Picture arriving at a foreign airport and not having to think about applying for a visa weeks beforehand, but instead walking up to a counter, offering your passport, paying an insignificant sum of money — and receiving the visa stamp on the spot. Sounds convenient, right? Now that is what a visa on arrival promises — immediate access to the place you’ve been meaning to see, and not in two weeks after your application has made its journey through slow lanes of bureaucracy.
Visa on arrival is a game-changer for travelers who value the spur of the moment or want to avoid complicated visa application systems. As a digital nomad, holidaymaker or business traveler it’s good to know which countries provide this service so you can make the most of your time away without all that inconvenience and expense. In this extensive guide, we will cover the top countries offering visa on arrival to travelers and everything you need to know before visiting those destinations — so your trip can be as easy and stress-free as possible.
What Is Visa On Arrival?
Before we get into the list of countries, let’s understand what a visa on arrival is. A visa on arrival is a travel authorization that you get when you arrive in the airport or border of a country. Rather than applying for a visa at an embassy or consulate before your visit, you do it right then at the friendly immigration counter.
Here’s what typically happens:
- You get to the airport or the border
- You go to the visa counter with your documents
- You fill out a simple form
- You pay the visa fee (typically in cash, sometimes by card)
- Immigration officers stamp your passport
- You can go into the country
The whole process generally takes 15 to 60 minutes, depending on the airport’s volume. This system is meant to promote tourism, and facilitate the travels of visitors from certain countries.
Why Visa On Arrival Is Important To Travelers
The international travel world can be confusing particularly when it comes to visa requirements. And here is why visa on arrival has such a great merit:
Saves Time: Forget the embassy appointments or long wait for visa processing.
Flexibility: You can make a last-minute travel plan without feeling insecure about visa timelines.
Easier on Your Wallet: Sometimes even cheaper than a visa the old way around, ranging from $20-30 in some countries.
Less Paperwork: Not too many documents are needed in contrast to regular visa applications.
Many Destinations: Several nations provide this service, so you have quite a few options for your next holiday.
Top Visa On Arrival Countries
Southeast Asian Destinations
Indonesia
Indonesia – Beautiful island of Bali is only one of the many cool things to see here, the country issues visa on arrival facilities to more than 90 countries. It’s good for a visit of 30 days and costs about $35. If you decide to extend your tropical vacation, you can add it once, for another 30 days.
What you need:
- A passport valid for at least six months
- Return or onward ticket
- Proof of accommodation
- Sufficient funds for your stay
A visa on arrival is available for Indonesia – including entry into the Jakarta, Bali, or Surabaya airports. The beaches and temples, exotic culture make it worthwhile.
Cambodia
Cambodia is one of the places that has a visa on arrival system and it’s so super easy! 30 $ (at Phnom Penh and Siem Reap airports) buys you a tourist visa valid for 30 days. Cambodia is a visit to Cambodia is a must for any history buff, it’s home to the stunning Angkor Wat temple complex.
Requirements include:
- Valid passport (6 months validity)
- One passport-sized photo
- Completed application form
- Cash payment (US dollars preferred)
Pro tip: Bring $50 and $100 bills that are new and crisp, as well-worn currency is sometimes not accepted.
Laos
Visa on arrival is available in Laos at all international airports and the majority of land borders. It costs $30 to $42, depending on your nationality, and you receive a stay of 30 days. This landlocked country offers stunning scenery, Buddhist temples and a more laid-back way of life — a welcome change for many travelers.
Thailand
Even though Thailand exempts many nations from visas, some of whose nationals can obtain a visa on arrival for 15 days at the price of at least 2,000 Thai Baht (about US$60). But most tourists are eligible for a free visa exemption, which is even better. But Thailand is still one of the most popular places in Asia to visit, with its beaches, street food and welcoming locals.
Middle Eastern Treasures
Jordan
Jordan has opened its doors to visa on arrival at Queen Alia International Airport in Amman. It costs 40 Jordanian Dinars (approximately $56) and you will receive a 30 day visa. Jordan hosts Petra, one of the New Seven Wonders of the World and you know – it’s just a few amazing experiences we are talking about, so paying a visa is a small price to visit these wonders.
Special note: If you buy the Jordan Pass (where entry to major attractions is included), your visa fee is waived for a minimum stay of three nights.
Egypt
The home of the pharaohs and Mt Sinai provides visa on arrival to many nationalities for $25. You’ll receive a 30-day single-entry visa on arrival at major airports such as Cairo and Hurghada. Visiting the Great Pyramid of Giza or cruising the Nile River, means this is one of the best civilizations that can be visited with visa on arrival.
Requirements:
- Passport valid for 6 months
- Two blank passport pages
- Return flight ticket
- Hotel reservation
Best Countries Offering Visa On Arrival For Travelers
United Arab Emirates
Time of course is relative, and the UAE issues visa on arrival for some countries, while many nationals also benefit from a free visa on arrival when they arrive in either Dubai or Abu Dhabi airports. This usually allows you to stay 30-90 days depending on your country of origin. Millions of tourists are drawn to UAE’s futuristic cities, luxury malls and desert experiences each year.
African Adventures
Madagascar
This island nation on the east coast of Africa grants visa on arrival for up to 90 days. The price depends on duration: It’s about $35 for 30 days; closer to $40 for 60 days. In terms of biodiversity and primate abundance, Madagascar is a paradise for nature enthusiasts.
Tanzania
Home of Mount Kilimanjaro and the Serengeti, Tanzania accepts tourists with visa on arrival for $50 (single entry) or $100 (multiple entry). You can remain for 90 days. The visa can also be obtained on arrival at Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro International Airports.
Mauritius
While technically visa-free for most people, Mauritius issues arrival permits that serve the same purpose as visas. This Indian ocean tropical island paradise permits visa-free stays of up to 60 days for leisure visitors – entirely free, for most nationalities.
Island Nations and More
Maldives
Visa: Everybody gets a free 30 day visa on arrival at the Maldives! It doesn’t require a visa fee, so this luxury destination is more accessible than many believe. All you require is a valid passport, confirmed accommodation, adequate funds and an onward ticket.
The Maldives’s crystal-clear waters and overwater bungalows might be the ultimate in beach vacations, and nothing makes it seem more enticing than hassle-free entry.
Seychelles
Another Indian Ocean paradise, tourists to Seychelles receive a free visitor’s permit on entry for a period of up to 30 days. There’s no visa fee for the Maldives, either. You just have to show your accommodation, proof of return ticket and sufficient funds.
Nepal
Situated in the Himalayas, Nepal provides visa on arrival at Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu. Prices are $30 for 15 days, $50 for 30 days and $125 for 90 days. Whether you’re trekking to Everest Base Camp or visiting ancient temples in Kathmandu Valley, Nepal’s tourist visa process is a pretty painless one.
Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka needs an ETA, not a visa on arrival. You can apply online prior to your trip or obtain it on arrival for a cost of $50. This teardrop-shaped island is home to tea plantations, ancient ruins, safaris and beautiful beaches.
Visa On Arrival vs. E-Visa: What Is The Difference?
Visa on arrival is often mistaken for e-visas by many tourists. Here’s a quick comparison:
| Feature | Visa On Arrival | E-Visa |
|---|---|---|
| When Applied | At airport/border upon arrival | Online before travel |
| Processing Time | 15-60 mins at airport | 1-7 days during work week |
| Payment Method | Cash/card at counter | Online payment |
| Documentation | Physical set of papers | Online application |
| Flexibility | Completely last-minute | Requires advance planning |
| Queuing | Possible queues at airport | No airport visa queues |
Both have their advantages. E-visas save you from queuing at the airport, while visa on arrival lets you keep all of your options open when deciding who to fly with.
Important Documents You’ll Need
No matter which country you are a citizen of, some documents will be required everywhere for visa on arrival:
Passport Requirements
- Should be valid for a minimum period of 6 months from the date of arrival
- Must have minimum 2-3 blank pages for stamps
- No damage or heavy wear allowed
Supporting Documents
- Return or onward flight ticket
- Hotel reservation or invitation letter
- Passport-sized photographs (usually 2)
- Sufficient funds (bank statements or cash)
- Travel insurance (recommended, sometimes mandatory)
Payment
- Cash in US dollars or equivalent local currency
- Credit and/or debit cards (where accepted in certain countries)
- Exact change or small denominations (change may not always be available)
Cost-Saving Hacks When You Avail Visa On Arrival
Travel with US Dollars: A lot of countries require you to use US dollars or will only accept visa fees, so be sure to have some on hand. Get clean, fresh bills, don’t give them old or ripped cash as it’s likely to be refused.
Research Exact Fees: Visa fees vary and change, so look on official government websites before you go to avoid surprises. You can check the IATA Travel Centre for up-to-date visa requirements and fees for different countries.
Think About Multi-Entry: If you intend on traveling to a nearby country and then returning, a multi-entry visa (where available) can often save you money versus two visas.
Find Waiver Programs: Visa fees are waived in some countries if you buy a tourist pass or stay for a certain number of nights.
Steer Clear of Airport Money Changers: You will generally get terrible exchange rates at airport counters. Withdraw cash before you travel, or from ATMs after passing immigration.
Common Mistakes To Avoid
Failing to Verify Passport Dates: The 6-month validity rule catches up lots of travelers. Airlines may not allow you to board if your passport expires in less than 6 months of the date of your arrival.
Coming Without an Exit Plan: Most nations like to know you won’t overstay your welcome. An onward ticket or proof of return passage is almost always required.
Bringing Torn, Worn Bills: If you have any torn, worn and/or defaced US dollar bills. Also you get perfectly clean cash. Always carry pristine notes.
Forget Photographs: Some countries ask for passport photos at the visa counter. Keep spares in your travel papers.
Not Knowing Where You’re Staying: Immigration agents might ask where you have accommodations. Keep your hotel booking confirmation stored, on phone or as print-out.
Assuming All Entry Points Have VOA: This is not true; not all borders or airports have visa on arrival. Make sure this is available where you’ll be entering.
How Passport Holders From Other Countries Are Being Treated
Access to visa on arrival is mostly determined by your citizenship and the diplomatic relations of your nation with other countries. Here’s a general overview:
Powerful Passports: People holding a passport from nations like Japan, Singapore, Germany and South Korea, usually receive visa on arrival in over 70 countries or can travel to even more nations without having to obtain visa.
Middle Order Passports: This consists of countries like India, Philippines, Pakistan and Indonesia where their passport allows access to 30-50 nations with VOA.
Restricted Access: There are a few nationalities that struggle to travel and only have visa on arrival available in 10-20 countries.
Always confirm the eligibility of your specific passport before booking flights, as requirements can change often according to international relations and security risk.
Where Your Passport Works Best
| Region | Countries with VOA | Favorite Destinations |
|---|---|---|
| Southeast Asia | 8+ countries | Thailand, Indonesia, Cambodia, Laos |
| Middle East | 6+ countries | Jordan, Egypt, UAE, Bahrain |
| Africa | 15+ countries | Tanzania, Madagascar, Zimbabwe, Comoros |
| South Asia | 4 countries | Nepal, Maldives, Sri Lanka, Bangladesh |
| Pacific Islands | 10+ countries | Samoa, Palau, Tuvalu, Marshall Islands |
Digital Nomads and VOA
Visa on arrival destinations are great for remote workers and digital nomads. Many tourist visas don’t expressly allow work, but plenty of digital nomads work on a tourist visa because they aren’t working locally or taking jobs from the local population.
Best VOA Destinations for Digital Nomads:
Bali, Indonesia – Cheap living costs, fast internet speeds and a massive digital nomad community
Maldives – Free visa, perfect for island hopping
Dubai, United Arab Emirates – The city of tomorrow; great transport connectivity
Nepal – Cheap cost of living, mountain views as you work
Important: Always honor visa conditions. If the visa specifically forbids work, theoretically even remote work could be considered to have violated its terms, though enforcement against most digital nomads seems haphazard.
Health and Safety Considerations
Here are the health factors to consider when traveling to countries with visa on arrival:
Vaccinations: Some countries ask for proof of yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from affected areas. Carry your vaccination certificate.
Travel Insurance: Although not compulsory, passengers are strongly encouraged to purchase adequate comprehensive coverage. Foreign medical emergencies can be exceptionally costly.
Local Health Risks: Research disease risks such as malaria, dengue fever, or altitude sickness for your destination.
COVID-19 Protocols: There are still many pandemic-related restrictions in place around the world. Before visiting, check current health protocols.
Future of Visa On Arrival
The travel landscape is constantly changing, and the visa situation is no exception. Here’s what they are saying: Trends shaping the future:
Digitalization: More countries are shifting toward e-visas and digital systems, but visa on arrival is popular for its convenience.
Biometric Systems: Airports are using facial recognition and biometric screening to expedite immigration.
Regional Agreements: Economic blocs like ASEAN are considering common visa systems which could change the face of cross-border regional travel.
Tighter Security: More thorough background checks may delay visa on arrival processes, but for good reason.
Recovery of Tourism: After the pandemic, many countries have relaxed the visa policies to attract tourists and rejuvenate their tourism industry.
Frequently Asked Questions
Am I able to extend my visa on arrival?
Many countries allow extensions, but you must apply before your visa expires. Extensions are available at immigration offices and may incur extra fees. Some of the locations that are known to have relatively painless extension options include Indonesia, Thailand and Nepal.
What if I overstay my visa?
Overstay can lead to fines, possible detention and deportation as well as banning from re-entry into the country. Fines differ, but may run as much as $50-100 per day in some countries. Always respect visa dates.
Can I work on a visa on arrival?
No, visa on arrival is only for tourism, business meetings or short stay. Employees must have a valid work visa or permit. Deportation and further travel bans could be the punishment for breaking this.
Do kids also need visa on arrival?
Yes, children need their own visas, though some countries waive fees for minors. Every child requires his or her own passport.
What if my visa on arrival is refused?
It is rare to be denied, but it can happen if you would not qualify. You could be held at the airport and sent back on the next available flight. Be sure you always qualify before heading out.
Is it possible to change a tourist visa once in the country?
Not usually; visa on arrival cannot be converted into work visas, student visas or residence permits. You would have to leave the country and apply for the proper visa through regular processes.
Will I get a refund on visa fees if I change my mind?
No. Once you have paid the visa fee and received that stamp, it is non-refundable even if you choose to leave immediately.
Is it possible to get visa on arrival more than once?
Yes, but you will eventually be questioned by immigration officers if you keep making regular entries. Some countries will limit the year-on-year number of visa on arrival entries or days spent in a country.
Making Your Trip Smooth
Booking in advance, even for visa on arrival countries will make for a hassle-free trip. Here are final tips:
- Print all confirmations (flights, hotels and even travel insurance)
- Keep digital and physical copies of essential documents
- Have emergency contact numbers saved
- Download the destination maps offline
- Take some cash inside your passport holder for visa fees
- Get to the airport early for visa service
- Be respectful and patient with immigration officers
- Dress appropriately for immigration; wear something suitable and presentable to go through immigration
- Tell a straight story about your travel plans
Wrapping Up Your Travel Planning
Visa on arrival is a boon for travelers looking for added comfort and flexibility. For some of the people who want to travel abroad, such as to Indonesia and Maldives (with their beautiful tropical beaches), or Egypt and Jordan (land of ancient wonders), these are the destinations that will open up their arms with less red tape.
Preparation is most important for a successful visa on arrival travel. Do your research, be sure to gather the required documents for your particular passport, carry appropriate currency and have a couple of alternatives up your sleeve. The procedure is pretty simple, but knowing what to expect can make it easier for you to focus on the task at hand — just in case anything unexpected happens.
Keep in mind that visa policy can change depending on diplomatic relations, security concerns and economic circumstances. Make sure to check current requirements at official government sites or your country’s foreign department before purchasing flights. What may have worked six months ago could be different now.
Travel is an opportunity to find new culture, experiences and memorable moments. Visa on arrival makes things such as these more simple by eliminating arbitrary barriers. Whether you are spontaneously running away to the beach for a quick getaway, traveling somewhere on business or embarking on a cultural trip, having this information allows you to make educated decisions when it comes to planning your next adventure.
Start packing your bags, checking if your passport is still valid and be ready to visit this world with freedom without any hassle you never have before on that visa on arrival offers. The world is a giant canvas with endless awe-inspiring destinations waiting for you to mark your passport and step foot on their shores. Safe travels!
