How to Get a Visa

A visa (not the credit card) is a stamp in your passport. The stamp does not permit you to enter a country. It means that your application to enter a country has been reviewed by an official of that country’s embassy, consulate or border crossing. This official has determined that you are eligible to enter the country for a specific purpose and how long you may remain for that particular visit.

The stamp does not guarantee entry into the country however. Some countries also require the assurance that you have enough money for your stay and that you have the means to leave (an outbound airline ticket for example).

The State Department outlines foreign entry requirements for U.S. citizens who wish to travel to other countries.

Review the entry requirements before you travel. Should a stamp be required, leave 6-8 weeks to have your application processed, just in case.

The stamp usually has two stated times associated with it. The first is the date from which it becomes effective. Be careful that you do not apply for this stamp too far in advance of your vacation because the timer begins ticking when it is issued – not when you enter the country.

The second indicates the maximum length of time that you are permitted to remain in the country.

You will pay a processing fee with your application form. The amount is usually listed in the embassy/consulate website for the country you will visit. Use the internet to locate the website of a foreign embassy or consulate in your own country i.e. Brazilian embassy in the United States.

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