Visa on arrival: how it works and where to expect it
Last reviewed 12 July 2026A visa on arrival (VOA) is a visa you obtain at the border — usually at an airport immigration desk — rather than online or at an embassy beforehand. For eligible nationalities it’s convenient, but it also carries risks that a pre-arranged eVisa avoids. This guide explains how VOA works, how it differs from an eVisa, what to bring, and where you’ll still find it in 2026.
How visa on arrival works
You travel to the destination without a visa, then join a dedicated queue on arrival. You complete a short form, present your documents and photo, pay a fee, and receive a stamp or sticker in your passport. The whole process usually takes a few minutes to an hour depending on queues. Crucially, the decision is made after you have already flown — so if you don’t meet the conditions, you can be refused entry at the border.
Visa on arrival vs. eVisa
| Visa on arrival | eVisa | |
|---|---|---|
| Where you apply | At the border | Online, before travel |
| When you know | After you’ve flown | Before you book/board |
| Payment | At the airport desk | Online |
| Queues | Possible long waits | None on arrival |
| Risk | Refusal after arrival | Sorted in advance |
Where both options exist for your nationality, the eVisa is usually the safer choice: you know your status before you leave home, and you skip the arrival queue. Many countries have replaced VOA with eVisas for exactly this reason.
What to bring for a visa on arrival
- A passport valid at least six months (check the country’s validity rule) with blank pages.
- One or two passport-style photos — some desks still require physical prints.
- The exact fee, ideally in US dollars cash, as card machines can be unreliable.
- Proof of onward or return travel and accommodation.
- Sometimes an invitation letter or proof of funds.
Where you’ll still find visa on arrival
VOA remains common across parts of Asia, Africa and the Middle East, though many countries now steer travellers to an online equivalent:
- Indonesia offers VOA, but the online e-VOA lets you pay in advance and use the fast gate.
- Egypt sells a VOA sticker at the airport, or you can pre-arrange the eVisa.
- Cambodia and several others run parallel VOA and eVisa systems.
- Some UAE and other destinations grant a free visa-on-arrival stamp to many nationalities.
Always confirm on the official government portal whether your nationality qualifies for VOA at your specific entry point — eligibility and participating airports change.
Common questions
Is visa on arrival guaranteed if I’m eligible?
No. Meeting the criteria lets you apply at the border, but the officer still makes the final decision. Missing documents or funds can lead to refusal.
Should I choose VOA or an eVisa?
If an eVisa exists for your nationality, it’s usually safer — you know your status before travelling and skip the queue.
Can I pay by card?
Sometimes, but bring cash (often US dollars) as a backup; card terminals at borders are unreliable.
Do I need photos?
Some VOA desks require physical passport photos. Carry two just in case.
← All travel guides · Related: how eVisas work, visa-free travel, passport validity rules, why applications get rejected.