Today’s travel has become accessible to everyone, thanks to globalization. Millions of people cross their country's borders daily, whether for study, business, tourism, etc. One of the most crucial aspects of travelling internationally is securing a visa. This article aims to comprehensively understand the differences between e-visas and regular visas, including their application process, convenience, cost, and usage.

What is an electronic visa?

An electronic visa, or e-visa, is a type of visa that can be obtained online. It is a relatively recent development in the travel industry, designed to streamline the visa application process. The e-visa is issued electronically, and the entire application can be finished online. You will not need to visit the embassy or consulate.

For more information about e-visa, check out:

How to apply for an e-visa?

The online application part is easy for most countries. Here are the steps that you need to follow while applying for a visa online:

1. Visit the official website: You can start the application process by visiting the country’s official e-visa portal and filling out the application form. 

2. Documents submission: When completing the application online, you must upload soft copies of your travel documents. Some countries require additional information such as itineraries, accommodation details, and proof of sufficient funds.

3. Payment: The e-visa is paid online using a credit or debit card. The cost varies depending on the country and the type of visa.

4. Processing time: The processing time for an e-visa is generally faster than that for a sticker visa. Depending on the country and the visa type, it can range from a few hours to several days. Once approved, the e-visa is sent electronically, usually via email.

5. Issuance: The e-visa is linked to the applicant's passport number. Travellers are advised to print out the e-visa or confirmation email to present upon arrival at the destination.

What are some popular countries that issue e-visas?

Many popular countries around the globe have started offering e-visas to visitors, making the visa process easy and reliable. Some major countries include Australia, Georgia, Kenya, Qatar, Sri Lanka, and many more. Before taking any application steps, you should visit the official government website to learn about the application process. 

What are the advantages and limitations of e-visa?

There are some perks and limitations to e-visa. Some of them are given below: 

Advantages of e-visa

• Convenience and speed: The e-visa application can be completed from anywhere. All you require is an internet connection and photographs of your travel documents. The process is also less time-consuming, as you don't have to visit the embassy to apply for a visa.

• Cost-effective: Due to digital handling, e-visas often offer cost benefits. Eliminating the need for postage, courier services, and travel to embassies significantly reduces expenses. Additionally, online payment systems simplify the process, leading to quicker application receipt and handling.

• Less paperwork: The transition of paperwork onto digital platforms dramatically lightens the load on travellers. The e-visa offers less paperwork, fewer mistakes, a secured application and, notably, a smaller carbon footprint.

Limitations of e-visa 

• Doesn’t apply universally: The availability of e-visas does not apply to all countries, as not all nations have embraced this advancement. You will have to use the traditional visa application process in some countries. 

• User restrictions: Some countries restrict the use of certain airports or crossings to apply for an e-visa, meaning that the country will only allow certain nations to apply for an e-visa. 

What is a regular/sticker visa? 

A regular or sticker visa is a physical visa affixed to your passport page. This traditional visa form has been used for many years and involves the applicant visiting the embassy or consulate for visa application.

How to apply for a regular visa?

The sticker visa application can be a time-consuming and less cost-effective process. These are the general steps that need to be followed while applying for a regular visa: 

1. In-person visit: The initial step is to find the embassy near you and prepare the documents required to apply for a traditional visa. It is also important to make an appointment before visiting the embassy.

2. Document submission: You must submit your passport, photographs, and other required documents in person. Some countries ' visas may need additional documents such as travel insurance, invitation letters, proof of accommodation, and financial statements.

3. Interview: You must attend a visa interview for some country's visa applications. During the interview, consular officers may ask questions about the travel plans, purpose of the visit and financial stability.

4. Payment: The visa fee is paid to the embassy or consulate in cash or another accepted form of payment. The fee amount will depend on the country and visa type you are applying for.

5. Processing time: The processing time for a normal visa can be several days to weeks, depending on the country and the complexity of the application. You may be required to submit your passport to the embassy or consulate.

6. Issuance: Once your visa is approved, it is affixed as a sticker to your passport. The visa will include important information such as type of visa, entry dates, duration of stay, etc. You will have to pick up the passport from the embassy. 

What are the advantages and disadvantages of a sticker visa?

Here are the advantages and disadvantages of sticker/normal visa:

Advantages of sticker visa

• Universal acceptance: Sticker visas provide more flexibility, as they allow entry from all entry points of the destination country.

• Thorough review: There are few chances of making mistakes, as this application process requires a thorough review of application documents and travel intentions.

• Security: Physical visa stickers are difficult to forge, providing an additional layer of security.

Disadvantages of sticker visa

• Inconvenience: Visiting an embassy or consulate, submitting physical documents, and possibly attending an interview can be time-consuming and inconvenient.

• Long processing time: The processing time for a sticker visa is comparatively higher than that for an e-visa, which can hinder an urgent travel plan. 

• More expensive: Additional administrative and handling fees can make sticker visas more expensive than e-visas.

How can Atlys help you with your visa application?

Atlys is a world-leading visa platform that guarantees 99.2% of timely visa delivery. Atlys makes your application process easy and provides assistance with guaranteed interview appointments within the promised time.


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