Visa Glossary
Confused by visa jargon? We explain every term in plain English, specifically for Indian travelers.
eVisa (Electronic Visa)
An eVisa is a digital visa that you apply for and receive entirely online, without visiting an embassy or consulate.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
A visa on arrival is issued at the port of entry (airport/border) when you land in the destination country, without prior application.
Visa-Free Travel
Visa-free travel means you can enter a country with just your passport — no visa application, no fee, no stamp needed before arrival.
Visa Required (Sticker/Stamp Visa)
Visa required means you must apply for and receive a visa from the country's embassy or consulate before you travel.
Schengen Visa
A Schengen visa is a single visa that grants access to 27 European countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Transit Visa
A transit visa allows you to pass through a country's airport or territory on your way to another destination, without entering that country for tourism.
Biometrics (Visa Biometrics)
Biometrics in the visa process means providing your fingerprints and photograph at a visa application center, used for identity verification.
Passport Ranking (Passport Index)
Passport ranking measures how powerful a passport is based on the number of countries its holders can visit visa-free or with visa on arrival.
Travel Insurance (Visa Travel Insurance)
Travel insurance is a policy that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other risks while traveling abroad. It's mandatory for many visa applications.
VFS Global
VFS Global is the world's largest outsourcing company for visa application processing, operating visa centers on behalf of embassies and consulates worldwide.
DS-160 (US Visa Application Form)
The DS-160 is the mandatory online nonimmigrant visa application form that must be completed by anyone applying for a US visa, including tourist (B1/B2), student (F1), and work visas.
Visa Overstay
Visa overstay means remaining in a country beyond the authorized period on your visa, which can result in fines, detention, deportation, and future visa bans.
Know the Terms, Plan Better
Now that you understand visa terminology, put your knowledge to use. Check visa requirements for your dream destination.