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 Thailand, 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 (mostly) | 30 days | Extended to 60 days for many nationalities from 2024 |
| 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 | 30 days | Free with Jordan Pass |
| Nepal | USD 30 | 30 days | USD 50 for 90 days |
| Cambodia | USD 30 | 30 days | Also available as e-visa |
| Ethiopia | USD 50 | 30 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.
Related articles
What is an e-visa and how does it differ from a traditional visa?
Visa on Arrival - FAQ
Visa on arrival lets you obtain a visa at the border when you arrive, without applying in advance. It is available to eligible nationalities at airports and land borders in many countries, including Thailand, Indonesia, Jordan, Nepal, and Egypt.
It depends on your nationality. Strong passports like the US, UK, EU, and Japanese often get visa on arrival in many countries, while other passport holders may face more restrictions. Always check the destination country's immigration rules before you travel.
Bring your passport, a passport photo, a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation (such as a hotel booking), and the visa fee in cash. Some countries also require proof of sufficient funds.
No. An e-visa is pre-approved online before you travel. A visa on arrival is granted at the border on the day you arrive. Both are valid entry documents, but e-visas reduce waiting time at the border.
