Electronic Visa or Electronic Travel Authorization ? It’s sometimes hard to make sense of these two very different travel formalities… VisasNews untangles the features and uses of e-Visa and ETA to help you better understand which one is right for your travel needs.
In today’s globalized world, international travel has become more frequent and more accessible.
To facilitate this movement, many countries have adopted digital solutions, such as electronic visa (e-Visa) or Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
Although these two documents are often confused, there are significant differences in terms of their function, the process of obtaining them and the conditions of use. Discover these distinctions here to help you better understand these travel requirements.
What is an electronic visa (e-Visa) ?
An electronic visa, or e-Visa, is an official document issued by the government of a country to allow a foreigner to enter and stay on its territory for a specified period.
The e-Visa replaces the traditional visa, which used to be affixed to the passport in the form of a sticker.
How to obtain an e-Visa:
- Online application : Applicants must complete an online application form, providing personal information, travel details, and sometimes supporting documents such as a passport photo and a copy of their passport.
- Payment of fees : A processing fee is usually required, payable online via credit cards or other electronic payment methods.
- Evaluation and approval : Immigration authorities review the application. This process can take from a few hours to several days, depending on the country.
- Receipt of e-Visa : Once approved, the visa is sent by e-mail. The traveler must print it out or save it on an electronic device for presentation to immigration on arrival.
Use of e-Visa:
- Duration of stay : Varies according to type of visa (tourist, business, student, etc.) and country of issue.
- Single or Multiple Entries : Some e-Visas allow multiple entries, while others are valid for a single stay.
- Specific conditions : Each country may impose specific conditions, such as restrictions on the regions visited or the need for a return ticket.
Countries that issue electronic visas:
Here are a few examples of destinations that provide their international visitors with an electronic visa (e-Visa):
- Africa: Benin, Côte d’Ivoire, Egypt, Madagascar, Morocco, Tanzania, etc.
- Asia: Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Mongolia, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Vietnam, etc.
- Europe: Georgia, Russia, Ukraine, etc.
What is an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) ?
An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a pre-boarding permission granted by some countries to visa-exempt travelers. The ETA does not replace a visa, but it is necessary to enter the destination country.
ETA Application Process:
- Online application: Similar to the e-Visa, the applicant fills out an online form with basic information and passport details.
- Payment of fees: Although often lower (or even free) than those of electronic visas, processing fees may also be required.
- Instant or express validation: The application is generally approved quickly, often within minutes or hours.
- Receipt of ETA: The confirmation of the ETA is sent by email and must be presented at boarding and immigration upon arrival.
Use of ETA:
- Validity: The ETA is valid for short stays (tourism, transit, business) of up to 90 days in general but may have validity lasting several months or even years.
- Single or Multiple Entries: Some ETAs allow multiple entries, but they may also be issued for a single entry.
- Specific conditions: As with e-Visas, conditions may vary. For example, some countries require a return ticket or onward travel to another destination.
Destinations requiring an Electronic Travel Authorization:
In early 2024, Kenya announced a visa exemption for travelers from all countries worldwide. For security and smoother arrivals, the country introduced an Electronic Travel Authorization for all visitors.
Here are some destinations that require visa-exempt visitors to apply for an ETA to cross their borders:
- Africa: Kenya (ETA), Morocco (AEVM), Seychelles (ETA), etc.
- America: Canada (ETA), United States (ESTA), Mexico (SAE), etc.
- Asia: South Korea (K-ETA), Israel (ETA-IL), Japan (ETA by 2025), etc.
- Europe: United Kingdom (ETA), European Union (ETIAS by 2025), etc.
- Oceania: Australia (ETA and eVisitor), New Zealand (NZeTA), etc.
Key differences between an e-Visa and an Electronic Travel Authorization:
e-Visa vs ETA – Purpose and scope:
- Electronic visa: Required for longer stays and specific activities like studies, work, or extended business.
- Electronic Travel Authorization: Mainly for short stays and visa-exempt visitors for tourism or transit purposes.
e-Visa vs ETA – Application process:
- Electronic visa: More detailed and longer, often requiring additional supporting documents.
- Electronic Travel Authorization: Faster and simpler process, with fewer documents required.
e-Visa vs ETA – Duration of stay and validity:
- Electronic visa: Can offer longer stays with specific conditions for each type of visa.
- Electronic Travel Authorization: Designed for short stays with generally longer validity.
Understanding the differences between an electronic visa and an electronic travel authorization is crucial for international travelers.
The choice between the two depends on the destination country, the duration of the stay, and the purpose of the trip.
By familiarizing yourself with the specific requirements of each travel document, you can better plan your future travels and avoid potential complications upon arrival.
