who can visit us without visa

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Visit the U.S. as a tourist

Learn about travel documents to enter the U.S., including non-immigrant visas, Form I-94, and ESTA.

Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application

The Visa Waiver Program allows citizens of participating countries to travel to the U.S. for tourism or business for up to 90 days without a visa.

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Find out how to check the status of your visa application online. And to avoid delays, learn how to update your address if you move while waiting for your visa to be approved.

How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

Form I-94 arrival-departure record for U.S. visitors

Visa Waiver Program forms I-94 and I-94W record the arrival and departure dates of U.S. visitors.

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See what travel documents you need to enter the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, or Bermuda.

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• Transportation Security
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• Program Requirements

Visa Waiver Program Requirements

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.

Visa Waiver Program Countries

There are currently 41 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program:

• Andorra (1991)
• Australia (1996)
• Austria (1991)
• Belgium (1991)
• Brunei (1993)
• Chile (2014)
• Croatia (2021)
• Czech Republic (2008)
• Denmark (1991)
• Estonia (2008)
• Finland (1991)
• France (1989)
• Germany (1989)
• Greece (2010)
• Hungary (2008)
• Iceland (1991)
• Ireland (1995)
• Israel (2023)
• Italy (1989)
• Japan (1988)
• Korea, Republic of (2008)
• Latvia (2008)
• Liechtenstein (1991)
• Lithuania (2008)
• Luxembourg (1991)
• Malta (2008)
• Monaco (1991)
• Netherlands (1989)
• New Zealand (1991)
• Norway (1991)
• Poland (2019)
• Portugal (1999)
• San Marino (1991)
• Singapore (1999)
• Slovakia (2008)
• Slovenia (1997)
• Spain (1991)
• Sweden (1989)
• Switzerland (1989)
• Taiwan (2012)
• United Kingdom** (1988)

NOTE:  The citizens of the new countries of Curacao, Bonaire, St Eustatius, Saba and St Maarten (the former Netherlands Antilles) are not eligible to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program if they are applying for admission with passports from these countries.

Passport Requirements

• The passport must have a machine-readable zone on the biographic page
• The passport must be an electronic passport with a digital chip containing biometric information about the passport owner.

As of April 1, 2016, all travelers must have an e-passport to use the VWP.  An e-Passport, denoted by the symbol  , is an enhanced secure passport with an embedded electronic chip. E-Passports are issued by the proper passport issuing authority and must meet international standards for securing and storing information corresponding to the passport and bearer.   

More information  can be found on CBP.gov .

Digital Photographs

If your passport does not have this feature, you can still travel without a visa if:

• You are a citizen of a country that joined the Visa Waiver Program prior to 2008 and possess a valid passport containing a machine-readable zone issued before October 26, 2005, or
• You have an “e-Passport,” which includes an integrated computer chip capable of storing biographic information from the data page, a digital photograph, and other biometric information.

If you were issued a passport  on or after October 26, 2005  and it does not meet the aforementioned requirements, you will need to obtain a visa.

Machine-Readable Passports

All Visa Waiver Program countries must issue passports with a machine-readable zone. A machine-readable passport has two lines of text as letters, numbers and chevrons (<<<) at the bottom of the personal information page, along with the bearer’s picture. It looks like the image below.

If your passport does not have this feature, you have two options:

• Obtain a qualifying, new passport if your country of nationality is producing one, or
• Obtain a visa.

Please contact your passport-issuing agency or your country's embassy if you have questions about your country’s production of a qualifying e-Passport.

The Electronic System for Travel Authorization

The  Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA)  is a fully automated, electronic system for screening passengers before they begin travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. Eligible citizens or nationals from all Visa Waiver Program countries must obtain approval through ESTA prior to traveling to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program. Visa Waiver Program travelers are encouraged to apply for authorization as soon as they begin to plan a trip to the United States.

Please refer to the  ESTA webpage  for more detailed information or to apply for ESTA.

Additional Information

For additional Frequently Asked Questions on the Visa Waiver Program, please visit CBP's  FAQ page for the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) and the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA) .

For more information about the Visa Waiver Program please visit the State Department's  Travel Website .

* With respect to all references to “country” or “countries” in this document, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the United States’ one-China policy, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

** British citizens only with the unrestricted right of permanent abode in England, Scotland, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Channel Islands and the Isle of Man.

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Where U.S. Citizens Can Travel Without a Visa

Where can U.S. citizens travel without a visa? Here's what you need to know before planning your next international trip.

Elizabeth Rhodes is a special projects editor at Travel + Leisure , covering everything from luxury hotels to theme parks to must-pack travel products. Originally from South Carolina, Elizabeth moved to New York City from London, where she started her career as a travel blogger and writer.

Luckily for most Americans, the main thing you have to worry about before jetting off on vacation is making sure your passport is up-to-date . U.S. citizens have pretty unrestricted access to most international stops. However, that doesn't mean you never have to check if your destination of choice requires a visa. So, where can U.S. citizens travel without a visa? A better question might be: Where can't Americans travel without a visa?

Despite any restrictions placed on travel during the first two years of the coronavirus pandemic, U.S. citizens continue to have one of the world's most powerful passports , allowing for visa-free access to most countries around the globe. In fact, the Henley & Partners Passport Index ranked the U.S. passport seventh in its 2023 list of the world's passports because it provides citizens visa-free access to 187 destinations, including countries that require Electronic Travel Authorization (often called an eTA) or a visa on arrival.

Americans can travel to most European, Caribbean, and Central and South American countries without a visa, along with many other popular tourism destinations. Countries that U.S. passport holders need visas to enter include Russia, India, China, Vietnam, Turkey, and more, and others require e-visas to visit.

If you want to see where you can travel without a visa, start by visiting the Henley & Partners Passport Index and selecting the country that your passport is from. Then, you can see which countries require a visa to visit. Find more information on the U.S. Department of State travel site , where you can search specific country requirements.

Of course, visa-free travel doesn't give U.S. citizens the ability to go wherever they want for as long as they want. The amount of time that you can stay in a country without needing a visa varies from place to place, so be sure to check the local immigration and customs rules before planning your trip, especially if you're hoping to travel for an extended period of time. If you're visiting a destination that requires a visa, know that the process can be lengthy and expensive, so factor that in when choosing your departure date and trip budget.

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• P-3      Artists or Entertainers
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Enter US Without A Visa:

Visa waiver program (vwp), introduction.

Planning a trip to the U.S. in the near future? Have you applied for your visa yet? If you are a citizen of certain countries, your trip is for business or pleasure, and you are planning to stay in the U.S. for less than 90 days, you will not need a visa.

The Visa Waiver Program, known by the acronym VWP, allows citizens of 36 qualifying countries to travel to the United States for tourism or business for stays of up to 90 days without having to obtain a visa.

Individuals those are eligible to travel under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may still apply for and be issued a visitor visa under certain circumstances. However, you cannot use the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) to enter the U.S. for any purpose other than as a tourist or business visitor.

Requirements For Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

To be eligible to enter the U.S. without a visa under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) the traveler seeking admission must be a citizen of one of the countries that has been designated by the Secretary of Homeland Security, in consultation with the Secretary of State, as a “program country”.  Permanent residents of designated countries do not qualify, unless they hold a citizenship of another designated country .

Further, to enter the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program, you must:

• Be a nonimmigrant (you have a home in a foreign country you have no intention of abandoning)
• Intend to enter the U.S. for 90 days or less
• Have a Machine Readable Passport lawfully issued to you by a VWP country that is valid for six months beyond your intended visit
• Be a national of the VWP country that issued your passport
• Have been checked using an automated electronic database containing information about inadmissible aliens to the U.S.
• Have a return trip ticket to any foreign destination other than a territory bordering on the U.S. or an adjacent island
• Present to the Immigration Inspector a completed and signed Form I-94W, Nonimmigrant Visa Waiver Arrival-Departure Record
• Not pose a safety threat to the U.S.
• Not have failed to comply with the conditions of any previous admission under the VWP or the previous VWPP

DID YOU KNOW? Eligible Countries For Visa Waiver Program (VWP): There are currently 36 countries designated under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). They are: Andorra Iceland Portugal Australia Ireland San Marino Austria Italy Singapore Belgium Japan Slovakia Brunei Latvia Slovenia Czech Republic Liechtenstein South Korea Denmark Lithuania Spain Estonia Luxembourg Sweden Finland Malta Switzerland France Monaco Taiwan Germany the Netherlands United Kingdom Greece New Zealand Chile Hungary Norway *Anyone who is also a citizen of Iraq, Iran, Syria or Sudan are not eligible to travel under the VWP.

The Requirements For The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) Are As Follows

1. Citizen of Visa Waiver Program Country: To enter the U.S. under the VWP, travelers from participating countries must be a citizen of a designated Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country.

2. Machine readable and biometric passports: All travelers must have individual passports. It is not acceptable under the visa waiver program for children to be included on a parent’s passport. Additionally, passport requirements (with respect to citizens of VWP countries designated before 2008) depend on the date the passport was issued or renewed:

a. Passports issued or renewed before October 26, 2005 must be machine readable

b. Passports issued or renewed after October 26, 2005 must be machine readable and contain a digitized photograph, or must be biometric passports

c. Passports issued or renewed after October 26, 2006 must be biometric

d. Citizens of VWP countries designated after 2008 must present a biometric passport

3. Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA): The ESTA was established in June 2008. All incoming travelers using the VWP are required to complete an I-94W form online before departure for the U.S. While a traveler can complete the ESTA application at any time before you come to the US the State Department prefers that it be done at least 72 hours (3 days) in advance. The ESTA was established to increase U.S. security by pre-screening participating VWP passengers against terrorist and/or no-fly lists and databases. Once completed the electronic authorization is valid for a two-year period. The authorization is mandatory for all VWP travelers before boarding flights destined to the United States. However, while the ESTA is required to be completed before travel to the U.S. it does not guarantee admission into the United States (final admission eligibility is determined at a U.S. port of entry by immigration inspectors).

4. Valid Passport:  In addition to being a biometric passport the passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the expected date of departure from the United States. While this is the standard requirement some country-specific arrangements are different.

5. Return or Onward Ticket: If the individual is traveling on an electronic ticket they must have a copy of the itinerary to show the immigration inspector at the port of entry when they will be departing from the U.S.

NOTE: Travelers with onward tickets terminating in Mexico, Canada, Bermuda or the Caribbean Islands must be citizens of or legal permanent residents of these areas.

Act Now - free spots fill up fast!

Let’s look at two different situations and determine whether the individuals can or should travel under the VWP.

Who Does Not Qualify For Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?

Not all citizens or nationals of Visa Waiver Program (VWP) designated countries can enter the U.S. under the VWP. Any traveler who has been arrested (even if not convicted), those with criminal records, those with certain serious communicable illnesses, those who have been refused admission into or have been deported from the United States, or have previously overstayed on the VWP are not eligible for the program. Such travelers must apply for a visa, and, if required, a waiver. If they attempt to travel without a visa, they may be refused entry into the United States.

When Does a National of a VWP Country Need to Apply for a Visa Instead of Using the Visa Waiver Program (VWP)?

Any national of a Visa Waiver Program (VWP) country that falls within the terms of the preceding section must apply for a visa.

In addition a visa must be requested if the foreign national:

• Wants to remain in the United States for longer than 90 days, or envisions that they may wish to change their status (from tourism to investor, etc.) once in the United States;
• Wants to work or study in the United States, wants to travel as a working foreign media representative, wants to come to the United States for other purposes not allowed on a visitor visa, or intends to immigrate to the United States;
• Is a national of one of the VWP countries not listed above AND DOES NOT have a qualifying machine-readable passport;
• Intends to travel by private aircraft or other non-VWP approved air or sea carriers to the United States;
• Has a criminal record or other condition making them ineligible for a visa (see the previous section); or
• Has been refused admission to the United States before, or did not comply with the conditions of previous VWP admissions (90 days or less stay for tourism or business, etc.).

Short Trips To Canada, Mexico or Adjacent Islands While on VWP

Generally, VWP entrants may be readmitted to the U.S. after a departure to Canada or Mexico or adjacent islands for the balance of their original admission period, provided they are otherwise admissible and meet all the conditions of the VWP, with the exception of arrival on a signatory carrier – in which case the inspecting officers have the discretion to grant the applicants entirely new periods of admission.

Advantages And Disadvantages of The Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

The obvious advantage of entering the U.S. under the VWP is that you may travel to the U.S. spontaneously without obtaining a visa, unless you are otherwise inadmissible.

The disadvantages of the VWP are that you may not change or extend your nonimmigrant status after entering the U.S. If you are denied admission at the port of entry, you have no right to administrative or judicial review. Likewise, if you are found to have violated the terms of your admission, you also forfeit the right to contest a removal order.

Visa Waiver entrants, like all other foreign nationals in the U.S., who overstay their authorized stay by either six months or one year are subject to the three and ten-year bars as they are ‘unlawfully present’ in the U.S. Even though these entrants do not have visas, they have I-94Ws with a specific expiration date, and remaining in the U.S. beyond that date will trigger the bars on reentry.

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) has been a great benefit for travelers from VWP qualifying countries. It saves them the time and hassle of applying for a visa. However, travel without a visa does not include those who plan to study or work in the U.S., or who may need to remain in the U.S. for more than 90 days or change their status once they get here. Such travelers need visas. If an immigration inspector at a port of entry has reason to believe that a visa-free traveler is going to study, work or stay longer than 90 days, the officer will refuse to admit the traveler.

Visit VisaPro regularly for updates and the latest immigration news at  https://www.visapro.com/

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• For International Visitors
• Visa Waiver Program

Requirements for Immigrant and Nonimmigrant Visas

There are two categories of U.S. visas: immigrant and nonimmigrant. Immigrant visas are issued to foreign nationals who intend to live permanently in the United States. Nonimmigrant visas are for foreign nationals wishing to enter the United States on a temporary basis - for tourism, medical treatment, business, temporary work, study, or other similar reasons.

Immigrant Visa

An immigrant visa is issued to a foreign national who intends to live and work permanently in the United States. In most cases, a relative or employer sponsors the individual by filing an application with U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). Certain applicants such as workers with extraordinary ability, investors, and certain special immigrants can petition on their own behalf. The application is later forwarded to the appropriate U.S. Consulate or Embassy overseas for continued processing and issuance of the immigrant visa to the intending immigrant, if eligible. An intending immigrant must present the immigrant visa at a U.S. port-of-entry prior to the expiration of the immigrant visa. An intending immigrant becomes a lawful permanent resident once the immigrant visa and accompanying paperwork is reviewed and endorsed by a CBP Officer. For specific information regarding immigrant visa classifications and requirements, refer to the USCIS website or the Department of State website.

Non-Immigrant Visa

Nonimmigrant visas are issued to foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States on a temporary basis for tourism, business, medical treatment and certain types of temporary work. The type of nonimmigrant visa needed is defined by immigration law, and related to the purpose of the travel. Generally, an individual applies directly to the U.S. consulate or embassy abroad for a tourist (B-2) or business nonimmigrant (B-1) visa. However, foreign nationals seeking to enter the United States to study or work may require certain authorization and documentation prior to applying for a nonimmigrant visa. For an alphabetical listing all of the nonimmigrant visa classifications and specific requirements refer to the USCIS website. or the U.S. Department of State website.

Issuance of a visa does not guarantee entry to the United States. A visa simply indicates that a U.S. consular officer at an American embassy or consulate has reviewed the application and that officer has determined that the individual is eligible to enter the country for a specific purpose. The CBP Officer at the port-of-entry will conduct an inspection to determine if the individual is eligible for admission under U.S. immigration law.

Visa Free Travel

U.S. policy permits citizens of certain countries as identified below to travel to the United States without a visa. The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) permits nationals from designated countries to apply for admission to the United States for 90 days or less as nonimmigrant visitors for business or pleasure without first obtaining a U.S. nonimmigrant visa.

At the time of application for admission, a VWP applicant must:

Be in possession of a round-trip ticket that will transport the individual out of the United States to any other foreign port or place as long as the trip does not terminate in contiguous territory or an ; except that the round trip ticket may transport the traveler to contiguous territory or an , if the traveler is a resident of the country of destination or if arriving at a land border, provide evidence of financial solvency and a domicile abroad to which the traveler intends to return;

• Be arriving on designated carrier that is signatory to a Visa Waiver Program Agreement, if applicable;
• Have a machine-readable passport valid for 6 months beyond the period of intended stay, or essentially 9 months (90 days + 6 months). The Department of State's 6-month list extending the validity of certain foreign passports can be found on the Department of State website. (A traveler with an expired passport is ineligible for VWP admission); and,
• Complete an Arrival/Departure Form I-94W. Travelers arriving at a land border will be required to pay the required Form I-94W processing fee.

In addition, VWP visitors may not file an application to change status to an immigrant or another nonimmigrant classification or extend their stay beyond the 90-day timeframe. VWP applicants waive their right to proceedings before an Immigration Judge, unless they make an asylum application.

Visa Waiver Program Frequently Asked Questions

For additional information about the Visa Waiver Program , refer to the Department of State website.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

53 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with US visa [2024 edition]

Updated: February 10, 2024 725 Comments

Yes, you read it correctly. Travel 53 countries and territories VISA-FREE with US visa.

I always encourage travelers from developing countries to get a US visa at some point. It opens up doors to many other countries. More and more countries are offering visa exemption with a valid US visa. This list is growing fast.

If you are worried that the VISA-FREE list for your passport is just too small, then get a US visa. It will add about 53 countries to your VISA-FREE list. This is how you give more “power” to your “powerless” passport.

Table of Contents

IMPORTANT DISCLAIMER Visa requirements change constantly but we make every effort to keep the information accurate and up to date. We provide links to official sources wherever necessary, so you can conduct your own due diligence to verify the visa requirements before planning your trip. We shall not be held liable for any damages incurred as a result of using the information in this article. Refer to our full disclaimer for more information.

Why do countries offer visa exemption to US visa holders?

Reason 1: strict screening.

US visa application has a very strict screening process. A US visa is also one of the most difficult visas to get. If you have a US visa, then you were screened pretty well already. Meaning, you do not have a criminal history or any illegal immigration intentions.

Reason 2: Strong ties to your home country

US visa application also makes sure you have strong ties to your home country. This is to avoid illegal immigration. If you were to stay illegally anywhere, you could have stayed illegally in the US itself. So, having a US visa reassures them that you have no intention of remaining in their country illegally.

Reason 3: Financial reasons

Developing countries do not have the infrastructure or the money to screen applicants. If you were already screened by a country like the USA, there is no need to screen you again. In order to have a screening process that is as foolproof as the US, costs a good chunk of money.

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Which US visas are eligible?

Depending on the country, any of the below US visas can be used.

• US Tourist/Business Visa (B1, B2, B1/B2)
• US Work Visa (H1, L1)
• US Study Visa (F1, J1)
• US Transit/Crew member Visa (C1, D, C1/D)

Refer to each country below for permitted US visa types. Some countries require the US visa to be multiple-entry and have been used at least once to travel to the US.

So, without further ado, let’s get started.

RELATED: 38 Countries you can travel VISA-FREE with US Green Card in 2023

North America

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Philippines
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Permitted US visas: Valid used/unused multiple-entry non-immigrant US visas – B1, B2, B1/B2, F, M, J, H and L only
• Entry granted: 180 days
• Visa is EXEMPT but must apply for Canada Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival
• Applicable to air travel only
• Official source: IRCC, Canada – News Release May 01, 2017 and News Release June 06, 2023
• Eligible Nationalities: All nationalities
• Permitted US visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas
• Entry granted: Varies depending on the itinerary
• US visa must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
• Passport must be valid for the entire stay in Mexico
• Official source: National Institute of Migration, Mexico

Personal experience: I have entered Mexico with a US visa many times by air, land and sea. I was rarely asked any questions. When I was asked any questions, it was mostly about how long I planned to stay in Mexico. I was always given a 180-day entry.

03. United States (of course!)

• Includes the US territories: US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam
• Excludes the US territories: American Samoa (American Samoa has its own immigration rules and does not honor US visas )

Personal experience: I have lived/worked in the US on an H1B visa for more than 8 years. I have also entered the US on my B1/B2 visa many times. I was always given a 6-month entry.

RELATED: 40 Countries you can travel VISA-FREE with UK visa in 2023

Central America

• Entry granted: 30 days
• Official source: Embassy of Belize in Washington DC, USA

Personal experience: I entered Belize from Mexico at the seaport with my India passport and US visa. The immigration procedure at the port took about 5 minutes. I was asked how long I’ll stay in Belize. I was given a 30-day entry.

05. Costa Rica

• Permitted US visas: Valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas – B1, B2, B1/B2, C1/D, D, F1, J1, H1 and L1 only
• B1, B2, B1/B2, C1/D and D visas must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival
• F1, J1, H1 and L1 visas must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official Source: Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC, USA

Personal experience: I entered Costa Rica at San Jose International Airport with my India passport and US visa. The immigration procedure at the airport was quick. I was given a 30-day entry.

I have also entered Costa Rica from Nicaragua by land with my India passport and US visa. Immigration procedures at the land border took about 10 minutes due to long lines. I was asked to show my hotel reservation. I was given a 30-day entry.

06. El Salvador

• Burkina Faso
• Central African Republic
• Côte d’Ivoire
• Equatorial Guinea
• Guinea-Bissau
• Papua New Guinea
• Turkmenistan
• Entry granted: 90 days total in the entire CA-4 zone (Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador and Nicaragua)
• An entry fee of 10 USD will be charged if entering by air
• If you have already entered Guatemala or Honduras, you can enter El Salvador from Guatemala or Honduras by land without any additional visa requirements as per CA-4 Border Control Agreement
• Official source: IATA Travel Centre

Personal experience: I entered El Salvador from Guatemala by land with my India passport and US visa. There are no immigration checkpoints at El Salvador and Guatemala land borders. No entry stamp was issued.

07. Guatemala

• Côte d´Ivoire
• Dominican Republic
• US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• If you have already entered Honduras or El Salvador, you can enter Guatemala from Honduras or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per the CA-4 Border Control Agreement.

Personal Experience: I entered Guatemala from Mexico by land with my Indian passport and US visa. It took about 10 minutes at immigration. They had to look up the visa requirements to verify if I was eligible to enter on my US visa. I was asked to pay 20 MXN as an entry fee even though there is no official entry fee.

I have also entered Guatemala from Honduras by land with my India passport and US visa. It only took a couple of minutes at immigration. No entry fee.

08. Honduras

• Cote d’Ivoire
• South Sudan
• If you have already entered Guatemala or El Salvador, you can enter Honduras from Guatemala or El Salvador by land without any additional visa requirements as per the CA-4 Border Control Agreement.

Personal experience: I entered Honduras from Guatemala by land using my India passport and US visa. I was asked where I was going and how long I’d stay in Honduras. I had to pay a 30 GTQ entry fee and give my fingerprints. The immigration process took about 5 minutes.

I have also entered Honduras from El Salvador by land using my India passport and US visa. I was asked where I was going and how long I’d stay in Honduras. I had to pay a 3 USD entry fee and give my fingerprints. The immigration process took about 15 minutes due to several people on a Tica bus.

09. Nicaragua

• Afghanistan
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Congo, Dem Rep of
• Congo, Rep of
• Sierra Leone
• Timor-Leste
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL (VOA)
• VOA fee is 50 USD, payable in cash in USD only, valid for 30 days, single-entry
• Besides the VOA fee, there is a 10 USD entry fee, a 2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and 1 USD municipality tax (for land border only) (payable in USD only)

Personal experience: I entered Nicaragua by land from Honduras using my India passport and US visa. I was asked about my profession and monthly income. I had to pay a total of 63 USD ($50 VOA fee, $10 entry fee, $2 land border migration fee, and $1 municipality tax) to enter. The immigration process was slow and it took about 45 minutes.

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities
• Permitted US visas: All valid USED multiple-entry US visas
• US visa must have been used at least once to enter the US before
• Passport must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• Must show proof of economic solvency for a minimum of 500 USD
• Official source: Embassy of Panama in the USA

Personal experience: I entered Panama at Panama City International Airport with my India passport and US visa. The immigration process took about 5 minutes. I was given a 90-day entry.

RELATED: 38 countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Canada visa in 2023

11. Anguilla (British Territory)

• Entry granted: 90 days
• Official source: Anguilla Tourist Board, entry requirements

12. Antigua and Barbuda

• VOA fee is 100 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Department of Immigration, Antigua and Barbuda
• Official source: Netherlands Worldwide

14. Bahamas

• Eligible Nationalities: Indian passport holders only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Bahamas

15. Bermuda (British Territory)

• US visa must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Passport must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
• Official source: Government of Bermuda

16. Bonaire (Dutch Territory)

17. british virgin islands (british territory).

• Official source: British Virgin Islands Tourism

18. Cayman Islands (British Territory)

• Entry rule: Must arrive directly from the US
• Official source: Cayman Islands Customs and Border Controls

19. Curaçao

20. dominican republic.

• Permitted US visas: All valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas, except transit (C1, C1/D)
• Entry rule: If arriving by land or sea, must pay a departure tax of 20 USD before departing. If arriving by air, the departure tax is included in the airfare.
• Official source: Ministry of Tourism of Dominican Republic
• Entry rule: A tourist fee of 10 USD must be paid on arrival at the airport

22. Jamaica

• Official source: Immigration Department of Jamaica

23. Sint Maarten

24. turks and caicos (british territory).

• Official source: Ministry of Border Control of Turks and Caicos

RELATED: 51 non-Schengen countries you can travel VISA-FREE with Schengen visa in 2023

South America

25. Argentina

• Ivory Coast
• Marshall Islands
• São Tomé And Príncipe
• Solomon Islands
• Permitted US visas: Valid used/unused multiple-entry US visas – B1, B2, B1/B2, J1 and H1B only
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (AVE) online before arrival
• AVE fee is 200 USD, the processing time is up to 20 working days, valid for 3 months, multiple-entry
• US visa must be valid for at least 3 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Department of Immigration of Argentina
• Entry rule: US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival

27. Colombia

• Entry rule: US visa must be valid for at least 180 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Colombia

Personal experience: I entered Colombia at Bogota International Airport with my India passport and US visa. The immigration procedure at the airport was quick. The number of days was not marked on my passport but I figured that it was a standard 90 days.

• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Peru

RELATED: How to turn your weak passport into a strong passport (with examples)

29. Albania

• Entry rule: US visa must have been used at least once to enter the US before
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Albania

30. Armenia

• Saint Kitts and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saudi Arabia
• Entry granted: 21 or 120 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but you are eligible to apply for Visa ON ARRIVAL
• VOA fee is 3,000 AMD, valid for 21 days, single-entry (OR) 15,000 AMD, valid for 120 days, single-entry
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Armenia

31. Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Eligible Nationalities: All nationalities, except Kosovo
• Entry rule: US visa must be valid for at least 30 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Bosnia and Herzegovina

32. Georgia

• US visa must be valid on the day of arrival in Georgia
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 90 days in any 180-day period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia

Personal experience: I entered Georgia at Kutaisi International Airport with my Indian passport and US visa. The immigration procedure at the airport took a while as Georgia immigration is difficult to deal with. I was given a 90-day entry.

I also entered Georgia via train from Armenia with my Indian passport and US visa. Again, immigration was a headache but I was given a 90-day entry.

33. Moldova (Newly Added)

• São Tomé and Príncipe
• South Africa
• Entry rule: US visa must be valid for the intended period of the stay
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of the Republic of Moldova

34. Montenegro

• Official source: Government of Montenegro

35. North Macedonia

• Entry granted: 15 days
• US visa must be valid for at least 5 days beyond the intended period of stay
• Total duration of consecutive stays must not exceed 3 months in any 6-month period
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of North Macedonia
• US visa must be valid for the entire duration of the stay
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Serbia
• Algeria (those aged 15-18 and 35-65)
• North Korea
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but you are eligible to apply for Turkey e-Visa online
• E-Visa fee is 43 USD, validity is 180 days, and single-entry only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Turkey

Personal experience: I entered Turkey at Istanbul International Airport with my Indian passport and US visa. I applied for my Turkey e-Visa before my travel to Turkey. The immigration procedure at the airport was quick. I was granted a 30-day entry.

If you hold a US visa and are eligible to apply for a Turkey e-Visa, follow this step-by-step guide to apply for Turkey e-Visa . This step-by-step guide has instructions and screenshots to help you fill out the application, pay the visa fee and download your approved e-Visa.

38. United Kingdom

• Entry granted: 24 hours only (Transit Without Visa)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to request a 24-hour entry at London (LHR) or Manchester (MAN) airports
• Must be traveling to or from the US only
• Must arrive and depart by air only
• Must hold the boarding pass for the onward flight
• Onward flight must be within 24 hours (on the same day or the next day before midnight)
• Granting the 24-hour entry is at the sole discretion of the immigration officer

RELATED: How to book flight tickets with 24 hour FREE cancellation on Expedia – A step-by-step guide

Middle East

39. Bahrain

• Entry granted: 14 days or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL or Bahrain eVisa
• Single-entry VOA fee is 5 BD, valid for 14 days, entry up to 14 days
• Multiple-entry VOA fee is 12 BD, valid for 3 months, entry up to 30 days
• Single-entry eVisa fee is 9 BD, valid for 14 days, entry up to 14 days
• Multiple-entry eVisa fee is 16 BD, valid for 1 month, entry up to 14 days
• For VOA, the US visa must be valid for the entire stay in Bahrain
• For eVisa, the US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
• Official source: Bahrain eVisa Portal

40. Jordan (Newly Added)

• Congo, Dem. Rep. Of
• Guinea Bissau
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Jordan eVisa
• Official source: Jordan E-Visa
• El Salvador
• Entry granted: 10 or 30 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Oman 26M or 26N Tourist Visa online
• 26M eVisa fee is 20 OMR, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• 26N eVisa fee is 5 OMR, valid for 10 days, single-entry only
• Official source: Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but you are eligible to apply for an A3 Visa online on the Hayya Portal
• A3 eVisa fee is QAR 100, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• Must provide hotel booking for the entire stay reserved through the Discover Qatar website
• US visa must be valid on the day of A3 eVisa application
• Official source: Qatar Tourist Board

43. Saudi Arabia

• Permitted US visas: Valid USED multiple-entry US visas – B1, B2, B1/B2 only
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL or Saudi Arabia eVisa
• VOA or eVisa fee is 300 SAR, valid for 1 year, multiple-entry (plus service fee and insurance fee)
• Official source: Saudi Arabia Tourism Authority

44. United Arab Emirates

• Entry granted: 14 days
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at UAE airports
• VOA fee is 100 AED, valid for 14 days, single-entry only
• Official source: UAE Government Portal

Personal experience: I entered the UAE at Sharjah International Airport with my Indian passport and US visa. The VOA and the immigration procedures at Sharjah airport were quick. I was given a 14-day entry.

RELATED: 5 ways to get proof of onward travel for your next trip

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to obtain Visa ON ARRIVAL at all international airports
• VOA fee is $25 USD, valid for 30 days, single-entry only
• US visa must have been used to enter the US at least once
• Official source: Egypt Tourism Department

46. Morocco

• Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for Morocco e-Visa
• E-Visa fee is 770 MAD, valid for 180 days, single-entry only
• US visa must be valid for at least 90 days from the day of arrival
• Official source: Morocco E-Visa Portal

• Permitted US visas: Valid multiple-entry US RESIDENT visas such as H, L, F, J, etc.
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for Japan eVisa
• eVisa fee is JPY 3,000, valid for 90 days, single-entry only
• Must submit proof of residence to prove that you reside in the US
• Must show the visa issuance confirmation via the eVisa website on your phone at the immigration (Prints and PDFs are not accepted)
• Must enter Japan by flight only
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

48. Kyrgyzstan (Newly Added)

• Entry granted: 7 days
• US visa must be a long-term visa issued for 3 or more years (US visas issued for less than 3 years are not accepted)
• After entering Kyrgyzstan this way, you can only reenter Kyrgyzstan again after 21 days.
• IMPORTANT: This information is not available in IATA/TIMATIC yet, your flight may denied your boarding
• Official source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kyrgyzstan

49. Malaysia (Currently Suspended)

• Entry granted: 120 hours (5 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Transit Without Visa (TWOA) at the VOA counter
• TWOA is free of charge, valid for 120 hours (5 days), single-entry only
• TWOA is available at Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA1 and KLIA2 terminals) only
• Must be in transit to reach the US as the destination. Must hold a confirmed onward eTicket or original boarding pass to the US within 120 hours. (Exception for longer-term pass holders such as work visa, student visa, permanent resident, etc. who can depart to any third country)
• Issuing of TWOA is at the discretion of the immigration offices at Kuala Lumpur Airport
• Official source: High Commission of Malaysia in New Delhi, India

50. Philippines

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of departure
• Official source: Embassy of the Philippines in India

Personal experience: I have entered the Philippines 4 times so far at Manila International Airport with my Indian passport and US visa. The immigration procedure at the airport was always quick. I was always given a 14-day entry.

51. Singapore

• Entry granted: 96 hours (4 days)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to obtain Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) upon arrival
• Must be traveling to or from the country of passport. Example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore. An example itinerary would be India-Singapore-Bali or Bali-Singapore-India.
• Both arriving and departing flights in Singapore must be on the same itinerary
• Official source: Singapore Immigration & Checkpoints Authority

52. South Korea

• Eligible nationalities: All nationalities (except these 23 countries – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen)
• Entry rule: Must be traveling to/from the US through South Korea
• Official source: South Korea Embassy in Washington DC, USA

Personal experience: I entered South Korea at Seoul International Airport with my Indian passport and US visa. The immigration procedure at the airport took a bit longer as the officer had to verify visa requirements. The officer verified my onward ticket to the US which was in 21 days. I was given a 30-day entry.

• Permitted US visas: All valid/expired used/unused multiple-entry US visas, except transit (C1, C1/D)
• Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate online
• ROC Travel Authorization Certificate is free of charge, valid for 90 days, multiple-entry
• If using an EXPIRED US visa, the visa must have expired in the last 10 years only
• Official source: Bureau of Consular Affairs of the Republic of China (Taiwan)

Personal experience: I entered Taiwan at Taipei International Airport with my Indian passport and US visa. I registered for my ROC travel authorization certificate a few days before my travel to Taiwan. I was given a 30-day entry (entry was 30 days when I traveled but currently it’s only 14 days).

There you have it! List of 53 countries and territories you can travel visa-free with US visa. If you don’t have a US visa, it’s time to apply for one and add another 53 to your list of VISA-FREE countries.

Do you know any other country (I haven’t listed here) that offers visa exemption for US visa holders? Let me know in the comments below.

Change history: For those who are interested, here are the changes to this list.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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725 Comments

July 20, 2024 at 9:12 pm

Hi, you can also travel Kosovo via Serbian border. So if you use your US visa to enter Serbia, you can also go to Kosovo legally as they consider it as part of Serbia and not as separate country. But this only applies if you are entering via Serbia – Kosovo border and not from any other neighbor countries.

Thirumal Motati says

August 8, 2024 at 4:40 am

Hi Mark! Thanks for the info! I will do some research and update the article.

Lulu Sarnam says

July 4, 2024 at 11:41 am

One of the most useful article in the entire internet :) Thanks Thirumal. Please keep the updates.

July 6, 2024 at 12:21 pm

Hi Lulu! Thank you and I appreciate the kind words! I’ll do my best to keep it updated.

Saket Pachisia says

February 20, 2024 at 11:13 am

Hello Thirumal, I wanted to check, I have 2 Indian passports. My older expired one has a valid US multiple-entry visa which has been used in USA. I wanted to check if this will be good enough for me to visit Albania, Montenegro and North Macedonia.

February 22, 2024 at 2:46 pm

Hi Saket! I couldn’t find official info for Albania and Montenegro, but North Macedonia accepts valid US visas in expired passports if accompanied by new passport. It’s confirmed in IATA/TIMATIC. I’m quite certain that it shouldn’t be an issue for Albania and Montenegro as well.

Pooja Dharan Mp says

March 15, 2024 at 12:30 pm

Hi, can you Please point out which countries allow C1/D US visa on Indian passport to enter or does this visa come under the “All valid/expired used/unused multiple-entry US visas” mentioned multiple times in ur Blog.

March 16, 2024 at 11:42 am

Hi Pooja! Yes. C1/D is included when I say “all US visas”. If a C1/D (transit) is not accepted, then I mention that explicitly saying “except transit”. Hope that’s clear.

February 3, 2024 at 7:30 am

Hi Thirumal, your blog and this post is amazing, I’ve bookmarked it as I recently received my B1/B2 visa. However, I had two transits in London (LHR) when going and when coming back from the US, both times I was unable to exit the airport because I think the immigration officers were not aware of the transit without a visa if you have a valid US visa, they told me I am not able to leave the airport even my transit was 15hrs. Have you or anyone tried to exit the airport while on transit in the UK ?

February 5, 2024 at 1:22 pm

Hi Umar! Thanks for the update! There are a few readers on the FB group that were able to use this provision successfully. I don’t know if anyone used it recently though. You can join the FB group and ask there to see if anyone was able to use it recently.

February 7, 2024 at 5:25 am

Hi Umar. You can travel without UK visa. Your US valid B1/B2. Only one day (24 hours) can transit London. I’ve travelled already.

February 11, 2024 at 5:33 pm

Thanks for the update! I shall try it next time.

Khawar Saleem says

February 26, 2024 at 12:56 am

Only be allowed when change of airport. Landing in Heathrow and next flight is from Heathrow, they will not give you transit visa.

March 4, 2024 at 3:30 am

Hi Khawar! Thanks for the info! Is this from your personal experience? Were you denied 24-hour entry at Heathrow?

February 12, 2024 at 8:25 am

I availed Visa on Arrival at Heathrow Airport in April,2023.I was coming back to Pakistan from New York travelling on Virgin Atlantic and i had layover of 15 hrs & 45 minutes.I went straight to the immigration and was fortunate that i was sent to the relevant immigration officer who was aware of this visa on arrival with valid US visa.The lady asked me how can i help you?I was with my wife,I said to her that i have onward journey to Pakistan tonight and my layover is for 15hrs and today is our EId and i would like to go out and have Eid Lunch with my family and in the evening i will come back.

She said i am allowing you entry but incase if you miss your flight or you try to slip be mindful youll never ever be able to get UK visa again in life and we will ban you if you stay beyond 24hrs in the UK.

I replied very politely with gratitude that i am aware and i will keep my word and so did i and was back on time and took a flight and came back to Lahore and i shared my experience with Thiirumal Motati.

February 13, 2023 at 7:37 am

Hi, I have a US visa (on my Indian passport) and I am planning to travel to the Philippines this month with my us visa. Are there any other requirements other than the US visa to show to the immigration?

February 28, 2023 at 12:16 pm

Hi Sangi! No. All you need is your India passport and a valid US visa. Enjoy your trip!

Elizabeth says

March 6, 2023 at 7:41 am

Can you kindly update the information on North Macedonia? They recently suspended entry of third-country nationals that have US and Canada visas. Suspended till 31st December 2023. You can see the update of the same resource link you posted from their MFA.

March 6, 2023 at 1:25 pm

Hi Elizabeth! The MFA link still says that you can use US, UK and Canada visa will the 31 Dec 2023. Are you looking at a different link or interpreting the same info differently? If we both are referring to the same info, then you are interpreting the info incorrectly. MFA abolished Macedonian visas for those holding US, UK, and Canada visas. That means a Macedonian visa is not required if you are holding a US, UK, or Canada visa. It also says that this visa-free scheme is temporary and is only available till the end of this year.

Varun Shinde says

February 9, 2023 at 11:48 pm

Hello Sir, I am travelling from the USA to Dubai with an EXPIRED US visa (but active I-797) and planning to stay in Dubai for 2 days and will fly to India from there. I am confused about the visa application for UAE.

I have two separate tickets as US – Dubai(Emirates) and Dubai – Mumbai(Indigo). I believe I am not eligible for Transit Visa in this case and have to apply for Single Entry Tourist Visa for UAE. Could you please guide me if I am on right track?

February 10, 2023 at 10:50 am

Hi Varun! You cannot get VOA in UAE since your US visa is expired. Therefore you would need to get a single-entry tourist visa for UAE. Since you are flying to the UAE with Emirates, you can apply for a 48-hour or a 96-hour visa on the Emirates website. You will see the option to apply for a UAE visa from “manage your booking” on their website.

February 13, 2023 at 5:17 pm

Thank you for replying back. Emirates is not applying for a transit visa as I am NOT exactly doing a transit based on my tickets. I booked a one-way flight to Dubai and another flight with Indigo 2 days later. In that case, emirates cannot apply for a visa for me. However, I applied for a Tourist visa now with Atlys.

I got another question for you, this is just to confirm again being traveling for the first time to UAE. My wife has a VALID H1B US visa and a valid passport till 2026. I believe she will get VOA and I do not need to file for a tourist visa for her. I asked DVPC and they also mentioned the same thing but the statement is somewhat dubious. Can you please tell me about this?

March 6, 2023 at 2:31 pm

Hi Varun! Sorry for the late response! Yes. Your wife can get VOA in UAE using her valid H1B US visa and India passport. Enjoy your trip!

Dipesh says

January 28, 2023 at 2:26 am

Malaysia also allows citizens of India and the PRC to stay for 15 days with VOA if they are arriving in Malaysia via Singapore, Thailand, Indonesia, or Brunei only (with a valid visa from either country). Here is the authenticity of the source

February 10, 2023 at 1:41 pm

Hi Dipesh! Thanks for the information! I already have a section about VOA in Malaysia Visa Guide . But I think it will not be relevant in this article because it has nothing to do with having a US visa.

Vivek Nair says

January 24, 2023 at 6:09 am

Hi Thirumal. I am an Indian passport holder with an unused US Visa. Can I enter Bosnia with this? I checked the link given by you – in this, it is mentioned that citizens of countries that have a visa regime with Bosnia are allowed. I am planning to enter Bosnia and exit from Montenegro. Thanks.

January 24, 2023 at 7:36 am

Hi Vivek! Yes, you can use your unused US visa to enter Bosnia. Bosnia has a visa regime with pretty much every country, except Kosovo. If you hold an Indian passport, you can use your US visa to enter Bosnia, and also Montenegro.

January 20, 2023 at 6:47 pm

Hi, I have a few hours of layover in Singapore. On my trip from Phuket to NY (via Singapore), can I use VFTF to do some sightseeing in Singapore for a few hours? My requirement is just for this leg (I’m going to Thailand from NY, via Japan, so I don’t have this option then).

I have an Indian passport, with H1B Visa expiring in 2025, living in NY. Also, have a long-term UK visa expiring in 2029.

January 24, 2023 at 7:56 am

Hi Nirav! Yes, you can. If you have a “multiple-entry” US visa and a confirmed ticket to any third country, you can obtain VFTF at Singapore airport. Ignore the additional requirements I have mentioned such as home country or country of visa. I had to add those to keep it straightforward otherwise I would have had to deal with many emails and queries, especially those using single-entry visas.

January 11, 2023 at 8:54 am

Our entry to South Korea was denied while transiting Incheon from Honolulu on our way to Singapore. The immigration officer has advised us that Indian passport holders are no longer eligible to exit during their transit in Korea unless they have a prearranged visa for Korea.

January 24, 2023 at 9:09 am

Hi Dip! Thanks for the update! Yeah, it’s been unclear since post-covid. Thanks for trying this yourself and letting us know. Appreciate it and thank you!

January 10, 2023 at 3:39 pm

Hello Thirumal, I was recently researching about Jamaican visa and saw that Indian passport holders can get a visa on arrival for 7 days! Is this right? I do have a US visa too!

January 24, 2023 at 9:18 am

Hi Soni! Indian passport holders do not need a visa for Jamaica. All you need is your Indian passport. US visa is not needed.

Aishwarya says

January 9, 2023 at 3:35 pm

Hi Thirumal! Your blog is amazing and I keep referring to it often. I really appreciate your patience and diligence in responding to each comment or query. I just wanted to ask whether I can use a valid US visa which is in my expired passport and just carry it with me whenever I travel. Or is it necessary that the US visa should be on a valid passport? Thank you.

January 24, 2023 at 9:22 am

Hi Aishwarya! Your US visa in your expired passport is still valid. So when you travel to the US or any country that accepts a US visa, you just have to carry both passports. Present both passports at the time of flight check-in and immigration.

January 26, 2023 at 7:54 pm

Thank you so much for the response!

Narsinh says

December 18, 2022 at 11:29 am

Hi, I have a multiple-entry US VISA for 10 years ( B1/B2 ) expiring in Sept 2025. My son has just moved to Canada on a student visa. We want to pay a visit to him and also travel to some places. My query is should I apply for a tourist VISA or a family visa for CANADA? Thanks.

December 23, 2022 at 8:28 am

Hi Narsinh! You must apply for a Canada VISITOR visa. Visitor visas can be for tourism or family. You will be asked to select your purpose of visit in your visa application. You can select family visit as your purpose.

Morize says

December 11, 2022 at 5:08 pm

Hi! Does anyone here have tried traveling to Cuba straight from Canada/US using their Philippine passport with a valid Canada TRV/US B1/B2 visa? Appreciate your responses!

December 13, 2022 at 4:11 am

Hi Morize! Quite a few Filipino readers have traveled to Cuba from the US using their US B1/B2 visas pre-covid. I don’t have any info post-covid, but I don’t think anything has changed. Amerian Airlines operates direct flights from Maimi to Cuba and you can get a tourist card at the time of check-in.

Nathan says

November 20, 2022 at 3:32 pm

Hello. I refer to this page frequently. Could you please add a change/ update log? I see the last update as Nov 9, 2022, but I couldn’t check what the update was. Thanks,

November 21, 2022 at 3:29 am

Hi Nathan! Thanks for referring to this page frequently. I currently don’t maintain a log but I will definitely consider your suggestion. I maintain a master database and when things change in that database, I will update the article accordingly. The changes can be sometimes as simple as updating a broken link to a source to more complex updates such as adding a new country or removing an existing country. Again, thanks for the suggestion and I will look into adding a log.

November 29, 2022 at 11:59 pm

I just wanna add that Bahrain offers Visa on Arrival for US visa holders for 2 weeks for 5 BHD.

December 7, 2022 at 9:56 am

Hi Mark! Thanks for the info! I will research and add Bahrain to the list. Thanks again!

November 19, 2022 at 7:32 pm

Thiru, A few updates I wanted to bring to your attention:

1. Bahrain allows Indians with a US visa to get VOA 2. Malaysia’s TWOV has resumed 3. Taiwan is now open for tourism and Indians with a valid or expired US visa can get a free entry certificate

November 23, 2022 at 4:52 am

Hi Kumar! Thanks for the info! I will add Bahrain and Taiwan. But Malaysia’s TWOV seems to be still suspended. At least that’s what my sources are saying. Do you have a link that says otherwise?

December 1, 2022 at 6:10 pm

Hi, I see in your comments about your visit to Latin America from the USA. Do you have any article that you can share about itineraries and how many days are required to cover? And did you do multiple trips to Latin America? Also is it good for families with kids or solo? Any tips and cautions for Indians and without Spanish knowledge? Thanks.

December 7, 2022 at 9:36 am

Hi Sudhi! Unfortunately, I don’t have any articles on traveling in Latin America. I don’t write about travel since there are tons of blogs on that topic. My focus and expertise are only on visas, so I write about visas extensively.

Some trips back in 2014/15 are trips I did from the US. The trips from 2016 and after are all continuous long-term trips spanning multiple countries at a time. A lot of countries are safe for kids, like Mexico, Costa Rica, Chile, etc. Basic Spanish is essential for traveling in Latin America. English is only spoken in very touristy areas. Outside those areas, knowledge of basic Spanish is very much essential.

November 6, 2022 at 7:27 am

Hi, I’m an Indian passport holder, I went to S.Korea last month and had to apply for a visa since a US visa is accepted only if you are flying in from the US. The same goes for Egypt, a valid US visa is not enough. Kindly update the information provided.

November 7, 2022 at 5:51 am

Hi Naz! Correct, for South Korea, you must be in transit to the US or from the US. The visa is called “tourist in transit (B-2-1)”. For example, if you plan to go from India to South Korea and then to the US, you can use your US visa. The other way round is also allowed.

I’m not really sure about Egypt. All my sources say that you can use a valid “used” US visa. Do you know any source/link that you must travel directly from the US in order to get VOA in Egypt?

Praveen says

October 31, 2022 at 4:25 am

Hey Thirumal, great content and really appreciate the hard work. Can I get into Colombia and Chile with an “unused” B1/B2 visa?

October 31, 2022 at 8:17 am

Hi Praveen! If you are holding an Indian passport, then YES. You can use your “unused” US B1/B2 visa to enter Colombia and Chile. Your US visa doesn’t have to be “used” for these two countries.

October 1, 2022 at 10:20 pm

Hi Thirumal, thanks for the informative post. I noticed you mentioned that there is a 6 month US visa validity requirement beyond the intended stay for entry to countries like Nicaragua, Honduras, Columbia, Costa Rica, and Panama. I am traveling to these countries via Cruise in December. At that time my H1B would have a validity of just 3 months(Apr 04, 2023 expiry).

I have two questions really. 1. Did you mean 6-month passport validity or 6-month visa validity? 2. If you meant visa validity, then what are my options to still be able to travel on the cruise?

October 7, 2022 at 5:56 am

Hi Divya! (1) I meant 6-month VISA validity. Your H1B must be valid for 6 months on the day of arrival in those countries. Not sure how strict they are at the seaports but the airlines followed these rules strictly. Once an airline denied me boarding to Costa Rica because of I had fewer than 6 months on my H1B. But luckily I had a Canada visa, so I was able to use that to fly. (2) The immigration officers never paid that much attention to my US visa expiration date. As long as I had a US visa that is still valid, they were fine with it. So you may be able to get away with less than 6-month validity. But you will have to get an official confirmation for just in case.

Kailas Perumal says

September 18, 2022 at 12:24 am

Hi, I will be traveling from Dublin to Dubai by SWISS Airlines. From Dubai, I will be traveling to Trivandrum via Mumbai. The layover time is 3.30 hrs. 1) Is it possible to book checked baggage directly from Dublin to Trivandrum SWISS Airlines and Air India Express? 2) How to collect and rebook my trip at Dubai Airport?

September 19, 2022 at 2:59 am

Hi Kailas! You haven’t mentioned if you had booked those tickets under one itinerary. In that case, the airlines may codeshare and transfer your baggage. But to answer your questions, I would assume that you have booked these tickets separately. 1) No. Since these two are different airlines booked separately, you would need to collect your baggage in Dubai and recheck in. 2) After your arrival in Dubai, you will have to go through immigration in order to claim your checked baggage. Then you should follow the signs to “transfers or departures”. You will stop by the Air India check-in desk to check in and drop off your bags.

August 26, 2022 at 7:29 am

Hi, thanks for all the information. I am From Oman and I hold a 10-year valid US tourist visa Type/Class B1/B2. I would like to visit Canada!!! How can I do it, any help. Thanks.

August 26, 2022 at 12:49 pm

Hi Qabas! You would need to apply for a Canada tourist visa. The visa process can be a bit fast if you have traveled to the US previously. I have a detailed guide on Canada visa , please refer to the guide.

Ikhlas says

September 15, 2022 at 12:23 pm

What is the best visit visa to hold to travel to multiple countries for Indians?

September 17, 2022 at 9:40 am

Hi Ikhlas! A US visa is the best. But a US and Schengen visa combination is the ultimate. I have a detailed article with examples on this topic. You can check it out.

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to travel to the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (B-1 visa), for tourism (B-2 visa), or for a combination of both purposes (B-1/B-2 visa).

Here are some examples of activities permitted with a visitor visa:

Business (B-1)

• Consult with business associates
• Attend a scientific, educational, professional, or business convention or conference
• Settle an estate
• Negotiate a contract

Tourism (B-2)

• Vacation (holiday)
• Visit with friends or relatives
• Medical treatment
• Participation in social events hosted by fraternal, social, or service organizations
• Participation by amateurs in musical, sports, or similar events or contests, if not being paid for participating
• Enrollment in a short recreational course of study, not for credit toward a degree (for example, a two-day cooking class while on vacation)

Travel Purposes Not Permitted On Visitor Visas

These are some examples of activities that require different categories of visas and cannot be done while on a visitor visa:

• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for their child) is not permissible on a visitor visa.

How to Apply

There are several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary by U.S. Embassy or Consulate. Please consult the instructions on the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate website .

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 – Learn more about completing the DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must meet the Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

Interviews are generally required for visa applicants with certain limited exceptions below. Consular officers may require an interview of any visa applicant.

You should generally schedule an appointment for your visa interview at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at another U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will be present but aware that in some cases it may be more difficult to demostrate your qualifications for a visa outside of the country where you live.

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Check the estimated wait time for a nonimmigrant visa interview appointment at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate.

Note:  Please check the individual Embassy or Consulate website to determine if your case is eligible for a waiver of the in-person interview.

Applicants scheduling visa appointments in a location different from their place of residence should check post websites for nonresident wait times.

Select a U.S. Embassy or Consulate:

Prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. If your visa is approved, you may also need to pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below:

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport valid for travel to the United States – Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by country-specific agreements ). Each individual who needs a visa must submit a separate application, including any family members listed in your passport.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application, Form DS-160 confirmation page.
• Application fee payment receipt, if you are required to pay before your interview.
• Photo – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the photo upload fails, you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the Photograph Requirements .

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence of:

• The purpose of your trip,
• Your intent to depart the United States after your trip, and/or
• Your ability to pay all costs of the trip.   

Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may be sufficient to show the purpose of your trip and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all the costs for your trip, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs for your trip.

Note:  Visa applicants must qualify based on their ties abroad/to their home country, rather than assurances from U.S. family and friends. A letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support is not needed to apply for a visitor visa. If you choose to bring a letter of invitation or Affidavit of Support to your interview, please remember it is not one of the factors used in determining whether to issue or deny the visa.

Attend Your Visa Interview

A consular officer will interview you to determine whether you are qualified to receive a visitor visa. You must establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive a visa.  Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken as part of the application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, the consular officer may determine that your application requires further  administrative processing .  The consular officer will inform you if this required.

After the visa is approved, you may need to pay a visa issuance fee (if applicable to your nationality), and make arrangements for the return of the passport and visa to you.  Review the  visa processing times  to learn more.

Entering the United States

A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to a U.S. port-of-entry (generally an airport) and request permission to enter the United States. A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. The Department of Homeland Security (DHS), U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials at the port-of-entry have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States. If you are allowed to enter the United States, the CBP official will provide an admission stamp or a paper Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record. Learn more about admissions and entry requirements, restrictions about bringing food, agricultural products, and other restricted/prohibited goods, and more by reviewing the CBP website .

Extending Your Stay

See  Extend Your Stay  on the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) website to learn about requesting to extend your stay beyond the date indicated on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94. 

Failure to depart the United States on time will result in being  out of status . Under U.S. law, visas of individuals who are out of status are automatically voided ( Section 222(g) of the Immigration and Nationality Act ).  Any multiple entry visa that was voided due to being out of status will not be valid for future entries into the United States. 

Failure to depart the United States on time may also result in you being ineligible for visas in the future. Review  Visa Denials  and  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws  to learn more.

Change of Status

If your plans change while in the United States (for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or receive an offer of employment), you may be able to request a change in your nonimmigrant status to another category through U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS). See  Change My Nonimmigrant Status  on the USCIS website to learn more.

While you are in the United States, receiving a change of status from USCIS does not require you to apply for a new visa.  However, once you depart the United States you must apply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate in the appropriate category for your travel.

Additional Information

• An individual on a visitor visa (B1/B2) is not permitted to accept employment or work in the United States.
• There is no guarantee you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• A valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States. 

Travel for Medical Treatment

If you are seeking medical treatment in the United States, the consular officer may ask for further documents at your visa interview, which may include:

• Medical diagnosis from a local physician, explaining the nature of the ailment and the reason you need treatment in the United States.
• Letter from a physician or medical facility in the United States, stating they are willing to treat your specific ailment and detailing the projected length and cost of treatment (including doctors’ fees, hospitalization fees, and all medical-related expenses).
• Proof that your transportation, medical, and living expenses in the United States will be paid. This may be in the form of bank or other statements of income/savings or certified copies of income tax returns (either yours or the person or organization paying for your treatment).

Visitor Visas for Personal or Domestic Employees (B-1)

You may apply for a B-1 visitor visa to work in the United States as a personal or domestic employee for your employer in limited situations. You may for a visitor visa as a domestic employee if, among other requirements, your employer is:

• A U.S. citizen who has a permanent home or is stationed in a foreign country, but is visiting or is assigned to the United States temporarily; or
• A foreign citizen who is in the United States on one of the following nonimmigrant visa categories:  B, E, F, H, I, J, L, M, O, P, Q or TN.

Learn more about your rights in the United States and protection available to you by reading the Legal Rights and Protections pamphlet.

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver (IW) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you will apply to determine if IW is available and if you qualify.

Do I need a visa if I have an ABTC?

Yes, you will still need a visa to travel to the United States, unless you qualify for the  Visa Waiver Program . Having an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC) does not change visa requirements, your visa status, or the visa process for travel to the United States.

How can I use my ABTC when I apply for my visa?

If you have an Asian-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) Business Travelers Card (ABTC), you might be able to schedule an expedited visa interview appointment. Review the instructions for scheduling expedited appointments on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. 

Visa Annotations for Certain Maritime Industry Workers

Certain foreign maritime workers are eligible to apply for a Transportation Worker Identification Credential (TWIC) once in the U.S. If you, as a maritime industry worker, will perform services in secure port areas, your visa must be annotated “TWIC Letter Received.” Workers whose visas are not annotated will not be permitted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) to apply for a TWIC.

In order for your visa to be annotated, you must obtain a letter from your employer explaining the need for a TWIC and that you are a potential TWIC applicant. See a template example of this letter. You must present this letter when you apply for the B-1 visa. You must meet all other eligibility requirements for a B-1 visa. 

Complete information about the TWIC program is available on TSA’s website at  https://www.tsa.gov/for-industry/twic .

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials and waivers.

I was refused a visa, under Section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not require visas to enter the United States, for visit, tourism and temporary business travel purposes. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian visitors to the United States can be found on the U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada.

Citizens of China

In accordance with the agreement signed between the United States and China to extend visa validity, beginning on November 29, 2016, Chinese citizens with 10-year B1, B2 or B1/B2 visas in Peoples’ Republic of China passports will be required to update their biographical and other information from their visa application via a website every two years, or upon getting a new passport or B1, B2, or B1/B2 visa, whichever occurs first.  This mechanism is called EVUS - Electronic Visa Update System.

The EVUS website is now open to the public for enrollments at www.EVUS.gov .  CBP will not collect a fee for EVUS enrollment at this time. CBP anticipates the eventual implementation of an EVUS enrollment fee, but does not have a time frame. Until the implementation of a fee, travelers can enroll in EVUS without charge.  The Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection (CBP) will keep visa holders informed of new information throughout the year. For further information, please visit  www.cbp.gov/EVUS .‎

Citizens of Mexico

Citizens and permanent residents of Mexico generally must have a nonimmigrant visa or Border Crossing Card (also known as a "Laser Visa"). For ease of travel, the B-1/B-2 and the Border Crossing Card have been combined into one document (DSP-150). Select  Border Crossing Card  to learn more about this card.

Please visit  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  websites for more information regarding applying for a visa at the U.S. Embassy or Consulates in Mexico.

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions - Contact the U.S. Embassy or Consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions - review  Contact Us .

Visa Waiver Program  (VWP)

Tourist or business travelers who are citizens of participating countries may be eligible to visit the United States without a visa. Visits must be 90 days or less, and travelers must meet all requirements.

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism and visits.

More Information

A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Fraud Warning Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Border Security/Safety Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

External Link

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Photo: Song_about_summer /Shutterstock

A travel visa is an official document issued by a country’s government, granting a foreign national permission to enter, stay, or transit through its territory for a specified period. The visa, typically attached to a passport, lists the purpose of your travel (like tourism, business, or study) as well as dates by which you need to enter and leave the country. Application processes for a visa usually include the need to provide information on your travel dates and hotels/destinations, a photo, personal information related to your home and past travel, and potentially, additional information for background checks.

There are many reasons why countries may require visas for some or all travelers. Some countries require all foreign travelers to have a visa, especially in places with nascent tourist industries, where visa data and fees can be used to analyze and fund tourism efforts. Some countries may require visas as a way to reduce illegal immigration, and others countries may require visas only from people who are citizens of countries with whom it has complicated or strained diplomatic relations. Related to this is visas a punishment, perhaps in response to countries imposing sanctions or imposing their own travel visas.

In a friendlier sense, visas can also be a tool for controlling tourism, especially in countries concerned about overtourism. That’s the case for countries like Bhutan , which requires visas for all travelers to restrict the number of tourists and preserve its unique environment and culture.

How to get a travel visa

Photo: Nach-Noth /Shutterstock

The process for securing a travel visa varies from country to country, and can range from a quick stamp at the airport to a multi-step, multi-week ordeal. After you’ve determined that you need a visa (there are sometimes visa exceptions for short stays or business travel), you’ll need to fill out an application form. Most countries allow you to fill out and submit this form online via an embassy website, but not all. You’ll likely need to provide contact info, details of your travel plans, a passport-style photo, and a scan of your passport, at a minimum. From there, it depends on the country, as some issue e-visas within 24 hours, while others may take weeks to process and mail you a formal paper visa.

The other option you may encounter is visa on arrival, meaning you can fill out a form when you arrive (either in paper or online) and get your visa while passing through passport control. That’s an option for Americans traveling to a handful of countries include Madagascar, Mauritania, and Bangladesh, among other places.

Countries that relaxed visa requirements for US citizens in 2024

As a general rule, a good way to get more tourists is to relax visa requirements, either by making visas easier to get or eliminating them entirely. Fortunately, many countries around the world have already done just that in 2024, likely to bring a share of the post-COVID tourism boom to their own economies. If you want to travel to any of the countries below, it’s now easier than ever to get a visa, making them just as easy to visit as countries where US citizens can travel without any visa at all.

Photo: Vova Shevchuk /Shutterstock

Sri Lanka recently announced a significant change to its travel visa policies , particularly benefiting US citizens and other international travelers from Western countries. Beginning on October 1, 2024, visitors will be able to get a visa on arrival, instead of having to apply for an electronic travel visa in advance of their trips. The visa is also now free, with the country waiving the $50 fee.

The move is part of Sri Lanka’s strategy to increase international arrivals and strengthen its tourism industry, which has been recovering since the pandemic. Tourism boomed around 2018 and 2019, but an economic crisis that started in 2019 set the country’s economy back. The current visa-on-arrival program is set to run until April 2025, after which the government will likely evaluate its impact on the tourism industry before deciding on future visa policies.

North Korea

Photo: Kanokratnok /Shutterstock

While the country has yet to make an official statement, outlets like the BBC and The Guardian reported that tour operators based in North Korea have announced they’ll be running tours for Western tourists, starting in December of 2024. Presumably, that’s a sign that the country will be reducing its regulations around tourism. Since 2020, the country has been fully closed to tourists, but even before that, it was extremely difficult to get a visa to visit. Based on reports from tour companies, it’s likely that guests will be limited to the town of Samjiyon, in the mountains near the border with China. It’s all but certain that visitors will also be limited to traveling only under the close guidance of a tour company, as the country is known for closely controlling its public-facing image and access.

While North Korea will likely never be one of the top countries open to American travelers without restriction, the announcement is the first step in many years to welcome tourism of any kind to the country.

Photo: Javen /Shutterstock

China has recently streamlined its visa application proces s for US citizens, reflecting a broader effort to make the country more appealing to US travelers, especially since nearby countries like Japan and South Korea don’t require visas of any kind. As of January 1, 2024, US passport holders seeking a tourist visa to China are no longer required to submit previously mandatory documents, including proof of a round-trip air ticket, hotel reservations, and in some cases, an invitation letter.

The announcement applies not just to US passport holders, but to citizens of 54 additional countries. It also eliminated visa requirements entirely for visitors from six other nations, including France and Germany. It comes on the heels of multi-million dollar investments in cultural and tourism draws, including the expansion of some of the largest museums in the world .

Photo: Cardinal illustration /Shutterstock

Syria isn’t a country that tops most people’s tourism wish lists, but it’s just beginning to build a tourism industry, and hoping to targeting relatively wealthy US travelers. The country introduced significant changes to its travel visa rules for US citizens, switching to an electronic visa system launched in May 2024. This allows US citizens to apply for a visa online, streamlining the process. Prior to May 2024, the process was far more cumbersome and rigid, with in-person applications through Syrian embassies or consulates. Prospective travelers also needed to submit a range of documents, including lengthy details of their travel plans. They’d also have to get a security clearance from a licensed Syrian travel agency — something that could take months due to the tense diplomatic relations between Syria and the United States.

Now, the application form is online (click “FAQ” on this page ). One rule that remains in place is that US travelers must travel with a licensed tour company. While that may limit where in the country you can go, it also means you have the assistance and services of your tour company to handle the on-the-ground parts of the application, such as the security clearance process.

Of course, as of August 2024, the US State Department recommends against travel of any type to Syria, warning “Do not travel to Syria due to the risk of terrorism, civil unrest, kidnapping or hostage taking, and armed conflict. Exercise increased caution due to the risk of wrongful detention.”

Photo: guitar photographer /Shutterstock

Thailand has always been known for being a country fairly open to American travelers, but it made a change in 2024 that allowed Americans to stay even longer. In 2023, the country announced that it would extend the time you could stay on a visa from 30 to 60 days. Fortunately, Americans are exempt from needing visas, though they’re still limited to staying for 60 days (and asking for an extension to stay another 30 more). The change went into effect on July 15, 2024. Thailand also announced that many travelers who do need visas can get them on arrival, including passport holders of Mexico, India, Ethiopia, and about a dozen more.

If you want to stay more than 90 days, you’ll need to apply for a different visa , such as the country’s popular digital nomad visa, which is valid for five years.

Photo: Adeel Ahmed photos /Shutterstock

In August 2024, Pakistan made significant changes to its travel visa policies for US citizens (and nationals of more than 120 other countries). It joins the ranks of countries open to American travelers by offering free electronic visa via an online process, issued within 24 hours of submitting the application. You can entry the country multiple times over the course of 90 days. The visa application form is also shorter, with just 30 questions asked of visitors, as well as some basics like a photo and copy of your passport.

Also announced in the August Pakistan tourism announcement was the news that visitors from some countries can now get a visa on arrival, rather than needing to do the form in advance. So if you’re a passport holder from one of the Gulf countries, you can just pick up your visa when you land at the airport.

Photo: RudiErnst /Shutterstock

Brazil is a massively popular country with lots of outdoorsy and urban destinations appealing to US travelers, which is probably why the country decided to lean into that popularity and permanently waive the visa requirement for US passport holders in 2019. But just a few years later, it announced that it would reinstate the former policy, requiring travel visas for citizens from the US. But in 2024, the country announced it would delay that transition and continue to be one of many countries open to American travelers without a visa through at least the end of December 2024.

As of last check, the government was planning on again requiring visas for trip starting in April of 2025. But after delaying the implementation for more than year, it’s quite possible it could decide to push that date even further out.

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Passports, visas and API

If you're looking to make a smooth start to your journey, you need to make sure you have the right documents, such as a valid passport and the relevant visas.

To help, we've summarised some of the key considerations and requirements here, but it's not a full list of all possible requirements around the world. It's your responsibility to ensure you have the right documents to be allowed to travel.

Passports and ID cards

To travel on an international flight your passport must:

• Be valid for the required time after your planned return date . This is often at least three or six months after the day you plan to leave your destination. Check the Expiry Date on your passport.
• Meet the specific passport validity requirements for your destination. Check the IATA Travel Centre for more information.
• Be signed by its owner. Please ensure each passport is signed with the owner's signature . You may be denied entry or fined in some countries for travelling with an unsigned passport. More information is available for UK passport holders at HM Passport Office .

If you are not an EU national and wish to travel on an international flight to an EU member state (except Ireland) or any of the following Schengen zones — Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Andorra, Monaco, San Marino, or Vatican City — your passport must:

• Have been issued less than 10 years before the date you enter the country . Check the Date of Issue on your passport and see the UK Government advice for further information.

If you are not an EU national and wish to travel on an international flight to anywhere other than an EU member state (excluding Ireland) or one of the Schengen zones listed above , your passport must meet the entry requirements of the destination country. Please check the UK Government advice for entry requirements for specific countries.

Children's passports

Children need their own passports to travel internationally, including infants under two. Infant and children's passports are only valid for five years, so please check the expiry date before departure.

EU, EEA or Swiss national ID cards

These are are no longer accepted as valid documentation for entering the UK, unless you’re exempt. Please check the latest UK Government advice for more details.

Please note, it’s your responsibility to ensure you have valid documentation when you travel. If you fail to comply with these requirements, you may not be allowed to travel, or you may be refused entry at your destination and have to pay associated costs.

You do not require a passport to travel within the UK, but you will need to carry one type of photographic ID when travelling with us. Examples include:

• Valid passport
• Valid driving licence, either provisional or full
• Valid EU national identity card
• Valid armed forces identity card
• Valid police warrant card or badge

Children under the age of 16 do not need to show identification when travelling on domestic flights. The adult they are travelling with must travel with photographic identification and be able to confirm their identity.

Children aged 14 and 15 years who are flying alone will need to show identification when travelling on domestic flights. Find more information on the requirements for young flyers travelling alone, including a copy of our consent form.

If you are a citizen of the UK, Republic of Ireland, Channel Islands or Isle of Man and were born in these areas, you do not need a passport to travel between these destinations, but you do require some form of photographic identification, such as a driving licence.

All other travellers require a valid passport to travel between these destinations.

Processing times for passports vary but it may take six weeks or longer to receive a passport after applying, so we advise that you wait until your passport has arrived before making a booking. Many countries offer fast-track applications where required.

If you need a passport or need to renew an existing one you can apply directly to your nation’s passport office. In the UK, that’s the UK passport service .

If there is a place on your passport for you to sign, please sign your passport with your signature. Your passport is not valid until it is signed . For British passports, you can learn more from HM Passport Office .

If you’d like help with your application , British Airways has partnered with VisaCentral, a company that will do all of the hard work for you. VisaCentral can help with passport renewals and replacements, name changes, second passports and new passports for children. Plus, as a British Airways customer you’ll get a 30% discount on the service fees.

Visas and other travel documentation

How to check if you need a visa

Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your journey, you may need a visa, or an equivalent form of authorisation, for every country you enter as part of your journey — even if you are only in transit or connecting from one flight to another in the airport of that country without going through border control — known as a transit visa.

This is in addition to a valid passport.

There are several ways you can check if you need a visa:

Check if you need a visa via the IATA Travel Centre  — it's free to check and also includes passport and health requirements, as well as customs, currency and airport information.

If you need a visa, our partner VisaCentral can help  — it's free to check and they’ll tell you exactly what documents you need to get one. Plus, as a British Airways customer, you’ll get a 30% discount on VisaCentral service fees should you need help with an application.

Check if you need a transit visa to connect through the UK  — even if you’re only connecting from one flight to another, you may need a transit visa, such as a Direct Airside Transit (DATV) visa or a Visitor in Transit visa, to connect through the UK.

Check if you need a visa via the Sherpa online search tool below . Sherpa can also help obtain many e-visas, and advise of other possible information you may need for your travels.

Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA)

An ETA will soon be required for people travelling to the UK who do not need a visa, including children and babies. It will be electronically linked to your passport and will give you permission:

To visit the UK for up to 6 months for tourism, visiting family and friends, business or to study.

To visit the UK for up to 3 months on the Creative Worker visa concession .

To transit through the UK – including if you’re not going through the UK border control.

An ETA will be required from 15 November 2023 when travelling from certain countries, with more being added to the scheme over time. Please check if you require an ETA .

Read further information and apply for an ETA or watch more about ETA .

Please note that the sherpa widget will only display in the 'View as published mode' and provided the checkbox for the same is enabled in the page properties - Basic tab.

Please note that Sherpa is a third party service provider that may apply fees for such services. The information provided on this page is for information purposes only and could be subject to change at very short notice. It is your responsibility to check and observe all the health and entry requirements applicable to your journey and you should always check the latest travel guidance from your government before you travel and the guidance provided by the relevant public authorities of your destination. Failure to meet applicable requirements means that British Airways will not be able to carry you, and compensation and care and assistance provisions will not apply. 

Entry requirements and other travel documents

If you're a citizen of a country covered by the Visa Waiver Programme (such as the UK) you are able to travel to the USA with an Electronic System Travel Authorisation (ESTA) instead of a visa.

Make sure you apply for your ESTA at least 72 hours before your departure. You may not be allowed to travel if you arrive at the airport without an ESTA.

You will need a valid e-Passport to use ESTA. These have a microchip symbol on their front cover. ESTAs are valid for multiple journeys for up to two years or until your passport expires, whichever is sooner.

Apply for an ESTA

More about the Visa Waiver Program and ESTAs

When you need a visa

You will need to apply for a visa to travel to the United States and should contact your local US Embassy in the following circumstances:

• If you are a citizen of a country not covered by the Visa Waiver Programme.
• If you have dual nationality with one passport being issued by a country eligible under the Visa Waiver Programme and the other issued by Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria.
• If you have an ESTA and have visited Iran, Iraq, Sudan or Syria since 1 March 2011.

Help with your ESTA application

Our partner VisaCentral can take the hard work out of applying, and offers a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your ESTA. Benefits of using its service include:

• Specialist support – access to a visa specialist via phone or email if you have questions regarding your application.
• Automated monitoring - applications not instantly approved automatically get resubmitted or assigned to a visa specialist for review; there’s no need to re-apply.
• Discounted rate – get a 30% discount on VisaCentral's handling fees as a British Airways customer.

Many visitors need a visa or an Electronic Travel Authorization to travel to Canada. You can check Canada’s entry requirements before flying.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization for you.

If you're travelling to China, you'll need to check what type of visa you require. Transit visas are available if you are staying for less than 144 hours.

If you have a British passport, find out more about visa requirements when travelling to or through China.

If you have a passport from any other country, please ensure you check with your nearest Chinese Embassy .

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain a Visa for you.

If you are travelling to India, you may be able to obtain an eTourist Visa online, just four days before you travel. The visa will be valid for 60 days and you will need to present a printed copy when you check in to be able to travel.

Find out more and apply for India e-Tourist Visa.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can quickly, securely and easily obtain an eTourist Visa for you.

While we make every effort to keep this information up to date, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) visa restrictions can change at short notice. Please check the IATA Travel Centre before you book.

Get a visa through VisaCentral.

If you are a pilgrim

If you are a Hajj or Umrah pilgrim, you must enter KSA through Jeddah with a valid Hajj or Umrah visa. Travel must be between the official pilgrimage travel dates.

You cannot:

• travel for Hajj using an Umrah visa
• travel for Umrah using a Hajj visa
• enter, transfer or transit through Riyadh
• travel outside of the official pilgrimage dates determined by the Saudi authorities each year

If you are travelling from the UK, we recommend to book through our specialist partner Masterfare who can arrange your flight and Hajj/Umrah visa through a KSA Ministry of Hajj approved agent.

If you are travelling from another country, or you book on ba.com, it is your responsibility to ensure you get the correct pilgrimage visa from a KSA Ministry of Hajj-approved Hajj or Umrah agent.

If you do not have the correct documentation, or have booked to travel outside the official pilgrimage dates, you will not be allowed to travel or be able to get a refund.

Non-pilgrim visitors

If you are not Muslim, you can enter Jeddah or Riyadh at any time using a business or visit visa.

If you are Muslim, are using a business or visit visa during Hajj, or are travelling in the 6-week period up to and including Hajj, you must enter KSA through Riyadh.

If you are Muslim with a business or visit visa, you will need a Hajj visa to travel during the official pilgramage travel dates.

These restrictions do not apply to residents or citizens of the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.

KSA visa restrictions change at short notice. Please check the IATA Travel Centre before you book.

Some countries' immigration departments require additional documentation for all children under 18 years travelling into, out of or transiting their country. This varies depending on the country so please check before you travel on the IATA Travel Centre. Just make sure you use the date of birth of your child to receive the correct information.

If you need a visa for your journey, you can apply directly with the embassy or high commission of the country you want to travel to — visit their website or local consulate to learn more about the process.

Alternatively, our partner VisaCentral can do all of the hard work for you:

• it's a safe, secure and easy way to obtain your visa
• it can help save time — VisaCentral will stand in line at the embassy or consulate on your behalf
• you'll get a 30% discount on handling fees as a British Airways customer

Advance Passenger Information (API)

Many countries require us to collect some passport and travel information about who's flying into their country. The information you provide is sent securely to the necessary government authorities.

You will need to supply some or all of the following details:

• your full name (as it appears on your passport)
• your date of birth
• your gender
• your nationality
• your passport number
• your passport expiry date
• the country that issued your passport
• your country of residence.

Additionally, when travelling to the US, you will need to provide:

• the destination address of your first night’s stay
• Alien Registration Number (Green Card) for those who have US residency
• Traveler Redress Number if you have one (this enables travellers who have experienced problems entering the US to avoid future difficulties).

If you're a US citizen and have a 'Global Entry' number, you don't need to provide this as part of your API. When you arrive in the US your Global Entry status will be recognised when you use the dedicated Immigration kiosk.

Some governments require us to provide them with information from flight bookings, which will contain additional passenger details to those listed above.

You can add Advance Passenger Information to your booking on ba.com using Manage My Booking . If there is any information you need to provide, you'll see a red exclamation mark against the passenger information section at the top of the page.

Legal statement for US flights

The Transportation Security Administration (TSA) of the US Department of Homeland Security requires us to collect information from you for purposes of watch list screening, under the authority of 49 U.S.C. section 114, and the Intelligence Reform and Terrorism Prevention Act of 2004. Providing this information is voluntary; however, if you don't provide it, you may be subject to additional screening or denied transport or authorisation to enter the post-security area. TSA may share information you provide with law enforcement or intelligence agencies or others under its published system of records notice. For more on TSA Privacy policies, or to view the system of records notice and the privacy impact assessment, visit tsa.gov .

Travel Schemes

If you are a national of one of the below countries you can join the 'Registered Traveller' scheme and enjoy faster entry to the UK, as long as you have a biometric passport.

When you apply, the UK Border Force carries out checks to see if you are eligible to join. If accepted, you won't need to fill out a landing card for the UK. You'll be able to enter the UK at the ePassport gates or the UK/EU lanes at several UK airports, including all London airports, Edinburgh, Glasgow and Manchester.

UK citizens can get through US passport control faster by joining Global Entry, the US Customs and Border Protection (CBP) programme. The scheme allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travellers arriving in the United States. Benefits include:

• no processing queues
• no requirement to complete a paper customs declaration form
• reduced waiting times
• TSA Pre✓® Eligibility (faster, more efficient security screening at participating US airports).

Membership lasts for five years and the application process includes background checks (at a non-refundable cost of £42 payable to the UK government), online enrolment with the US Customs and Border Protection Agency (at a non-refundable cost of USD100) and attendance at a face to face interview at an official enrolment centre.

More about Global Entry and FAQs

We participate in the TSA Pre✓® programme for customers with a Known Traveller Number (KTN) departing from US airports. TSA Pre✓® is a faster, easier security screening process at US airports. Once enrolled, you will be able to speed through security without removing shoes, laptops, liquids, belts and light jackets.

Who is eligible?

• Members of the Global Entry scheme.
• US citizens and US lawful permanent residents enrolled in TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS or SENTRI. 
• Canadian citizens who are members of NEXUS. 

Enter your Global Entry, TSA Pre✓®, NEXUS or SENTRI membership number (your KTN) into your booking each time you travel to demonstrate your eligibility. You can add your KTN during online check-in via Manage My Booking on ba.com, at an airport desk or by contacting us .

Even if you are eligible for TSA Pre✓® as a member of a trusted traveller programme, TSA Pre✓® does not guarantee expedited screening.

Find out where TSA Pre✓® is available .

Where a TSA Pre✓® lane is not available, you can show your TSA Pre✓® boarding pass and may receive a form of expedited screening in a standard lane.

You can now submit an electronic arrival card via the Web Service and Mobile App before you arrive in Singapore. You will then be able to head directly to immigration clearance, allowing you to avoid unnecessary delays and save time at the airport.

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Canada ends temporary public policy allowing visitors to apply for work permits from within the country

Ottawa, August 28, 2024— Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has ended a temporary public policy that allowed visitors to apply for a work permit from within Canada, effective immediately.

IRCC introduced the policy in August 2020 to help visitors who were unable to leave the country due to COVID-19 pandemic–related travel restrictions. Under the policy, visitors in Canada could apply for a work permit without having to leave the country. In addition, foreign nationals who had held a work permit in the previous 12 months but who changed their status in Canada to “visitor” could apply to work legally in Canada while waiting for a decision on their new work permit application.

While the temporary policy was set to expire on February 28, 2025, IRCC is ending the policy as part of our overall efforts to recalibrate the number of temporary residents in Canada and preserve the integrity of the immigration system. IRCC is also aware that some bad actors were using the policy to mislead foreign nationals into working in Canada without authorization.

IRCC will continue to process applications submitted before August 28, 2024 under the policy.

Please visit our website for information on how to apply for a work permit .

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UAE Visa Amnesty from Sept 1: No Fines, Fees for Overstayers

S tarting September 1, the UAE is offering a two-month visa amnesty for those with expired visas, allowing them to either change their status or leave the country without facing fines.

Who Can Apply?

The amnesty is open to residents whose visas have expired, visitors who overstayed their visit visas, and children born in the UAE whose parents failed to apply for their residency. It also covers those who fled from their sponsors. However, those who entered the country illegally or violated visa rules after September 1 are not eligible.

Where to Apply?

Amnesty applications can be processed at designated ICP centers across the UAE, including locations in Abu Dhabi, Dubai, and other emirates. In Abu Dhabi, applicants can visit centers in Al Dhafra, Suwaihan, Al Maqam, and Al Shahama. In Dubai, services are available at Amer service centers and the Al Awir immigration violators' center. The centers operate daily from 8 AM to 8 PM.

Cost and Procedure

The process is free of charge, including obtaining an exit permit. Any existing fines will be waived, and the exit permit is valid for 14 days. If the individual does not leave the country within this period, previous fines will be reinstated. Those who exit will not face a ban and can return to the UAE in the future.

Special Cases :  Children and Exit Permits

Parents with unregistered children must obtain a passport or travel document for the child and apply for an exit pass either online or at the amnesty centers. Those who change their status can also update their children’s status without penalties.

Amnesty Deadline

The amnesty runs until October 31. In the past, similar initiatives have been extended due to high demand, allowing thousands of people to resolve their residency status.

Background and Impact

This initiative aims to help those without valid documentation, offering them a chance to regularize their status or return home without legal consequences. The amnesty is part of the UAE's efforts to maintain legal residency amidst a growing population. In a previous amnesty in 2018, over 105,000 people benefited, with thousands securing new visas or exit permits.

Why a Visa Amnesty?

Visa amnesties provide a fresh start for many, ensuring that people living in the UAE are doing so legally. With recent changes in visa regulations, including the introduction of golden and green visas, the government continues to adapt to the evolving needs of the population.

This article was posted on UAEMoments