Visa on arrival countries for Indian passport holders in 2024

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Complete arrival card:

Most countries require travellers to fill out an arrival card, typically provided on your flight or at the airport. This card includes essential details such as your name, passport number, purpose of visit, and duration of stay.

Prepare documentation:

Ensure you have all the necessary documents handy. This includes a valid passport (at least six months validity from your intended departure date), proof of sufficient funds, a return or onward flight ticket, and, sometimes, a passport-sized photograph.

Arrival at destination:

Upon arrival at your destination airport, proceed to the visa on arrival counter. These counters are usually located in the immigration section of the airport.

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Visa application:

Fill out the visa application form provided at the counter. You may also be required to provide supporting documents like hotel reservations or proof of funds.

Payment of visa fees:

Pay the applicable visa fees, which can vary depending on the country and duration of your stay. Fees are typically payable in the local currency or sometimes in US Dollars.

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Visa issuance:

Once your application and payment are processed, immigration authorities will issue your visa on the spot. Ensure that all the details on your visa sticker are accurate before leaving the counter.

Duration of stay:

Be mindful of the maximum stay duration permitted on your visa. Overstaying your visa could result in fines or other legal consequences.

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With your visa on arrival, you will be all set to explore your destination hassle-free. Make the most of your journey, and remember to adhere to local laws and regulations.

Differences between visa on arrival and visa-free

While visa on arrival and visa-free travel for Indians both offer the convenience of travelling without a pre-approved visa, they differ in critical aspects:

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In essence, both options offer ease of travel, but visa-free entry is often more straightforward, as it requires no additional paperwork or fees. However, the specifics can vary from country to country, so it's essential to research and confirm the requirements before your trip.

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FAQs

1. Is a visa on arrival the same as a tourist visa?

No, a visa on arrival differs from a tourist visa in several ways. While a tourist visa requires advance application through embassies, a visa on arrival is acquired directly at your destination's airport or border upon arrival. The application process for a tourist visa can be complex and lengthy, whereas obtaining a visa on arrival is generally simpler and quicker.

Tourist visas often have predetermined validity and duration, whereas visa on arrival grants shorter stays, usually from days to months. Lastly, tourist visas are typically for tourism, while visa on arrival may serve other purposes, like business or transit, depending on the destination's policies.

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2. Are visa on arrival policies subject to change?

Yes, visa on arrival policies can change over time due to international agreements or changes in a country's immigration regulations. Checking the latest requirements before travelling is recommended.

3. Can I extend my stay on a visa on arrival?

In some cases, you may be able to extend your stay by visiting the local immigration office of the country you are in. However, this is subject to the specific rules of each country.

4. Are there any additional fees for visa on arrival besides the visa fee?

In addition to the standard visa fees, some countries may impose additional charges or fees upon arrival. These fees may include tourism taxes, entry fees, or other expenses specific to the country you're visiting. It's essential to be prepared for such additional costs, and one way to do this is by carrying some local currency with you. It's a good practice to inquire about any potential additional fees or charges when you arrive at your destination and plan your currency exchange accordingly to ensure a smooth entry process.