Which countries offer visa on arrival for most travelers?
Visa on arrival lets you get your visa at the border instead of applying in advance. Learn which countries offer it, what to bring, and how to prepare.
Updated
Quick answer: Many countries offer visa on arrival to travelers with strong passports - including Indonesia, Egypt, Jordan, Nepal, and more. Requirements and eligibility vary by nationality, so always check before you fly.
What is a visa on arrival?
A visa on arrival (VOA) lets you get your visa at the border - at the airport or land crossing - when you arrive. You do not need to apply in advance. Instead, you present your documents at a dedicated counter and pay the fee on arrival.
Visa on arrival is not visa-free travel. You still need to meet entry requirements and pay a fee in most cases. The difference is timing: you complete the process at the border rather than beforehand.
Popular countries offering visa on arrival
| Country | Typical fee | Max stay | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Thailand | Free (visa-free entry for many) | 30 days | Since 15 September 2026, many nationalities (including US citizens) enter visa-free for 30 days rather than with a visa on arrival |
| Indonesia (Bali) | USD 35 | 30 days | Available at major airports |
| Egypt | USD 25 | 30 days | Must be paid in cash (USD/EUR) |
| Jordan | JOD 40 | 90 days | Free with Jordan Pass |
| Nepal | USD 50 | 30 days | USD 30 for 15 days, USD 125 for 90 days |
| Cambodia | USD 30 | 30 days | Also available as e-visa |
| Ethiopia | USD 50 | 90 days | Only at Addis Ababa airport |
What to bring for a visa on arrival
Bring your valid passport (usually with at least 6 months validity), a passport-size photo, your return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, and the visa fee in cash. Many VOA counters do not accept cards, so carry the right currency.
Tips for a smooth process
Always verify your eligibility on the official immigration website before departure. Some countries only offer VOA at specific entry points - not all land borders qualify. Queues at VOA counters can be long at peak times, so budget extra time when landing.
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What is an e-visa and how does it differ from a traditional visa?
Visa on Arrival - FAQ
A visa on arrival is a visa you get at the airport or land border when you arrive, instead of applying beforehand. You queue at a visa counter, show your documents and usually pay a fee. It is not the same as visa-free entry, and it is only available to eligible nationalities, often only at certain entry points.
Popular examples for US passport holders include Egypt, Jordan, Nepal, Cambodia, Indonesia, Ethiopia and Saudi Arabia, where the visa is issued at the border. Thailand is different: US citizens enter visa free for up to 30 days. Eligibility depends on your passport, so a country offering visa on arrival to Americans may not offer it to you.
Expect to show a passport valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date, a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation such as a hotel booking, and the visa fee, often payable only in cash. Some countries also ask for a passport photo or proof of funds. Check the destination's official immigration website before you fly.
No. An e-visa is applied for and approved online before you travel, so you arrive with permission already granted. A visa on arrival is issued at the border when you land. Some countries, such as Cambodia, offer both. An e-visa usually means less time at the airport, while a visa on arrival needs no paperwork in advance.