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Update May 10, 2024

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Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Transit (C) visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons traveling in immediate and continuous transit through the United States en route to another country, with few exceptions. Immediate and continuous transit is defined as a reasonably expeditious departure of the traveler in the normal course of travel as the elements permit and assumes a prearranged itinerary without any unreasonable layover privileges. If the traveler seeks layover privileges for purposes other than for transit through the United States, such as to visit friends or engage in sightseeing, the traveler will have to qualify for the type of visa required for that purpose.

If you already have a  valid visitor (B) visa , you may be able to use it to transit the United States. If you are a citizen of a participating country, you may be able to transit the United States on the  Visa Waiver Program . 

Travel purposes which require a Transit (C) Visa - Examples:

• A foreign citizen traveling to another country who will have a brief layover in the United States when the only reason for entering the United States is to transit.
• A passenger embarking from a foreign port on a cruise ship or other vessel which is proceeding to another country, other than the United States, but during the course of the journey, the vessel makes port in the United States with no intention of landing in the United States.
• A crewmember traveling to the United States as a passenger to join a ship or aircraft you will work on, providing services for operation. You will also need a crewmember D visa, most often issued as a combination C-1/D visa. Learn more about  Crewmember visas .
• A foreign citizen proceeding in immediate and continuous transit through the United States to or from the United Nations Headquarters District, under provisions of the Headquarters agreement with the United Nations, requires a diplomatic transit (C-2) visa. Travel within the United States will be limited to the immediate New York City vicinity. 

Travel purposes not permitted on a Transit (C) Visa - Examples:

• A foreign citizen whose layover in the United States is for a primary purpose other than to transit, for example to visit friends or sightsee, requires a  visitor (B) visa .
• A coasting officer seeking to enter the United States generally requires a  visitor (B) visa . Coasting officers are employed temporarily when an officer of a foreign ship is granted home leave while the vessel is in U.S. ports, provided the vessel does not remain in U.S. waters for more than 29 days. The coasting officer may then repeat the process with another vessel of the same foreign line.
• A crewmember on a private yacht sailing out of a foreign port which will be cruising in U.S. waters for more than 29 days is generally required to have a  visitor (B) visa .
• An officer or employee of a designated international organization assigned to the United States may pass in immediate and continuous transit through the United States on an  International Organization (G-4) visa .

How to Apply

You must take several steps to apply for a visa. The order of these steps and how you complete them may vary at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate where you apply. Please consult the instructions available on the  embassy or consulate website  where you will apply. 

Complete the Online Visa Application

• Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application,  Form DS-160  -  Learn more  about completing the  DS-160 . You must: 1) complete the online visa application and 2) print the application form confirmation page to bring to your interview.
• Photo  - You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. Your photo must be in the format explained in the  Photograph Requirements .

Schedule an Interview

While interviews are generally not required for applicants of certain ages outlined below, consular officers have the discretion to require an interview of any applicant, regardless of age.

You must schedule an appointment for your visa interview, generally, at the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  in the country where you live. You may schedule your interview at any U.S. Embassy orCconsulate, but be aware that it may be difficult to qualify for a visa outside of your place of permanent residence. 

Wait times for interview appointments vary by location, season, and visa category, so you should apply for your visa early. Review the interview wait time for the location where you will apply: 

Appointment Wait Time

Select a u.s. embassy or consulate:, prepare for your interview.

• Fees - Pay the non-refundable visa application fee , if you are required to pay it before your interview. When your visa is approved, you may also pay a visa issuance fee, if applicable to your nationality. Fee information is provided below: 

Application Fee

Select your nationality to see Issuance Fee

• Review the instructions available on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply to learn more about fee payment.

Gather Required Documentation

Gather and prepare the following required documents before your visa interview:

• Passport  valid for travel to the United States - Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your period of stay in the United States (unless exempt by  country-specific agreements ). If more than one person is included in your passport, each person who needs a visa must submit a separate application.
• Nonimmigrant Visa Application,  Form DS-160  confirmation page
• Application fee payment receipt , if you are required to pay before your interview
• Photo  – You will upload your photo while completing the online Form DS-160. If the  photo upload fails,  you must bring one printed photo in the format explained in the  Photograph Requirements .  

Additional Documentation May Be Required

Review the instructions for how to apply for a visa on the website of the  embassy or consulate  where you will apply. Additional documents may be requested to establish if you are qualified. For example, additional requested documents may include evidence that shows:

• Your purpose of entry into the United States is to transit while traveling onward to another country and that you intend to depart the United States;
• Your ability to pay all costs while in the United States; and/or
• Residence in your home country and your intent to return there.

Proof of your onward travel arrangements and/or permission to enter another country after departing the United States may be sufficient evidence that your purpose for entering the United States is transit. Evidence of your employment and/or your family ties may also be sufficient to show the purpose of your entry to the United States is transit only and your intent to return to your home country. If you cannot cover all costs while in the United States, you may show evidence that another person will cover some or all costs of your trip.

Attend Your Visa Interview

During your visa interview, a consular officer will determine whether you are qualified to receive a visa, and if so, which visa category is appropriate based on your purpose of travel. You will need to establish that you meet the requirements under U.S. law to receive the category of visa for which you are applying. 

Ink-free, digital fingerprint scans will be taken as part of your application process. They are usually taken during your interview, but this varies based on location.

After your visa interview, your application may require further  administrative processing . You will be informed by the consular officer if further processing is necessary for your application.

When the visa is approved, you may pay a visa issuance fee if applicable to your nationality, and will be informed how your passport with visa will be returned to you. Review the  visa processing time , to learn how soon your passport with visa will generally be ready for pick-up or delivery by the courier.

Additional Information

• We cannot guarantee that you will be issued a visa. Do not make final travel plans or buy tickets until you have a visa.
• Unless canceled or revoked, a visa is valid until its expiration date. Therefore, a valid U.S. visa in an expired passport is still valid. If you have a valid visa in your expired passport, do not remove it from your expired passport. You may use your valid visa in your expired passport along with a new valid passport for travel and admission to the United States.
• Learn more about transiting the United States on the  U.S. Customs and Border Protection  website.

Visa Denial and Ineligibility

Review  Visa Denials  for detailed information about visa ineligibilities, denials, and waivers.

I was refused a visa under INA section 214(b). May I reapply?

Yes, if you feel circumstances have changed regarding your application. Review  Visa Denials  to learn more. 

Visa Renewal

Whether you are applying for the first time or renewing your visa, you will use the same application process (please review  How to Apply , above). Some applicants seeking to renew their visas in certain visa classes may be eligible for the Interview Waiver Program (IWP) which allows qualified individuals to apply for visa renewals without being interviewed in person by a U.S. consular officer. Review the instructions on the website of the  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  where you will apply to determine if the IWP is available and if you qualify.

Misrepresentation or Fraud

Attempting to obtain a visa by the willful misrepresentation of a material fact, or fraud, may result in the permanent refusal of a visa or denial of entry into the United States.

Review  Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws .

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda do not require visas to transit the United States. For more information see  U.S. Embassy Ottawa website ,  U.S. Consulate Hamilton website  and  CBP website .

Additional resources for Canadian transit travelers to the United States can be found on the  U.S. Embassy and Consulate websites in Canada .

Further Questions

• Case-Specific Questions  - Contact the U.S. embassy or consulate handling your visa application for status information. Select  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  for contact information.
• General Questions  - review  Contact Us . 

More Information

A-Z Index Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Visa Waiver Program Fraud Warning Border Security/Safety Visa Expiration Date Automatic Revalidation Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Customer Service Statement

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Transit Visas: Essential Info for Travelers Passing Through the U.S.

Are you planning an international journey that includes a layover in the United States? Navigating the world of transit visas can be a crucial aspect of your travel planning. This blog post is designed to provide you with essential information on transit visas, particularly for those passing through the U.S.

Understanding Transit Visas

A transit visa is specifically for travelers who are entering a country only to leave it again to reach their final destination. In the U.S., this is typically known as the C-1 visa. It’s essential for those who have a connecting flight in the U.S. and need to pass through American borders.

When Do You Need a Transit Visa?

Whether you need a transit visa to pass through the U.S. depends on various factors:

• Nationality: Some nationalities require a transit visa regardless of the layover duration.
• Layover Duration: If your layover is long or involves changing airports, a transit visa is often necessary.
• Final Destination Visa: If you need a visa for your final destination, you might also need a transit visa for the U.S.

Common Types of Transit Visas

The U.S. primarily offers the C-1 transit visa for travelers passing through the country. However, if your layover is in another region, like the Schengen Area or the UK, you might encounter different types of transit visas, such as the Schengen Airport Transit Visa or the UK’s DATV.

Exploring Various Transit Visa Categories:

C-1 Visa for the U.S.: Detail the C-1 visa specifically for travelers transiting through the United States.

Airport Transit Visas in the Schengen Area: Describe the Schengen Airport Transit Visa, required for certain nationalities when passing through the international transit zones of Schengen airports.

Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV): Explain the DATV, particularly for the UK, used by travelers who won’t pass through border control but need to change planes.

Application Process for Transit Visas

Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for a Transit Visa:

• Application Steps: Outline the general steps involved in applying for a transit visa, including where and how to apply.
• Documentation: List the typical documents required, such as a valid passport, proof of onward travel, and sometimes proof of visa for the final destination country.
• Processing Time: Give an idea of how long the processing might take and advise on applying well in advance of the travel date.

Eligibility and Requirements

General criteria for a U.S. transit visa include:

• Valid Onward Ticket: Proof of your travel plans to your final destination.
• Short Layover Duration: Your stay in the U.S. should align with your connecting flight timing.
• No Violation of Visa Terms: Ensure that you won’t overstay or engage in unauthorized activities.

Transit Without Visa (TWOV) Programs

Some travelers may be eligible for TWOV, allowing them to transit without a visa under specific conditions. These programs depend on nationality, destination, and the airlines involved.

Visa Waiver Program and Transit Visas

Citizens of countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP) may not need a transit visa for short layovers in the U.S. However, they would need to obtain authorization through the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA).

Tips for Smooth Transit Visa Processing

To ensure a hassle-free visa application process:

• Early Application: Emphasize the importance of applying for a transit visa well in advance of the travel date.
• Documentation: List the common documents required for a transit visa application and tips on how to organize them efficiently.
• Understanding Specific Requirements: Highlight the necessity of understanding the transit visa requirements of the specific country you are transiting through.

Dealing with Transit Visa Complications

If you encounter issues or delays:

• Common Complications: Identify typical problems that might arise during the transit visa application process, such as delays or requests for additional documentation.
• Seeking Assistance: Advise on when and how to seek help, whether it’s from an embassy, consulate, or a professional visa consultant.
• Alternative Solutions: Suggest potential alternatives if a transit visa application faces significant issues, such as changing travel routes to avoid transit visa requirements.

While transit visas may seem like just another step in your travel planning , understanding their requirements and processes is vital for a seamless journey, especially when passing through the U.S. By staying informed and prepared, you can ensure that your transit through the U.S. or any other country is as smooth as your overall travel experience. Safe travels!

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Transit through Canada

You may need to transit through Canada on your way to another country. The document you need to transit through Canada depends on:

• how you will travel through Canada (by air, car, bus, train, boat, including cruise ship)
• how long it’ll take you to transit through Canada
• the nationality of your passport
• other factors, such as whether you are a permanent resident of the United States or a US visa holder

To find out if you need a visa, you can

• answer a few questions, or
• review the options below

Find out if you need a visa

Visitor visa

You need a visitor visa if you’re from a visa-required country and you plan to:

• visit Canada (even if you’re travelling by air and it’s for less than 48 hours)
• stay in Canada more than 48 hours while transiting

You also need a visitor visa if you’re from a visa-required country and you’re crossing the border by:

• cruise ship

Apply for a visitor visa

Transit visa

You need a transit visa if you’re from a visa-required country and:

• your international flight stops at a Canadian airport on its way to another country
• you’ll be connecting between 2 international flights at a Canadian airport
• you’ll transit through Canada in 48 hours or less
• you don’t have a valid visitor visa

Apply for a transit visa

You need an eTA to transit through Canada by air if you’re from an eTA-required country .

You don’t need an eTA if you’re transiting through Canada and you enter by train, bus,boat or cruise ship. You do need to bring the right travel documents .

Apply for an eTA

Transit without a visa

Citizens and permanent residents of the united states.

US citizens and lawful permanent residents of the U.S. can transit through Canada without a visa by:

You just need to bring the right travel documents .

Passport holders of certain countries

You may be able to transit without a visa if you hold a passport from one of the following countries and you meet certain conditions:

• Philippines
• Thailand or
• Taiwan (holder of passport without an personal identification number)

Who can transit without a visa

Page details

Transit Visa

If you are transiting through New Zealand you need to apply for a Transit Visa, unless you are travelling to Australia, from a visa waiver country or from a transit visa waiver country.

Length of stay

Processing time, with this visa you can.

• Pass through Auckland International airport as a transit passenger – you’ll need to stay in the airport’s transit area at all times.
• Include your partner, and dependent children aged 19 and under, in your visa application.

Things to note

• You can only transit New Zealand through Auckland International Airport.
• If you are from a visa waiver country you must hold an NZeTA before you travel.  Information about NZeTA

Character requirements Visa waiver countries and territories Transit visa waiver countries Transit passengers

Use the filters below to display relevant tips as well as detailed fees and receiving centre information

What you need to apply

Check if you are eligible to apply for this visa and what supporting documents and information you need to provide.

View All Evidence

You may not need to apply.

You may not need to apply for a Transit Visa if your country is on our list of transit visa waiver countries.

You do not need to apply for a Transit Visa if you are a citizen of:

• a visitor visa waiver country
• a transit visa waiver country, or
• any other country and you are passing through New Zealand to a final destination in Australia, and hold a visa for Australia.

If you travel to New Zealand you must hold an NZeTA (New Zealand Electronic Travel Authority) if you are from:

• a visitor visa waiver country, or
• a transit visa waiver country.

If you are not from a visitor visa waiver country or a transit visa waiver country, and are passing through New Zealand to or from Australia as a transit passenger you do not need a Transit Visa if you hold an NZeTA.

Transit visa waiver countries

Visa waiver countries and territories

You must provide proof of your identity

We use your passport details to check your identity.

Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after you plan to leave New Zealand.

You must be of good character

We’ll ask you some questions about your character when you apply for your visa.

We’ll consider you to be of good character, as long as none of the following circumstances apply to you:

• you’ve been convicted of an offence for which you’ve been sentenced to prison for 5 years or more at any time
• you’ve been convicted of an offence for which you’ve been sentenced for 12 months or more in the last 10 years
• you’ve been deported  from New Zealand or have been given a prohibition (ban) period from New Zealand at any time
• you’ve been removed, excluded or deported from another country at any time
• there’s reason to believe you’re likely to commit an offence in New Zealand that you could be sent to prison for
• there’s reason to believe you’re a threat or risk to New Zealand’s security or public order or interest
• there’s reason to believe you’re a member of a terrorist organisation.

Transit passenger

You must genuinely intend to travel to New Zealand only as a transit passenger

You must provide:

• evidence of your travel arrangements, which must include an itinerary that confirms your arrival and departure times from New Zealand
• a statement explaining the reasons for travelling to your destination country.

Onward travel

You must have a ticket to leave New Zealand

You must have travel tickets showing your transit through New Zealand to a country have the right to enter.

Relationship with family

Your family must meet the requirements for this visa

To bring family, they must:

• provide proof of their identity
• be of good character
• intend to travel to New Zealand only as transit passengers 
• have tickets to leave New Zealand.

A family can include yourself, your partner, and dependent children 19 and under.

Process and costs

The information below will help you understand the process, timeframes and costs involved in applying for this visa, so you can plan ahead and have the best chance of submitting a complete application.

We cannot display any process or costs information until you have provided your country details. Enter your country details in the panel above to view information relevant to your situation.

How to submit

Payment methods and receiving centre details if applicable.

We cannot display any receiving centre or payment method information until you have provided your country details. Enter your country details in the panel above to view information relevant to your situation.

These are the conditions that you must meet once you have your visa.

You must have a travel ticket to leave New Zealand to a country you have a right to enter.

Unless your visa label or letter states “Return/onward travel not required” you must have a ticket to leave New Zealand whenever you travel here.

Transit area

You must stay in the transit area of Auckland International Airport for the whole time you’re in New Zealand and for not more than 24 hours.

You can’t apply for entry permission or any kind of visa while in transit.

Transit travel

You can pass through New Zealand as a transit passenger up until the date specified in your transit visa.  

You can’t spend more than 24 hours at a time in New Zealand while in transit. You could be prevented from travelling or refused entry permission if your transit is more than 24 hours.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

Australia Transit Visa: Requirements, Eligibility and Application Process

Published: January 31, 2024

Transiting through Australia requires a visa. If you hold an ETA, eVisitor or Visitor visa, you do not require a transit visa. About 67 nationalities are eligible to transit without a visa (TWOV). The rest must apply for a transit visa.

Australia transit visa allows you to enter and stay in Australia for up to 72 hours. Applications for transit visas must be made online through the ImmiAccount portal.

The Transit Visa has subclass 771 in Australia’s visa documentation.

Quick summary:

• Who requires it: All nationalities except 67 TWOV eligible nationalities
• Duration of stay: Up to 72 hours inside Australia
• Visa fee: Free of charge
• Processing time: 50% of applications are processed in 3 days and 90% in 17 days.

If you haven’t already, read the  Australia Visa Guide  to familiarize yourself with Australia visa types, requirements, eligibility and entry procedures at the border.

Table of Contents

Understanding australia transit visa.

Transit visa validity

The transit visa is valid for the specific trip you submit travel plans for.

Duration of stay

You can transit in all Australian airports and seaports. You are also allowed to leave the airport/seaport and enter Australia for up to 72 hours.

Allowed number of entries

The transit visa is for a specific trip. It expires after the first entry.

Allowed ports of entry and exit

You can arrive and leave through all borders via air or sea using a transit visa. 

You cannot mix these. You cannot arrive by sea and leave by air or visa versa. If you arrive by air to board a cruise ship, you will need another visa such as a maritime crew visa for crew members.

When to apply

You must apply for a transit visa right after you have concrete travel plans to transit in Australia.

You would need your confirmed flight tickets and visas to the next destination, so you would need to have concrete plans to apply for the transit visa.

Australia Transit Visa Requirements

Who requires a Transit Visa?

A Transit Visa is required for all nationalities to transit through Australia, except for the following:

• New Zealand passport holders
• Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)
• eVisitor Visa (Subclass 651)
• Visitor Visa (Subclass 600)
• Transit without a visa (TWOV) eligible passport holders, who don’t leave the transit zone of an airport and meet all other requirements.

To be eligible for TWOV, you must meet all of these criteria:

• You are a citizen of an Australia TWOV eligible country
• Arrive in Australia by air
• Leave Australia by air to a third country within 8 hours
• Hold all necessary documents to enter the destination country
• Do not transit overnight unless at Melbourne International Airport

In addition, TWOV is only possible at these airports:

• Adelaide (only for entry/exit on the same aircraft)
• Darwin (only for entry/exit on the same aircraft)
• Gold Coast (only for entry/exit with the same carrier)
• Perth (only for entry/exit through the same terminal)

If you’re transiting at any other airport, or do not meet the airport’s condition in brackets or transit overnight (except at Melbourne), then you cannot take advantage of the TWOV program and must obtain a transit visa.

Documents required

The following documents are required for an Australia transit visa.

• Passport (valid for the duration of the stay)
• National ID card (if from a country that issues them)
• Residence Permit/Visa (if residence and citizenship differ)
• One passport-size photo
• Travel plans/itinerary in Australia
• Confirmed flight ticket to a third country
• Visa for another country (if required)
• Health Insurance

At a later date, you may be required to obtain and submit the following:

• Medical Certificate
• Police Clearance Certificate (PCC)

All non-English documents (except for police certificates) need to be translated into English and all documents’ copies (both original and translations) must be certified.

Photo requirements

The photo for the transit visa must meet the following requirements.

• Taken in the last 6 months 
• Showing your head and shoulders against a plain background
• Neutral facial expression with mouth closed, eyes open, and looking at the camera
• Religious head coverings are allowed but must not obscure the face
• Piercing is allowed but must not cause any reflections or shadows

There is no official guidance for the size and resolution of pictures uploaded online but the file type must be JPG. You will get to move the photo to position your face within a frame.

As long as the picture is clear, crisp, and not excessively big, it will be accepted.

Transit visa fee

The Australian Transit Visa is free of charge.

Processing time

Australian immigration reports that 50% of applications are processed in 3 days and 90% are processed in 17 days. These periods start after you submit your biometrics.

Transit Visa Application Process

How to apply

You must apply for the transit visa online through the ImmiAccount portal. Applying on paper is not possible for the transit visa.

The Transit Visa is part of Australia’s biometrics program. After you apply, you will be informed by email that you need to visit an Australian Biometrics Collection Centre (ABCC) to have your biometrics collected. This is typically a face photo and fingerprint scan.

Find the nearest ABCC to you and follow the steps to schedule your biometric appointment.

How to track status

You can track the status of your transit visa in your ImmiAccount and also via the emails you receive from the Home Department.

How to download approved visa

You don’t need to download or print anything. The transit visa is electronically linked to your passport.

If you’re ever asked to show proof, you can use the Grant Notification you received in your email. You can also download it from your ImmiAccount under “Visa Grant Details”.

Customer service

For problems with the application, the best resource is these Self-help Guidelines . Problems with your ImmiAccount or the transit visa application, use the webform below.

Web: ImmiAccount Technical Support Form

Procedure at the Airport

The transit visa is digitally attached to your passport so you don’t need to print anything.

When you arrive, present your passport and be ready to answer a few basic questions about your transit in Australia.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Do i need a visa for australia if i am in transit.

You need a visa to transit through Australia. But, if you’re from 67 TWOV eligible nationalities, transit at an eligible Australian airport, don’t exit the transit zone, and leave for a third country within 8 hours, you don’t need a transit visa for Australia.

If you don’t meet any one of these requirements or you go through immigration and enter Australia, you will need a visa.

Can you leave Sydney airport while in transit?

If you have a transit visa or any other visa that allows you to enter Australia, you can leave Sydney Airport.

If you’re using the TWOV program (you must be an eligible nationality), you must stay within the transit zone of Sydney Airport and cannot leave.

Is it difficult to get a transit visa for Australia?

It is relatively easy to get a transit visa for Australia if you submit a complete application with all required documents. Applications are entirely online, cost nothing, and processing time for 50% of applications is only 3 days.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

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Transit visa

The UAE issues two types of transit visas: one for 48 hours, and another for 96 hours. Transit visas are sponsored by the UAE-based airlines and must be processed and approved before entering the UAE

Related eServices

Who needs a transit visa, who can apply for your transit visa, duration of transit visa, important note.

• Transit visa from Etihad Airways  - Etihad Airways
• Transit visa from Emirates Airline  - Emirates Airline

If you are not one of the nationalities that are eligible for visa on arrival  or a  visa-free entry  to the UAE, then you need a transit visa.

Only the UAE based-airlines you are travelling through can arrange your transit visa prior to your journey. If your trip is through a travel agency, the agency can also help you get the visa, but all visas are routed through the airline. Airline agents can apply online for transit visas through one of the following means:

• the  eChannels  portal
• the UAEICP app for  Apple  and  Android
• online channels offered by the relevant General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs (GDRFA) in each emirate.

Transit visa is issued either for 48 hours or for 96 hours. Please note that once a 48 hours visa is issued, it cannot be extended to 96 hours.

Transit visas for 48 hours

Transit visas for 48 hours are issued free of charge to passengers transiting through the UAE’s airports. You need to apply for the visa in advance through a UAE-based airline. This visa is not extendable, nor renewable. The validity of the visa is 48 hours from entry into the UAE, and you must leave the UAE within 48 hours from arrival.

To get a transit visa, you must have:

• a passport or travel document with a minimum validity of three months
• a photo of self against a white background
• an onward ticket booking to a 3rd destination, other than the one you are coming from.

Transit visas for 96 hours

Transit visas for 96 hours are issued against a fee of AED 50 to passengers transiting through the UAE’s airports. You need to apply for the visa in advance through a UAE-based airline. This visa is not extendable, nor renewable. The validity of the visa is 96 hours from entry into the UAE, and you must leave the UAE within 96 hours from arrival.

• a passport or travel document with a minimum validity of six months

No fees or additional amounts can be imposed by any federal, local or private entity. A departure fee of AED 30 is levied on each passenger passing through the UAE’s airports.

Useful links:

• Travel guide - Zayed International Airport
• Check the requirements for your UAE visa  - Etihad Airways
• How to apply for your UAE visa  - Emirates Airline

Learn more about  visas in the UAE .

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Schengen Airport Transit Visa Guide

Let's dive into the essentials of the airport transit schengen visa, unfold who needs it, and unravel how it works. buckle up, as we prepare for a smooth informational takeoff on the ins and outs of transiting through the schengen area..

Key Takeaways:

• Airport Transit Schengen Visa lets non-EU travelers transit through a Schengen country to a non-Schengen destination by staying in the airport transit area.
• Schengen Area’s Transit Visa aids non-EU travelers flying to non-Schengen countries through Schengen airport transit without leaving the airport.
• Certain nationalities like Afghanistan, Iran, and Nigeria need a Transit Visa for Schengen airport crossings.

Imagine you’re on a journey to a far-off land, but before you reach your final destination, you have to stop in another country to catch your next flight. If that stop happens to be in one of the many beautiful countries in Europe, you might need something called an Airport Transit Schengen Visa. This little piece of paper is like a golden ticket for travelers, allowing them to wait for their next flight in the transit zone of a Schengen Area airport without the need to pass through border control.

Now, not everyone needs this special transit visa. It depends on where you’re from and where you’re going. But for some, having one can mean the difference between a smooth journey and a complicated one. For example, if you’re flying from Ghana to Sweden and have a layover in Germany, this visa ensures that you can transfer flights with ease.

But what if you need one, or maybe you’re not sure? Let’s dive into the essentials of the Airport Transit Schengen Visa, unfold who needs it, and unravel how it works. Buckle up, as we prepare for a smooth informational takeoff on the ins and outs of transiting through the Schengen Area.

Airport Transit Schengen Visa Overview

What is an Airport Transit Schengen Visa?

The Airport Transit Schengen Visa is specifically designed for non-EU/EEA travelers who need to pass through the international zone of a Schengen Area airport, en route to their final destination outside the Schengen Zone.

Purpose of the Transit Schengen Visa

• Simplified Travel: Facilitates smooth travel for transit passengers who merely need to change planes in a Schengen Area airport.
• Non-Schengen Stop: Allows the holder to transit via a Schengen country while remaining in the airport transit area, without formally entering the Schengen Zone.

Key Points to Understand

• Transit Without Visa: If you’re traveling through more than one Schengen airport, or if your travel plans involve leaving the airport transit area, you’ll need a standard Schengen Visa, not a Transit Visa.
• Schengen Destinations: Travelers with a destination in a Schengen country, who transit through another Schengen country, do not require a separate Transit Visa. The standard Schengen Visa covers entry into any Schengen member country and allows for intra-Schengen transit.

Important Information

• For travelers who are only passing through the international zone without entering the Schengen area, the Airport Transit Schengen Visa is essential.
• This visa does not apply if your route includes multiple layovers within the Schengen Zone or if you plan to exit the designated airport transit area.

“Transit through the Schengen Area with ease using the Airport Transit Schengen Visa, designed for those quick layovers on your journey elsewhere.” – Schengen Visa Info

Also of Interest:

Canada eta application guide: eligibility, faqs & how to apply, who needs a visa to go to canada list of countries, helpful links for travelers.

• Official Schengen Visa Guidelines
• European Commission – Migration and Home Affairs

Note: Always verify visa requirements specific to your situation and consult official resources to ensure compliance and up-to-date information.

Do I Need a Schengen Transit Visa for Europe?

Try our Calculator to find out what a 90/180 Schegen Visa stay date is for you.

When traveling through Europe, you might wonder if you need a transit visa for layovers in the Schengen Zone. Specifically, if your layover involves passing through the international transit area of airports located within Schengen Member States, certain nationality holders will need an airport transit visa .

Check detailed Schengen Area Countries Here

Who Needs a Schengen Transit Visa? The requirement for an airport transit visa applies to nationals from the following countries:

• Afghanistan
• Democratic Republic of the Congo

This visa is necessary even if you are simply transiting through the international zone without leaving the airport.

Transit Visa Requirements for Specific Countries in the Schengen Area

Certain nationals from specific countries are mandated by Schengen Territory member states to obtain a Transit Schengen Visa. This regulation is primarily to manage and control the transit traffic through their airports.

Notable Requirements by Country:

• Czech Republic, France, and Spain : These countries have more extensive lists requiring citizens from certain countries to have a transit visa when passing through their airports.

Detailed List of Requirements by Schengen Member State:

Here is a detailed table based on the provided information about the countries whose citizens need an Airport Transit Visa (ATV) for specific Schengen member states:

Schengen Area: Airport Transit Visa Requirements

If you’re planning on transiting through a Schengen Area country, it’s crucial to know whether you need an airport transit visa. Notably, the following Schengen member states do not require an airport transit visa for travelers, except for those from a common list of third countries:

• Liechtenstein (listed twice originally, likely an error)

For detailed and specific information regarding transit visa requirements, travelers should visit the respective official immigration websites of these countries. This step ensures that all travelers are up-to-date with the most current visa requirements and avoid any disruptions during their travels.

Helpful Resources:

For more comprehensive guidelines and to confirm if you require an airport transit visa based on your country of origin, consider visiting the following official resources:

• Schengen Visa Info
• European Union Immigration Portal

Always check the latest updates directly from the official immigration websites or consult with the embassy or consulate of the destination country before your travel dates. This proactive approach ensures compliance with international travel regulations and a smoother journey.

Schengen Airport Transit Visa Exemptions

Travelers transiting through airports in the Schengen Zone may be exempt from requiring an Airport Transit Visa. The Schengen member countries have established specific categories of travelers who can enjoy this exemption. Knowing if you fall under these categories can simplify your travel arrangements. Below is a detailed breakdown of individuals who are not required to obtain a transit visa:

Exempted Individuals

• Diplomatic Passport Holders :
• Individuals carrying diplomatic passports.
• Holders of Schengen Visas and Permits :
• Anyone with a valid uniform visa, national long-stay visa, or residence permit issued by any Schengen member state.
• Residents of Certain Non-EU Countries :
• Third-country nationals with a valid residence permit from Andorra, Canada, Japan, San Marino, or the United States. Such permits must guarantee unconditional readmission.
• Valid Visa Holders for Specific Countries or Regions :
• Third-country nationals possessing a valid visa or residence permit for any Schengen Area country, the EU, or the EEA.
• Third-country nationals with a valid visa for Canada, Japan, or the United States, especially when returning from these countries after utilizing the visa.
• Family Members of EU Citizens :
• Family members as defined in Article 1(2)(a) of the Visa Code, are connected to citizens of the EU.
• Flight Crew Members :
• On-duty flight crew who are nationals of countries part of the Chicago Convention on International Civil Aviation (ICAO).

Schengen Transit Visa Cost

Overview of fees.

The standard fee for a Schengen transit visa is set at EUR 80. However, the final cost may vary due to several factors including:

• The specific Schengen country where you apply
• Your nationality
• The processing fees charged by the respective embassy or consulate

For detailed fee information, it’s advisable to check the official Schengen visa website or contact the respective embassy directly.

Applying for a Schengen Transit Visa

Where to apply.

When applying for a Schengen transit visa, you need to submit your application through the embassy or consulate of the country where your transit will occur. For instance, if you are transiting through Germany, your application should be directed to a German embassy or consulate, particularly one that is linked to the airport of your transit.

• Belgium Airport Transit Visa Information
• Czechia Airport Transit Visa Information
• Germany Airport Transit Visa Information
• France Airport Transit Visa Information
• Netherlands Airport Transit Visa Information
• Iceland Airport Transit Visa Information
• Italy Airport Transit Visa Information
• Poland Airport Transit Visa Information
• Spain Airport Transit Visa Information
• Switzerland Transit Visa Information

Alternative Application Venues

In addition to the primary embassy or consulate, there are other venues where you can apply for a Schengen transit visa:

• Third-party visa centers authorized by the Schengen country
• Embassies or consulates of other Schengen countries that are authorized to process visas on behalf of the country you’re transiting through

For accurate and official procedures, applicants are encouraged to visit the official diplomatic missions’ web pages to verify the specific application guidelines and available submission points.

Required Documents for an Airport Transit Schengen Visa

If you’re planning to apply for an airport transit Schengen visa, you’ll need to gather several documents. Below is a straightforward checklist:

• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least three months after your departure from the Schengen area.
• Schengen A-Visa Application Form : Fill this out accurately.
• Two Identical Passport Photos: These must comply with Schengen guidelines .
• Visa Application Fee Receipt: Proof of payment for the Schengen visa.
• Biometric Data: Required unless you are a child, have a disability, or are a government official.
• Previous Visas (if applicable): Copies of any previous visas.
• Personal Cover Letter: Address this to the embassy detailing your travel plans including dates, accommodations, and activities. This letter explains the purpose and details of your visit.
• Flight Reservations: You should have a confirmed inbound and outbound flight reservation.
• Visa for Final Destination (if required): Depending on your final destination, this may be necessary.

For further guidance, the Schengen Visa Information Portal provides comprehensive details.

Processing Time for a Schengen Airport Transit Visa

The typical processing time for a Schengen Airport Transit Visa is 15 days . However, keep in mind:

“The processing time may extend up to 30 or 60 calendar days in exceptional cases.”

Given this possibility, it’s wise to apply for your visa at least three months in advance of your travel date. This is especially important if you are traveling under circumstances that might necessitate additional review.

Validity and Conditions of the Schengen Airport Transit Visa

The Schengen Airport Transit Visa is valid for staying within the international transit zone of a Schengen area airport for no more than 24 hours . Remember:

• Entering Schengen Area: If your plans require leaving the international transit area or staying for more than one day, you need to apply for a regular Schengen visa.

This guidance ensures that travelers are prepared and understand their visa limitations clearly. For more information or to apply for a visa, visit the official Schengen Visa website .

Is an On-Arrival Schengen Transit Visa Available?

European immigration policies do not support the issuance of visas on arrival, including Schengen transit visas. If you are planning to transit through a Schengen Area country, you must apply for a transit visa in advance at the respective embassy or consulate of the country where your transit will occur. It’s important to note that Schengen transit visas cannot be obtained upon arrival.

Exemptions to this rule are limited and typically include:

• Emergencies
• Family members of EU citizens

Multiple Airport Transits with a Transit Visa: Is it Permitted?

Travelers planning to land in more than one Schengen airport should not apply for a transit visa but rather a regular Schengen visa. A transit visa does not permit multiple entries into different airports within the Schengen zone.

For example, if you’re traveling to Finland and transiting through Germany, a Schengen visa is sufficient since it allows movement within the Schengen member countries without the need for a separate transit visa.

Regulations on Leaving the Airport Transit Area

Leaving the international transit area of any Schengen airport is generally not permitted for passengers holding a transit visa. However, some exceptions include:

• Designated transit sightseeing programs
• Special airport-led guided tours

These programs are rare and conditions or availability can vary widely between airports. For specific information, it’s advisable to contact the airport authorities directly or consult with your airline.

Do Holders of a Schengen Visa Need an Airport Transit Visa?

If you possess a valid Schengen Visa, there is no need to obtain a separate airport transit visa. This type of visa allows you to:

• Remain within the international transit zone of any Schengen airport
• Continue to your next destination without additional visas as long as your connecting flight is during the validity period of your current Schengen visa

For more specific information, you can visit official resources such as the European Commission’s Migration and Home Affairs page . This site provides detailed information on the Schengen Agreement, visa requirements, and other relevant travel details for the Schengen area.

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in Russia set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact Russia’s embassy or consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering Russia.

Testing at airports

For passengers leaving Russia who require a test for their next destination, express COVID-19 tests can be carried out at some airports. In Moscow, express COVID-19 tests are available in Sheremetyevo , Domodedovo and Vnukovo airports. They may need to be booked in advance and pre-paid. In St Petersburg, express COVID-19 tests can be carried out at Pulkovo airport .

Passport validity requirements

Your passport should be valid for at least 6 months after your visa expires.

You cannot enter Russia using a visa in an expired passport, even if you’re also carrying a new, valid passport. You will need to apply for a new visa or visa transfer.

Sign your passport before you travel if it was issued after January 2017. Some British nationals have been denied entry for not signing their passports.

Dual nationals and passports

If you have dual British-Russian nationality and travel to Russia to renew your Russian passport, it may take up to 4 months to get your new passport. You will not be able to leave Russia on your British passport if you entered Russia on your Russian passport. You will have to stay in Russia until your new Russian passport is issued.

Children born overseas, outside of Russia, and added to their parents’ Russian passports may need their own passport to leave Russia. Check with the Russian Embassy in the UK before you travel.

Visa requirements

You must get a visa before you travel. See the Russia Visa Centre for further information on how to apply for a visa, including processing time and fast track services.

If you live in the UK and are aged 12 years or over, you must go to a visa application centre in London, Manchester or Edinburgh to submit biometric data (fingerprints).

If you’re a British national with a Russian national in your immediate family, you can apply for a multi-entry private visa for up to one year. Check what you need for your stay with the Russian Embassy in the UK .

The Russian authorities strictly enforce visa and immigration laws. Before you travel, check:

• your visa details are correct
• the terms and conditions of your visa

Overstaying your visa

If you overstay your visa, you may face fines, court hearings, deportation or a ban from re-entry.

Immigration cards

You must sign an immigration card at passport control every time you enter Russia.

Immigration officials keep one half. They return the other half to you. You must keep it and show it at passport control when you leave Russia or your departure could be delayed.

You will need to show your immigration card when exchanging money or when checking into you accommodation.

Questioning on arrival in Russia

There have been intensive security checks on foreign nationals at the Russian border. Some British and dual Russian/British nationals have been stopped and questioned, often about political views and contacts with Ukraine or Ukrainians. Fingerprints and DNA swabs have also been taken. Security staff sometimes ask for access to data on phones and other electronic devices.

Some visitors have been held for several hours for identity checks, but are then usually allowed to continue their journeys. Some British Nationals have also been refused entry to Russia. You should:

• tell family, friends or colleagues about your travel plans and explain that the arrival process might take longer than usual
• stay calm and avoid confrontation if you are stopped

Registering accommodation

You must register with the local authorities if you’re staying anywhere for more than 7 working days. Your hotel will do this automatically. If you’re staying with someone, check that they’re doing this. You must show evidence of your registration at passport control when you leave Russia. Police also carry out routine checks. If you cannot show your registration and passport, you may be fined.

Travelling between Russia and Belarus

You will need to go through immigration control if you fly to Russia from Belarus or from Belarus to Russia. Contact the nearest Russian embassy or consulate to check if you need a transit visa.

There are no immigration checks on the land border between Russia and Belarus. This means you will not be able to have your passport stamped and will therefore be entering the country illegally. If you’re planning to drive to Russia, you will need to drive through a different country.

Contact your train or tour operator before booking your travel to make sure you enter Russia through an immigration checkpoint. Contact your nearest Russian embassy or consulate for advice on rail travel.

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and certificates you need in TravelHealthPro’s Russia guide .

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of Russia. You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Money or goods

You can import and export foreign currency up to 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent) without declaring it.

You cannot export foreign currency over 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent), even if you declare it.

You must complete a customs declaration form if you import over 10,000 US dollars (or equivalent) or certain types of goods, including:

• electrical items
• valuable musical instruments

Electronic items

You must get a licence before you travel if you want to import certain electronic items, such as GPS instruments. Check with the Russian Embassy in the UK before your travel.

Antiques and art

There are strict regulations on the export and import of antiques, artworks and historical items. You must get an export permit from the Ministry of Culture and declare each item when you leave. It is illegal to import or export items without a permit.

Customs declaration forms

Make sure your customs declaration form is stamped by a customs official when you enter. If not, your money or items may be confiscated when you leave or you could be fined.

Keep receipts of any purchases in case you need to show them when you leave Russia.

Accessing money in Russia

The Russian economy is unstable. This could make access to goods and services difficult.

Mastercard and Visa are not operating in Russia. Mastercard and Visa cards issued outside Russia will not work at Russian shops or ATMs. Cards issued inside Russia will work in, but not outside, Russia. You may not be able to access your money through Russian banks or make payments to Russian businesses with non-Russian credit or debit cards.

For all other credit or debit cards, let your provider know you’re travelling to Russia to avoid your card being blocked for anti-fraud reasons.

Make sure that you have enough money to cover your stay.

Buying Russian roubles

It is illegal to pay directly for general transactions in Russia using foreign currency. It is difficult to get Russian roubles in high street banks in the UK. If you want to buy roubles in Russia, you must take US dollars or euros to exchange.

Only change money at banks, hotels and exchange bureaus. It is illegal to change money from street traders.

The British government has sanctioned several major Russian banks. This means British nationals are banned from making funds available to these banks. See more information about Russian sanctions and what this means for British nationals.

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Transit Visas are issued to those travelling through the Russian Federation to an onward destination. If you are on a transit flight, will be spending less than 24 hours in Russia, and do not intend to leave the airport transit area, then you will not need a Russian Visa for your trip. In all other circumstances, you will need to apply for a Russian Transit Visa, normally valid for up to three days if you are travelling by air or ten days if you are travelling by train.

If you are applying for a transit visa, you will need:

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Hey guys, I'm an Indian F1 student in USA traveling to Bangkok from Los Angeles. I have to transit through Incheon, South Korea. The transit time is no more than 3 or 4 hours. Do I require a visa to transit through South Korea?

3 replies to this topic

Timatic advise for Indian, flying US to Bkk via S.Korea, airside transit within 24 hours

https://we.tl/t-lBQgBE6rbT

Link will expire in 7 days

https://k-eta.go.kr/portal/board/viewboarddetail.do?bbsSn=99397

Link to open pdf

I am a transfer passenger. Do I need to get a K-ETA?

No. Transfer/transit passengers who are not entering Korea do not need to get a K-ETA.

However, if they need to enter the country for the baggage connection etc., they are required to

obtain K-ETA

for example Air Premia+Air Busan offers self transfer at ICN (they will probably issue two different tickets), but if you have tickets from delta/korean/asiana etc (same ticket number for whole journey) - then no need..

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Here's Every Destination Americans Can Travel To Without A Visa In 2024

Post may contain affiliate links; we may receive compensation if you click links to those products. This has no impact on how offers are presented. Our site does not include all offers available. Content on page accurate as of posting date.

Americans are back to traveling in droves now that the travel landscape is back to normal, excluding, of course, the state of conflict in some countries and the unpredictable realm of geopolitics, which keeps changing unpredictably by the minute.

Lucky for the average U.S. passport holder looking to escape the daily humdrum, there are very few limits as to where they can go.

Most countries now welcome them with open arms and are easing visa rules further, but that does not apply to all .

In fact, Americans need visas or electronic travel authorizations (ETAs) to travel to a number of popular destinations, including Australia, where an ETA is required, and Egypt, where a visa must be purchased on arrival, and that's only two examples.

The days of travel restrictions may be in the past, but that does not mean international travel is always completely seamless.

So, if you are wondering where Americans can travel to without any pre-existing requirements simply by holding a valid passport, this list may prove useful to you :

Let's start with the most restrictive continent for travelers: though Africa is widely known among Americans for transformative journeys, a wild undisturbed nature, and unmatched ethnic diversity, it is perhaps the hardest region to travel .

A majority of African countries still require Americans to obtain visas or eVisas in advance, an arduous process that may involve accessing outdated websites that are not fully functional, traveling to the nearest Consulate, paying expensive fees (as high as $200), and stressful border crossings.

There are only 15 destinations U.S. citizens can access completely visa-free, and interestingly enough, the continent's leading attraction is not one of them: arriving in Egypt, Americans must purchase a physical single or multiple-entry visa at the airport, with prices starting from $25.

Home to Mount Kilimanjaro, a bucket list African landmark, and the UNESCO-listed Zanzibar island, Tanzania, too, requires Americans to pay a visa fee for entering, at an even higher rate of $50; even global safari capital Kenya has eVisa arrangements in place.

Fortunately, not all African countries make it harder and more bureaucratic for U.S. citizens to enter, with subtropical Morocco, an Arab country straddling both the Atlantic and Mediterranean coasts and the cultural hotspot that is South Africa allowing them to enter without visas.

The full list can be found below:

• Central African Republic
• Sao Tome and Principe
• South Africa

Traveling Africa may prove challenging for most Americans, unless they a bunch of pre-obtained visas in hand, and plenty of blank passport pages to use up, but if it's any consolation, exploring their own continent couldn't be easier.

There is only one country in the whole of the mainland Americas where they cannot enter unless holding a valid tourist visa, and that is Venezuela , which in recent years has not exactly had friendly relations with the United States or most of its Southern neighbors, for that matter.

As for every other destination in the New World, Americans may come and go as they please, seeing they are not bound by restrictive entry rules and visa requirements, be in the form of entry authorizations or Consulate-issued permits.

From sunny Mexico down to tropical Colombia, they are eligible for hassle-free entry provided they carry a U.S. passport, and in these two countries in particular, their permitted length of stay can be as long as six months , sure to make slow travelers and digital nomads happy.

With that being said, Brazil, the largest South American country is now mulling over introducing a tourist visa for Americans, that would in theory make it impossible for them to visit unless holding a pre-obtained authorization, though that is not yet being enforced .

For 2024, these are all the North and South American countries U.S. nationals can visit without visa restrictions:

• El Salvador

Asia is the perfect spot for Americans looking to immerse themselves in an entirely different culture and escape their mundane Western worries, but unfortunately for blue passport holders, unlike Africa, the list of visa-free countries in the continent of friendly smiles is not as limited.

The most obvious odd one out is China, which requires U.S. nationals to apply for a physical visa in order to enter, a bureaucratic process that typically involves a visit to a Consulate, where applicants must present documentation and be interviewed unless they are merely transiting through.

Fortunately, a majority of destinations across Asia are open to hosting Americans bureaucracy-free , and though there may be an entry form or an eVisa to be filled out here and there, these can be easily obtained online by paying a fee and with minimal hassle.

One such example is Vietnam, where U.S. travelers are not allowed to enter unless holding a valid eVisa.

On the brightside, the maximum length of stay for visa applicants traveling to the Southeast Asian gem in 2024 has been extended from 30 days to 3 months.

Exercising sovereignty over Bali, a popular wellness retreat and paradisaical island, Indonesia also requires Americans to purchase a visa, either online in advance or upon arrival at the airport, as does Cambodia and Laos; thus, they do not qualify for the list.

• Philippines
• South Korea

The Caribbean

Going abroad, there is truly nowhere most Americans would rather be than the tropical Caribbean, a turquoise-blue ocean littered with paradisaical islands, some of which are countries in their own right and others that are autonomous territories of larger states.

With the exception of Cuba , they are free to roam around the territory freely, usually by presenting a valid passport. In the communist state, however, they are officially discouraged from visiting by U.S. authorities, and those who do must purchase a ‘Tourist Card'.

Similarly to a visa, a Cuban Tourist Card can be obtained at a Cuban embassy or consular mission, or at the airport prior to departure, though the latter option is not advised as not all airlines and service providers are licensed to issue the document.

In some cases, the travel agency you book your Cuba trip with could be the one applying for the card.

As you might suspect, this requirement makes Fidel Castro's homeland the hardest country for U.S. tourists to enter in the Caribbean.

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bonaire, Sint Eustatius and Saba
• British Virgin Islands
• Cayman Islands
• Dominican Republic
• French West Indies
• Puerto Rico*
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• St. Maarten
• St. Vincent and the Grenadines
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands
• U.S. Virgin Islands*

Out of all the continents, Europe is easily where Americans will find it easier to travel around, with all but three countries granting them visa-free entry: in fact, a majority of Europen states is a member of the European Union, one of the United States' most trusted partners.

Whether they're off to Italy to chase Mediterranean sunsets and rugged drives as they eat gelato, or they're ticking off fairytale German castles off the list, U.S. passport holders do not have to worry about obtaining entry permits in advance ( at least for now ).

In the future, the EU will require them to apply for a travel authorization before flying, and that's still not a visa – it's an online form that needs to be filled coupled with a small, symbolic fee that actually exempts them from a regular visa – but as of this year, travel is still completely bureaucracy-free.

As for the exceptions, perhaps it's not a surprise that Russia and Belarus would bar entry to American travelers unless they've been pre-screened at a Consulate and have obtained a visa in advance, and it's not like there are many travelers going to these war-raging countries these days, anyway.

The third European – or marginally European – country that is not listed under the visa-free agreements is Azerbaijan , the southernmost of the Caucasus states, a region between Eastern Europe and Western Asia: in order to enter, Americans must apply for an eVisa valid for only 30 days .

• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Liechtenstein
• Netherlands
• North Macedonia
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City

Middle East

The Westernmost part of Asia, the Middle East is often treated as its own subcontinent, and similarly to the wider continent, it can be trickier to navigate if you're an American, not only due to complex visa rules, but also conflicts or anti-American sentiment.

Visiting Iraq, Jordan or Kuwait, you will be required to apply for a visa on arrival, with prices and passport requirements varying between countries, and even some of the visa-free destinations, like Lebanon and disputed Palestine, carry their own significant risks.

The war between Israel and Hamas has made the Jewish state equally high-risk for Americans to travel, especially now that Iran is weighing in .

We would definitely not encourage you to visit Iran, where Americans have been known to be arbitrarily arrested and accused of crimes despite being innocent and being aware of the multiple kidnapping cases, and only cross the Yemeni border at your own risk.

That being said, there are plenty more Middle Eastern countries that are risk-free .

These include visa-free Turkiye , home to the fascinating cross-continental city of Istanbul and the coastal resort of Antalya, the United Arab Emirates , with its futuristic Dubai, and the increasingly trendy Saudi Arabia: they are all formally neutral in the conflict, and they all warmly welcome American tourists.

• Saudi Arabia
• Turkiye (formerly spelled Turkey)
• United Arab Emirates

Yet another subcontinent – not formally a continent, but rather a geopolitical concept – Oceania is arguably the most peaceful territory on Earth in 2024, with no wars , low levels of crime, and limited travel restrictions imposed.

Americans can travel visa-free to most sovereign Oceanic states and self-governing, non-independent islands, including French Polynesia and New Caledonia, which are part of France, and the Cook Islands, which belong to New Zealand.

They even enjoy freedom of movement across State-Governed collectivities.

The two ‘big' countries in Oceania, Australia and New Zealand, do not grant unrestricted entry to Americans on the basis of holding a U.S. passport alone: applicants must have an Electronic Travel Authorization before boarding.

This is an easy requirement to fulfill, however, as it is easily obtained online, and it does not equal a visa. As for the rest of the Oceanic destinations, bar three – Papua New Guinea, Tuvalu, and Nauru – presenting an American passport at the border is generally all the documentation you need.

• American Samoa*
• Australia**
• Cook Islands (New Zealand)**
• Eastern Island (Chile)
• French Polynesia (France)
• New Caledonia (France)
• New Zealand**
• Marshall Islands*
• Pitcairn Islands (United Kingdom)

Vinicius Costa

Vini, our senior lead writer at Travel Off Path, has over 60+ countries under his belt (and currently weaving tales from Paris!), and a knack for turning off-the-beaten-path experiences into informative stories that will have you packing your bags.

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This article originally appeared on TravelOffPath.com

Opinions expressed here are the author's alone, not those of any bank, credit card issuer, hotel, airline, or other entity. This content has not been reviewed, approved or otherwise endorsed by any of the entities included within the post.

The post Here’s Every Destination Americans Can Travel To Without A Visa In 2024 appeared first on Travel Off Path .

Ukraine war latest updates: Sky News reports from town under attack - as 'fierce fighting' rages in Kharkiv

Fighting is ongoing in Kharkiv, Ukraine's governor for the region has said - as Russia claims it has taken control of multiple villages. It follows a surprise offensive by Putin's military on Friday morning.

Saturday 11 May 2024 14:05, UK

• Civilians being evacuated in Vovchansk, in Kharkiv, after Friday morning's surprise attack by Putin's military 
• Sky's Deborah Haynes reports from town 'under attack'
• Analysis:  Russia's attack in Kharkiv region not a complete surprise - but the force of it is
• Russia says it downed Ukrainian rockets and drones overnight
• Ed Conway :  Russian oil still seeping into UK - the reasons why sanctions are not working
• Live reporting by Jake Levison

Russia says its troops have taken five villages and the Kharkiv region's governor says they are trying to take more as fierce fighting continues.

But Nazar Voloshyn, a spokesperson for Ukraine's military in the east, insists Moscow's troops are being contained in those villages.

"The enemy is contained in the grey zone, and it is not expanding," he said in a Ukrainian television interview, according to the Kyiv Independent.

The so-called "grey zone" refers to the villages of Borysivka, Ohirtseve, Pylna and Strilecha, all of which are directly on the border with Russia's Belgorod region.

Russian officials said they had also captured another village, Pletenivka.

As we reported earlier, Kharkiv's governor says fighting is ongoing in all the villages Russia has already claimed to have taken.

More now from Kharkiv's governor, who says 2,500 people have now been evacuated from the danger zone in Kharkiv, up from 1,775 this morning.

Oleh Syniehubov says regional authorities are continuing to get civilians out of the areas where fighting continues. 

And while Russia's defence ministry said earlier its forces had taken five border villages in the Kharkiv region, Mr Syniehubov says clashes are still ongoing in all five of the villages.

"As of now the enemy keeps pressing in the north of our region. Our forces have repelled nine attacks," he said in his media briefing.

Top Ukrainian officials have repeatedly said they do not believe Russia has the capacity to launch a successful operation to capture the city of Kharkiv, home to 1.3 million people.

But analysts have suggested Mr Putin's end goal may not be to capture the entire city, but rather to better protect the Russian border and to spread Ukraine's military more thinly.

Our security and defence editor   Deborah Haynes   is reporting to us from a residential area that was just hit by a Russian strike in Vovchansk.

She's standing by a block that's in flames and says local residents she's spoken to are scared the fire will spread to other residential blocks too.

One of the residents of the destroyed block, who had suffered injuries to her leg as a result of the explosion, spoke to Haynes.

"She doesn't know what to do - she's very confused," Haynes says. "This is a scene of chaos and terror."

She says the rest of the town is also "pretty much destroyed", adding explosions can still be heard nearby.

Haynes adds the town is still very much "under attack".

The Russian military is continuing its attacks in Kharkiv, the region's governor says.

Oleh Syniehubov said President Putin's troops were still trying to advance further after reportedly taking up to 1km yesterday.

The fierce fighting is raging across three villages near the Ukrainian border, he added.

His comments came shortly after Russia's defence ministry claimed its forces had taken five border villages in the Kharkiv region. 

Ukraine is yet to directly comment on Russia's claims.

The UK's Ministry of Defence has highlighted reports suggesting a Russian fighter aircraft accidentally dropped a bomb on a civilian area in Belgorod. 

The intelligence update relates to an incident on 4 May - not on the overnight drone strike in Belgorod we reported earlier. 

Here's what the ministry said: 

"It has been reported that a Russian fighter aircraft accidentally released a FAB-500 munition on a civilian area in Belgorod, Russia on 04 May 2024. 

"The Belgorod Regional Governor Vyacheslav Gladkov confirmed the explosion and damage on Razdobarkina street, Belgorod without identifying the cause. 

"30 houses and 10 cars were damaged, with five individuals requiring hospital care, illustrating the destructive power of the munition.

"This is not an isolated incident. On 18 February a FAB-250 was reportedly released on Soloti in the Belgorod area which led to the evacuation of 150 residents. 

"Media outlets suggest that such discharges are fairly common with 20 lost munitions accidentally dropped in the Belgorod region alone between March to April 2024.

"These instances indicate Russia's continued inability to successfully employ their munitions on intended targets. Such errors have destructive and lethal consequences for the Russian population."

Russia's defence ministry says its forces have taken five border villages in Ukraine's Kharkiv region since its surprise attack began yesterday.

The ministry says Russian forces have taken the villages of Pletenivka, Ohirtseve, Borysivka, Pylna and Strilechna, all of which are directly on the border with Russia's Belgorod region.

In a briefing, it also said Russian troops have taken the village of Keramik in the eastern Donetsk region, where Moscow has made slow but steady advances in recent months.

Ukraine officials have not yet commented on the Russian defence ministry's claims. 

Our military analyst Sean Bell has been looking at Russia's brutal offensive in Kharkiv, which has led to mass evacuations.

It's been described as a surprise attack - but Bell says Ukraine has been warning over a potential attack by Russia in the region for several months.

"So it wasn't a complete surprise," he says. "But this attack by Russia wasn't just a minor thing - it was a coordinated attack.

"They were using air power, so glide bombs, artillery shells, multi-launch rocket systems and infantry."

He says the attack was clearly designed to "probe Ukrainian defences" and Russia has now made advances, with between 30,000 and 50,000 troops in the area.

Why has Russia opened up a second front in the war?

While Bell says it's a question only President Putin could answer for certain, he believes there are two likely reasons for Russia's latest attack.

First, the Russian border town of Belgorod is a logistics hub for Russian military activity, and is regularly targeted by artillery from Ukrainian territory.

As you'll see from our previous post, Russia said Ukraine targeted Belgorod just last night, killing one man and injuring another in a drone attack.

President Putin has long promised to create a buffer zone to push Ukrainian forces out of artillery range, which would limit the attacks on this frontier town, Bell says.

Secondly, although most analysts believe Russia would struggle to seize Kharkiv, the attack does force Ukraine to spread its limited resources across a broader front, leaving it more vulnerable to further attacks, he adds.

Earlier this morning we told you Russia said it downed 21 Ukrainian rockets and 16 drones overnight across its Belgorod, Kursk and Volgograd regions.

The governor of Russia's Belgorod region now says one man was killed and another injured after a Ukrainian drone hit a parked truck on the border village of Novostroyevka-Pervaya.

The Belgorod region borders Ukraine's Kharkiv region and has come under regular attack since the war began.

Kharkiv's regional governor has provided an update on Telegram this morning, where he's outlined how many civilians have fled their homes since Russia's attack yesterday.

Ukraine's second-largest city has seen a total of 1,775 people evacuate, Oleg Sinegubov said.

1,048 of those were from the Chuhuiv district, where Vovchansk is located. As we said earlier, Vovchansk has a population of around 3,000.

He said another 440 people were evacuated from the Kharkiv district, which encircles the city of Kharkiv, and 12 from Bohodukhiv district, located northwest of Kharkiv.

He added another 275 people were evacuated by volunteers across the region.

By Deborah Haynes , security and defence editor

Smoke hung in the air on the road into the border town of Vovchansk in northeastern Ukraine after a surprise Russian offensive.

Woodland that frames the route had caught fire amid the heavy bombardments.

Sky News followed a rescue team as they raced into Vovchansk in a white van to help evacuate residents amid fears of a wider assault by Moscow.

The streets in the part of the town we entered were largely deserted.

We pulled into a residential road of bungalows.

Part the way down there was a group of five elderly residents, gathered around a bench. They did not appear to be in a hurry to flee, despite the danger and warnings from the authorities for the town's around 3,000 residents to leave.

Read more here ...

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