Airports in Los Angeles and New York are now equipped with body scanners that enable security screeners to see beneath the clothing of a passenger to detect any concealed weapons.

The machines are as big as a revolving door. They also utilize low-energy electromagnetic waves in producing a digital image of a passenger’s entire body. To use it, the passenger should step in and lift his arms. The scans only last for a minute.

The Transportation Security Administration claims that the procedure is actually less invasive than the usual physical frisk of guns, knives or bombs. Today, these machines are only used selectively but are seen to replace metal detectors in the near future.

John F. Kennedy International Airport in New York and Los Angeles International Airport had these scanners installed at a single checkpoint each. Last October, Phoenix Sky-Harbor International Airport had one machine installed.

The problem is, modest passengers may have concerns about this kind of procedure because of the images. The pictures produced are black-and-white, 3D scans. They may not be as vivid as real photographs but they reveal some intimate shapes and curves of the human form.

The Immigration and Customs Enforcement of the United States announced on April 11 that it had enhanced the Student and Exchange Visitor Program and proposed to increase fees in order to support such improvements.

Millions of students across the globe come to the US to study and take advantage of the excellent educational system of the US and engage in cultural exchange. However, after 9-11, Congress required the Homeland Security Department to implement another way of keeping an eye on exchange visitors and international students. The ever-increasing size of their population also pushed the authorities to come up with a better implementation.

Homeland Security for ICE Assistant Secretary Julie Myers said that the proposed new rule would ensure that the US will remain as a welcoming place for international students while enhancing the government’s ability to uphold national security.

The major enhancements to SEVP include the The Student and Exchange Visitor Information System (SEVIS); one-on-one, customized customer support; additional ICE agents; and a new recertification process.

Many travelers are still not aware that border checks at airports disappeared in nine new Schengen area countries, enabling 400 million people to travel in the now 24-country zone without a passport.

If you’re traveling to Europe, please be advised that if you are carrying a Schengen visa, you may now visit the following countries, too.

• Czech Republic
• Estonia
• Hungary
• Latvia
• Lithuania
• Malta
• Poland
• Slovakia
• Slovenia

These countries joined the fifteen other member states: Austria, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Iceland, Italy, Luxembourg, Netherlands, Norway, Portugal, Spain, Sweden. The expansion of the Schengen zone actually took place on December 21 last year but many travelers are still not aware of this event.

However, bear in mind that not all EU countries are Schengen members. If you wish to travel to Ireland or the United Kingdom, you will need to apply for a separate visa. Separate visas are also required if you are transiting through or traveling to Bosnia-Herzegovina, Croatia and Serbia.

Located just off the coast of the mainland, Taiwan is one of the island territories governed by the Republic of China. With only 35,801 square kilometers, this is one of the smallest territories in East Asia. Even so, it has one of the most thriving economies in Asia, with technological advances that exceed other territories. Taiwan is also beautiful, with lots of lovely and interesting places to go to.

You might find yourself anticipating to go to Taiwan, but before you do so, here’s one important detail you have to tend to: your passport. You can’t go to this territory without a Taiwan passport and visa, but as long as you have this document, you can easily enter this East Asian island.

The Basics Of Taiwan Passports

No individual can leave his or her country without a passport. Issued by the national government of the country where he or she came from, this is a document that serves to identify the holder as a citizen of the country that issued it. A passport certifies your identity and citizenship, which then allows you to gain entry into the country.

Whether you’re from Australia, United Kingdom, Canada, United States, Japan or a country from the European Union, you’re required to have a Taiwan passport before you can enter this territory. The passport you carry must be valid for six months. If you have this requirement, you may enter the territory without a visa.

Visa For Taiwan Passport: Who Needs It And Who Doesn’t?

A visa is a slightly different document from a passport, although they do have the same purpose, in terms of verifying a person’s identity. Just like passports, this is issued by the country of the individual, and allows that person to request entry to the country during a given time period, and for a specific purpose. They are often stamped inside the passport, although some come separated.

There are 31 countries around the world today which can enter Taiwan without a visa (visa-exempt entry), provided they have Taiwan passports that don’t expire within six months. These include:

• Australia
• Austria
• Belgium
• Darussalam
• Canada
• Costa Rica
• Denmark
• Finland
• Frane
• Germany
• Greece
• Ireland
• Iceland
• Italy
• Japan
• Republic of Korea
• Liechtenstein
• Luxembourg
• Malaysia
• Malta
• Monaco
• The Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Norway
• Portugal
• Singapore
• Spain
• Sweden
• Switzerland
• United Kingdom
• United States of America

People from these countries can stay in Taiwan for as long as 30 days (citizens from Japan can stay for as long as 90), with no extensions.

They should also make sure they have no criminal record, a reserved seat for departure and a confirmed return air ticket or a documentation for onward traveling, to assure they will stick to the given time period.

Although most citizens don’t need a visa to get into Taiwan, there are some who still need to have one, such as:

• If the citizen’s passport is valid for less than six months, starting from their date of entry, they are required to get a landing visa. The landing visa also allows them 3-days of stay into the territory, but with no extensions. It costs $135 to get this type of visa.
• People from countries such as Slovenia, Cyprus, Estonia, Lithuania, Bulgaria, Romania, Latvia, and Slovak Republic need a visa before they can enter the country.

Applying For A Landing Visa

If you’re from Hungary, Poland, Slovak Republic or Czech Republic, you can apply for a landing visa to support your Taiwan passport. With this document, you can stay in Taiwan for a given period of time.

Once you arrive at the Kaohsiung International Airport or CKS International Airport, you should immediately take care of this matter. This landing visa will be valid for a period of not more than 30 days. Of course, you need to prove first that you have no criminal record and you’re holding a ticket for an onward destination.

To get a landing visa, you must submit several requirements, including a passport-size photo and an application form. There’s also a handling fee, which cost varies according to the nationality of the individual.

Other Types Of Visas

Aside from landing visas, there are a couple other visas a person can apply for: the single-entry visa and the multiple-entry visa.

A single-entry visa can last for 3 months, and can be extended twice for 60 days. These visas are granted by local police stations, provided they have stayed in the territory for at least 60 days, and they have proof that they need to stay in the country for more than the allowed time period.

A multiple-entry visa is usually given to citizens who go to Taiwan for business purposes. It can last for up to six months from the date when it was issued. Because they are usually made for business purpose, these require the proper documents from the employer first, stating the reason for their visit in Taiwan

One last note before you use your Taiwan passport and visa. If you plan on staying in this place for more than three months, you have to get an AIDS test. If the result comes out positive, you have to leave the country as soon as possible. If it’s negative, then you’re permitted to stay.

Taiwan is a very interesting Asian country you can go to. Just make sure that before you enter it, you have your Taiwan passport and visa (if necessary). By having these documents, you can prevent traveling hassles and problems from getting in your way. Have a great time in Taiwan!

Who needs a visa?

A Taiwanese visa is required for all foreign nationals wishing to travel to Taiwan except citizens of the following countries:

Australia, Austria, Belgium, Canada, Costa Rica, Denmark, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Ireland, Iceland, Italy, Japan, Republic of Korea, Liechtenstein, Luxembourg, Malaysia, Malta, Monaco, the Netherlands , New Zealand, Norway, Portugal, Singapore, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, U.K. and U.S.A.

If you are a national of any of the above-mentioned countries, all you need to possess when you arrive at any of the designated airports for visa-exempt travelers is a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry. If you’re a Japanese citizen, your passport may have at least three months of validity. A confirmed return airline ticket, a confirmed departure seat reservation and a visa for the next country of destination are also required for all foreign nationals. You must also have no criminal record to avail of this visa-exemption program.

Note that you may only remain in Taiwan for up to 30 days. The duration of stay begins from the next day of arrival. There is no way you can extend your stay. Thus, after 30 days, you will have to leave the country.

Requirements

Here are the documents you have to submit to obtain a visitor’s visa:

• a passport valid for at least six months with blank visa pages
• a completely filled-out and signed visa application form
• two recent color or black-and-white passport-size photographs
• copy of round-trip ticket or a day-by-day itinerary indicating flight information and dates
• copy of a recent bank statement
• a letter from your employer guaranteeing the stability of your job and finances
• a letter explaining in detail the purpose of your visit and the plans for the stay
• information about your sponsor or host in Taiwan and a photocopy of his or her resident ID

Aside from these, there are additional documents you need to prepare depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Types Available

The Taiwanese government offers several different visa options for foreign nationals. The choice of which should depend on the purpose of your visit and the length or your stay.

Landing Visa. If you are a national of Czech Republic, Hungary, Poland or Slovakia, you may be eligible for a landing visa. To avail of a Taiwanese landing visa, here are additional documents you need to prepare. (Please disregard the list above for this type of visa.)

• a passport with a validity period of six months from your date of entry
• a confirmed return airline ticket, a confirmed seat reservation and a visa for your next destination
• a completed application form
• two recent passport-size color photographs
• visa fee of NT$1,200
• handling fee of NT$800

You must also have no criminal record to be issued a landing visa.

Note that a landing visa is valid for up to 30 days. There is no way you can extend your stay; hence, you have to leave the country after the given period.

Visitor’s Visa. If you want to visit Taiwan for sightseeing purposes or to study, what you need is a visitor’s visa. This type of visa is obtained from a Taiwanese embassy or consulate abroad. Typically, a visitor’s visa is valid for five years. It also usually allows multiple entries for stays not exceeding 60 days. If you wish to extend your stay as a visitor or tourist, you may apply for an extension at the Taiwan National Immigration Agency. However, only one 60-day extension is normally granted. Remember that with this visa, you are not allowed to take employment. However, if you really wish to work, you may obtain a work permit and a resident visa.

If you are traveling to Taiwan for studies or research, you also have to submit a letter of admission from a university or any academic institution aside from the required documents listed above.

Note that students applying during summer vacation are likely to be rejected. Thus, you need to present strong proof of no intention to work illegally during your stay.

Business Visa. If you are traveling to Taiwan for a business joint venture or on a business trip, what you should apply for is a business visa. Aside from the above-mentioned documents, you also need to submit a business letter from the company you work for addressed to the Visa Section of the Taipei Economic and Cultural Office (TECO). It should explain the purpose of your stay and should guarantee financial responsibility.

Resident Visa. A resident visa is usually issued if you are married to a national of Taiwan or if you already have a valid work permit. However, note that a resident visa does not automatically give you permission to work in Taiwan. Even with this visa, you need to apply for a work permit, which you may do by having a Taiwanese employer apply on your behalf.

If you are issued this visa, you are eligible to apply for an ARC (Alien Registration Card). You will have to carry this card with you at all times and present this when you depart and return to Taiwan.

In addition to the documents listed above, you also need to present your marriage certificate or a copy of your valid work permit to obtain this visa.

Diplomatic or Official Visa, If you belong to your country’s diplomatic corps or you are hold a national government position in your country, this is the visa that you should apply for. Contact the nearest Taiwanese embassy or consulate in your area for more information on how to obtain one.

Additional Information

• Travelers arriving at Kaohsiung International Airport, including those coming from (the People’s Republic of) China may obtain a temporary entry permit at the Kaohsiung Station Aviation Police Bureau. Once a permit is secured, they must convert it into a visa at Consular Affairs Bureau or its Kaosiung Office not later than three days after its issuance. Failure to do so may lead to a fine.
• Travelers holding a British passport may obtain a visa upon arrival valid for up to two weeks (14 days) if there were born in Macau or Hong Kong or if they have previously visited Taiwan.
• Travelers arriving at CKS International Airport may obtain a landing visa at the airport’s visa office, at the Consular Affairs Bureau or at the Foreign Affairs Ministry.
• Travelers wishing to remain in Taiwan for more than three months will have to take an AIDS test. If it is positive, they will be forced to leave the country immediately.

Foreign nationals who wish to visit India are required to possess a valid passport and a valid Indian visa. If you arrive in India without a valid visa, you will be subject to immediate deportation.

Who needs a visa?

Unlike many Asian countries, there is no provision of VOA (visa on arrival) in India. Thus, you need to obtain a visa from an Indian consulate or embassy in your country before your travel date. Every foreigner must possess a valid Indian visa unless you are a national of Bhutan or Nepal. If you’re from Maldives, you do not need a visa if you plan to remain for less than 90 days.

Although there is no VOA provision in India, you may take advantage of TLP (Temporary Landing Permit) or TLF (Temporary Landing Facility). These allow foreigners to enter Indian territory in emergent situations such as death or serious illness in the family for a fee of US$40. Note that these provisions of TLP or TLF are not available to citizens of Afghanistan, Algeria, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, Iran, Nigeria, Pakistan and Sri Lanka.

Requirements

To apply for a visa, you need to submit the following documents to the nearest Indian consulate or embassy in your area.

Application forms. You have to accomplish Indian visa application forms through the Internet. Once you have provided all the necessary details, print it out and sign it. Each form is bar coded. It will store the information you entered securely for a more efficient processing.

Note: Downloaded forms and handwritten forms are not acceptable.

There are special application forms specifically for certain nationals. If you’re a Pakistani national, complete this special form and submit four copies. If you’re a Bangladeshi national, complete it and submit two copies.

Passports. You must have a passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of application. It must also have two or more blank visa pages (excluding the last two amendment pages). You need to submit an original passport and not a copy.

Photographs. Two recent identical color or black and white passport-size photographs are required. They must depict front pose against a white background. If you’re from Pakistan, submit four photos.

Renunciation Form. If you’re a person of Indian origin and you are applying for an Indian visa on a US passport for the first time, you must submit a completed renunciation form together with your Indian passport and the application form for return and cancellation.

Proof of Address. You also need to submit a photocopy of proof of address or residence. A photocopy of a utility bill or driver;s license is acceptable. If you are below 18, you need to submit your parent’s or guardian’s proof of residence instead.

Corresponding Fees. Fees vary according to the country you are in. Contact the nearest Indian embassy or consulate in your area for more information.

Additional Requirements. If you are not a US citizen, you need to submit a copy of your green card or your long-term US visa. If what you have is a short-term visa and you are not a US citizen, you should apply for an Indian visa in the country of your permanent residence. In case of an emergency, you may make an application at the Indian consulate or embassy in the US. A reference fee of US$20 will be collected in addition to the relevant visa fee.

Aside from these, there are also additional documents you have to submit according to the type of visa you are applying for. (Scroll down for details.)

Types Available

There are several types of Indian visas. Choose the type that is most appropriate for you according to the purpose of your visit.

Tourist visa. If you intend to visit India for sightseeing purposes only, a tourist visa is what you need. This is also the appropriate visa for people wanting to visit their relatives and friends based in India. The validity period for a tourist visa varies from six months to 10 years. However, 10-year visas are available only to American citizens under a bilateral agreement. Nevertheless, regardless of length of validity, you are only allowed a maximum period of six months for each visit. There is no way you can extend your stay if you’re on a tourist visa.

Available lengths of validity:

• US citizens: six months, one year, five years, 10 years. Multiple entry.
• Non-US citizens: six months, one year, five years. Multiple entry.
• Sri-Lanka citizens: six months – single entry, six months – multiple entry, one year – multiple entry

Business visa. Whether you want to start a business or you are on a business trip in India, a business visa is exactly what you need. This type of visas is available in multiple entries. Although they are valid for six months or more than one year, the period of stay for each visit is limited to six months only. If you intend to set up or you have set up joint ventured in India, you may apply for a business visa with a validity period of 10 years.

Available lengths of validity:

• US citizens: six months, one year, five years, 10 years. Multiple entry.
• Non-US citizens: six months or one year. Multiple entry.
• Sri-Lanka citizens: six months – single entry, six months – multiple entry, one year – multiple entry

Additional document required:

• a sponsor letter — a letter from your sponsor (a business partner or firm) indicating the nature of your business, the probable duration of stay, the places and agencies to be visited, and a guarantee of financial responsibility

Conference visa. If the purpose of your visit is to attend an international conference or other conferences on certain subjects as decided by the Indian government, you may be issued a conference visa. This type is released only after a clearance for the said event is received from the government. The maximum length of validity of this visa for all foreign nationals is three months.

Additional documents required:

• an invitation letter from the organizer of the event
• a letter from the organization in your home country stating your nomination to attend the conference

Employment visa. If you intend to work in India, what you need is an employment visa. Granted by the consulate or embassy, this type is valid for one year, irrespective of the contract duration. However, you may extend your stay for up to five years by applying at MHA or FRRO in the concerned state.

Additional documents required:

• an employment appointment letter
• an employment contract letter
• a copy of your resume
• proof that the organization you will be working for is registered in India

Entry visa. Entry visas are granted to persons of Indian origin who have renounced their Indian citizenship. Members of the family of a person legally working in India may also apply for this visa. It is valid for six months to five years with multiple entry.

Additional document required:

• Family members of a person legally working in India must submit a copy of his or her employment visa

Journalist visa. If you are a professional journalist or photographer and you wish to stay in India for no less than three months, you should apply for a journalist visa. However, if you intend to make a documentary in India about the country’s people or culture, you should contact the embassy’s Press and Information Wing first. It usually tales a minimum of three to five working days.

Missionary visa. The Indian government allows foreign nationals to obtain legal residency under the condition that they will remain in Panama only for the purpose of missionary activities like being a church pastor or other such activities. A missionary visa is a single-entry visa valid only for the length of time approved by the government. The processing of applications for this visa usually takes up to three months.

Additional document required:

• three copies of a letter from your sponsor indicating your destination, expected duration of stay, nature of work and a guarantee of financial responsibility while in India

Research visa. If you wish to visit India for research purposes especially for an international political, humanitarian or academic organization, a research visa is exactly what you need. The validity of this visa coincides with the period of your research.

Additional document required:

• a statement of approval from the Department of Education (Ministry od Human Resources Development) in New Delhi

Student visa. If you are a bona fide student who wishes to pursue regular studies at a recognized academic institution in India, what you should apply for is a student visa. The validity period varies depending on the period of study approved by the educational institution you will be studying at.

Additional documents required:

• a letter from a recognized academic institution confirming your admission
• evidence of financial arrangements
• for medical and paramedical courses: a letter of approval from the Ministry of Health of India
• for engineering and technical graduate courses, a letter of approval from the Department of Education (Ministry of Human Resources Development)

Transit visa. A transit visa enables its holder to pass through the country to reach his or her ultimate destination. If this is your purpose of entering India, this is what you should obtain from designated border posts or gates. Once you are on Indian soil, change of purpose is not permitted. This is generally available for a single or double journey. Typically, it has a validity period of 15 days from the date of issue. It is also valid for “direct transit only” for up to three days. If you wish to stay for more than three days, you need to obtain an appropriate visa other than this.

Additional document required: a confirmed airline ticket for an onward journey

Collective visa. If you will travel to India as a part of a group tour and consisting of at least four members and sponsored by a government-recognized travel agency, you may apply together for a collective visa. Remember that you may split into several smaller groups once you reach India as long as you reassemble and depart together as one group.

Landing permit facility. A group of tourists consisting of at least four members arriving by ship, air or by a scheduled or chartered flight may be granted a landing permit for a duration of up to 30 days by the Immigration Office on landing. This is only applicable if the group is sponsored by a government-recognized travel agency.

Additional documents required:

• a pre-drawn itinerary complete with details of passports of members

• an acknowledgment from the travel agency to conduct the tourist group together

Additional Information

If you are a US national and your passport is stolen or lost while in India, the first thing that you should do is to contact the US embassy or consulate in your area. They will issue a replacement passport. The second step is to have an exit visa stamp on your passport. Without it, Indian authorities will not permit you to leave the country.

An exit visa will allow you a specified period of time in which to leave India legally. There are no fees collected for this. However, if you wish to extend this visa, you must pay a fee. To obtain an exit visa, you have to submit the following documents:

• your replacement passport
• the letter issued by the US consulate or embassy giving the details of your stolen or lost passport
• your original boarding pass or a letter from the airline which you arrived in India on verifying the place and date of your entry into the country
• original police report

Although it is not required, you may also submit a copy of your entry stamp or Indian visa if you still have it. This will facilitate the processing of your application for an exit visa.

Who needs a visa?

Everyone who wishes to enter Israel needs a passport that is valid at least six months from the date of arrival. Everyone who travels to Israel as a tourist must have a round-trip ticket with him or her. The question is, how about visas? Is everyone required to obtain a visa to travel to Israel? The answer is “no.”

Here is the list of countries whose citizens do not have to obtain a visa before traveling to Israel provided they are traveling only as a tourist and has no intention of staying there longer than three months:

Argentina, Australia, Austria, Bahamas, Barbados, Belgium, Bolivia, Brazil, Canada, Central African Republic, Chile, Colombia, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Fiji, Finland, France, Germany, Gibraltar, Greece, Guatemala, Haiti, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Korea South, Latvia, Lesotho, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malawi, Malta, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Monaco, Mongolia, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Panama, Paraguay, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Slovak Republic, Slovenia, South Africa, Spain, St Kitts & Nevis Surinam, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Trinidad & Tobago, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Vanuatu.

Types Available and Requirements

There is only one way to request for an Israeli visa — personally. You can’t send your request by mail or over the phone. First, prepare all the necessary documents, according to the type of visa that you need. There are three types of visas that the consular section issues.

Tourist visa. If you plan to go sightseeing, check out museums and religious sites, or visit your friends or relatives, what you need is a tourist visa. This is the type that suits those who wish to stay in Israel for a short period of time. Here are the requirements:

• a completed and signed application form
• two 2” x 2” current passport-size pictures (facing forward)
• round-trip airline ticket
• passport (valid at least six months from intended visit date)
• letter from employer
• address of your host or reservation details of the hotel you will be staying in
• health insurance

Those under the age of 18 traveling alone or with only one parent must carry a notarized letter from both parents stating that they permit him or her to travel. You have to submit the original copy and a photocopy of the documents above. You also need to pay a sum of US$ 27 (administrative processing fee and mailing charges).

Student Visa

If you’re going to Israel to study, you need a valid student visa. Note that the Consular Section only issues student visas valid for one year. Should you need to extend your visa or go back to Israel to study for a second time, you will have to do it once you are there. Here are the required documents you need to prepare:

• a completed and signed application form
• two 2” x 2” current passport-size pictures (facing forward)
• round-trip airline ticket
• passport (valid at least six months from intended visit date)
• original letter of admission from yeshiva, university or educational institution
• address of your host or reservation details of the hotel you will be staying in
• health insurance

The original copy and a photocopy of these documents must be submitted. Again, minors need a notarized permission letter from both parents. You also need to pay US$25.

Official Visa

This visa is granted to national government officials and members of the diplomatic corps. If you are one of them, here are the documents you need to produce to obtain an official visa.

• a completed and signed application form
• two 2” x 2” current passport-size pictures (facing forward)
• valid diplomatic or official passport

The processing time for any type of visa is two weeks. Fees are to be made in money order or cash only. Personal checks are not accepted.

Additional Information

For a nominal fee, you may extend your stay at any office of the Ministry of Interior in the locations listed below:

Afula, Akko (Acre), Ashqelon, Be’er Sheva, Elat, Hadera, Haifa, Herzelia, Holon, Jerusalem, Nazareth, Netanya, Petah Tiqva, Ramat Gan, Ramla, Rehovot, Safed, Tel Aviv, Tiberias.

If you wish to work, you must first find a job and ask your employer to apply for a work visa for you.

Who needs a visa?

Everyone who wishes to visit South Korea needs to obtain a visa except for the following:

• nationals of Australia for stays of up to 90 days
• nationals of Italy for stays of up to 60 days
• nationals of other EU countries for stays of up to 90 days
• nationals of Canada for stays not longer than six months
• nationals of the United States for stays not longer than 30 days
• nationals of the following countries: Antigua & Barbuda, The Bahamas, Bangladesh, Barbados, Brazil, Bulgaria, Colombia, Costa Rica, Czech Republic, Dominica, Dominican Republic, El Salvador, Estonia, Grenada, Haiti, Hungary, Iceland, Israel, Jamaica, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Malaysia, Malta, Mexico, Morocco, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Norway, Panama, Peru, Poland, Romania, St Kitts & Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent & the Grenadines, Singapore, Slovak Republic, Surinam, Switzerland, Thailand, Trinidad & Tobago and Turkey for stays of up to 3 months (for business and touristic purposes only)

Remember that this applies only to ordinary visas. Many nationals are granted visa exemptions on other passports like official and diplomatic passports. To be sure about whether or not you need a visa or how long you are allowed to stay in South Korea without a visa, contact the Korean consulate or embassy near you.

Requirements

Requirements vary according to the type of visa you want and your country of citizenship. However, these are the documents that they are very likely to ask from you.

• a passport valid for at least six months
• a completed and signed application form
• a recent passport-size color photograph
• application fees (payable by postal order or cash, not check)
• a self-addressed envelope with stamps
• proof of enough funds such as a bank statement
• a company letter (if employed)

These are the basic documents you need to produce. Aside from these, you also need to meet additional requirements depending on the type of visa you are applying for.

Short-term business visa – substantiating documents for your activity such as a letter of invitation from the Koran company and other business-related documents.

Short-term employment visa – an employment contract, a recommendation letter and other official documents stating the necessity of employment bu the Minister of Department

Student visa – an admission letter and other substantiating documents that indicate your educational ability, issued by the dean or president of the university.

Additional Information

If you can’t meet the necessary entry conditions and requirements due to unavoidable circumstances, you may be given a conditional entry permit valid for up to 72 hours. Regarding this permit, the chief of a branch or district office may impose conditions including financial guarantee, references, restrictions on the duration of your stay and a duty to obey summons, a monetary deposit not more than 10 million won ($10,000).

Single entry visas valid for up to 90 days cost US$30. If you wish to stay for more than 90 days, it will cost you US$50. If you plan on visiting Korea more than once, you can avail of a multiple-entry visa for US$80.

If you wish to visit Argentina in the near future, the first thing that you should have, aside from your passport, is a visa. There are several different types of passports that you can choose from. Be sure that you pick the one that matches the purpose of your visit. Whether you just want to be amazed by Argentina’s natural beauty or experience working in a South American environment, having the proper valid visa will keep you out of trouble.

Who needs a visa?

Everyone who travels to Argentina must have a visa except for the following:

• citizens of the United States and the European Union for stays of 90 days
• citizens of other countries in the region ( Bolivia, Brazil, Chile, Paraguay, Uruguay, Colombia, Costa Rica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Guatemala, Honduras, Mexico, Nicaragua, Panama, Peru and Venezuela) for stays of up to 90 days
• transit passengers who continue their journey in a period of six hours without stepping out of the airport

Note that these exemptions are effective only on tourist and business trips. If you don’t belong to any of them, you need to consult the Argentine embassy or consulate for more details.

Types Available and Requirements

There are two major types of visas that are available to ordinary citizens: tourist visa and business visa.

Tourist Visa

If you wish to visit Argentina and enjoy what it has to offer without working or seeking employment, you need a tourist visa. To obtain one, you need to produce the following documents:

• a valid passport
• a completed form of request
• a passport-size photograph
• a return ticket
• payment of the application fee (cash or postal check)
• a letter from your company

Generally, tourist visas are valid for up to 90 days (three months). If you wish to extend your stay, you may do so by consulting with the Consular Section of the Embassy. Be aware that visa extensions are possible for some nationalities and not everyone.

Business Visa

If you have a business agenda in Argentina, what you need is a business visa. To get one, here are the documents you need to produce:

• a valid passport
• a completed form of request
• a passport-size photograph
• a return ticket
• payment of the application fee (cash or postal check)
• a letter from your company
• a letter of invitation from the Argentine company hiring you
• a letter of introduction from the contracting company
• banking references

Business visas are valid up to 90 days. However, if you are an artist or a musician and you will be in Argentina for less than 15 days, you may want to take advantage of “visa of 15 days.” The requirements are the same. You only need to prepare a letter to the company or organization who asks for your services. It usually costs US$30.

Additional Information

In Argentina, if you are below 21, you are considered a minor. All minors who wish to enter the country without their parents must present a written authorization signed by their parents.

Another important thing to remember is that it is very unlikely that you will be issued a visa if you are from a country wherein cholera and yellow fever are endemic and you have not received vaccines against them. Other than these two, no other vaccines are required to visit Argentina.

A Henley and Partners study gives Iran a Henley Visa Restrictions Index of 14. This means that with an Iranian passport, Iranian nationals may enjoy traveling to 14 countries and territories for short tourism-related visits visa-free. That’s pretty low when juxtaposed with other countries’. In fact, Iran is also ranked 82nd (out of 83) when it comes to international travel freedom. That is the second lowest score in the study. Here is a list of the countries and territories that you may visit with an Iranian passport even without a visa. Note that some of these actually require a visa but you’ll have to obtain it the moment you arrive.

Armenia (21 days, visa-on-arrival)

Aruba (14 days)

Azerbaijan (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Bahamas (30 days)

Bangladesh (90 days, visa-on-arrival)

Bermuda (90 days)

Canada (180 days, for US residents with Iranian passports)

Cook Islands (31 days)

Costa Rica (30 days)

Dominica (21 days)

Haiti (3 months)

Indonesia (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Jamaica (6 months)

Laos (15 days, visa-on-arrival)

Liechtenstein (90 days)

Macau (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Malaysia (30 days)

Maldives (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Mexico (180 days)

Micronesia (30 days)

Nepal (60 days, visa-on-arrival)

Netherlands Antilles (14 days)

Nicaragua (3 months)

Palau (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Saint Kitts and Nevis (14 days)

Seychelles (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Sri Lanka (30 days, visa-on-arrival)

Switzerland (90 days)

Turkey (3 months)

Remember that having an Iranian passport does not guarantee entry to any of the countries and territories listed above. Immigration officers may deny you access at their discretion.

Types Available

There are two major types of Iranian passports. Choose the one appropriate for you depending on your purpose or position.

• Ordinary passport. Every Iranian national has the right to own an ordinary passport to travel outside the country. This type is issued by any of the passport and identification centers. Iranian citizens abroad can obtain one from any Iranian consular missions in their country of residence.
• Diplomatic and official passports. Diplomatic and service passports are issued to accredited members of any diplomatic mission, high-ranking government officials, employees or members of international organizations (United Nations, Organization of American States, etc), and their family members on their official visits or missions abroad. They are usually exempt from fees. Only the Ministry of Foreign Affairs can issue this type of passport. However, consulates can extend the validity of diplomatic passports for Iranian people living abroad carrying this type.

How to apply

The first thing you will need when applying for an Iranian passport is an application form. You may obtain this from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or any passport office throughout the country. If you’re living abroad, you may get a copy from the consular section of any Iranian embassy or consulate. Fill out the form fully, legibly and accurately. Write in capital letters. Any misrepresentation or suppression of the facts may lead to denial of your passport. Incomplete and incorrect applications will not be processed.

Aside from the application form, here are the other documents you are required to submit:

· two pieces of proof of residence (photocopy of utility bills, lease agreement, driver’s license, other documents indicating your mailing address)

· certificate of citizenship or identity

· application processing fee

· four recent identical color passport-size photographs

Write your identification on the back of the pictures. Men should not wear hats or eyeglasses. Women should wear a hejab.

Duplicate Passport

Losing your passport can be a very troublesome event. If, unfortunately, you lose your passport, the first thing to do is to report to the police and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs or the Iranian consulate nearest you, if overseas. Then, apply for a duplicate passport. Applications are not usually accepted by mail unless you have approval of the passport issuing office or the consular office. Even so, you may still be required to come in person.

To be issued another passport, submit the following documents:

• a duly accomplished General Form 1, 2
• the original copy of your birth certificate
• clear photocopies of your lost passport’s last page indicating the exit stamp from Iran as well as page 2-9
• a copy of a police report indicating you have lost your passport
• four recent identical color passport-size photographs (with identification on the back; no hat or eyeglasses for men and with vale for women)
• an application letter stating reasons for the loss of your passport
• a letter from your university or college (if a student)
• a letter from your employer (if working)

If you have Iranian companions while traveling, you also need to submit original copies of their birth certificates and passport-style photographs.

Passport Renewal

If you already have a passport and you need a new one, make sure to file your application within one year of your current passport’s expiry or before six months of its expiry. Here are the documents you need to submit.

• accomplished General Form 1, 2
• four recent identical color passport-size photographs (with identification on the back; no hat or eyeglasses for men and with vale for women)
• your current passport with valid visa

If you are a dual citizen or you have citizenship other than Iranian, you also need to submit photocopies of foreign documents and relevant forms as well as clear photocopies of pages 2 to 9 of your current passport and the last page indicating the exit stamp from Iran.

In case there is information in your passport that needs to be changed, such as the marital status and name of spouse, you are required to submit proof like a photocopy of your marriage certificate. You also need to submit your current passport, which you will get once the processing is over.

Additional Information

One of the most unfortunate things that could happen to an Iranian national is losing a passport. Unlike in many Western countries, applying for a duplicate passport in Iran is not as easy as going online, accomplishing forms and waiting for the new passport to be delivered to your home. You have to realize that the Iranian government is so wary and cautious when it comes to international travel. Authorities see to it that you really lost your passport and did not sell it. Forgery is almost a common thing in passport applications in Iran.

If you lose your passport, prepare for a good six months of not just waiting but also filling out several forms and answering interrogations. Passport authorities will not give you a new one until they are comfortable and sure that you have indeed lost it.

Make sure to let them know that it is important for you to obtain a new passport but never show arrogance. You may be a little persistent but stay humble.