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Nonimmigrant and tourist visas

Find out how to work in the U.S. or visit as a student or tourist. Learn how to renew your visa and what to do if your visa is lost.

How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

If you visit the U.S. for tourism or business, you may need a visitor visa, also known as a tourist visa. Learn how to get and renew this type of nonimmigrant visa.

How to check the status of your visa application

Find out how to check the status of your visa application online. And to avoid delays, learn how to update your address if you move while waiting for your visa to be approved.

What happens if your visa application is rejected

Find out what to do if your visa is denied, and learn if you are eligible for a waiver of grounds of inadmissibility.

Foreign visitors: what to do if your visa or passport is lost or stolen

If you are in the U.S. and your visa or passport was lost or stolen, learn how to report it and apply for a new one.

Get a student visa to study in the U.S.

To study in the U.S. as an international student, you must get a student visa. Learn about the types of student visas, how to apply, and if you can work while you study.

Nonimmigrant work visas

Learn about the different nonimmigrant temporary work visa categories and how to apply.

What Documents are Required for US Visitor Visa

With over 77 million international visitors each year, the United States receives 15.7% of all world travelers, according to the figures released by the National Travel and Tourism Office. The US boasts plethora of unique tourist attractions, from the incredible landscape of the Great Smoky Mountains National Park to the rich French architecture of New Orleans.

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💡 Tip: Buy travel health insurance before your trip.

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Types of US Visitor Visa

To travel to America, you first need to apply for a US visitor visa , which is a temporary visa issued to a person who intends to travel to the country for the purposes of business, tourism, or both, or for medical treatment. 

Those traveling to the US for the purposes of temporary employment, education, religious work, etc., need to apply under a different visa category. There are two types of US visitor visas, so make sure to choose the one that best suits the purpose of your visit.

Business Visa (B1): A business visa is issued for the following purposes:

• Consulting business associates
• Negotiating a business contract
• Attending a scientific, business, or educational convention
• To settle an estate.

Tourism Visa (B2): A tourism visa is issued for the following purposes:

• Visiting family and friends residing in the US
• Medical treatment or procedures
• Tourism and leisure
• Participating in a music , sports, or social events, only if these activities do not result in any monetary remuneration
• Enrolling in certain recreational courses that do not count for credit towards a degree.

Documents Required for US Visitor Visa

The process of getting a visitor visa starts by filling up the non-immigration visa application form , DS-160 . You need to submit certain necessary documents along with the accurately filled application form. These documents include:

• Your original passport, which must be valid for at least six months after the completion of your intended visit to the US, along with all your old passports, if any.
• A digital as well as hard copy of your passport-sized photograph, according to the specifications set by the US government.
• The confirmation page that you have submitted the visa application form. 
• Proof of payment of the visa fee, as well as the original copy of your interview appointment letter.
• Documents verifying that you do not have any criminal history, in your home country or in any other country.
• Documents proving that you are financially capable of taking care of all expenses during your travels in America. Proof of financial ability can include recent bank statements, pay slips for the last three months, copies of your recent tax returns.
• In case you are visiting America to meet with relatives or friends or to attend an event, you will need to submit a letter of invitation or proof of the event.
• For those seeking medical treatment in the United States, documents from a doctor in their home country as well as a doctor and hospital in the United States accepting the person for treatment, must be attached.

Make sure your check and recheck the form and all the documents before submission, since any mistake or missing information could not just delay the visa approval, you could even risk being denied a visa.

• What are the Sample Documents Required for US Visitor Visa
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A Step-By-Step Guide To Applying For A Us Travel Visa

• Last updated Apr 30, 2024
• Difficulty Beginner

• Category Travel

Planning to travel to the United States? Navigating the maze of visa applications can be overwhelming. But fear not! We have your back with this step-by-step guide on how to apply for a US travel visa. Whether you're a tourist, a student, or a business professional, our comprehensive guide will break down the visa application process into manageable steps, helping you understand the requirements and ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey to the land of the free. So, grab your passports and let's dive into the world of US travel visas!

What You'll Learn

Types of us travel visas: overview and requirements, step-by-step guide: the application process for a us travel visa, documents needed: a checklist for us travel visa applications, helpful tips: maximizing your chances of a successful us travel visa application.

If you’re planning a trip to the United States, you may need to apply for a travel visa. The US offers different types of visas depending on the purpose of your visit. It’s important to understand the requirements and process for each visa type to ensure a smooth application process. In this article, we’ll provide an overview of the different types of US travel visas and their requirements.

B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa:

The B-1/B-2 visa is a popular choice for tourists and business travelers. It allows you to visit the US for tourism, business meetings, conferences, and medical treatments. The requirements for a B-1/B-2 visa include a valid passport, a completed application form (DS-160), proof of financial stability, and evidence of your ties to your home country, such as property or employment. You may also need to provide a letter of invitation or a detailed itinerary.

F-1 Student Visa:

If you plan to study in the United States, you’ll need an F-1 visa. To qualify, you must have been accepted by a US educational institution and show proof of financial resources to cover your tuition and living expenses. You will also need to provide evidence of ties to your home country and proof of your intent to return after completing your studies.

J-1 Exchange Visitor Visa:

The J-1 visa is for individuals participating in approved exchange visitor programs, such as internships, work and travel programs, or research programs. The eligibility requirements for a J-1 visa vary depending on the specific program, but generally, you will need to be sponsored by an approved organization and demonstrate sufficient funds to support yourself during your stay. You may also need to provide evidence of health insurance coverage and proof of ties to your home country.

H-1B Work Visa:

The H-1B visa is for skilled workers who have been offered employment by a US company. To be eligible, you must have a job offer from a US employer, possess specialized knowledge, and have at least a bachelor’s degree or equivalent work experience in the field. Additionally, the US employer must file a petition on your behalf.

K-1 Fiancé(e) Visa:

If you’re engaged to a US citizen and plan to get married in the United States, you can apply for a K-1 fiancé(e) visa. To qualify, you must provide evidence of a genuine relationship, clear intention to marry, and meet certain financial requirements. Once married, you can apply for a change of status to become a permanent resident.

These are just a few examples of the types of US travel visas available. The specific requirements and application process can vary widely, so it’s essential to thoroughly research the visa you need and ensure you have all the necessary documentation. The US Department of State’s official website provides detailed information on each visa category, including application forms, fees, and processing times. It’s crucial to start your visa application well in advance of your planned travel dates to allow for any potential delays or additional requirements.

Traveling on a K3 Visa: Everything You Need to Know

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Traveling to the United States can be an exciting and memorable experience. To ensure a seamless journey, it is important to understand and complete the application process for a US travel visa. In this step-by-step guide, we will walk you through the entire process and provide helpful tips along the way.

Step 1: Determine the type of visa you need

Before starting the application process, it is crucial to identify the type of US travel visa you require. Common types of visas include the B-1 visa for business purposes, the B-2 visa for tourism and vacation, and the J-1 visa for exchange visitors. Visiting the official website of the US Department of State can provide extensive information on different visa categories and their specific requirements.

Step 2: Complete the DS-160 form

The DS-160 form is an online application that requires detailed information about your personal background, travel plans, and purpose of visiting the United States. Take your time to carefully fill out all portions of the form, ensuring accuracy and correctness. Once completed, submit the form electronically and keep the confirmation page for your records.

Step 3: Pay the visa application fee

After completing the DS-160 form, you will need to pay the visa application fee. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for, so make sure to check the current fee on the US Department of State website. Payment can be made online, and you will receive a receipt as proof of payment.

Step 4: Schedule an interview

Most US travel visa applicants are required to attend an interview at the US embassy or consulate in their home country. The interview is an opportunity for the consular officer to review your application and determine your eligibility for the visa. Visit the website of the US embassy or consulate in your country to schedule your interview appointment. It is recommended to schedule the appointment well in advance, as availability may vary.

Step 5: Gather supporting documents

Before attending your interview, gather all necessary supporting documents to prove your eligibility for the visa. Commonly required documents include a valid passport, the DS-160 confirmation page, the visa application fee receipt, and any additional documents specific to your visa category. It is advisable to organize and bring photocopies of all documents, as well as the originals.

Step 6: Attend the visa interview

On the day of your scheduled interview, arrive at the embassy or consulate early to allow for security checks and registration. Dress appropriately and prepare to answer questions related to your travel plans, financial resources, and ties to your home country. Be honest and confident in your responses. The consular officer will also collect your fingerprints as part of the interview process.

Step 7: Wait for visa processing

After the interview, the consular officer will inform you of the decision on your visa application. If approved, your visa will be affixed to your passport, and you will be provided with additional instructions on how to collect it. The processing time can vary, so be prepared for potential delays. In case your visa application is denied, the consular officer will explain the reasons for the refusal.

Step 8: Plan your trip

Once you receive your US travel visa, you can start planning your trip to the United States. Make sure to review the visa validity dates and any specific entry restrictions imposed. It is also recommended to purchase travel insurance and make necessary arrangements for accommodations and transportation.

By following this step-by-step guide, you can navigate the application process for a US travel visa with confidence. Remember to thoroughly review the application requirements, pay attention to details, and prepare for your interview to increase your chances of getting approved. Safe travels!

Exploring the Possibility of Traveling to Canada on a Student Visa

If you are planning to visit the United States, you will most likely need a travel visa. Applying for a US travel visa can be a complex process, as there are several documents and requirements that you need to fulfill. To help you navigate through this process, we have put together a checklist of the required documents for a US travel visa application:

• Valid passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in the United States.
• Nonimmigrant visa application form: You need to complete the online nonimmigrant visa application form DS-160. This form can be found on the official website of the US Department of State.
• Photo: You will need to provide a recent photograph taken within the last six months. The photograph must meet the specific requirements set by the US government, such as size, color, and background.
• Visa application fee: You will need to pay a nonrefundable visa application fee. The fee amount may vary depending on the type of visa you are applying for. You can find the fee schedule on the website of the US Department of State.
• Interview appointment: After completing the online application form and paying the visa fee, you will need to schedule an appointment for an interview at the nearest US embassy or consulate. The waiting time for an interview appointment can vary, so it is advised to schedule your appointment well in advance of your intended travel date.
• Supporting documents: You will need to provide various supporting documents to demonstrate the purpose of your trip and your ties to your home country. These documents may include, but are not limited to:
• Travel itinerary: This includes details of your flight bookings, hotel reservations, and any planned activities or tours during your stay in the United States.
• Letter of invitation: If you are visiting friends or family in the United States, you may need a letter of invitation from them, stating their relationship to you and the purpose of your visit.
• Proof of financial means: You will need to show that you have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in the United States. This can be demonstrated through bank statements, employment letters, or sponsorship letters.
• Employment or study documents: If you are employed or enrolled in a course of study, you may need to provide documents such as employment letters, pay slips, or enrollment certificates to show your ties to your home country and your intention to return after your trip.
• Proof of ties to your home country: It is important to demonstrate that you have strong ties to your home country and that you have no intention of overstaying your visa. This can be done by providing documents such as property ownership, family ties, or a letter from your employer stating your planned return to work.

Additional requirements: Depending on your individual circumstances, you may need to provide additional documents. For example, if you have previously been refused a US visa or if you have a criminal record, you should be prepared to provide additional documentation to address these issues.

It is important to note that this checklist is only a general guide, and the specific requirements for a US travel visa application may vary depending on your country of citizenship and the type of visa you are applying for. It is recommended to consult the website of the US embassy or consulate in your home country for detailed and up-to-date information on the application process and requirements.

Can Indians Travel to US on Tourist Visa?

Planning a trip to the United States can be an exciting experience, but navigating the visa application process can sometimes be a daunting task. To increase your chances of a successful US travel visa application, it is essential to be well-prepared and aware of the steps involved. Here are some helpful tips to guide you through the process:

Determine the type of visa you need:

The US offers various types of nonimmigrant visas, such as tourist visas (B-2), business visas (B-1), student visas (F-1), and work visas (H-1B), among others. Get familiar with the different visa categories to determine the appropriate one for your purpose of travel.

Understand the application requirements:

Each visa category has specific requirements, including supporting documents, financial evidence, and proof of strong ties to your home country. Familiarize yourself with the exact requirements for your specific visa, as failure to submit the necessary documents can lead to rejection.

Complete the DS-160 form:

The DS-160 form is an online application that all nonimmigrant visa applicants must complete. Provide accurate information, as any inconsistencies or incorrect details can impact your application. Make sure to review and double-check your form before submitting it.

Pay the visa fee:

There is a non-refundable visa application fee that must be paid before your interview. Visit the official US embassy or consulate website for your country to find out the current fee and acceptable payment methods.

Schedule and attend your visa interview:

After completing the DS-160 form and paying the visa fee, you need to schedule an appointment for a visa interview at the US embassy or consulate in your country. The waiting time for an appointment can vary, so it's advisable to apply well in advance. Attend the interview on the scheduled date and time, dressed professionally and carrying all the required documents.

Be prepared for the interview:

The interview is a crucial step in the visa application process, where a consular officer determines your eligibility for a US travel visa. Practice answering potential questions about your travel plans, intent to return, financial stability, and ties to your home country. Bring all supporting documents to strengthen your case.

Show strong ties to your home country:

One of the critical factors in obtaining a US travel visa is demonstrating strong ties to your home country. This can include family, employment, property, or ongoing educational commitments. Providing evidence of these ties can help convince the consular officer that you intend to return after your visit.

Be honest and confident:

During the interview, it is essential to remain honest and confident in your responses. Avoid providing false information or withholding relevant details, as it can result in visa denial or future travel restrictions.

Follow up if necessary:

In case your visa application is put on hold or additional documents are requested, promptly fulfill the requirements. Following up on the status of your application displays your commitment and can help speed up the process.

Remember that each visa application is unique, and there are no guarantees of approval. By being well-prepared, understanding the requirements, and presenting a strong case during your visa interview, you can maximize your chances of obtaining a US travel visa. Start your application early, gather all the necessary documents, and approach the process with confidence. Good luck with your visa application and enjoy your trip to the United States!

Navigating International Travel After Applying for a Fiancé Visa

Frequently asked questions.

To apply for a US travel visa, you will need a valid passport, a completed visa application form, a passport-sized photo, proof of travel arrangements and accommodation, evidence of sufficient funds to cover your expenses, and any supporting documents that may be required based on the specific type of visa you are applying for.

The processing time for a US travel visa can vary depending on various factors, including the type of visa you are applying for and the current workload of the US embassy or consulate. Typically, it can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks or even longer to receive a decision on your visa application. It is recommended to apply well in advance of your proposed travel dates to allow for sufficient processing time.

Yes, you can start the application process for a US travel visa online. However, the actual visa application will generally need to be submitted in person at a US embassy or consulate. Online applications can help streamline the process by allowing you to complete certain forms and pay the necessary fees online before scheduling an appointment for an in-person interview at the embassy or consulate.

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Update April 12, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

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Visitor Visa

Visa Waiver Program

Travel Without a Visa

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda

Tourism & Visit

A foreign national traveling to the United States for tourism needs a visitor visa (B-2) unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

Tourism is a short visit for vacation, for visiting family and friends, or for medical treatment.

Visitor Visa  B

For vacation, seeing family and friends, or medical treatment.

• How to Apply
• Required Documentation

Visa Waiver Program  VWP

Most citizens of participating countries (see NOTE below)* may travel to the United States for short visits without a visa though the  Visa Waiver Program .

Travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program Requires ESTA Approval

Canadian & Bermudian Citizens

Citizens of Canada and Bermuda generally do not need visas for tourism.

Traveling to the United States for another reason?

SEE ALL VISA CATEGORIES

* With respect to a "country" or "countries" participating in VWP, it should be noted that the Taiwan Relations Act of 1979, Pub. L. No. 96-8, Section 4(b)(1), provides that “[w]henever the laws of the United States refer or relate to foreign countries, nations, states, governments, or similar entities, such terms shall include and such laws shall apply with respect to Taiwan.” 22 U.S.C. § 3303(b)(1). Accordingly, all references to “country” or “countries” in the Visa Waiver Program authorizing legislation, Section 217 of the Immigration and Nationality Act, 8 U.S.C. 1187, are read to include Taiwan. This is consistent with the one-China policy of the United States, under which the United States has maintained unofficial relations with Taiwan since 1979.

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A-Z Index Legal Rights & Protections Lost/Stolen Travel Documents Denials Ineligibilities & Waivers Citizens of Canada & Bermuda Find a U.S. Embassy or Consulate Straight Facts on U.S. Visas Customer Service Statement U.S. Tax Information

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The first and easiest way is to share directly with your clients. To send a client flyer, please download the PDF or personalize the Word document and share with your network.

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• Entering and staying in the UK
• Visas and entry clearance

eVisa rollout begins with immigration documents replaced by 2025

Millions are being invited to switch from physical immigration documents to an eVisa – a key step in creating a modernised and digital border.

Photo: Getty Images

The next stage in the government’s plan to modernise the border and introduce a digital immigration system is under way, as the Home Office moves closer to the implementation of eVisas for nearly all visa holders living in the UK by 2025.

From today (17 April 2024), the Home Office will begin to send emails to all those with physical immigration documents, called biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration ( UKVI ) account to access their eVisa, a digital proof of their immigration status.

Invitations will be issued in phases before the process opens to all BRP holders in summer 2024.

eVisas are central to making the UK safer by reducing the risk of fraud, loss and abuse of physical documents, strengthening border security, and providing a more secure way to prove immigration status. This will pave the way for increased automation to deliver the government’s vision for a contactless border.

It is free and straightforward for customers who hold physical and paper documents to create a UKVI account to access their eVisa. Creating a UKVI account will not change, impact or remove customers’ current immigration status or their rights in the UK.

Minister for Legal Migration and the Border, Tom Pursglove MP, said:  

We’ve already taken really significant steps to digitally transform the border and immigration system, and this wider rollout of eVisas is a key part of that process.  Replacing physical immigration documents with eVisas will ensure firm control over who comes here to live, work or study, strengthening border security and preventing abuse of the immigration system, while delivering cost savings for UK taxpayers.

eVisas bring substantial benefits to the UK public and to visa customers. They are secure, and, unlike a physical document, cannot be lost, stolen or tampered with. They can be accessed anywhere and in real time, putting customers in control of their own data and allowing them to swiftly update the Home Office with new contact or passport details.

An eVisa is securely linked with the holder’s unique biometric information in the same way as a BRP or BRC , to protect against identity fraud.

People checking immigration status will be able to conduct one quick and simple check using a secure online service on GOV.UK. Selected public bodies are already able to access immigration status to determine eligibility for public services automatically through system to system checks.

eVisas are tried and tested, with millions of customers already using them across routes including the EU Settlement Scheme ( EUSS ). Most physical documents, such as biometric residence permits or cards (BRPs or BRCs), are being gradually phased out, with most BRPs expiring at the end of 2024.

This move to eVisas is in line with other countries which have replaced, or are planning to replace, their physical immigration documents with digital forms of immigration status.

Customers who already have an eVisa do not need to do anything as we make this change, but should continue to update their UKVI account with any changes to personal information, such as a new passport or contact details. Customers should continue to carry their in-date physical immigration documents with them when they travel internationally, until they expire.

Physical immigration documents will be gradually phased out by 2025, as we transition to a fully digital border and immigration system for new and existing customers. This will deliver enhanced security and cost savings for the UK public and greater convenience for customers and status checkers. 

Customers who already have an eVisa should tell the Home Office about any passport on which they intend to travel using the online Update your UK Visas and Immigration account details service on GOV.UK, if this is not already linked to their account, to avoid delays when travelling.

As part of the wider transformation of the UK border and immigration system, the government has already introduced the Electronic Travel Authorisation ( ETA ) scheme. ETA is a digital permission to travel to the UK for those wanting to visit but who do not need a visa. It gives the government greater ability to screen travellers in advance of travel and prevent those who pose a threat from coming here.

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Don't want to pay for Global Entry? The Mobile Passport Control app is fast, free and easy to use

I f you get my travel tips via my newsletter , then you know how much I dislike waiting in long lines. Who doesn’t? Since I travel so much with my family, we (me, my wife and our two kids) are members of all the pre-screened expedited programs: Global Entry, NEXUS, TSA PreCheck and Clear. RELATED: The trick to getting TSA PreCheck fast and 4 other tips you need to know

However, Global Entry isn’t free and sometimes there's a lengthy approval process. So if you rarely travel internationally (especially if you’re traveling as a family), it’s not worth paying for or taking the time to apply. However, some premium credit cards do pay for the application fee .

The next best thing to Global Entry is the CBP Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app and it’s free.

Mobile Passport Control allows eligible travelers to submit their travel document, photo, and customs declaration information through a free, secure app on their smartphone or other mobile device. Per the CBP’s website : “The use of MPC streamlines the traveler’s entry process into the United States by reducing passport control inspection time and overall wait time.”

Here’s how MPC Works:

This is straight from the CBP’s website: “After downloading the MPC Application from the Google Play Store or Apple App Store , eligible travelers will be prompted to create a profile with their passport or LPR [Lawful Permanent Resident] card information.” They're both highly rated apps. In the Apple app store, it has 4.9 rating with over 214.5K reviews. In the Google Play store, it has 4.8 rating with over 45.7K reviews.

Preclearance travelers

I find the MPC’s definition a little bit confusing because they say: “Upon arrival at eligible Preclearance locations users must select their mode of entry in the application as "Preclearance" before selecting their departing Preclearance Port of Entry.”

I don’t think many Americans realize that the United States government has set up customs pre-clearance for travelers heading to the U.S. in 15 locations: Dublin and Shannon in Ireland; Aruba; Bermuda; Abu Dhabi in the United Arab Emirates; Nassau in the Bahamas; and Calgary, Toronto, Edmonton, Halifax, Montreal, Ottawa, Vancouver, Victoria, and Winnipeg in Canada.

Arriving on U.S. soil

MPC then states: “If a traveler is not using preclearance, upon landing in the United States, travelers will select "U.S. airport" as their mode of entry and then select their arrival airport or seaport and terminal. Travelers will then take a self-photo and answer a series of CBP inspection-related questions. Once the traveler submits their transaction through the app, travelers will then bring their physical passport to a CBP officer to finalize their inspection for entry into the United States.”

Note: Cellular or Wi-Fi connectivity is required to send information, but travelers may complete profile(s) without being connected to the internet.

Who is eligible?

The MPC mobile app is available to U.S. citizens, U.S. lawful permanent residents, Canadian B1/B2 citizen visitors and returning Visa Waiver Program travelers with approved ESTA. MPC is currently available at 33 U.S. International Airports, 13 Preclearance locations, and 4 seaports of entry.

Visa Waiver Program (VWP)

The Visa Waiver Program (VWP) permits citizens of participating countries to travel to the United States for business or tourism for stays of up to 90 days without a visa. Below are the 41 countries participating in the Visa Waiver Program: Andorra, Australia, Austria, Belgium, Brunei, Chile, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Japan, Korea, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, Monaco, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, Poland, Portugal, San Marino, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan and the United Kingdom.

Since I have Global Entry (GE), I’ve never used it but I have downloaded it since my friends and colleagues have used it and love it. I've also seen some good reviews on Facebook:

Chelsea Daniels on April 18, 2024 posted to Facebook: “Mobile Passport helped me get through O’Hare customs in 5 minutes which is highly uncommon.”

Travel writer Fred Sherman posted on the SATW Facebook page in 2022: “I just returned from my first international trip taken after I stupidly let my Global Entry expire and lapse. While waiting for GE renewal, I used the US CBP Mobile Passport Control app at LAX on Friday. It took two minutes to download the app and list myself as a traveler and then produce the CBP receipt. On arrival, although the entry hall was packed, I was the ONLY ONE in the MPC line and walked right up to the officer, and then out to baggage claim.”

Jorge Vega on April 11, 2024 on Facebook : I used it in Toronto and it was better than global entry. My flight was from Rome to Toronto and then to Phoenix with Air Canada.

Karen Kallet, April 8, 2024: Good to know: Mobile Passport Control app.  If you are American or Canadian and do not have US Global Entry back to the US. This is the app that allows you to by pass the long immigration lines. I used it coming back from Vancouver. Worked like a charm. Even had a big sign with MPC at immigration to US. Own line, no one waiting.  Once I arrived at the airport, I submitted the pre done info and got a QRCode. Showed my QR code and passport and it was very simple.  Works for cruise ships, airports and preclearance.  Which is what I used as I pre cleared in Vancouver for the flight to the states.”

I have some friends who are Global Entry members but use Mobile Passport Control when the Global Entry lines are long. That’s why I’ve downloaded the app, just to be ready.

Here’s a video showing you exactly how to use the Mobile Passport Control app:

Watch the video here .

Have you used MPC before? What’s it like and have you ever used MPC over Global Entry?

KEEP READING:

- 12 passport tips that will save you time, money and headaches

- The most important thing I do when I travel internationally is ...

- Rick Steves got pickpocketed in Paris: Here’s what he wants you to know

- The most important thing for travelers to do according to a safety expert

- What you need to know about renewing or getting an emergency passport in the U.S.

Want more travel news, tips and deals? Sign up to  Johnny Jet’s free newsletter  and check out these popular posts:  The Travel Gadget Flight Attendants Never Leave Home Without and  12 Ways to Save Money on Baggage Fees . Follow Johnny Jet on MSN ,  Facebook, Instagram ,  Pinterest , and  YouTube  for all of my travel posts.

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

Skift India Report

The Skift India Report is your go-to newsletter for all news related to travel, tourism, airlines, and hospitality in India.

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Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

New Greek Resorts, Golden Visa Countries And More Travel News

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5 New Greek Hotels For Summer

W ith summer fast approaching, there are recently opened hotels and resorts in Greece to consider. From popular escapes such as Mykonos and Santorini to the lesser-known islands across the Aegean chain, here are five new Greek hotels worth checking out —and into.

10 Incredible Cruise Ship Features

For many years, the trend in cruise ship design has been that “bigger is better”—with vessels such as Royal Caribbean’s Icon of the Seas setting new passenger records. But many cruise lines are also competing by offering innovative features to the high seas. From kart racing on multi-level courses to multiscreen movie theaters, here are some of the most incredible activities on cruise ships right now.

Disney World Earns Its First Michelin Star

Victoria and Albert’s at the Grand Floridian Resort—which has been a Forbes Travel Guide Five-Star restaurant since 2018—added a new star to its constellation this month: It became the first Disney restaurant to be awarded a Michelin star . Located at the Grand Floridian Resort at Walt Disney World, Victoria and Albert’s is known for its opulent Victorian era-inspired meals. A prix-fixe dinner is $295 per guest, with optional wine pairings starting at $155 per person. Unlike the rest of the theme park, a formal dress code is encouraged for all diners, who must be 10 years of age or older.

Golden visas—which grant residency and/or citizenship through an investment—may be disappearing from Europe, but many EU countries are now luring travelers with digital nomad visas, which grant travelers the legal right to work remotely for an extended period. Italy recently became the latest country to offer the visa and here are other EU countries with digital nomad visas .

America’s Best Airlines 2024

The personal-finance website WalletHub recently announced its annual ranking of the best U.S. airlines . The study evaluates the nine largest national airlines and one regional carrier across a range of criteria, including safety, on-time records and overall service. This year, Alaska Airlines was named the best airline in America, beating out Delta, which ranked first in 2022 and 2023. The survey also ranked U.S. carriers based on reliability and comfort.

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