Visas FAQ

People are in a constant flux; movement of people is inevitable. Whether we are settling down in another country or simply traveling for fun, we feel the need to see the world or try living in another place. However, as many travelers might say, the worst part of traveling is fixing all the necessary documents – especially visas. Many people get caught in a horrible visa-related situation, giving them a lot of trouble. Having problems with your visa can waste so much of your time, energy and money.

To shed some light on what visas are and what visa policies most countries impose on their visitors, here are some frequently asked questions and, of course, some answers.

What is a visa?

A visa is a travel document that proves you are eligible to enter a specific country. However, it is not a guarantee that you will be allowed to enter. The final decision is usually made by the immigration officers at the airport or border crossing. He or she decides how long you can stay and if you can enter in the first place.

What type of visa should I get?

It heavily depends on your position in the government or the purpose of your travel. There are several different kinds of visas. Every country categorizes visas in its own way. Almost every country in the world issues three major types: ordinary visas, diplomatic visas, and official visas. Diplomatic visas are granted to foreign service officers and representatives of international and regional organizations. Official visas are given to national government officials. Ordinary visas are issued to ordinary citizens.

What type of ordinary visa should I get?

Again, it depends heavily on the purpose of your travel. There are dozens of types of ordinary visas, each provided for a specific purpose. Ask yourself why you want to visit a particular country. If you wish to study there, apply for a student visa. If you want to do business, obtain a work or business visa. If you are there to explore the place or visit some relatives and friends, what you need is a tourist visa. If you’re just passing through the country, a transit visa will do.

Do I really need a visa?

When it comes to visas, countries deal with one another separately. Some countries have made special arrangements with other countries to participate in the visa waiver program. This means that whether or not you need a visa depends on what country you are in and what country you want to visit. For example, an Australian citizen does not need a visa to visit New Zealand, while an Indian citizen must have that document to get past the immigration officers. Check out your country’s Immigration Department website to find out if you need a visa for your travels.

I’m just passing through. Do I still need a visa?

You might. It depends on the country’s policies. In Nepal, a visa may not be required to pass through. In the United States, it might be required. However, remember that even if you don’t need a visa to pass through, you will need a visa for your destination country. You will also need a valid passport. Again, you have to check with your consulate or embassy to be sure.

Can I be denied a visa?

Yes, you may be denied a visa. Remember that the officials of the country you visit will make the final decision. If they believe you might be tempted to stay in their country illegally and you have insufficient ties to your home, they may refuse to issue you a visa. Because of the international security developments that have occurred lately, new precautions have been added. Today, it may take a little longer to get a visa than in the past.

Why would I be denied?

Bear in mind that you are just a visitor. The first concern of the government of the country you will visit is the welfare and protection of their citizens. Thus, anyone considered to be a threat to the security, property and health of its citizens may not be allowed to enter the country. You may be denied a visa if you have:

• a criminal record for immoral behavior or moral turpitude
• multiple criminal convictions
• a communicable disease (HIV, tuberculosis)
• insufficient evidence that you have been vaccinated against mumps, rubella, polio, measles, tetanus, hepatitis B, diphtherias and other preventable diseases
• physical, behavioral or mental disorders
• no marketable skills, which may lead to welfare dependency

The government may also deny you a visa if they think you are a:

• drug trafficker
• drug user
• prostitute
• terrorist
• spy

I’m afraid I belong to one of the types of people mentioned above. Does that mean I will be denied a visa?

Not necessarily. There are exceptions to some restrictions. Remember that these are flexible rules and each case will be examined individually.

What happens if they think I’m inadmissible?

You will be denied any type of visa, refused admission and deported if found inside the country.

Does that mean that I’m inadmissible forever?

Not necessarily. Being inadmissible now doesn’t mean you’ll be banned permanently. In many cases, you can achieve an admissible status by doing any of the following:

• Cure your illness. If you were denied a visa because of a physical or mental illness, you can overturn this if you are cured by the time they decide upon your visa application.
• Prove that they made a mistake. Red tape is not a stranger to many governments and they sometimes mistakenly deny people who are eligible. If you think they have made a mistake, talk to an immigration lawyer.
• Prove that the information they submitted by others is inaccurate. For example, if the examination results are inaccurate, take another test with another doctor. Then, submit a report.

What are immigrant visas?

Some countries, like the United States, group visas into two major categories: immigrant visas and non-immigrant visas. Immigrant visas are for permanent residents who may be sponsored by a prospective employer or a relative.

What are non-immigrant visas?

Non-immigrant visas are issued to people who wish to visit the country for a short, specified period of time. With a non-immigrant visa, you cannot stay in the destination country permanently.

For how long is a non-immigrant visa valid?

It depends on the policies of the country you will be visiting. Most countries, however, issue visas that are valid for only three months (90 days). Others are valid for up to 10 years. Some allow multiple entries, while others are good for one trip. Don’t think that the conditions and requirements are the same for all types of visas in the world. Explore this site to gain more information.

What are the uses of non-immigrant visas?

A visa shows custom and immigration officials that you are eligible to enter the country. It also shows how long you can stay in the country and whether you can work while you’re there.

How do I apply for a non-immigrant visa?

All you have to do is file your application to the embassy or consulate of the country you will be visiting. Some embassies allow applications to be submitted by mail; others don’t. However, it is very likely that you will be called for a personal interview. To be sure of the step-by-step application process, contact the embassy or consulate of the country you wish to visit. They will surely mention the following:

• a valid passport
• photos of yourself
• supporting documents
• application fees

Does a visa guarantee entry into the country?

No. Even if the embassy issued you a visa, the border or customs officials will be the ones making the final decision as to whether or not you will be allowed to enter the country.