Planning a trip abroad? Start with the visa!
Visa rules have changed a lot in recent years - what worked for your last trip might not cut it this time. This guide breaks it down so you know exactly what to expect and how to avoid last-minute surprises.
The truth: Rejection rates are higher than ever - around 22% for US visas and 16% for European ones. But with the right prep, you’ve got nothing to worry about. Let’s make sure you’re set up for a smooth take-off.
It’s your official permission to enter another country. Your passport proves who you are. A visa tells the country you're visiting that you're allowed to be there, for a set time and a specific reason. Think of it as your entry ticket.
The word visa comes from Latin - charta visa means “paper that has been seen.” The first known visa system? Ancient Persia, around 450 BC. Travellers needed documents to move between regions.
A visa is legal permission from your destination country. Without it (when needed), you might not even get past the airport gate!
It comes down to three key things:
Visa rules vary wildly, even for short trips. Use trusted sources like:
These tools let you check exactly what’s needed based on your passport and destination.
Visa applications aren’t one-size-fits-all. Different countries use different systems, and some still like doing things the old-fashioned way.
Check the exact process before you apply - it saves time and stress later.
Applying for a visa can feel a bit overwhelming, but breaking it down makes things easier. Here’s how to stay on track and avoid the usual pitfalls.
Start with the official government website for the country you’re visiting. Skip third-party sites - many just charge you for info you can get for free.
Most visa applications will ask for:
Double-check what’s needed for your specific visa - a missing document can delay things fast.
You might apply online, in person, or by post - it depends on the country. Be accurate. Even a small typo can slow everything down.
Visa fees range from $50 to $500, depending on the type. Keep in mind: most are non-refundable, even if your application gets denied.
Not all visas need one, but many do. It might include fingerprinting, a photo, or even a short interview.
Processing times vary, usually 2 to 8 weeks, but peak travel seasons can mean longer waits.
Not all visas work the same way, and getting the wrong one can land you in hot water fast. The type you’ll need depends on why you’re travelling, how long you’re staying and what you’re planning to do while you’re there.
From everyday tourist visas to more specialised options you might not know exist, here’s a quick guide to help you figure out what’s what, and avoid any surprises at border control!
Tourist visas are the go-to for casual travel - whether you’re off on holiday, visiting family or just taking some time out. They’re the most common type of visa, and usually the simplest to apply for.
Simple, straightforward and perfect for most trips - just make sure to double-check the entry rules before you go.
A business visa lets you travel for work-related activities like meetings, conferences or trade shows, but not for taking up a job or getting paid by a local company.
If your trip is for work but not a job, this is probably the visa you’re after. Just check the details before you go - every country has its own fine print.
Transit visas are for travellers making a quick stop in one country on the way to another. You might need one if you’re switching airports, changing airlines or travelling overland.
If you're not sure whether you need one, check the rules for your stopover country - it’s always better to be safe than stuck at border control.
If you're planning to work overseas, you’ll need a visa, and that usually starts with an employer. Whether you’re highly skilled, moving within your company or picking up seasonal work, there’s likely a visa designed for your role.
Work visas aren’t one-size-fits-all, so it’s important to check the specific rules for the country you’re headed to, and get started early if you're applying through an employer.
Student visas let you live in another country while studying full-time at a recognised school or university. It’s your pass to lectures, campus life and often a few part-time work shifts to help cover costs. Here’s what to expect:
Studying abroad isn’t just about education - it’s often the start of a bigger journey. Just make sure to check the fine print before you apply.
For when travel means joining the people who matter most. These visas are for partners, children or parents joining family who are citizens or legal residents of a country. They’re not short-term - they’re about building a life together, so the rules can be pretty detailed. Here’s a quick breakdown:
Always double-check the official guidance for the country you’re applying to - the details really do matter with this one!
Most people won’t need these, but there are a few lesser-known visas made for specific situations. They might not pop up in your average travel plan, but knowing they exist could save you time, or help you spot an option you hadn’t considered. If your trip doesn’t quite fit the usual categories, one of these might be the right route!
Work remotely. Live somewhere new. A digital nomad visa lets you live in one country while working remotely for a business based elsewhere - ideal if your office is your laptop and your team’s in a different time zone. Here’s what to know:
Every country has its own rules and quirks, so if this sounds like your kind of setup, double-check the official visa info of the country you're visiting before packing your bags.
Residency (and sometimes citizenship) in return for a significant financial investment.
A way to work, travel and live somewhere new - all on one visa.
Some travel plans don’t fit the usual mould - that’s where special purpose visas come in. These are issued for very particular situations, and the rules can vary a lot depending on where you're going and why.
Here’s a quick guide to some of the more common ones:
These types of visas come with very specific requirements and they’re different in every country. So, if you think you might need one, make sure to check the official government advice for the country you’re travelling to.
Getting your visa refused isn’t just frustrating - it can throw off your whole travel plan. Here's what usually goes wrong, and what you can do if it happens to you.
Need a flight but worried about visa issues? We’ve got flexible payment options, so you can secure your booking and sort the paperwork at your pace.
These multi-country arrangements can save you time and money by covering multiple destinations with one application!
Once you’re in, you’re in. The Schengen Area covers 29 European countries that work as one big border-free zone, including most EU countries, plus Norway, Iceland, Switzerland and Liechtenstein.
You can stay up to 90 days in any 180-day period without a visa. But be careful - overstaying could mean fines, getting kicked out or banned from coming back.
Here are some of the most useful regional visa setups that make multi-country travel that bit easier.
Here’s a quick look at where your passport can take you without the paperwork.
Check tools like the Henley Passport Index, IATA Travel Centre, or your government’s travel site for the most up-to-date info based on your passport and where you’re headed.
Most immigration officers want to see that you've got enough money to support yourself during your trip and that it’s coming from a stable source, not a last-minute boost. Here’s a rough guide to what you’ll need:
Avoid dropping a large lump sum into your account right before you apply. It’ll raise eyebrows, and you’ll likely need to explain it.
Visa rules change all the time, and let’s be honest - they’re not always easy to follow. Here’s what really matters:
We can’t speed up embassies or stop your bag going missing in transit. But if your visa gets refused and you’ve already booked flights with us, talk to our team. We’ll speak to the airline and do everything we can to help you with your booking.
Visa stress doesn’t have to ruin your trip. Start early, stay organised and give yourself the best shot at smooth travels.
It depends on the type and the timing. Here’s a quick look at typical processing times:
Travelling in peak season? Add another 2 to 4 weeks.
Security checks? These can delay things by 60 days, or even longer.
Always check the latest processing times on the embassy’s official site, and apply early. The earlier you start, the smoother the journey.
No, not even a little bit. Tourist visas are for travel, not work. That means:
Even if you’re not getting paid, working while on a tourist visa can land you in serious trouble.
What is allowed?
Business visas let you attend meetings, conferences or explore deals, but:
What happens if you break the rules?
Play it safe. If you’re planning to work abroad in any form, apply for the right visa from the start.
It’s not the end of the road, but you’ll need to take action.
Thinking about reapplying? Here’s what helps:
Enough to show you can cover your trip, without raising red flags. Most visa applications ask for proof that you can afford your stay. Here’s what that usually looks like:
Common financial requirements:
Documents you’ll likely need:
💡Tip: Avoid making big deposits right before you apply - they can look suspicious and may lead to extra checks.
Every embassy is different, so always double-check the exact financial requirements for your destination.
In many cases, yes, and the rules can be strict. Some countries won’t process your visa unless you can prove you’ve got travel insurance. Here's what to know:
Countries that require it:
For Schengen visas, your insurance must cover:
How much it costs:
Make sure your policy meets the exact visa requirements - it’s often checked closely, and the wrong cover could lead to a rejected application.
In some cases, yes, but it depends on the visa. Extensions aren’t guaranteed and the rules vary depending on where you are and what type of visa you’re on.
What’s possible:
What you’ll need:
Be careful:
It’s all about how many times you can go in and out.
Single-entry visas:
Multiple-entry visas:
Examples:
Make sure you check what type you’ve been granted, especially if you’re planning a stopover or side trip.
The short answer: sooner than you think. Visa timelines vary by type, and delays are common, especially in busy seasons. Here’s a general guide to help you plan ahead:
Recommended timing by visa type:
Seasonal tips:
Start your research early, keep your travel dates flexible, and don’t leave it to the last minute - it’s just not worth the stress.
Avoid these, and you’ll boost your chances. Visa refusals often come down to simple mistakes or missing info, and some are more common than others.
Top reasons for refusal:
What helps you get approved:
Getting a visa is all about confidence and clarity - show them you're prepared, and you’re more likely to hear “approved.”
It depends on how straightforward your case is. You don’t always need help, but in some situations, expert support can make a big difference.
Apply yourself if:
Consider professional help if you have:
Professional help isn’t cheap - expect to pay $1,500 to $5,000+, depending on your case. But it can boost approval odds by 15-25%, especially in more complex situations.
What to avoid:
When it’s simple, go DIY. When it’s not, it’s worth getting the right help.
