United States

When traveling the world, U.S. citizens have several visa options depending on their destination. You may need to apply in person, get an eVisa or an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online, receive a Visa on Arrival (VOA), or, in many cases, enjoy visa-free travel.

Currently, 44 countries offer the convenience of eVisas and Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs). Both of which can be applied for entirely online, saving time and effort without the need to visit the embassy or consulate. 

For 17 destinations, a Visa on Arrival is available, allowing travelers to gain entry permission upon arrival at their destination. However, for countries that require traditional sticker or stamped visas, U.S. citizens must visit the respective embassy or consulate. In some cases, online appointment scheduling may be available, depending on the country’s specific policies.

Regardless of visa type, one essential requirement remains the same: a valid U.S. passport with at least six (6) months of validity from the date of entry.

With a globally ranked passport, 8th in the world, U.S. travelers enjoy the freedom to visit 114 countries without a visa.

Because visa policies differ from country to country, it is always wise to check the specific entry requirements before planning your journey.

An eVisa is a digital visa issued online, allowing travelers to apply without the need to visit an embassy or consulate of the destination country. Once approved, the eVisa can be stored digitally on your smartphone or printed out and presented at the airport upon arrival.

An Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is a type of travel permit that allows you to enter a country without applying for a visa in advance. Instead, the visa is issued by immigration authorities after you arrive.

Like the eVisa, the ETA can be conveniently applied for online and will be delivered to your email. However, there is a key difference: while an eVisa typically allows flexible travel within its validity period, an ETA comes with a specific timeframe. You must arrive and present yourself to immigration authorities within that designated window to receive your visa.

If you fail to travel within the given timeframe, your ETA becomes invalid, and you will need to reapply for a new one.

Below is a list of countries that currently offer eVisa and ETA options for U.S. citizens:

Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a type of visa that allows travelers to obtain their visa after arriving at the destination country’s airport or border crossing. This option eliminates the need to apply in advance.

However, since immigration authorities have the jurisdiction to change the VoA policies at any time, it is strongly recommended that you check the most up-to-date visa regulations of your destination country before traveling. Staying informed ensures a smooth entry and avoids unexpected complications at the border.

The countries mentioned below allow US citizens to get a VoA:

As the US’s passport ranks 8th worldwide, citizens can visit 114 countries visa-free.

Here is a list of countries US citizens can visit visa-free:

There are 21 countries that require U.S. citizens to secure a sticker visa before traveling. This type of visa must be applied for in advance, either through an online platform or by visiting the embassy or consulate.

In some instances, the entire visa application process can be completed online without the need to physically visit the embassy. You can send your passport by mail to get the visa stamped. However, this convenience depends on the specific policies of the destination country.

For countries that do not offer a fully online process, travelers must complete the application in person. This involves visiting the embassy or consulate to submit the necessary documents, including the visa application form and passport.

Visa validity and duration are determined by the type of visa requested and the purpose of the visit. It is important to carefully review the requirements for your intended visa category before beginning the application process.

Here is the list of countries that require a visa from US citizens:

United States citizens can enjoy visa-free transit while traveling through the following countries. The visa-free transit period differs for each country, so we recommend you check with the respective countries’ immigration before your transit.

While visa requirements may vary from country to country, there are several general criteria that U.S. citizens must typically meet when applying for a visa to travel abroad. These common requirements include:

• Valid Passport: A U.S. passport with a minimum of six (6) months’ validity from the intended date of entry into the destination country is mandatory.
• Visa Application Form: A completed visa application form is required and may be submitted either online or in person at the embassy or consulate of the destination country. This form will typically request personal information, travel details, supporting documents, and the purpose of your visit.
• Passport-Size Photograph: One or more recent passport-sized photographs must be submitted, usually taken within the past three months. These should have a plain white background and clearly show your full face from the front.
• Flight Tickets: Some countries require proof of travel arrangements, including both inbound and outbound flight tickets, as part of the application process.
• Proof of Accommodation: Applicants are often required to provide evidence of where they will stay during their trip. This could be a hotel reservation, a booking confirmation at a hostel, or the address of a friend or relative if staying with them.

Travel restrictions are imposed on US nationals by the government due to their safety, diplomatic relations with the destination country, and security concerns. It is best to check the U.S. Department of State’s Travel Advisory about your destination’s precaution level before your travel.

You can visit 196 countries with your US passport. As the United States passport is ranked 8th globally, you can visit 114 countries without a visa.

US citizens can visit visa-free to 114 countries. The countries are listed above in the visa-free destinations sections.  

Yes, a U.S. citizen can hold three passports if they have dual or multiple citizenships. The U.S. does not prohibit its citizens from holding foreign citizenships and passports, as long as it does not conflict with U.S. law.

The best way to prove U.S. citizenship is by presenting official documents issued by the government. These include a U.S. passport, which is the most widely accepted and convenient form of proof, especially for both domestic use and international travel. Other valid documents are the Certificate of Citizenship, typically issued to individuals born abroad to U.S. citizen parents, and the Certificate of Naturalization, which is granted to individuals who have become citizens through the naturalization process. Additionally, a U.S. birth certificate serves as proof for those born within the United States.