choose the Right Visa Type

Different types of visas are available, each with specific requirements and purposes. For US visas, common types include non-immigrant visas (temporary stay) and immigrant visas (permanent residence). Choose the one that aligns with your purpose of travel.

Step 3: Complete the Application Form

Fill out the required application form accurately and truthfully. For US non-immigrant visas, complete the DS-160 form, which can be found on the US consulate website. This form covers essential details about your background and travel plans.

Step 4: Pay the Application Fee

Visa applications typically come with a fee. For US visas, the fee varies depending on the type of visa. It is non-refundable, even if your application is rejected. Additional issuance fees may also apply, depending on the relationship between your home country and the destination country.

Step 5: Schedule and Prepare for the Interview

Most visa applications require an interview. Schedule your interview at the relevant embassy or consulate, preferably in your country of residence. Compile all the necessary documents, including your application form, passport, fee receipts, photos, and any other supporting documents that establish your qualifications and intentions.

Step 6: Attend the Interview

During the interview, a consular officer will assess your eligibility for the visa. They will ask questions about your background, travel plans, and ability to meet visa requirements. Be prepared to provide honest and detailed responses.

Step 7: Wait for Processing

After your interview, your application will undergo processing. This step can take anywhere from a few days to a few months, depending on the visa type. Avoid making travel arrangements until your visa is approved, as there is no guarantee of approval.

Remember, providing accurate information and following the specific instructions of the embassy or consulate where you are applying are crucial for a successful visa application. Each country's visa process may vary, so always refer to official sources for the most up-to-date and accurate information.

Frequently asked questions