Traveling to a new country can be stressful, especially when dealing with visa applications. However, the Introduction of visa at the airport have made things easier. Some countries make the process easier by allowing visitors to apply for a visa at the airport upon arrival. This is known as a visa-on-arrival, a convenient option for tourists, business travelers, and those making last-minute trips. But why do some countries offer this benefit while others require pre-approved visas? The reasons range from boosting tourism and encouraging business travel to diplomatic agreements and limited visa infrastructure.
In this guide, we’ll explore what a visa-on-arrival is, how to apply for a visa at the airport, popular destinations offering this option, and the pros and cons of this system. We’ll also discuss common challenges travelers face, how to avoid them, and alternative visa options if visa-on-arrival isn’t available for your destination.
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What Is a Visa on Arrival?
Traveling to a new country often requires a visa, but in some cases, travelers can apply for a visa at the airport upon arrival. This is known as a visa on arrival (VoA). It allows eligible visitors to obtain entry permission without applying in advance. Many countries offer this option to make travel easier and encourage tourism.
This process is different from eVisas and pre-approved visas, which require online applications before departure. Understanding how a visa on arrival works can help travelers prepare and avoid delays.
Definition and How It Differs from eVisas and Pre-Approved Visas
A visa on arrival is a type of travel authorization granted when a visitor arrives at their destination. Instead of applying at an embassy before traveling, eligible passengers can complete the process at the airport.
It differs from:
- eVisas – These must be applied for online before travel. They are electronically linked to the passport.
- Pre-approved visas – These require applications at embassies or consulates before departure. Processing times vary and can take weeks.
The key benefit of a visa on arrival is its convenience. Travelers who qualify can skip the lengthy pre-approval process and get a visa quickly. However, not all countries offer this option, and it is only available to specific nationalities.
The Typical Process of Applying for a Visa at the Airport
Getting a visa at the airport follows a simple process, but it may differ by country. Below are the common steps:
- Arrival at the Airport – Travelers must locate the designated visa-on-arrival counter.
- Fill Out a Visa Application Form – This form asks for personal details, passport information, and trip purpose.
- Submit Required Documents – Supporting documents may be needed for approval.
- Pay the Visa Fee – Most countries charge a visa fee, payable in local currency, USD, or via card.
- Immigration Officer Review – Officials verify the documents and decide on approval.
- Visa Issuance – If approved, a visa sticker or stamp is placed in the passport.
- Entry Approval – The traveler passes through immigration and enters the country.
Processing time varies but usually takes 15 minutes to an hour, depending on the airport and the number of applicants. Some airports have long queues, so travelers should be prepared for potential delays.
Documents Required
To apply for a visa at the airport, travelers must provide certain documents. These typically include:
- A valid passport – Must have at least six months of validity and blank pages for visa stamps.
- A completed visa application form – Some countries require filling out a form upon arrival.
- Proof of funds – Bank statements or cash may be needed to show financial capability.
- Return ticket – Many countries require proof of onward travel to prevent overstaying.
- Hotel reservation or accommodation details – Some immigration officers ask for a confirmed stay.
- Passport-size photographs – Certain destinations require physical photos for visa processing.
It is best to check the specific entry requirements of the destination before travel. Some airports have strict rules, and missing documents can lead to visa denial.
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Why Do Some Countries Offer Visa-on-Arrival?
Not all countries allow travelers to apply for a visa at the airport, but many do. The main reasons include boosting tourism, making business travel easier, and simplifying immigration for certain nationalities. Some countries also lack embassies in every region, making visa-on-arrival a practical solution.
Each country has different policies, and eligibility depends on nationality, purpose of travel, and agreements between governments. Understanding why some countries allow visa-on-arrival can help travelers plan their trips better.
Boosting Tourism – Making Travel Easier for Short-Term Visitors
One of the biggest reasons for offering a visa at the airport is to promote tourism. Many countries rely on international visitors for economic growth. Making the visa process easier encourages more travelers to visit.
For example:
- Thailand, Indonesia, and Egypt offer visa-on-arrival to attract more tourists.
- Island nations like the Maldives and Seychelles simplify entry for travelers who come for short vacations.
- Gulf countries like the UAE use VoA to boost tourism in cities like Dubai and Abu Dhabi.
By reducing visa restrictions, these countries increase travel revenue from hotels, restaurants, and local businesses.
Diplomatic Agreements – Bilateral/Multilateral Agreements Allowing Easier Entry
Some countries allow visa at the airport due to diplomatic arrangements. Governments often sign agreements to facilitate travel between their citizens. These agreements reduce barriers and improve international relations.
Examples include:
- African Union countries allowing visa-free or visa-on-arrival entry for fellow African nationals.
- ASEAN countries simplifying visa rules for member states to promote regional tourism.
- Schengen-associated countries granting easier entry for EU nationals and select non-EU citizens.
Such agreements help increase trade, tourism, and cultural exchange between partner nations.
Encouraging Business Travel – Attracting Investors and Professionals
Some countries offer visa at the airport to attract business travelers. Entrepreneurs, investors, and skilled professionals often need to travel on short notice. A VoA allows them to enter without the delays of embassy applications.
Examples include:
- Singapore and Hong Kong, which issue business visas-on-arrival for certain nationalities.
- Gulf countries like Qatar and Saudi Arabia, where investors can obtain VoA for business meetings.
- African nations like Kenya and Rwanda, which use VoA to encourage foreign business partnerships.
By offering easy entry, these countries make it simpler for professionals to explore investment opportunities.
Limited Visa Infrastructure – Some Countries Lack Extensive Embassies
In some regions, applying for a visa before travel is difficult due to limited embassies and consulates. Countries with fewer diplomatic missions provide visa-on-arrival as a practical alternative.
For instance:
- Island nations may not have embassies in every country, making VoA a necessity.
- Remote destinations like Madagascar or Papua New Guinea offer visa-on-arrival for convenience.
- Developing nations without widespread embassies allow VoA to accommodate travelers.
This approach ensures that tourists and business visitors can still enter without needing a pre-approved visa.
Final Thoughts
A visa at the airport is a convenient option for travelers who qualify. It allows easy entry without prior approval, reducing travel restrictions and encouraging tourism. Countries offer visa-on-arrival for various reasons, including economic growth, diplomatic agreements, and business-friendly policies.
However, travelers should always check official visa policies before departure. Requirements change frequently, and not all nationalities qualify for visa-on-arrival entry. Proper preparation ensures a smooth travel experience without unexpected visa issues.
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List of Popular Visa-on-Arrival Countries in 2025
Visa at the Airport: Which Countries Offer It?
A visa-on-arrival (VoA) allows travelers to get a visa when they arrive in a country instead of applying in advance. Many countries offer this option to boost tourism and make entry easier. In 2025, more destinations are adopting visa-on-arrival policies to attract visitors and business travelers.
However, rules vary by country. Some nations allow VoA for all travelers, while others limit it to certain nationalities. Some require extra documents, such as hotel bookings or return tickets. Understanding these rules will help you avoid problems when applying for a visa at the airport.
Below is a breakdown of regions and notable countries that allow VoA in 2025.
Breakdown by Region: Visa-on-Arrival Countries
Asia
Asia has many countries that allow travelers to apply for a visa at the airport. These include:
- Thailand – VoA is available for citizens of many countries, but travelers must show proof of accommodation and a return ticket.
- Indonesia – Offers VoA to over 80 nationalities. The visa allows a 30-day stay and can be extended once.
- Maldives – Open to all nationalities, but visitors must show proof of accommodation and sufficient funds.
- Nepal – Grants VoA to most travelers, with fees based on the length of stay.
- Laos – Provides VoA at major international airports and land borders for eligible travelers.
Africa
Many African countries use visa-on-arrival to attract tourists and investors. Some key destinations include:
- Kenya – Allows VoA for selected nationalities, but an online eVisa is recommended for faster processing.
- Tanzania – Offers VoA at airports and border crossings, with fees depending on nationality.
- Egypt – Grants VoA to visitors from several countries, but travelers must check eligibility before departure.
- Mauritius – Provides free VoA for most travelers, allowing a stay of up to 60 days.
- Ethiopia – Offers VoA at Bole International Airport in Addis Ababa for business and tourism travelers.
Middle East
Some Middle Eastern countries allow VoA to make travel easier, especially for tourists. These include:
- United Arab Emirates (UAE) – Grants VoA to travelers from certain countries for 30 or 90 days.
- Qatar – Provides VoA to over 80 nationalities, with stays ranging from 30 to 90 days.
- Jordan – Allows VoA at all entry points, but some travelers need to check eligibility in advance.
- Bahrain – Offers VoA to selected nationalities, but an eVisa may be required for others.
- Oman – Provides VoA for specific countries, but an online visa is recommended for faster entry.
Europe
Europe has fewer visa-on-arrival options, but some countries still offer this flexibility:
- Turkey – Grants VoA to certain nationalities, but most travelers need an eVisa.
- Armenia – Offers VoA for travelers from various countries, with stays of up to 120 days.
- Azerbaijan – Allows VoA for specific travelers, but most visitors need an eVisa.
Americas & Caribbean
Many Caribbean nations offer VoA to boost tourism, while parts of Latin America have limited VoA options. Some key destinations include:
- Dominican Republic – Allows VoA for many travelers, with a small fee on arrival.
- Bolivia – Provides VoA for specific nationalities, with stay periods depending on agreements.
- Ecuador – Offers VoA for most travelers, with stays of up to 90 days.
- Saint Lucia – Grants VoA for visitors from certain countries, with fees based on stay duration.
- Jamaica – Allows VoA for selected travelers, but entry requirements vary.
Notable Countries Offering VoA to Multiple Nationalities
Some countries allow VoA for a wide range of nationalities to encourage travel. These include:
- Thailand – Available for over 20 countries.
- Indonesia – Open to more than 80 nationalities.
- Qatar – Grants VoA to over 80 countries.
- UAE – Allows VoA for several European, American, and Asian travelers.
- Kenya – Provides VoA for travelers from different continents.
These countries have simplified their visa rules to make travel easier. However, travelers should always check updates before departure.
Special Cases: Conditional Visa-on-Arrival
Some countries offer visa-on-arrival under special conditions:
- India – Grants VoA to Japanese and South Korean travelers only.
- Saudi Arabia – Allows VoA for tourists with valid US, UK, or Schengen visas.
- Vietnam – VoA is available only for travelers with prior approval.
- Pakistan – Provides VoA for business travelers and selected tourists.
- Bangladesh – Grants VoA under specific agreements with certain countries.
These cases show that VoA is not always automatic. Some travelers may need prior approval or special documents.
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How to Apply for a Visa at the Airport
Understanding the Visa-on-Arrival Process
Getting a visa at the airport is usually straightforward, but you need to be prepared. The process varies by country, but most follow similar steps.
Step-by-Step Guide on Arrival Procedures
- Go to the Visa-on-Arrival Counter – After landing, locate the VoA section before passing through immigration.
- Fill Out the Application Form – Some countries require basic details like passport information and travel purpose.
- Submit Required Documents – These may include a passport (valid for at least six months), return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
- Pay the Visa Fee – Fees vary by country and must be paid in local currency or USD.
- Wait for Processing – Approval times range from a few minutes to over an hour, depending on airport traffic.
- Receive Your Visa and Enter the Country – Once approved, the visa is stamped or attached to your passport.
Common Fees and Payment Methods
Visa-on-arrival fees vary by destination:
- Thailand – Around $50 USD.
- Indonesia – $35 USD.
- Kenya – $50 USD.
- Egypt – $25 USD.
- UAE – Free for eligible travelers; fees apply for longer stays.
Some countries accept credit cards, but carrying cash (USD or local currency) is safer.
Typical Approval Times and Potential Delays
- Fast Processing: Countries like UAE and Thailand approve VoA within 10–15 minutes.
- Longer Wait Times: Countries with high tourist traffic may take 30 minutes to an hour.
- Possible Delays: Missing documents, large queues, or strict immigration rules can slow the process.
To avoid delays, travelers should:
- Have all documents ready.
- Carry exact visa fees in cash.
- Check official immigration websites for updates.
Final Thoughts
Applying for a visa at the airport is a convenient option for many travelers. However, rules vary by country, and some require additional conditions. Always check the latest visa policies before your trip to ensure a smooth entry.
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Conclusion
Visa-on-arrival programs make international travel more accessible, especially for tourists and business travelers looking for flexibility. Many countries offer this option to boost tourism, support diplomatic relations, or simplify entry for certain nationalities. However, travelers should be aware of potential risks, including long wait times, hidden fees, and the possibility of rejection at the border.
Before traveling, always check official government websites or embassy pages for the latest visa-on-arrival policies. Some countries may require specific documents or pre-registration, even for VoA travelers. If visa-on-arrival isn’t available for your destination, consider alternative options like eVisas (U.S. State Department), pre-approved visas, or researching visa-free travel for your nationality.
For the smoothest experience, carry all required documents, have cash for visa fees if necessary, and confirm entry rules before departure. Staying informed ensures a hassle-free journey and avoids last-minute surprises at immigration.
Need more travel visa updates? Check out IATA Travel Centre for up-to-date visa and entry requirements worldwide.