Original post
Hi
Has anyone been to Rwanda recently and gotten a 3-month visa on arrival easily?
Thanks
3-month visa on arrival in Rwanda
by Prisonbreak69
Translated into English.
Hi,
What passport do you have?
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
French
Thanks,
Just Rwanda or East Africa as well?
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
Rwanda only
I'm wondering if there's any downside to getting an East African visa for $100 and NOT going to Kenya and Uganda .
Because in the end, the cost is the same, without having to pass through Kigali twice at the end of 30 and 60 days.
As a Rwandan, when I travel to neighboring countries (allowed up to 6 months max stay), immigration services always stamp 15 days or 1 month max in the passport. (Renewable if needed, of course).
Because in the end, the cost is the same, without having to pass through Kigali twice at the end of 30 and 60 days.
As a Rwandan, when I travel to neighboring countries (allowed up to 6 months max stay), immigration services always stamp 15 days or 1 month max in the passport. (Renewable if needed, of course).
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
I know there’s a 3-month visa just for Rwanda that’s cheaper
Hi
It’s the V1, Holiday Purpose
Visitors visa
$70, multiple entries, 3-month duration—check the DGIE website for details.
From what I can tell, there’s no reason or info suggesting this has changed, so it should still be available on arrival.
Visitors visa
$70, multiple entries, 3-month duration—check the DGIE website for details.
From what I can tell, there’s no reason or info suggesting this has changed, so it should still be available on arrival.
Awesome, thanks! 😉
Hello,
This is the V1, Holiday Purpose.
Visitors visa
$70, multiple entries, valid for 3 months as per the DGIE website.
As far as I know, there’s no reason or information suggesting this has changed, so it should still be available on arrival.
That’s interesting, thanks for this update!
By the way, a quick question:
Do the automated control gates (Automated Passenger Clearance System) at Kigali International Airport work? Have you used them before?
According to the Rwandan Embassy in France (cases 5 & 6), it seems you no longer need to register in advance to use them. 🙂😇
Visitors visa
$70, multiple entries, valid for 3 months as per the DGIE website.
As far as I know, there’s no reason or information suggesting this has changed, so it should still be available on arrival.
That’s interesting, thanks for this update!
By the way, a quick question:
Do the automated control gates (Automated Passenger Clearance System) at Kigali International Airport work? Have you used them before?
According to the Rwandan Embassy in France (cases 5 & 6), it seems you no longer need to register in advance to use them. 🙂😇
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
Hi,
Never used it because, well, you had to register, and I didn’t take the time to do that. But we also heard that now it works without prior registration (though, to be honest, I don’t test it—I prefer to maximize my chances of getting through quickly via the counter line, in case the info about the automatic gates turns out to be wrong).
I’d be happy to know if it actually works now ;)
Yeah, you're totally right—it's a double-edged sword 😏.
Either you zip through in 5 seconds and feel like a boss, or, like it happened to me a few times (with the pre-2019 passport—so mandatory registration), the gates were out of order half the time and—*coincidentally*—right when KLM and Brussels flights arrived at the same time😕. Caution won out over the lottery...
With two trips (not before) this summer and a bit of time, I’ll give it a shot and ask about residents too!
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
Hello,
This is the V1, Holiday Purpose.
Visitors visa
$70, multiple entries, valid for 3 months as per the DGIE website.
As far as I know, there’s no reason or information suggesting this has changed, so it should still be available on arrival.
The problem I’m having is that the airline is saying the opposite of what immigration in Kigali told me, and I don’t want to risk being denied boarding. So now I’m not sure what to do.
I sent a message to Brussels Airlines to make sure they’re aware, and here’s their response: In response to your question, you must obtain an e-visa before your flight departs at the following address: HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/2NYZWA9F.
And here’s what immigration in Kigali told me: Please be informed that there is no need to apply for a visa in advance. Rwanda issues visas upon arrival to all nationalities, including French passport holders. You may simply present your passport at the point of entry, and the visa will be issued.
Visitors visa
$70, multiple entries, valid for 3 months as per the DGIE website.
As far as I know, there’s no reason or information suggesting this has changed, so it should still be available on arrival.
The problem I’m having is that the airline is saying the opposite of what immigration in Kigali told me, and I don’t want to risk being denied boarding. So now I’m not sure what to do.
I sent a message to Brussels Airlines to make sure they’re aware, and here’s their response: In response to your question, you must obtain an e-visa before your flight departs at the following address: HTTPS://TINYURL.COM/2NYZWA9F.
And here’s what immigration in Kigali told me: Please be informed that there is no need to apply for a visa in advance. Rwanda issues visas upon arrival to all nationalities, including French passport holders. You may simply present your passport at the point of entry, and the visa will be issued.
Have you (already?) bought the ticket, round-trip or one-way?
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
I haven’t flown Brussels Airlines in a while—they’re expensive, I don’t like their service, and on top of that, RwandAir now flies to Paris. They’re often the cheapest, their planes are nice, and the service is just as good. What SN is telling you doesn’t make sense since even Rwandan authorities say the opposite (see also the website of the Rwandan Embassy in France).
Maybe you can call the Embassy directly (they helped me a lot and were really friendly almost 15 years ago before I came here) and ask if an e-visa is required for your situation. I checked the DGIE website migration.gov.rw but couldn’t find any info about it—nowhere. Everything says it’s done at the border.
Another option is to apply through Irembo as SN suggested, even if it’s not normally necessary. At least you’ll have the e-visa (if it works, which I assume it will).
Otherwise, I’m afraid you won’t have a satisfying solution to ease the little stress before check-in without an e-visa, since Rwanda will say it’s not needed, and SN will say it is.
But I don’t see SN blocking you if you’ve done what the Rwandan authorities confirmed you could do.
Maybe you can call the Embassy directly (they helped me a lot and were really friendly almost 15 years ago before I came here) and ask if an e-visa is required for your situation. I checked the DGIE website migration.gov.rw but couldn’t find any info about it—nowhere. Everything says it’s done at the border.
Another option is to apply through Irembo as SN suggested, even if it’s not normally necessary. At least you’ll have the e-visa (if it works, which I assume it will).
Otherwise, I’m afraid you won’t have a satisfying solution to ease the little stress before check-in without an e-visa, since Rwanda will say it’s not needed, and SN will say it is.
But I don’t see SN blocking you if you’ve done what the Rwandan authorities confirmed you could do.
Have you (already?) bought the ticket, round-trip or one-way?
yes round-trip
yes round-trip
I haven’t flown Brussels Airlines in a while—they’re expensive, I don’t like the service, and on top of that, RwandAir now flies to Paris. They’re often the cheapest, their planes are nice, and the service is just as good. What SN is telling you doesn’t make sense since even Rwandan authorities say the opposite (see also the website of the Rwandan Embassy in France).
Maybe you can call the Embassy directly (they helped me a lot and were really friendly almost 15 years ago before I came here) and ask if you need an e-visa in your situation. I checked the DGIE website migration.gov.rw but couldn’t find any info on this—nowhere. Everything says it can be done at the border.
Another option: apply through Irembo as SN suggests, even if it’s not normally required. At least you’ll have the e-visa (assuming it works, which I imagine it will).
Otherwise, I’m afraid you won’t have a satisfying solution to ease the little stress before check-in without an e-visa, since Rwanda will say it’s not necessary and SN will say it is.
But I don’t see SN stopping you if you’ve done what the Rwandan authorities confirmed you could do.
I can’t take that risk... at 5 AM, all it takes is one grumpy, half-asleep employee who doesn’t know the rules, and I’ll be left with nothing but regrets. I’ll call the embassy again on Wednesday—today and tomorrow are holidays. Thanks for your advice
I can’t take that risk... at 5 AM, all it takes is one grumpy, half-asleep employee who doesn’t know the rules, and I’ll be left with nothing but regrets. I’ll call the embassy again on Wednesday—today and tomorrow are holidays. Thanks for your advice
In practice, it seems Rotsaka is right. However, without wanting to defend Brussels Airlines and their grumpy employee at 5 AM , there’s a good chance they’re applying the strictest rule (to cover themselves, of course).
So, with your travel dates (over 30 days), you definitely need a visa. The Visit Rwanda website states that the visa can be paid either online or on arrival.
My interpretation is that even if you plan to pay for the visa only on arrival, complete the pre-application/e-visa online (if possible—I’m not sure) and print the receipt or proof to bring on the day of your flight for check-in. You’ll be covered just as if you already had your $70 visa in hand.
Let us know if a pre-application can be done online with later payment 🙂
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
This seems to me the only solution to be reassured and meet SN’s (unreasonable) requirements.
You need to go on IREMBO as they ask you to (it’s the official site used in Rwanda for lots of administrative procedures) and complete the visa application. I only tested the beginning but didn’t go all the way to see how the payment works, but I think they’ll offer Visa or Mastercard.
I’m not sure a new call to the Embassy will tell you much more since the issue clearly comes from SN.
This seems to me the only solution to be reassured and meet SN’s (unreasonable) requirements.
You need to go on IREMBO as they ask you to (it’s the official site we also use in Rwanda for many administrative procedures) and complete the visa application. I only tested the beginning but didn’t go all the way to see how payment works, but I think they’ll offer Visa or Mastercard.
I’m not sure a new call to the Embassy will tell you much more because the issue clearly comes from SN.
From Brussels, the actual SN staff are probably better trained than at layovers (like Paris or Marseille, where it’s a service provider handling multiple airlines/rules and not very flexible). Plus, given how often this happens, I imagine SN staff in Brussels are more aware of the specific formalities for flights to Rwanda.
Since our friend is leaving from a layover, it’s safer for him to play it safe in case of rigid and obtuse staff (but within their rights) by going on Irembo for his pre-application. Is it immediate or does it take a while?
Do you know if—like in Entebbe, for example—there are multiple lines on arrival in Kigali? Like, one for no visa and one for visa holders? Maybe if he’s lucky, his line will be empty and faster 🙂.
From Brussels, the actual SN staff are probably better trained than at layovers (like Paris or Marseille, where it’s a service provider handling multiple airlines/rules and not very flexible). Plus, given how often this happens, I imagine SN staff in Brussels are more aware of the specific formalities for flights to Rwanda.
Since our friend is leaving from a layover, it’s safer for him to play it safe in case of rigid and obtuse staff (but within their rights) by going on Irembo for his pre-application. Is it immediate or does it take a while?
Do you know if—like in Entebbe, for example—there are multiple lines on arrival in Kigali? Like, one for no visa and one for visa holders? Maybe if he’s lucky, his line will be empty and faster 🙂.
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
Hello
Yes, normally the boarding staff are more up-to-date or at least have someone on hand who knows.
Better to use Irembo, and in any case, if the staff are being difficult and not following the rules—since they’re supposed to know that visas are issued on arrival.
I don’t think there’s a deadline for a visitor visa, and given the efficiency and digitalization of services in general, it shouldn’t be a problem.
On arrival, to the right, there are gates for nationals and residents, plus 1 or 2 counters for officials and others with fast-track access (VIPs, airline staff, etc.). To the left and far left, there are 2 lines for everyone else—those who already have a visa, those who don’t need one, and those applying for one.
On arrival, to the right, there are gates for nationals and residents, plus 1 or 2 counters for officials and others with fast-track access (VIPs, airline staff, etc.). To the left and far left, there are 2 lines for everyone else—those who already have a visa, those who don’t need one, and those applying for one.
Furthermore, Rwandair now flies to Paris. They are often the cheapest, their planes are nice, and the service is just as good..
Many members on this site don’t share your point of view at all😐. Their early morning arrival is the biggest advantage I appreciate about their direct flight—it optimizes the day—even though I’ve never taken their flight from Paris (only from Gatwick back then and Brussels). However, it’s less convenient from the provinces compared to SN/KL/TK/KQ.
Like everyone, I think ground staff—whether outsourced or not—can make mistakes 😛, so it’s best to anticipate them🏴☠️!
When I tried a quick simulation on the Irembo site (not the app, if it exists), I noticed (or maybe I made a bad initial choice) that the Visa Application only covers:
* VE-1 (30 days) * VE-2 (Transit) * V2 Family (Single Entry) * V1 Holiday (Single Entry) * VC Crew Member * V1 Holiday (Single Entry) yes, again
There’s no sign of the one you mentioned: V1 Holiday (Multiple entries) for $70. Maybe it’s on the next page!
EDIT: Thanks for the info about the different lines at arrival. In the end, he won’t save any time (if everyone arrives without a visa and he, on the contrary, with one).
The multiple-entry visa is available under the Renew tab, not in visa application.
Many members on this site don’t share your point of view at all😐. Their early morning arrival is the biggest advantage I appreciate about their direct flight—it optimizes the day—even though I’ve never taken their flight from Paris (only from Gatwick back then and Brussels). However, it’s less convenient from the provinces compared to SN/KL/TK/KQ.
Like everyone, I think ground staff—whether outsourced or not—can make mistakes 😛, so it’s best to anticipate them🏴☠️!
When I tried a quick simulation on the Irembo site (not the app, if it exists), I noticed (or maybe I made a bad initial choice) that the Visa Application only covers:
* VE-1 (30 days) * VE-2 (Transit) * V2 Family (Single Entry) * V1 Holiday (Single Entry) * VC Crew Member * V1 Holiday (Single Entry) yes, again
There’s no sign of the one you mentioned: V1 Holiday (Multiple entries) for $70. Maybe it’s on the next page!
EDIT: Thanks for the info about the different lines at arrival. In the end, he won’t save any time (if everyone arrives without a visa and he, on the contrary, with one).
The multiple-entry visa is available under the Renew tab, not in visa application.
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
Not at all in agreement with my take on RwandAir? Well, it’s a bit like all airlines—there are always people who’ve had issues and, rightly so, complain about them. Personally, I travel with RwandAir several times a year, as well as Ethiopian, and it works just fine for me. I no longer fly SN unless I’m forced to, and the same goes for KLM. I didn’t find Qatar Airways, Emirates, or Turkish Airlines as amazing as some people claim (at least not to the extent they say). Some friends no longer fly RwandAir, and my daughter won’t set foot on an Ethiopian flight again. Often, it’s just stories of bad experiences.
Yeah, clearly, you don’t necessarily save time by already having your visa. I’ve waited nearly 2 hours upon arrival when KLM and SN flights landed at the same time because there were so many people. And of course, since everyone’s in the same line—including those who need to get their visa—it takes even longer. That’s when I *could’ve* tried the automated kiosks but didn’t because I was afraid of ending up at the back of the line and wasting even more time.
Yeah, clearly, you don’t necessarily save time by already having your visa. I’ve waited nearly 2 hours upon arrival when KLM and SN flights landed at the same time because there were so many people. And of course, since everyone’s in the same line—including those who need to get their visa—it takes even longer. That’s when I *could’ve* tried the automated kiosks but didn’t because I was afraid of ending up at the back of the line and wasting even more time.
In practice, it seems Rotsaka is right. However, without wanting to defend Brussels Airlines and their grumpy employee at 5 AM, there's a good chance they're applying the strictest rule (to cover themselves, obviously).
So indeed, with your travel dates (over 30 days), you clearly need a visa. The Visit Rwanda website states that the visa can be paid either online or on arrival.
My interpretation is that even if you want to pay for the visa only on arrival, do the pre-application/pre-e-visa online (if possible—I don’t know) and print the receipt or proof you’ll bring on the day of check-in. You’ll be covered just as if you already had your $70 visa in hand.
Let us know if a pre-application can be done online with later payment [ :)]
No, it’s impossible. Don’t dream. Getting proof of a visa without paying for it doesn’t exist. Not for any country.
No, it’s impossible. Don’t dream. Getting proof of a visa without paying for it doesn’t exist. Not for any country.
Going back to the original topic:
Actually, you shouldn’t choose "Renew" since it’s not an extension.
You need to select "Other" from the passport dropdown menu—then it works.
I just paid for the visa online. Fingers crossed.
For info, I called the embassy, but they were unreachable.
Actually, it’s genocide commemoration week since yesterday, so there might be events because of that, with fewer people available. But normally, they should still get back to you at some point.
If you’ve already paid, everything should be fine anyway. There’s no reason it wouldn’t be. You should’ve received a confirmation that your application was submitted, either by SMS or email (that’s how it works here in Rwanda).
In the end, what payment methods do they offer? And what currencies was it available in?
If you’ve already paid, everything should be fine anyway. There’s no reason it wouldn’t be. You should’ve received a confirmation that your application was submitted, either by SMS or email (that’s how it works here in Rwanda).
In the end, what payment methods do they offer? And what currencies was it available in?
Actually, it’s the week of genocide commemorations since yesterday, so there might be events because of that with people being less available. But normally, they should still get back to you at some point.
If you’ve paid, everything should be fine anyway. There’s no reason it wouldn’t be. You should’ve received a confirmation that your application was submitted via SMS or email (that’s how it works here in Rwanda).
In the end, what payment methods do they offer? And what currencies was it available in?
I gave them my email because to get an SMS confirmation, they ask for a Rwandan number. I did receive the confirmation by email. I paid by credit card in RWF.
If you’ve paid, everything should be fine anyway. There’s no reason it wouldn’t be. You should’ve received a confirmation that your application was submitted via SMS or email (that’s how it works here in Rwanda).
In the end, what payment methods do they offer? And what currencies was it available in?
I gave them my email because to get an SMS confirmation, they ask for a Rwandan number. I did receive the confirmation by email. I paid by credit card in RWF.
Nice! Even with the bank fees for paying in RWF, it should still work out way cheaper than the USD rate, right?
Anyway, you’ll be able to write up a guide for others looking to get the same type of visa—what seemed straightforward turned out to be anything but, and you’ve really paved the way and explored all the nooks and crannies of Irembo.
Anyway, you’ll be able to write up a guide for others looking to get the same type of visa—what seemed straightforward turned out to be anything but, and you’ve really paved the way and explored all the nooks and crannies of Irembo.
Got my visa confirmation tonight😎😎
Speed-wise, I think it's unbeatable
Brussels Airlines, I'm ready and waiting😉
Great, and it lets you travel with peace of mind. 🙂
Got my visa confirmation tonight😎😎
Speed-wise, I think it's unbeatable
Brussels Airlines, I'm ready and waiting😉
The 4-day (from memory) processing time is more than enough for you ... or at least, it used to depend on the visitor's nationality!
Please report back here to let us know if 1) they asked for proof and 2) when (Paris or Brussels)
The 4-day (from memory) processing time is more than enough for you ... or at least, it used to depend on the visitor's nationality!
Please report back here to let us know if 1) they asked for proof and 2) when (Paris or Brussels)
One People, One Destiny... Jumuiya ya Afrika ya Mashariki
Got my visa confirmation tonight😎😎
Speed-wise, I think it's unbeatable
Brussels Airlines, I'm ready and waiting😉
The 4 days (if I remember correctly) of processing time are more than enough for you ... or sometimes it depended on the visitor's nationality!
Give us an update here to let us know if 1) they asked you for proof and 2) when (Paris or Brussels)
If they ask me for it, it'll only be in Paris In Brussels, given the length of the layover, they don't have time to ask for anything
The 4 days (if I remember correctly) of processing time are more than enough for you ... or sometimes it depended on the visitor's nationality!
Give us an update here to let us know if 1) they asked you for proof and 2) when (Paris or Brussels)
If they ask me for it, it'll only be in Paris In Brussels, given the length of the layover, they don't have time to ask for anything
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My question: For a rental with Avis Canada, is a Gold International Mastercard deferred debit card usable for the security deposit needed to finalize the rental? Is the "CREDIT" label enough? (Some cards say "CREDIT" and others say "CARTE DE CREDIT"—seems minor, but it’s actually a big deal in how the card works.)
I’ve seen conflicting info everywhere I look... My bank says it’s *usually* okay (the deferred debit card), while Avis Canada insists it *must* be a credit card, not debit—even when I mention the deferred debit card.
I know the whole credit card concept is already confusing, and on top of that, some sites say a deferred debit card counts as a credit card, while others say it doesn’t.
Thanks to anyone who can share a recent experience! Have a great day
I’m planning a trip from France to Alberta/British Columbia, and I’m unsure about which bank card to use for the security deposit with the rental company (I’m thinking of going with AVIS).
I contacted Avis Canada, and they told me a credit card is absolutely required. I asked my bank for a credit card (a *real* credit card), but they only offered me a deferred debit card.
My question: For a rental with Avis Canada, is a Gold International Mastercard deferred debit card usable for the security deposit needed to finalize the rental? Is the "CREDIT" label enough? (Some cards say "CREDIT" and others say "CARTE DE CREDIT"—seems minor, but it’s actually a big deal in how the card works.)
I’ve seen conflicting info everywhere I look... My bank says it’s *usually* okay (the deferred debit card), while Avis Canada insists it *must* be a credit card, not debit—even when I mention the deferred debit card.
I know the whole credit card concept is already confusing, and on top of that, some sites say a deferred debit card counts as a credit card, while others say it doesn’t.
Thanks to anyone who can share a recent experience! Have a great day
Hi there,
I’m heading to Senegal in January for a month and was wondering if I just need my French driver’s license or if I should get an international permit?
Thanks!
JL
Hi,
I’m bringing Seresta, an anxiolytic (tranquilizer) from the benzodiazepine family,
to help me sleep.
I’ll have the prescription with me.
Will this be a problem at customs, and do I need to declare it?
Same question for antibiotics?
Thanks a bunch!
Hi there,
I’m heading to Laos next spring, but I have a question about the Thai arrival/departure form. I’ll be flying PAR-BKK, then taking the train to Laos (so exiting Thailand), and later re-entering Thailand by train to catch my return flight. Do I need to fill out two forms in this case?
Thanks for your help! !
I’m heading to Laos next spring, but I have a question about the Thai arrival/departure form. I’ll be flying PAR-BKK, then taking the train to Laos (so exiting Thailand), and later re-entering Thailand by train to catch my return flight. Do I need to fill out two forms in this case?
Thanks for your help! !
Hi there,
I have a 9-seater passenger vehicle that I use for my business in Paris, transporting people.
I’m planning to go to Algeria with my family.
The vehicle registration lists my company as the owner.
Can I get a TPD (Temporary Admission Document)?
Will I need a KBis extract or a power of attorney?!?
Thanks for your help.
Worst case, I can add my personal name as a co-owner on the registration, but that would be a real shame!
Hi,
I’m writing to ask for some info—I’ve heard that you **must** have travel insurance to land in Zanzibar.
What’s the process, and which insurance should I get?
Thanks in advance for your feedback!
Best,
Seb
Hi, are there any travelers who’ve recently crossed the border between Karakalpakstan (Uzbekistan) and Beineu in Kazakhstan?
It was closed for a while.
Thanks for any info!
Hi there,
I bought a one-way flight (Ryanair) and a return flight (EasyJet) to spend a week in Morocco in April. My passport expires 3 weeks after the return date. Some websites say the passport must be valid for 3 months at the time of entry. However, it will still be valid both on entry and return, but its validity will only be 1 month at the time of entry (and 3 weeks on the return date, everything prepaid).
It's an individual family trip.
The consulate can't give me an answer—they're still looking into it (really!)
Will Ryanair let me board in Beauvais in 3 weeks?
Thanks for your advice—this is a bit urgent 😕😕😕😕
I bought a one-way flight (Ryanair) and a return flight (EasyJet) to spend a week in Morocco in April. My passport expires 3 weeks after the return date. Some websites say the passport must be valid for 3 months at the time of entry. However, it will still be valid both on entry and return, but its validity will only be 1 month at the time of entry (and 3 weeks on the return date, everything prepaid).
It's an individual family trip.
The consulate can't give me an answer—they're still looking into it (really!)
Will Ryanair let me board in Beauvais in 3 weeks?
Thanks for your advice—this is a bit urgent 😕😕😕😕
Hello,
Last year, we stayed for 3 months in Thailand, north of Khao Lak, and were able to benefit from the 2-month visa exemption, renewable for one month by going to Takua Pa to validate a 1-month extension (1,900 baht). This year, it’s a disaster for us—not only were we planning a 4-month stay, adding a visa run in between (which some say is quite risky), but the law is apparently changing in the coming months with the return of the 1-month exemption (plus the usual 1-month option). So, we looked into applying for a 6-month multiple-entry visa, allowing a maximum of 60 consecutive days in Thailand. However, I can’t find anywhere the minimum time required outside Thailand between two stays—do any of you have an idea? Thanks for the info! If you’d like tips on Khao Lak and the surrounding areas, we’ve got some experience, though things change fast! Cheers, Bruno.
Last year, we stayed for 3 months in Thailand, north of Khao Lak, and were able to benefit from the 2-month visa exemption, renewable for one month by going to Takua Pa to validate a 1-month extension (1,900 baht). This year, it’s a disaster for us—not only were we planning a 4-month stay, adding a visa run in between (which some say is quite risky), but the law is apparently changing in the coming months with the return of the 1-month exemption (plus the usual 1-month option). So, we looked into applying for a 6-month multiple-entry visa, allowing a maximum of 60 consecutive days in Thailand. However, I can’t find anywhere the minimum time required outside Thailand between two stays—do any of you have an idea? Thanks for the info! If you’d like tips on Khao Lak and the surrounding areas, we’ve got some experience, though things change fast! Cheers, Bruno.
Hi there,
My partner, our 8-year-old daughter, and I are going on vacation to Gex.
We’ve decided to spend one day in Switzerland and another in Italy. Will we need ID (national ID card or passport)? Do we also need ID for our daughter?
Thanks so much for your answers! 🙂
My partner, our 8-year-old daughter, and I are going on vacation to Gex.
We’ve decided to spend one day in Switzerland and another in Italy. Will we need ID (national ID card or passport)? Do we also need ID for our daughter?
Thanks so much for your answers! 🙂
Hi everyone,
Some French friends are visiting NYC (4/5 days around mid-May) from Montreal, Canada. They’ve got their eTA and ESTA approved!
Round-trip transport by bus.
Question: Is the I-94 form required, mandatory, and should it be filled out on the bus or in advance???
Thanks for your RECENT experiences!
See you, Jean.
Some French friends are visiting NYC (4/5 days around mid-May) from Montreal, Canada. They’ve got their eTA and ESTA approved!
Round-trip transport by bus.
Question: Is the I-94 form required, mandatory, and should it be filled out on the bus or in advance???
Thanks for your RECENT experiences!
See you, Jean.
Hello,
We’ll soon be moving to Madagascar long-term.
As a French national, I need to obtain a short-stay visa that can be converted to a long-stay one. To do this, I have to send the required documents to the Madagascar embassy in Paris.
No issues with that procedure so far.
If I get this visa, once I arrive in Madagascar, I’ll need to provide the same documents to the Ministry of the Interior in Anosy. I’m trying to find an email address or website for the Ministry to check which documents I need to submit (I think they ask for additional ones).
If you have any info on this, I’d appreciate your replies.
Best regards,
M. Buisson Eric
Hi there,
I’d like to know if anyone has already applied for a private visa to Russia with an invitation from a Russian resident. I traveled earlier this year with an e-visa, but since I want to stay longer, I’ll be visiting my friend who lives in eastern Russia. For the visa application, does the invitation need to be on an official paper form issued by the Russian ministry? And most importantly, do I need to present the original for the application, or is there an electronic version that can be sent directly to the consulate in France? Thanks for any info if you’ve gone through this process before!
Best regards,
Gilles
I’d like to know if anyone has already applied for a private visa to Russia with an invitation from a Russian resident. I traveled earlier this year with an e-visa, but since I want to stay longer, I’ll be visiting my friend who lives in eastern Russia. For the visa application, does the invitation need to be on an official paper form issued by the Russian ministry? And most importantly, do I need to present the original for the application, or is there an electronic version that can be sent directly to the consulate in France? Thanks for any info if you’ve gone through this process before!
Best regards,
Gilles
I filled out the B2 form to apply for a visa, created an account on Atvis to pay the visa fees and schedule a meet-up, but every time I try to pay with my Boursobank Visa 1st card, they refuse the payment with a message telling me to check my details (address), even though everything is correct. Does anyone know why this is happening, or maybe they don’t accept Visa cards? Are you aware of this?
Thanks for your feedback!
Elisabeth
Hi,
There are rumors going around about the ETA: it must absolutely be on your smartphone in the "ETA" app.
Paper documents might not be accepted. Is this real or just a hoax? Thanks, I’m leaving in 3 weeks. My passport is good to go and my ETA is still valid for a year, but I only printed the email I received. Thanks everyone.
There are rumors going around about the ETA: it must absolutely be on your smartphone in the "ETA" app.
Paper documents might not be accepted. Is this real or just a hoax? Thanks, I’m leaving in 3 weeks. My passport is good to go and my ETA is still valid for a year, but I only printed the email I received. Thanks everyone.
Hi there,
We need to apply for a B2 visa because we visited Iran in 2018. It currently costs $185, but they’re planning an additional $250 fee per person for the same visa—it’s been approved but not yet implemented. Does anyone know when this fee will take effect?
Thanks in advance!
Elisabeth
Hi there,
In November, we're heading off on a 4-month trip. We'll be landing in China and plan to leave the country via a land border into Vietnam.
I’ve read that China may ask for proof of exit within 30 days (flight ticket or other reservation). Since we’d be leaving by land, I’m wondering how this works in practice.
Has anyone here been in this situation recently?
Did the airline ask for an exit ticket before boarding? Did Chinese authorities require proof upon arrival? Is a train/bus ticket to Vietnam sufficient? Is a cancelable or flexible reservation accepted?
Thanks for sharing your experiences! 😊
Did the airline ask for an exit ticket before boarding? Did Chinese authorities require proof upon arrival? Is a train/bus ticket to Vietnam sufficient? Is a cancelable or flexible reservation accepted?
Thanks for sharing your experiences! 😊
Hi there,
Just a question that’s probably been asked before (though usually the other way around for my situation :))
My wife and I are heading to the US.
On her ticket, it only has her maiden name (e.g., Martine DUPOND).
On her passport, it’s written as Martine DUPOND épouse AVRY.
No issues for travel, I hope I did the right thing with the ticket?
Then for the ESTA, is just Martine DUPOND enough, or do I need to include the "épouse AVRY" part like on the passport?
Thanks in advance!
Hi there,
I’m spending a few days in San Pedro de Atacama (Chile) and would like to cross the Argentine border to make a loop toward Salta and then return to Chile to drop off the rental car.
I’ve heard that crossing the border can be tricky!
Is it possible with a rental company’s authorization? Which company, and at what cost?
Thanks for sharing your experiences!
Best regards,
Arnale
Hi everyone,
I saw on the French Embassy in Peru’s website and the Peruvian Consulate in Paris’s site that the rule is to have a passport valid for 6 months *after the arrival date* (not the return date).
I arrive in Peru on August 13, 2019 (for about twelve days), and my passport is valid until February 16, 2020.
That’s 6 months and 3 days after my arrival date in Peru. In my opinion, I’m good to go.
But could I still be denied entry if they say I don’t cover the return date or that I’m too close to the 6-month mark?
Thanks for your feedback.
I saw on the French Embassy in Peru’s website and the Peruvian Consulate in Paris’s site that the rule is to have a passport valid for 6 months *after the arrival date* (not the return date).
I arrive in Peru on August 13, 2019 (for about twelve days), and my passport is valid until February 16, 2020.
That’s 6 months and 3 days after my arrival date in Peru. In my opinion, I’m good to go.
But could I still be denied entry if they say I don’t cover the return date or that I’m too close to the 6-month mark?
Thanks for your feedback.
Hi there,
I read on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website that it’s possible to apply for a temporary driving permit in China, valid for 1 month. I’m planning to rent a car (without a driver) to explore part of the country next August, so I was wondering:
Has anyone here already gone through this process upon arrival? How long do the formalities take on the spot? Is it possible to handle these steps in advance, before arriving in China?
Thanks in advance for your replies.
I read on the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs website that it’s possible to apply for a temporary driving permit in China, valid for 1 month. I’m planning to rent a car (without a driver) to explore part of the country next August, so I was wondering:
Has anyone here already gone through this process upon arrival? How long do the formalities take on the spot? Is it possible to handle these steps in advance, before arriving in China?
Thanks in advance for your replies.
Hi there,
My departure is slowly approaching, and now that I’ve got my Russian visa sorted, I’m fine-tuning the rest of my trip to Tajikistan. Since the Tajik visa is no longer required for stays under 30 days (for French nationals), I’ll need to visit the Ministry of Interior (OVIR) to register within 10 days of entering the country. No big deal, though, since I had to go there anyway to apply for my GBAO permit. 😉 However, I’ve *seen* several reports from travelers (mostly motorized) mentioning that you need an entry permit for Kyrgyzstan, which has to be arranged in advance at the Kyrgyz Ministry (consulate?) in Dushanbe. Otherwise, you’re *stuck* at the Kyzyl-Art border (with no Wi-Fi, of course, to try and sort it out). The most recent report was from a year ago, so I’d love to know if this is still the case and if it’s indeed at the Kyrgyz Ministry (consulate?) where you need to go for this pre-authorization.
Does anyone have any recent info on this?
Thanks in advance!