As you may very well know, the electronic visa system seems to have started its invasion over visa policies around the world. More and more governments decide to adopt it because it can bring significant improvements in their tourism sections, as well as improve the resource allocation within embassies and visa centres. It is a win-win situation for everyone, which is why the eVisa earns more ground every single year. But have you ever applied for an electronic visa? If not, you are about to learn how that works.
Can everyone apply for an electronic visa?
No. Not yet, at least. While the number of countries that decide to implement the electronic visa system grows larger each year, not all of them did, which is why you have to first check the existence of a particular eVisa. For example, let’s say that you want to go to India. India does release electronic visas for the citizens of 165 countries and territories.
Nevertheless, even if a specific eVisa exist, that does mean you have access to it. Let’s take our India example. While there are 165 nationalities that can apply for an Indian E-visa online, Nigerian citizens cannot because they do not qualify. They do, however, for a Zimbabwean eVisa. Basically, you have two things you have to check: the existence of an eVisa and your eligibility for it.
Read Also: UAE to commence visa issuance to Nigerians from October 8
How does the online visa application work?
It’s quite simple, actually. First, you need to decide on a visa service. You can sometimes choose between a government website and a third-party company. Some say that the latter is better, but it depends on the experience.
Every visa comes with a few requirements, and that is the next step for you. You have to check whether or not you meet them. Each eVisa is different. Some have an extensive list of requirements while others do not. But the one common element you will find on all listings is the passport. In most cases, it has to be valid and stay as such for 6 months from the date of arrival at your destination.
Here are some other requirements you may have to meet:
- Passport photo
- Accommodation details (hotel booking confirmation, Airbnb receipt, a letter from a host)
- Invitation letter
- Travel insurance
- International Certificate of Vaccination
- Proof of residence
- Proof of sustenance
- Return/onward ticket etc.
Once you have everything necessary for the online visa application process, you can move on and fill in the application form. There is nothing out of the ordinary about this task other than the fact that you must provide only accurate and correct information. If you fail to do so, the eVisa you are issued is invalid. Mistakes cannot be corrected after the eVisa is released, which basically means that you have to apply for a new eVisa. Since that is a waste of resources, the best thing you could do is to review the content of your form multiple times before submission.
After you complete the form and make the payment, you are free to submit your application, which will be reviewed but the issuing authority. If your application is approved, your eVisa is linked to your passport. You also get it via e-mail, and you have to print it out before departure.
The bottom line is that the eVisa is a lot less time-consuming and demanding to obtain. You do not have to go to an embassy, you can apply at any time of the day or night, and your overall effort is minimal.
