Glossary
Short, practical definitions for common visa terms.
Visa‑free
You can enter without applying for a visa beforehand (short stays only in most cases).
Visa on arrival (VOA)
A visa you can obtain at the border, often for a fee and with conditions.
eVisa
A visa issued online before travel. Usually tied to a passport number.
ETA / eTA / ESTA
An online travel authorization required for some visa‑free travelers. Not a visa, but still mandatory.
Transit visa
A visa required to pass through a country on the way to another destination.
Onward ticket
Proof that you will leave the destination within your allowed stay.
Proof of funds
Evidence you can support yourself during the trip (bank statement, card limits, etc.).
Invitation letter
A host letter sometimes required for certain visa types.
Purpose of travel
Tourism/business/work/study: different purposes can have different visa rules.
Passport validity
Minimum remaining validity required at entry/exit (often 3–6 months).
Single entry / multiple entry
How many times you can enter with the same visa/authorization.
Max stay
How long you can stay per entry (often separate from overall visa validity).
Consular jurisdiction
Which consulate can process your application based on residence.
Timatic
Airline-used database for travel document rules; can influence boarding decisions.
Apostille
A certification that makes some documents acceptable abroad (Hague Convention).