Is an e-Visa the same as a visa on arrival?
Electronic visas simplify international travel. There are different types of e-Visas. Travelers can avoid confusion by learning more about them, though. As you know, we will be discussing e-Visas and visas upon arrival.
Isn’t it the same? Come on, let’s examine!
What is an e-Visa?
An electronic visa or an e-Visa is a digitalized travel permit that allows people to travel abroad. Applying online is required prior to the trip. If the e-Visa gets approved, then that will be sent to your email address.
What is a visa on arrival?
Visa on arrival is also a travel permit that allows people to enter another country. However, unlike e-Visa, the applicant applies and receives a visa on arrival at the destination country’s airport or checkpoint.
Key Features of both e-Visa & visa on arrival
| Features | e-Visa | Visa on Arrival |
| Application | Entirely online. Travelers should apply a few days before their journey. | Completed upon arrival at the destination country. |
| Required Documents | You need a digital form of all your personal & passport details, including your photo, finance proof, additional documents that support the type of e-Visa, etc. | You should present your passport and completed visa documents, photographs, etc. during the process. |
| Entry | You can show your e-Visa in digital form or sometimes you may need to take a printed copy of your approved e-Visa | If you meet all the eligibility criteria then they approve your visa on arrival and let you explore the country. |
| Processing Time | It may take a few hours to a few days | Processed on the spot. |
| Convenience | This reduces the risk of entry denial. | Uncertain & time-consuming. |
Comparison between e-Visa & visa on arrival
| Differences | e-Visa | Visa on arrival |
| Application & Processing Time | Applying online is required prior to the trip. | Applied for and approved on arrival |
| Convenience | More convenient because it allows one to complete the whole process before departure. | Less convenient. Because it has some uncertainty & also it is time-consuming. |
| Risk of Denial | Since the travelers have the pre-approval, the risk of denial is less. | High risk. Since the processes are being held at the arrival point. |
| Cost | Paid online during the application process. Fees vary based on the type of e-Visa. | Paid at the arrival point. Fees vary also, currency exchange fees may be applicable. |
Hope the travelers got an idea of both e-Visa & visa on arrival. Both are entirely different. An electronic visa is preferable due to its convenience, streamlined process, low risk, etc. If a traveler is making a spontaneous travel plan or planning a trip to a country where e-Visa is not an option then a visa on arrival is suitable for them.