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What Is an International Passport?

A passport is a travel document issued by a country’s government to its citizens. It verifies the identity and nationality of the passport holder for the purpose of international travel.

What Does a Passport Look Like?

According to the International Civil Aviation Organization’s Doc 9303 “Machine Readable Travel Documents,” passports are size 3 travel documents that must follow specific regulations for their construction, layout, and contents.

Size 3 travel documents must take the form of a booklet with at least 8 pages and a data page. The information on the data page must be in specific locations and zones that allow it to be electronically read. In addition, the ICAO mandates various security features on passports to prevent counterfeiting and fraud.

What Information Do Passports Include?

Passports usually contain the passport holder’s name, passport number, nationality, date and place of birth, the passport’s date of issue and date of expiry, photo, and signature.

Why Do I Need a Passport? Do I Need a Passport for Traveling Abroad?

Passport is necessary to travel abroad as it verifies your identity and nationality. It grants safe passage and protection in a foreign land.

Usually you must present your passport a few times at the airport if you are flying, and at the border if you are travelling by land.

Where Can I Travel with a Passport?

Passport is necessary for international travel. However, possession of a passport doesn’t necessarily guarantee entry into the country. You may need to apply for a visa beforehand in order to be allowed entry into your destination country.

What Is a Passport Power?

The passports of the world are ranked by their total visa-free score, that`s how passport power is determined. While planning your journey, make sure to check how many countries you can travel to visa-free with your passport and which countries require you to apply for a visa first.

What Are the Passport Types?

There are several types of passports depending on the citizen`s status in a home country. At present, the passports issued by the majority of countries in the world are generally divided into 3 types: Diplomatic, Service/Official, and Regular.

What Is a Diplomatic Passport?

A diplomatic passport type is issued to those who possess diplomatic status. For example, the diplomat, consul and official as well as the head of state, governmental officials, delegation members of the Congress or government, who are going abroad for national affairs or activities.

What Is a Service/Official Passport?

A Service/Official passport type is issued to government office-bearer of a country. Besides, all countries issue this type to the staff who works for embassies or consulates abroad but have no diplomatic status.

What Is a Regular/Ordinary Passport?

A Regular/Ordinary passport type is issued to all other citizens. For various reasons a Regular passport may have different types in different countries.

What Is a Passport Issuing Authority?

The passport place of issue/Issuing Authority is located on the passport data page somewhere near the name of the passport holder. It is usually written as either Authority or Issuing Authority.

What Documents Do I Need for My Passport Application?

When applying for a passport you must provide documents supporting your identity and citizenship. Each country has its own passport application requirements. Make sure to check your government’s website for the relevant list of required documents.

What Is a Passport Application Fee?

The passport application fee is the fee you must pay when applying for a new passport or renewal of an old passport. Each country has different passport application fees. Make sure to check your government’s website for the relevant information about payments.

Can My Passport Application Be Refused?

Yes. The passport-issuing authorities may refuse to issue a passport for different reasons. For example, if the applicant provides false information on the application, applicant is not a citizen of the country, or if charged with a crime.

When Renewing My Passport, Will My Old Passport Be Returned to Me?

When you apply to renew your passport, an old passport may be returned to you or securely destroyed by your government’s passport-issuing authority. If you have a visa that is still valid in your old passport, then it can be returned to you.

If an old passport is returned, then it must be invalidated, that`s why it is returned in a damaged form, for example with a hole through its pages.

Each country has its own passport renewal requirements. Make sure to check your government’s website for the relevant information.

What Are the Passport Requirements to Consider When I Travel?

For you to travel smoothly your passport must meet the following criteria:

- It should be valid.

- It should not be damaged.

- It should have enough blank pages.

Can My Passport Expire? For How Long Is My Passport Valid?

Yes, passports expire. Validity period depends on the issuing country. Passports are usually valid for 5-10 years, after which they become invalid for travel.

How Many Passports Can One Person Have?

There is no real limit on how many passports a single individual can have. However, the citizenship laws of your home country may include conditions or restrictions about dual citizenship. Some countries do not allow their citizens to hold dual or multiple passports and require them to give up their current nationality for a new one. Other countries allow dual or multiple citizenships with some conditions. For this reason, we recommend to check your country’s regulations on this matter.

Do I Need a Passport for Domestic Travel?

No. Typically a passport isn`t required for domestic travel as other government-issued photo identification is acceptable. However, we recommend to check your country’s travel regulations to find out what documents are needed for domestic and international travel.

Can I Use My Driver License as a Proof of Identity When Traveling?

When traveling on domestic flights, you might be able to use a driver's license as your proof of identity if it has your national ID number. On international flights, you must carry either your passport or national ID card as proof of identity.

For How Long Must a Passport Be Valid for Traveling to a Schengen Area?

Your passport must be not older than 10 years and it should be valid for at least 3 more months beyond the date you plan to leave a Schengen area.

What Is a Visa?

Visa is an official document provided by the country you wish to visit, granting you temporary permission to enter, leave and stay in country for a certain amount of time.

For How Long Must a Passport Be Valid for Traveling to the UK?

Your passport must be valid for the whole duration of your stay in the UK.

For How Long Must a Passport Be Valid for Traveling to the USA?

When traveling to the USA, the general rule is to have a passport that is valid for at least 6 months beyond the date you plan to leave the country.

However, there are some exceptions:

  • Some country citizens have more freedom regarding their passport expiration when traveling to the USA. Their passport validity must only cover the time of their intended stay in the USA.
  • Some country citizens travel visa-free to the USA under the Visa Waiver Program. If their passport is not valid for 90 days, they will be admitted to the USA until the passport expiration date.

For How Long Must a Passport Be Valid for Traveling to Canada?

Required passport validity for traveling to Canada is equal to the expiry date of your passport.

What Is a Blank Passport Page? How Many Blank Pages Do I Need in My Passport to Travel?

Passport must have enough blank pages to accommodate entry and exit immigration stamps for each country of travel. A blank passport page is a clean and clear page, which does not show ink or stains from any other pages in the passport.

Passports must typically have 2-4 blank pages for international travel. The airline may not let you board or your destination country may not let you enter if there is no space for the entrance stamp/visa to be stamped into your passport.

At least 1 blank page in a passport is required for each visa. Most visas that are stamped in a passport require an entire blank passport page. Each country has different entry requirements for the number of blank pages required. Make sure to check with your destination country’s government website before starting your journey.

For How Long Must a Passport Be Valid When I Travel?

Passports must usually be valid for at least 6 months from the start of a travel date. Your travel destination country may not let you enter if there is a risk that your passport will expire while you are traveling.

Each country has different requirements for how long a passport must be valid. Make sure to check with your destination country’s government website before starting your journey.

What Is a Damaged Passport? How to Check If My Passport Is Damaged?

Passport is considered damaged if it appears to have been altered in any way and if identifying the passport holder is hindered in any way. Types of damage include exposure to water and humidity, and unauthorized markings.

Passports are official documents and should be taken care of at all times. Check your passport to make sure it is not damaged in any way. Ensure that passport pages are not partially or completely separated from the cover and that the laminate on the photograph page is intact.

Can I Travel with a Damaged Passport?

Probably not. If your passport is damaged in any way, it`s better to apply for a new one. It is most likely that the border security at your destination country will refuse you entry to the country if you present a damaged passport.

Does My Passport Number Change When I Renew My Passport?

Yes. A new passport has a different passport number than a previous passport. If you have applied for any official documents using your old passport, you may need to update that application with your new passport.

Do Children Require Passports?

Yes. Children and babies require passports, as according to new regulations, every individual traveling abroad must have their own passport.

I Have Dual Nationality and More Than One Passport. What Should I Say When Asked About Nationality and Country?

You can present a passport of your choice. However, we recommend that you present a passport and ID card, that is more advantageous to the visa and passport policy of your travel destination country. Note that some countries do not accept dual citizenship. Make sure to check with your destination country’s government website before starting your journey.

Can I Use My Passport as My ID?

Yes. You can use your passport as identification outside the airport. However, it is not recommended to carry around your passport on a daily basis, as replacing a lost passport can be costly and time-consuming.

Do I Need a New Passport If I Change My Name?

Yes. The information on all your travel documents (passport, ID, and ticket) must be the same. If you have officially changed your given name or surname, then you must apply for a new passport. It is important that your travel documents accurately reflect your current identity.

When applying for a new passport make sure to include official proofs of the name change (for example, a marriage or divorce certificate).

What Should I Do If My Passport Is Lost or Stolen?

If you lose your passport or it is stolen, you must report it to the authorities immediately. Contact the local police as well as your country’s passport authorities (embassy/consulate) to report what happened. Your passport will be invalidated to ensure that it can`t be used fraudulently and you may be issued a temporary passport with which you can travel home. Then you must apply for a new passport.

Can My Passport Be Revoked?

Yes. Your passport may be revoked for several reasons, such as losing your citizenship, being charged with a crime, or providing false information on your passport application. The passport issuing authority reserves the right to refuse or revoke your passport if they feel they have sufficient grounds for doing so. 

How Do I Plan the Best for My Trip?

Firstly, ensure you have valid travel documents in your possession when traveling. Certain countries require a transit visa or a visit visa. Also, various countries require certain medical precautions when visiting. Make sure to check related information and contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country prior to your departure.

How Can I Find the Best Travel Deal?

It is best to check multiple types of sites before you book, including the provider’s own website as well as online travel agencies and metasearch sites.

One tip to keep in mind: The more flexible you are, the better the deals will be. Moving your trip a few months from a destination’s peak season often means lower prices and smaller crowds. Flying out on a Tuesday or Wednesday rather than a Friday or Sunday can also save you money.

It is hard to get a deal when you want to travel at a specific time to a specific place. Easier to find the best deals by being flexible about either the time of year or the location. But if you know you have no flexibility, you should look into gaining and using airline points and miles versus waiting on a deal that may never happen.

What Are the Flexible Dates?

Sometimes travel dates are not set in an exact time period. If your preferred travel dates give you some space to choose, flexible dates will show you flights up to 3 days before/after your preferred dates. That way, you can see if leaving a day or two earlier will find you a better deal. You can also select the “flexible weekend/month" search options to widen your search range and find the cheapest price that works for you.

When Should I Make Bookings for My Trip?

Airfare prices are impossible to predict as they fluctuate constantly. However, there are a few strategies that will guide you to a good deal and minimize your risk of overpaying.

For domestic travel, you will typically find the best fares 1-2 months before your trip. For international itineraries, you will often need to start searching for fares a bit further in advance, especially if your dates are firm or you are traveling at a busy time of the year. Add an extra month or two for peak travel times like holidays or major events. Some popular destinations and summer break bookings require even more advance planning.

Research suggests that if you buy your ticket when most people do — between one and four months before you fly — you are likely to find the lowest price. Do not push the button too early or too late, because fares tend to rise, especially as you close in on your departure date.

What Is the Best Day to Book Travel Plans?

This question is widely debated and disputed among travel experts. Some claim you can find a bargain by waiting until a particular day and time, like Wednesday at 1 a.m. in the airline’s time zone. In fact, recent data has proven that the "best day" theory is a gimmick. And although prices do vary during different times of the week, the average savings are usually only $5 to $15. These savings are so minimal, that they aren`t worth your time.

What Are Frequent Flyer Miles?

Frequent flyer miles also known as airline miles or travel points, are part of a loyalty program offered by airlines and/or credit cards. Typically, you accumulate a set number of miles based on how much you spend on a ticket (or how much you spend on your credit card).

That is simple enough on the surface, but the term “miles” does not equate to the actual number of miles you have already flown or can fly in the future. Basically, airline miles are like any other rewards program: you get points for buying stuff, and eventually those points accumulate, and you get something for free (i.e. flights, accommodation, train tickets, and other forms of travel).

What Is the Cancellation Policy?

Cancellation policies determine the refund in case of a booking cancellation. You need to check this for everything you book – flights, rental cars, lodging, attraction tickets etc. These policies range from relaxed to super strict, that`s why make sure to read them before making any booking.

What Documents Do I Need to Take with Me When I Travel?

Having most of your important documents backed up can save you in emergencies. We recommend keeping digital and physical copies of your passport, driver’s license, health insurance, booking confirmations, and important phone numbers – all may be handy during your trip.

What Is a Travel Insurance?

Travel insurance is a range of insurance products and options which cover individuals against personal accident and medical treatment costs, as well as delays and travel disruption on both domestic and international journeys.

Do I Need a Travel Insurance When I Travel?

Yes. To buy or not to buy a travel insurance depends on risk and your tolerance for it. There are many options when it comes to travel insurance. What is important is getting the most appropriate plan for the type of trip you are taking. If you buy an insurance, make sure you know what is included in your policy. You do not have to take your policy with you when you travel, but you do need to know your policy number.

Do I Require a Vaccine When Traveling Abroad?

Some countries may require proof of vaccinations (such as yellow fever vaccination) if you are arriving from a country with its risk. It is the passenger´s own responsibility to verify these regulations before traveling to the chosen country.

Can I Fly If I Am Pregnant?

Policy on flying while pregnant depends on both the passenger’s stage of pregnancy and state of health. Particularly for long flights, even passengers in good health should obtain an approval from their doctor.

Usually, passengers who have not yet entered their 28th week of pregnancy are able to travel without a doctor’s note. Passengers in the 36th week or beyond, will not be able to fly even with a doctor’s report.

Remember that the date on your doctor’s report must not be more than 7 days before your flight. It is the best to have your report written in English including the doctor’s full name, diploma number, and signature.

Can I Take My Pets with Me When I Travel?

Would you like to travel with your pets? Usually transportation of pets is not included in baggage allowance and is subject to additional baggage fees. Birds like parrots and canaries, and pets such as cats and dogs can be brought into the cabin if they are in a special carrier.

To transport a live animal in cabin or aircraft hold, the reservation must be made and confirmed before flight departure time (usually no later than 6 hours). Note that in accordance with aircraft type there is a capacity limit on the number of animals that can be carried per aircraft. Also ensure that you are carrying all the necessary documentation.

Transporting animals is subject to local country regulations. For more detailed information, contact your airline and check the destination country rules.

Which Musical Instruments Can I Take with Me When I Fly?

Usually you can bring small musical instruments like guitars and violins as carry-on baggage. Though airlines have limits on the total length, width, and the weight of the instrument which you should consider beforehand.

Transporting musical instruments requires special care, so make sure to pack your instrument in a hard case before checking it in or carrying it into the cabin to prevent it from getting damaged. For more detailed information, please contact your airline.

What If My Baggage does not Reach My Travel Destination?

If your baggage does not reach your travel destination, contact your airline, and apply immediately to the “Lost and Found Office” at the airport.

What Is an E-ticket Number?

An e-ticket is an electronic ticket that is issued when you purchase a flight ticket. The e-ticket number is a 13-digit number and is always unique for each passenger.

What Is a PNR/Record Locator?

A PNR or record locator is a 6-digit alpha numeric code that you receive when you make a booking. You can use the PNR and the last name to retrieve your booking when needed. One PNR can have multiple passengers booked in it, as it is not unique to each passenger.

What Is the Difference Between a Boarding Pass and an Airline Ticket?

Your ticket is generated as an electronic ticket (e-ticket) when you book your flight. Your boarding pass is your “ticket” to board the plane, it is generated upon check-in.

What Is a Boarding Pass?

A boarding pass is a document provided by an airline during check-in, giving a passenger permission to board the airplane for a particular flight. At a minimum, it identifies the passenger and contains information about the flight number, seat assignments for that flight, the date and scheduled time for departure. A boarding pass may also indicate details of the perks a passenger is entitled to (e.g. lounge access, priority boarding) and is thus presented at the entrance of such facilities to show eligibility.

How Do I Get My Boarding Pass?

Boarding passes are provided either in person at the check-in counter or online. Online check-in is generally available 24 hours prior to the flight. Once you have checked in, you can usually either print your boarding pass, send it to your mobile phone, or to your email address.

What Is an Online Check-in?

Online check-in is an airline service allowing passengers to check in to the flight online, choose the seat, update travel preferences, and print a boarding pass. You can use this service from anywhere that has access to the internet. Online check-ins save time at the airport.

How to Check-in Using an E-ticket?

Click on check-in on the airline website and enter the ticket number/PNR and the last name of the passenger. When checking-in online, your flight must be within the check-in timeframe (usually 24 -48 hours before the flight).

Do I Need to Take a Printout of My E-ticket with Me to the Airport?

No. Usually you do not need to take a printout of your e-ticket to the airport with you. When checking-in at the airport you need to present a form of identification or the booking confirmation provided to you when purchasing your ticket.  You can complete all procedures at the check-in desk with your ticket number, booking code (PNR), and ID.

However, we recommend that you carry a hard copy of the e-ticket receipt with you as you may need to present this to the airport security or the immigration authorities, depending on airport regulations.

How Much in Advance Before My Flight Should I Arrive at the Airport?

It is recommended that you reach the airport 2-3 hours prior to your departure. Some airports could have different check-in times. Make sure to contact your departure airport or your airline for precise information.

When Does the Check-in Counter Close at the Airport?

This may vary depending on your airport of departure. Check-in typically opens 3 hours prior to departure and closes one hour before departure. We recommend that you arrive at the airport at least 3 hours prior to departure. Make sure to contact your departure airport or your airline for precise information.

When Does the Boarding Gate Close?

Usually boarding gates close 20-40 minutes prior to departure. This may vary depending on your airport of departure. Make sure to contact your departure airport or your airline for precise information.

How to Change My Name on the Ticket If My Name Is Legally Changed on My Travel Documents?

If you legally change your first/middle/last name, title, or any combination of them, you will have to support your name change request with an official certificate (legal document) of such changes. You will need to contact your airline for assistance with that correction.

What Is a Transatlantic Flight?

Any flight which spans across the Atlantic Ocean is referred to as a transatlantic flight. For example, any flight to the United States of America or Canada from Europe, Africa, or Middle East.

Who Is a Transfer Passenger?

Passengers who have a stopover of under 24 hours anywhere between the starting point and the final destination of their journey and then board a connecting flight with the same or a different airline are referred to as transfer passengers.

Who Is a Transit Passenger?

Passengers who land between the starting point and the final destination of their journey and then board a connecting flight with the same flight number are referred to as transit passengers.

Why Do I Need to Turn Off All Electronic Devices Before an Airplane Takes off and Lands?

We have been taught to fear the interference of our portable devices and an airplane's sensitive electronic systems. The issue is still being debated, but it` better to follow this rule.

What Should I Do When My Flight Is Delayed or Cancelled?

If your flight is cancelled, immediately go to the ticket counter to determine your options. While you are in line, we recommend calling the airline to see if a customer service representative can assist you over the phone.

Know that your rights in this case vary depending on whether the situation is the airline’s fault (such as a mechanical delay) or due to some uncontrollable outside force (like unpleasable weather conditions). Every airline’s policy varies, but most state that for delays or cancellations within the airline’s control, passengers are entitled to be rebooked on the next available flight, possibly transferred to another carrier, or to receive a refund for the unused part of the ticket. Some airlines provide meal vouchers, hotel stays, and ground transportation at their discretion.

When the situation is beyond the airline’s control, a refund is all that most airlines promise. Most airlines waive change fees during major weather events, so you can reschedule even before you get to the airport. If you do not like available rebooking options, you may request a refund even when your original ticket is non-refundable.

What Does All-Inclusive Mean?

An all-inclusive resort charges one fee that usually includes the price of a room, unlimited food, beverages, activities, and entertainment without any surprise costs. All-inclusive resorts vary the benefits they include in their all-inclusive vacation package. It is important to do your research in advance, as the quality and amount of these options may vary, depending upon the hotel or resort that you choose.

How Do I Exchange Money When I Travel?

If exchanges at your home country don`t provide the needed currency for your travel, there is no need to worry. Instead, get currency out from the ATM when you arrive to your destination country. Usually they offer the best rates possible but be aware of any extra fees charged by your bank. Also, make sure to use bank owned ATMs as they tend to be safer than independent machines.

To cover yourself in an emergency, make sure to stash some extra cash in a few different places. If you lose your wallet, your card stops working, or the ATMs run out of money, you will be glad you did.

How Do I Use My Phone When I Travel?

It depends entirely on where you are from and what kind of mobile plan you have. Check out your mobile provider`s international plans. If you don’ t like suggested options, then you have a couple of options. The first is to keep your phone in an airplane mode and to only use Wi-Fi. The second is to unlock your phone and buy SIM cards in new countries. The key tip is to make sure that you do not use mobile data abroad without an international plan or a new SIM card as it will be very expensive.

What Is the Difference Between a Passport and a Visa?

The main difference between a passport and а visa is that passport is issued to the citizens of country for international travel and identification of them, while visa is an official permission to its holder to enter, exit and live in a specified country for a specified time period.

What Are the Common Purposes of Visit on Visa Application?

There are many different visa types that refer to different purposes of visit, included most common ones as tourism/business visa, work visa, student visa, exchange visitor visa, transit visa, etc. Each purpose of visit refers to different visa type.

What Are the Common Visa Forms?

A visa may take the form of a sticker or a stamp in the passport or be a separate document or an electronic record of the authorization, which the applicant can print before leaving home and present while entry to the visited territory.

What Are Immigration and Non-immigration Visas?

An immigrant visa is issued to a person wishing to live permanently in that country. A non-immigrant visa is issued to a person with permanent residence outside country but wishes to be in that country on a temporary basis for tourism, medical treatment, business, temporary work, or study, as examples.

What Does a Visa-Free Regime Mean?

Visa-free regime refers to the ability to travel to a foreign country without the need for a visa. In this case only a valid passport is required for entry and exit purposes.

What Is an E-visa?

An e-visa is an official document issued online by the Immigration Department that allows a foreigner to enter and travel to the issued country. An e-visa is an alternative to a paper-based visa issued by the embassy.

Do I Need to Print My E-visa Before Arrival to the Destination Country?

It may be required or not by border control, but in all cases, we advise to print your e-visa, or electronic authorisation before your trip.

What Is an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA)?

An electronic travel authorization or eTA is an entry requirement for visa-exempt or facilitated visa regime applied to foreign nationals traveling or transiting to a country, usually by air. It allows the destination or transit country to screen travellers before they arrive, increasing security. Basically, eTA can be referred as a type of e-visa that applies for only specified nationals.

Does Having a Visa Guarantee Entering the Country for All Visa Holders?

No. Although it happens very rarely, border control can refuse your entrance to the country in some extraordinary circumstances, even if you hold a visa.

What Does a Visa on Arrival Mean?

Some countries issue visas for certain nationals once they arrive in the country. Travellers must obtain a visa to enter the destination country, but it can be obtained upon arrival at the border of the country (usually at the airport). In some cases, getting approval letter or pre-registration in advance might be required by countries for getting visa on arrival.

Can I Be Refused Entrance to the Country with a Visa on Arrival Policy?

Yes. Border control can refuse your entrance to the country in some cases. For example, if you do not meet their requirements, or you do not provide them required documents such as an approval letter. For that reason, we always advise to get an approval letter, or at least enough information for visa on arrival regime countries before you travel there.

How Long Will My Visa Be Valid?

Visa validity depends on country’s governmental regulations and your travel purpose. Some countries have a certain period of validity for their visa, while others offer you alternatives as you wish.

What Is a Single-Entry Visa?

A single-entry visa may only be used for one entry to the country for the specified purpose for which it was granted.

What Is a Multiple-Entries Visa?

A multiple-entries visa allows you to enter the country several times during the validity period of your visa.

What Can Be a Reason for a Visa Rejection?

There can be several different reasons for a visa rejection. Some of these reasons include:

- false documents

- false information provided to the visa issuing authorities

- lack of provided required documents

- past or current criminal records

- insufficient explanation of the travel purpose and circumstances of the planned stay

- failure to prove the travel itinerary

- insufficient means of subsistence

- failure to present proof of accommodation

- lack of travel history

What Is a Visa Issuing Authority?

Visa issuing authority refers to authority that issues visas for citizens of local country for traveling to destination country. Mostly embassies and consulates perform this process.

What Is a Visa Application Centre?

Visa Application Centres (VACs) are private companies that have formal contracts with the government of a represented country. They securely send applicants’ documents to the official visa issuing authorities (an embassy or a consulate).

What Is the Difference Between a Visa Application Centre and an Embassy?

Embassies are official government representatives in a foreign country and their consulates issue visas for foreign people. Applicants apply to Visa Application Centres for visa in some countries where there is no any official embassy or consulate of destination country. Visa Application Centres are private companies that have formal contracts with the government of a represented country.

In some cases, Visa Application Centres can serve to applicants, even if there is an official representative as an embassy or a consulate of destination country, by an intention of that country.

What Is Means of Subsistence?

In most visa applications, visa issuing authorities require such document as a proof of necessary means of subsistence. This document is needed for demonstration of your financial readiness to cope with existential costs for the applied period of stay abroad.

Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency such as a personal bank statement indicating your financial movements, credit card, cash, traveller’s cheques, pay slips, proof of employment, proof of prepaid accommodation, proof of prepaid transport, etc.

What Is a Travel Itinerary?

A travel itinerary refers to the schedule of events and places relating to planned travel, generally including destinations to be visited at specified times and means of transportation to travel between those destinations. Your flight tickets, hotel bookings, event invitations or tickets, internal transportation tickets, business meetings can be example documents for your travel itinerary.

What Is a Proof of the Accommodation?

Proof of the accommodation refers to a document that indicates your accommodation address during your stay abroad. As an evidence of a place to stay most embassies accept different documents such as hotel bookings, an invitation from the host with a copy of his passport, an evidence of a pre-paid tour with details of your payment to the tour operator, etc.

What Is a Travel History?

Travel history is a record of a traveller’s past visits to outside of their home country. When people travel to foreign country, they get an immigration stamp or a visa stamp on their passport, this records of stamps/visas on the passport is called a travel history. The travel history indicates all the recent visits of passport holder including destinations and dates visited. A good travel history supports your visa application and increases the chances to get visa to common-wealth countries (the USA, Canada, etc.).

What Is a Visa Validity?

The visa validity is the time period during which you are permitted to travel to the destination country.

What Is Duration of Stay on a Visa?

Duration of stay on visa refers to the maximum amount of days you are permitted to remain in the destination country.

What Is the Difference Between Visa Validity and Duration of Stay?

Visa validity is the period of time when you can use your visa to enter and stay in the country, while duration of stay refers to the maximum number of allowed days to remain in that country.

For example, the duration of stay in your visa is written as 10 days, whereas the validity of your visa is from 1 December to 20 December. In this case, you can enter the visa issued country anytime between 1-20 December and stay for a maximum of 10 days. You can enter i.e. on 3 December and leave on 12 December.

On the other hand, you are not allowed to overstay the validity of your visa even if you don`t use all the days allowed as your duration of stay. For example, if you enter on 15 December, you will still have to leave the country on 20 December, despite of not using the full number of days you were permitted to stay (in this case 10 days).

Do I Need a Visa to Transit Through a Country?

Many countries do not require a visa if you are in-transit to another destination and are staying for a short period of time such as few hours. However, specific transit requirements vary widely from one country to another. 

What Does Personal Appearance at the Embassy Mean?

Most visa issuing authorities require a visa applicant to appear in person at the embassy/consulate to apply for the visa and submit the required documents. This may be done to verify applicant`s identity or conduct a formal interview. In these cases, you must submit your visa application directly to the embassy/consulate. In some cases, upon the permission from the consulate/embassy it`s possible to apply instead of an applicant with a letter of attorney.

Can I Buy a Ticket Before I Have Obtained a Visa for My Destination Country?

You can buy a ticket before your visa has been confirmed. However, most embassies don`t require purchasing a ticket for a visa application, providing a ticket reservation among the documents should be enough. In some cases, you might be asked to purchase the booked ticket at the further stages. Make sure to read the ticket's refund conditions in the event your visa application is not successful.

Can I Travel if My Visa Is in My Old Passport?

If your current visa is on an old passport for any reason (expired or older version passport, etc.), you must get e new passport before your trip and contact the consulate or embassy of the country you are traveling to. In some cases, you might need to transfer your visa to a new passport or may be allowed to take both passports with yourself.

What Should I Do If My Visa Is Damaged?

If your visa is damaged before your travel, immediately contact the embassy/consulate or official representative in order to inform them about situation and get correct instructions. Most likely you will be asked to reapply or renew your visa before travel.

What Is Pickvisa?

Pickvisa.com is an online platform that provides services in obtaining travel, education, and business trip visas to any country worldwide for any nationals.

What Does Pickvisa Do on Behalf of Me?

Pickvisa does all visa procedures on behalf of applicants in order to get visa. We collect required information and some basic documents from you, then we process with the application procedures. Our service includes individual visa consultancy, filling visa application form, reservation of flight tickets, booking accommodations, controlling and checking all visa documents, following up with a visa procedure, etc. We offer additional services that depend on your visa application.

Why Should I Choose Pickvisa?

Visa application processes are complex, time-consuming, and require a detailed approach. Our team does its best to help its customers to get a visa and minimizes their involvement in the process. The user-friendly interface of our website, specialization exclusively on visa issues, and extensive database, consisting of all information about visa requirements of any country in the world make Pickvisa.com unique in the service market. You can contact our support service anytime you wish. All your information is safe with us!

What Is the Difference Between Pickvisa and Visa Application Centres?

Visa Application Centres (VACs) are private companies that have formal contracts with the government of represented country, while Pickvisa is a private company that provides services in obtaining travel, education, and business trip visas to any country worldwide for any nationals. Basically, Pickvisa prepares all your documents for you to apply in an embassy or a Visa Application Centre. VAC’s main responsibility is to send applicants` applications securely and passport to the official visa issuing authorities such as visa offices, embassies and consulates of country.

For Which Countries Do You Have Visa Support Service?

Pickvisa offers visa support service to all countries in the world which have certain visa procedure.

For Which Nationals Do You Have Visa Support Service?

Pickvisa offers visa support service to all nationals worldwide who have eligibility to apply for a visa.

Which Visa Types Do You Have Visa Support Service For?

Pickvisa offers visa support for all main visa types such as e-visas, traditional sticker visas, eTA (Electronic Travel Authorization), approval letters for visa on arrival, tourist cards, etc. based on your destination and eligibility.

We also offer visa support service for tourism, business visit, work, education visas for all the countries.

What Kind of Service Does Pickvisa Offer for a Visa on Arrival?

Pickvisa visa support service includes getting an official approval letter or making pre-registration for visa on arrival. We always advise you to get approval letters in advance for a visa on arrival in order to ensure your eligibility to enter the country.

How Much Is Pickvisa Service Fee?

Pickvisa service fee depends on a destination country you wish to visit, visa type and visa procedure. In order to check our service fee for your visa application, you can click services and specify your citizenship, residency country, visit purpose and destination country.

How Can I Pay Pickvisa Service Fee?

We accept Visa/Master Cards and Paypal. Additionally, you can pay our service fee in cash in our offices.

Will I Get an Invoice for My Payment?

Yes. Once you make the payment for the visa application online, an invoice will be automatically sent to the email address that you mentioned in the application.

Do You Guarantee Getting a Visa to Your Applicants?

We can’t guarantee getting visas, because we don`t have any direct influence on visa issuing authorities, and final visa result depends on their intention totally. However, you can be sure that we will do our best for your satisfaction!

Where Are Pickvisa Offices Located?

Our Dubai office is located in Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Fortune Tower, 13th floor, office 1303.

Our Baku office is located in Samad Vurghun street 43, World Business Centre, 20th floor.

You can check further details in Contacts section on our website.

What Is Your Processing Time for Visa Support Service?

Pickvisa service fee depends on a destination country you wish to visit, visa type and visa procedure. In order to check our service fee for your visa application, you can click here and specify your citizenship, residency country, visit purpose and destination country.

If I Make a Mistake on My Personal Information that I Provided to You, Can I Modify It?

Some visa authorities allow to make changes, but it is always important to modify false information before you apply for a visa. Please, let us know immediately about your mistake once you notice it.

How Can I Be Sure About My Credit Card Information Safety?

Your card information is totally safe with us! Our system will automatically delete your card information after your payment is proceeded.

Do You Share My Personal Data with Any Government Bodies?

No. We don’t use or send your information to anybody without your permission. Your personal information will only be shared with visa issuing authorities for your visa application.

Do You Have Any Direct Contacts with Governments of Countries That You Provide Visas?

No. Pickvisa is a private company and we don`t have any direct contacts with governments of the countries, or we don`t have any influence on them.

How Can I Place My Order?

You can place your order through our website, or by contacting our team of visa specialists. If you want to place your order on our website, please firstly check visa requirements for your visa case on our website main page. On the next page click “apply for visa” button after filling your personal information. As a last step create an account if you have not done it yet, and place your order after choosing your payment method and filling your payment details.

How Much Does a Visa Cost?

Total visa costs depend on a government fee, visa validity, visa type, number of entries, travel purpose, your citizenship and so on. In order to check visa costs for your destination country, you can click here and specify your citizenship, residency country, destination country and a travel purpose.

How Can I Learn Requirements for My Visa Application?

You can check your visa requirements through our website. In order to check visa requirements according to your visit purpose, you can click here and specify your citizenship, residency country, destination country, and travel purpose.

Which Documents Do I Need to Provide for My Visa Application?

Each country requires different kinds of documents to provide for each type of visa. Although there are some general documents you need to provide for getting visa, there are also some specific documents depending on a purpose of travel and citizenship country. In order to check a specific list of required documents for your visa application, you can click here and get all the relevant information by specifying your citizenship, residency country, destination country and travel purpose.

When Will I Get My Visa After I Apply?

Visa processing times vary for each visa application. Processing times may depend on such reasons as a destination country, citizenship, visa type etc. Some visas can be ready in an hour, while others may have more than 1-2 weeks processing time. In order to check visa processing time for your visa application, you can click here and specify your citizenship, residency country, destination country and a travel purpose.

How Can I Contact with Your Support Team?

You can contact with our support team through email (info@pickvisa.com; hello@pickvisa.com) or phone call (+971 50 505 8065; +971 4 876 9245; +994 50 299 9424).

How Can I Create an Account on Your Website?

You can click here for creating your account on our website.

How Can I Subscribe to Updates on Your Website?

You can click “subscribe now” button in bottom of this page for subscribing to our news and blogs.

What Kind of Information will You Send Me If I Subscribe?

We will send you updates about our new blogs and recent news about visas and travel, if you subscribe to our website.

What Is a Freelancer Visa?

Working from a location, that is not your home country requires you to obtain a related visa. There is a difference in going somewhere for tourism purposes versus for a job. The difference lies in the legal rights while residing in a particular country, and obtaining a proper visa will ensure a lawful residency. Depending on your eligibility you may need to apply for either a Work Visa/permit or a Freelancer (Digital Nomad) Visa for working abroad.

There are now many opportunities for Digital nomads and remote workers, as many countries issue a Freelancer (Digital Nomad) Visa. A Freelancer Visa allows remote workers to reside and legally work for their employer or their own company registered abroad.

Who is eligible to apply for a Freelancer Visa? The most common requirements are:

-  Ability to work independently of location.

-  Ability to perform work duties remotely using telecommunications technology.

-  You have an active employment contract with a company registered abroad, conduct business through your own company registered abroad or work as a freelancer for clients mostly abroad (any third countries).

-  Evidence that your income meets the minimum requirements.