When planning a trip abroad, one of the first steps you should take is to understand the visa requirements of the country you’re headed to. A travel visa is an authorization that allows you to enter a given country. The requirements vary significantly depending on your destination, the purpose of your visit and the length you plan to stay. Let’s check out the differences to help you plan that next trip with peace of mind.
Visa-free travel
Many countries offer visa-free travel for short stays to U.S. passport holders. Countries in the Schengen Area, which includes 25+ European countries, allow U.S. tourists to enter visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period. This makes taking that summer euro trip both straightforward and appealing. Friendly FYI, Europe will change the requirements in 2025, meaning you must apply online for a visa. These requirements can vary and change. So here’s an extensive list of visa-free countries for U.S. citizens to keep tabs on which countries require visas and which don’t.
Countries requiring visas
Despite the ease of visa-free travel in many parts of the world, some destinations do require U.S. citizens to obtain a visa in advance. Countries like China and Cuba require ones that must be arranged before arrival. Each country has its own application process, fees and required documents, which might include an invitation letter, proof of onward travel or a return ticket and sometimes proof of sufficient funds for your stay and travel insurance.
Electronic visas
Over the past years, the visa application process has been simplified through e-visas and electronic travel authorizations (eTA). Countries like Australia, India and Vietnam now offer U.S. citizens the option to apply for travel authorization online, a convenient alternative to traditional paper applications. This shift not only saves time but also streamlines the entry process upon arrival. eTA visas usually take just a few days, but e-visas can take months. Make sure to apply far enough in advance, so you know you’re good to go long before take off.
Visa services in the Faye app
For travelers looking for even more convenience, Faye Travel Insurance has integrated visa requirements for your destinations of choice directly into the Faye app. This feature, located in the Prepare For Your Trip feature after you buy a policy, ensures that you can easily understand the travel visa requirements for where you’re heading. We’ve also partnered with Sherpa, an online visa application service, so you can apply directly for your needed visa online. You can take advantage of both of these new additions now.
Worry-free travel
As you take on the world of international travel, having the right information at your fingertips and being prepared is key. Faye and the Faye app are there to make your journey that much smoother.
