Traveling to a new country is exciting! But did you know that getting a visa can be a pain in the ass? Some countries have a very convenient option called a "visa on arrival". In simple terms, you can apply for a visa when you arrive in the country. Doesn't that sound a lot easier? Let me tell you how to apply for a visa on arrival.

Research visa policies

Before you plan your trip, check the visa policies of the country. Not every country has a visa on arrival, and the rules vary from country to country. You can check the website of your embassy or consulate, or ask someone at the IATA Travel Center.

Eligibility check

You need to check if your nationality is on the list of countries that allow visas on arrival. This usually depends on the relationship between the countries, so not everyone can choose a visa on arrival.

Required documents

The things you need for a visa on arrival may vary, but here are the basics you need:

1. A passport that is valid for at least six months.

2. A return or onward flight ticket that has been purchased.

3. Proof of where you live in the country.

4. A recent passport-sized photo.

Sometimes they may also ask you to show enough money to pay for your accommodation, or to ask your host to write an invitation letter or something.

Visa Application Form

Once you arrive at your destination, find the visa-on-arrival counter and fill out the form. Remember to bring a pen and fill it out carefully to avoid mistakes.

Visa Fee

Almost all of the fees are paid, either in cash or by credit card. The fee depends on the time and type of visa. It is best to bring some local money to pay for this fee.

Processing Time

The time it takes to get a visa on arrival can be a few minutes if it is fast, or it may take several hours if it is slow. If you have a connecting flight, be prepared to wait for a while.

Health Requirements

Some countries may also require you to meet certain health conditions before you can get a visa on arrival. For example, if you are coming from an area with yellow fever, some African countries will require you to show proof of yellow fever vaccination.

Validity and Extension

How long you can stay in a country depends on the country and the type of visa. If you want to stay longer, you can check if you can extend the visa. In some places, it is easy to extend your stay, but in other places, you may have to leave first and then come back.

Overstaying penalties

It is not good to have an expired visa. You may be fined, kicked out, or not allowed to go back in the future. Therefore, you must pay attention to the validity period of your visa.

Backup plan

Although visa on arrival is very convenient, it is not 100% successful. It is better to have a backup plan, such as applying for an e-visa in advance or going to the embassy to apply for a visa.