These countries require U.S. passport holders to apply for visas in advance.
If you're gearing up for international travel in 2024, having a valid passport is a must. Fortunately, the current processing times have significantly improved, now averaging between 6 to 8 weeks, a noticeable improvement from previous months. However, in addition to your passport, it's essential to consider the potential need for a tourist visa, as several countries mandate U.S. passport holders to apply in advance.
For those planning a European adventure, tourist visas aren't currently on the checklist. Although the European Union announced the requirement of "travel authorization" through the European Travel Information and Authorization System (ETIAS) starting potentially in early 2024, the launch has been postponed until mid-2025. While not a visa per se, this process involves filling out an application, paying a fee, and waiting up to four days for approval.
Before assuming a hassle-free journey, it's crucial to check the U.S. State Department's page for your destination(s) to stay informed about entry requirements, including visas, and any travel security advisories.
For those heading to specific countries:
Australia: Apply through the Electronic Travel Authorization app before your trip, with visas valid for up to three months in a 12-month period. The fee is $13, and processing can take up to 21 days.
Bolivia: Apply in person in advance at a Bolivian Consulate for a 30-day stay (tourist visas available upon arrival at borders). The fee is $160, and processing takes up to 10 days for consular applications.
Brazil: Beginning April 10, visas are required for entry. Apply online in advance for a $80 fee with processing times of up to five days. Visas are valid for up to 90 days.
China: Complete the Chinese Online Visa Application (COVA) form and visit a Chinese embassy or consulate in person. The fee for a visitor visa is $140, with processing in four business days, valid for 30 days over a 90-day span.
Egypt: Apply online for an e-visa at $25, valid for one entry and a 30-day stay. Processing can take up to seven days, or you can obtain a visa upon arrival at an airport.
India: Apply online for an e-visa at least four days before travel (up to 60 days). For longer stays, apply in person at an Indian embassy or consulate with fees varying (up to $25) and processing up to 72 hours.
Kenya: Apply for an e-visa in advance, allowing three days for processing. The fee is $34, valid for three months from the date of issuance.
New Zealand: Apply in advance for travel authorization online through the New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority. Not technically a visa, it's valid for three months within two years of issuance. The fee is approximately $10, and processing takes up to 72 hours.
Vietnam: Apply online for an e-visa with fees of $25 for a single-entry visa and $50 for a multi-entry visa. Processing takes up to three days, and e-visas are valid for 30 days.
Several other countries require visas but offer options for application upon arrival or in advance, including Cambodia and Indonesia. For instance, a $30 Cambodian tourist visa can be obtained at any border crossing, or you can apply for an e-visa at least three business days before arrival, with an additional processing fee. Indonesia also provides both options for travelers.
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