Visa Glossary
Comprehensive dictionary of visa and immigration terms to help you understand the process better
An official document or stamp in a passport that permits the holder to enter, stay, or travel through a country for a specific purpose and duration.
A zone of 26 European countries that have abolished border controls between them, allowing free movement of people with a single visa.
A short-stay visa that allows travel within the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
A visa issued for leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family for a temporary period.
A visa allowing entry for business purposes such as meetings, conferences, or negotiations, but not for employment.
A visa that allows passage through a country to reach another destination, typically for a short duration.
A visa program allowing young people to work and travel in participating countries for an extended period.
A visa that permits foreign nationals to study in a country for a specified period.
A diplomatic mission representing a country in another nation, responsible for consular services including visa applications.
A diplomatic office that provides consular services to citizens and processes visa applications.
An official government document that certifies identity and nationality, required for international travel.
The formal process of requesting permission to enter a country, including completing forms and providing documentation.
A meeting with consular officers to assess visa eligibility and verify application information.
The rejection of a visa application by consular authorities, often requiring reapplication with additional documentation.
A program allowing citizens of participating countries to travel to certain destinations without a visa for short stays.
Electronic System for Travel Authorization - an online system for visa waiver program travelers to the United States.
Physical or biological data collection (fingerprints, photographs) required for visa processing and security purposes.
An individual or organization that provides financial support or invitation for a visa applicant.
A document from a host inviting someone to visit, often required for visa applications.
A letter explaining the purpose of travel and circumstances of the trip, submitted with visa applications.
Insurance coverage for medical emergencies and trip-related issues, often required for visa applications.
Financial document showing account balance and transaction history, used to prove financial stability.
Documentation showing where you will stay during your visit, such as hotel bookings or host letters.
Evidence of planned departure from the destination country, demonstrating intent to return home.
The period between visa application submission and decision, varying by country and visa type.
The cost charged for processing a visa application, typically non-refundable regardless of outcome.
A visa allowing multiple visits to a country within its validity period.
A visa permitting only one entry into a country during its validity period.
The period during which a visa can be used to enter a country.
The maximum time allowed to remain in a country on a particular visa.
Remaining in a country beyond the authorized duration, which can result in penalties and future visa restrictions.
A process to extend the validity or duration of stay of an existing visa while in the country.
Forced removal from a country due to visa violations or illegal presence.
Conditions that must be met to enter a country, including visa, passport validity, and health requirements.
A visa issued to diplomatic personnel and government officials for official duties.
A visa for individuals intending to permanently relocate to another country.
A visa for temporary visits to a country with no intention of permanent residence.