Electronic Visa: How to Apply Online from Anywhere in the World

The minimization of administrative procedures makes travel significantly easier. The electronic visa (e-visa) enables travelers to obtain official entry authorization online in a relatively short time — from home or any corner of the world. This modern system eliminates the need for in-person consulate visits, collecting extensive paper documentation, and the stress of meeting pre-travel deadlines.

It is important, however, to understand the distinction between the two forms of digital entry authorization: the electronic visa (e-visa) and the electronic travel authorization (eTA/ETA).

• An electronic visa (e-visa) is issued by the destination country and provides authorization for entry, stay, or other visa-related purposes (such as tourism, business, or study) under conditions equivalent to a standard visa.

• An electronic travel authorization is a simplified pre-authorisation system for individuals who do not require a traditional visa but must undergo verification before travel. Examples include the eTA/ETA systems of Canada or the United Kingdom.

On the Terrana website, you can check whether your destination requires an e-visa or an electronic travel authorization; compare processing times and application requirements, and proceed directly to the online application if needed. This is especially convenient if you are outside your home country or planning a complex itinerary, as all relevant information is consolidated in one place and regularly updated.

Electronic Visa: Definition and Key Advantages in 2025

An electronic visa (e-visa) is an entry authorization that is processed completely online, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or visa center. The visa application is submitted through the official portal of the destination country, and the result is delivered by email.

In 2025, electronic visas have become the international travel standard. With an ever-expanding list of countries joining the digital system, the availability of online visas continues to grow worldwide. This system is particularly convenient for tourists and business people:

• processing time ranges from a few hours to 2 days;

• requirements are limited to internet access and scanned documents;

• no third-party intermediaries or courier services are necessary;

• visa application status can be tracked online;

• worldwide visa application access allows individuals to submit and process their visa requests from any country.

Therefore, the e-visa is not merely a modern solution, but an instrument that saves time, reduces stress, and makes travel more accessible.

However, it is important to note that an e-visa is not universally applicable; its availability is restricted by the applicant’s nationality and the destination country's visa policy. For example, Saudi Arabia offers e-visas to citizens of approximately 60–70 countries, while residents of a number of other states require a traditional visa obtained through a consulate. The Schengen Area has not yet adopted e-visas, maintaining a requirement for standard visa applications through consulates or visa centers.

Step-by-Step Guide for a Successful Online E-Visa Application

The process of obtaining an e-visa is not complicated, but it requires careful attention to detail. A visa rejection can be triggered by a single error, whether a typo in the application form or a photo that doesn’t meet the requirements. To avoid this, it is necessary to understand the submission procedure and the requirements at each stage. Prior to initiating the visa application process, it is essential to confirm the availability of an e-visa for both your nationality and travel purpose.

1. Prepare your international passport. It must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

2. Navigate to the official online application portal. The direct link is most commonly available on the website of the country’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs or its embassy.

3. Complete the online application form. Provide your passport details, intended travel dates, purpose of your visit, and accommodation address.

4. Upload the required documents. Your passport photo and personal photograph must be clear and comply with the specified format requirements.

5. Pay the visa fee with your bank card or an e-wallet. A confirmation receipt will be sent to your email upon successful transaction.

6. The visa application is now under review. You can expect a decision within the standard processing period of 1 to 5 business days for most jurisdictions.

7. Check your application status using the reference number or link provided in your confirmation email.

8. Receive your e-visa. Print the document or save it on your phone — you will need to present it at the border.

Ensure all information entered matches your passport — any discrepancy, including one wrong letter in your last name, may result in denial.

To avoid manually searching for official websites and navigating complex regulations, use the Terrana service. Here, you can select your country of citizenship and destination to instantly determine visa requirements and check if an online application is available. Terrana provides up-to-date information on processing times, costs, document requirements — helping you avoid common mistakes for a smoother and more secure application from anywhere.

Documents Required for the Visa Application: Preparing Everything in Advance

The exact list of documents depends on the destination country, but the basic package is nearly universal:

• valid international passport (with at least 6 months of remaining validity);

• color copy of the passport’s biographical page;

• digital photo in the required format (often JPEG, 3.5×4.5 cm, on a light background); 

• completed online application form;

• hotel booking confirmation or an invitation from the host (if required);

• travel insurance valid for the entire duration of the trip;

• proof of visa fee payment.

Some countries may require additional information — such as a travel itinerary, return tickets, or a bank statement. For example, in Vietnam, the standard processing time for an e-visa is 3–5 days, but applications missing photos or accommodation reservations can be returned for correction. Meanwhile, in Kenya, when applying for an e-visa, the applicants are additionally asked to provide their travel plans, return tickets, and confirmed hotel reservation. Applications lacking these documents are automatically rejected by the system, with average processing taking 2–3 days.

To ensure a smooth upload process without delays, prepare your documents in advance and keep all files saved in a single location.

E-Visa Fees and Standard Processing Times

Fees and processing times depend on the destination country, visa category, and the applicant’s nationality.

Many countries offer an express processing option for faster visa issuance, though it comes at a higher cost. To mitigate potential technical delays, applicants are advised to submit their application at least 7–10 days prior to their travel date.

An electronic visa is a modern tool which makes travel more convenient and secure. It saves time, eliminates unnecessary visits to consulates, and enables greater travel freedom. With Terrana, you can select your destination country, review current requirements, and obtain your visa online from anywhere in the world — quickly, conveniently, and without intermediaries.