Visas - You Need Them to Travel

Don't forget your visa! No not your credit card, your passport to travel to different countries.

Once you have chosen your travel destination you need to find out whether or not you require a visa. Do this before you book flights or accommodation. The cost of visas may vary considerably so you need to include them in your budget. You may also need to apply well in advance for some visas.

Whether or not you will require a visa depends on your own nationality as well as which country you are intending to visit. Occasionally, the political relationships between countries you've already visited may also effect your visa applications to countries you wish to travel to.

The embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit will be able to advise you on their requirements. Don't take the advice of people who share the same nationality as you, their circumstances may well be different to yours. Visa rules can change quite unexpectedly so make sure you get good up to date information.

Visas generally fall into one of five categories; these are business, working-holiday, tourist, student and transit visas.

• A business visa may allow the bearer to conduct business in the host country but not enter into permanent employment.
• Working holiday visas are usually granted to young people who enroll on special programs.
• A Tourist visa is issued for a limited stay and does not normally allow the holder to conduct business activities.
• Student visas allow the holder to stay in a country while they are studying.
• Transit visas are for passing through a country while traveling to another country. They are usually valid from a few hours up to about five days. A transit visa may be required for connecting onward flights. You are not usually allowed to leave the transit area of the airport.

Most visas are valid from the date of issue, but some are valid for longer if you apply from your home country. Some visa applications can now be made over the internet.

It may be possible to obtain a visa on your arrival in the host country in some circumstances; this may depend on how you enter the country. If you fly you may be able to get your visa at the airport, but if you travel by land this option may not be available to you.

Common requirements for visa applications may include:

• Proof that you have booked accommodation or a letter from the person you are intending to stay with.
• Proof that you have sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay
• Passport valid for six month beyond your stay
• Confirmed onward or return flight tickets

Even if you hold a visa to enter a country you will still have to pass through customs and immigration control. The possession of a visa does not guarantee entry to the country of issue.

Good luck and travel smart!