Yes, you read it correctly. Travel 37 countries VISA-FREE with US visa.
I always encourage travelers from developing countries to get a US visa at some point. It opens up doors to many other countries. More and more countries are offering visa exemption with a valid US visa. This list is growing fast.
If you are worried that the VISA-FREE list for your passport is just too small, then get a US visa. It will add about 37 countries to your VISA-FREE list. This is how you give more “power” to your “powerless” passport.
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Why do countries offer visa exemption to US visa holders?
Reason 1: Strict screening
US visa application has a very strict screening process. US visa is also one of the most difficult visas to get. If you have a US visa, then you were screened pretty well already. Meaning, you do not have a criminal history or any illegal immigration intentions.
Reason 2: Strong ties to your home country
US visa application also makes sure you have strong ties to your home country. This is to avoid illegal immigration. If you were to stay illegally anywhere, you could have stayed illegally in the US itself. So, having a US visa reassures them that you have no intention of remaining in their country illegally.
Reason 3: Financial reasons
Developing countries do not have the infrastructure or the money to screen the applicants. If you were already screened by a country like the USA, there is no need to screen you again. In order to have a screening process that is as foolproof as the US, it costs a good chunk of money.
BONUS: Click here for a country cheat sheet for your VISA-FREE travel with US visa
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Which US visas are eligible?
The following US visas can be used
- Tourist or Business Visa (B1/B2)
- Work Visa (L1/L2/H1/H4)
- Permanent Residency (Green card)
Some countries allow F1 and C/D visas as well.
Some countries require the US visa to be multiple-entry and have been used at least once to travel to the US.
So, without further ado, here is the list.
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North America
Chichén Itzá, Yucatan, Mexico
01. Mexico
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 180 days
- Original Sources:
02. United States (of course!)
- Includes the US territories – US Virgin Islands, Puerto Rico, Northern Mariana Islands, and Guam
- Excludes the US territories – American Samoa (American Samoa has it’s own immigration rules and do not honor US visa)
Also Read: 5 ways to get a proof of onward travel for your next trip
***
Central America
Jacó Beach, Jacó, Costa Rica
03. Belize
- Applies to all passport holders
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
04. Costa Rica
- Applies to all nationalities
- For B1/B2, C1 or D visa from the USA, it must be valid for at least 1 day from the day of arrival
- For student/work visa or PR from the USA, it must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
05. El Salvador
- Applies to India passport holders only
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
06. Guatemala
- Applies to India passport holders only
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
07. Honduras
- Applies to India passport holders only
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
08. Nicaragua
- Applies to India passport holders only
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to get VOA for a fee of $50 USD (payable in USD only)
- Besides VOA fee, there is a $10 USD entry fee, $2 USD land border migration fee (for land border only) and $1 USD Municipality Tax (for land border only)
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
- Email response from the consulate of Nicaragua in Washington DC – “Si tiene visa vigente de USA valida y pasaporte más de seis meses, puede viajar y el Pasaje ida y vuelta y dirección en Nicaragua. La visa al entrar a Nicaragua se la darán por un mes, el cual si quiere estar más tiempo tiene que solicitar a la Dirección General de Migración y Extranjería.”
09. Panama
- Applies to all nationalities
- US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival
- US visa must have been used at least once to enter the US before
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
***
Caribbean
Las Galeras, Dominican Republic
10. Antigua and Barbuda
- Applies to all nationalities
- US Visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for VOA (fee is $100 USD)
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
11. Aruba
- Applies to Bolivia, China, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Haiti, India, Jamaica and Peru passport holders only
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
12. Bahamas
- Applies to India passport holders only
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
13. Cuba
- Applies to all nationalities
- Must hold the Tourist Card, which can be obtained from Cuban embassies, authorized airlines and travel agencies
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
14. Curaçao
- Applies to China, Dominican Republic and India passport holders only
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
15. Dominican Republic
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
16. Sint Maarten
- Applies to Bolivia, China, Colombia, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Haiti, India, Jamaica and Peru passport holders only
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
Also Read: How to travel 25 countries VISA-FREE with Canada visa
***
South America
Plaza de Bolívar, Bogotá, Colombia
17. Argentina
- Applies to the following passport holders only
Albania
Angola
Antigua and Barbuda
Bahamas
Bahrain
Belize
Benin
Bhutan
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cambodia
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Central African Republic
China
Congo, Dem Rep of
Congo, Rep of
Cuba
Djibouti
Dominica
Dominican Republic
Equatorial GuineaEritrea
Ethiopia
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
India
Indonesia
Ivory Coast
Kenya
Kiribati
Laos
Lesotho
Madagascar
Malawi
Maldives
Marshall Islands
Mauricio
Moldova
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
NauruNepal
Niger
Oman
Palaos
Papua New Guinea
Philippines
Rwanda
Samoa
São Tomé And Príncipe
Senegal
Seychelles
Sierra Leone
Solomon Islands
Swaziland
Tanzania
Togo
Tonga
Tuvalu
Uganda
Vanuatu
Vietnam
Zambia
Zimbabwe - The US visa must be B2 or B1/B2 only (work/student/crew visa and green card are not eligible)
- The US visa must be valid for at least 4 months from the day of entry into Argentina
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT but are eligible to apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to arrival
- eTA fee is $50 USD and processing time is 20 working days
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
18. Chile
- Applies to China, Dominican Republic and India passport holders only
- The US visa must be B1/B2 or green card only (work/student/crew/transit/dependent visas are not eligible)
- The B1/B2 visa or green card must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in Chile
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
19. Colombia
- Applies to Cambodia, China, India, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam passport holders only
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
20. Peru
- Applies to India and China passport holders only
- The US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival
- Entry up to 180 days
- Original Sources:
Also Read: What to pack for international travel
***
Europe
Istanbul, Turkey
21. Albania
- Applies to all nationalities
- Must have used the US visa to enter the US at least once
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
22. Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Applies to all nationalities that have visa regime with Bosnia and Herzegovina
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
23. Georgia
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
24. Macedonia
- Applies to all nationalities
- The visa must be valid for at least 5 days beyond the intended period of stay
- Entry up to 15 days
- Original Sources:
25. Montenegro
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
26. Serbia
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 90 days
- Original Sources:
27. Turkey
- Applies to the following passport holders only
Afghanistan
Angola
Bangladesh
Benin
Botswana
Burkina Faso
Burundi
Cameroon
Cape Verde
Central African Republic
Chad
Comoros
Cote d’Ivoire
Congo, Dem. Rep, of
Congo, Rep. of
Djibouti
Egypt
Equatorial Guinea
EritreaEthiopia
Gabon
Gambia
Ghana
Guinea
Guinea-Bissau
India
Iraq
Kenya
Lesotho
Liberia
Libya
Madagascar
Malawi
Mali
Mauritania
Mozambique
Nepal
NigerNigeria
North Korea
Pakistan
Philippines
Rwanda
Sao Tome and Principe
Senegal
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sri Lanka
Sudan
Swaziland
Tanzania
Togo
Uganda
Vietnam
Yemen
Zimbabwe - Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for eVisa
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
28. United Kingdom
- Applies to all nationalities
- Must be in transit to/from the US only and must have an onward ticket within 24 hours
- Available at Heathrow airport only
- Entry for 24 hours only
- Original Sources:
Also Read: 15 ways to research visa requirements for any country
***
Middle East
Dubai, United Arab Emirates
29. Oman
- Applies to the following passport holders only
- Visa in NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for eVisa
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
30. Qatar
- Applies to all nationalities
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to apply for eTA and then avail Visa ON ARRIVAL at international airports in Qatar
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
31. United Arab Emirates
- Applies to only India passport holders
- Visa is NOT EXEMPT, but are eligible to get Visa ON ARRIVAL (VOA) at UAE airports or online
- Passport and US visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival in UAE
- Visa on Arrival (VOA) fee is 100 AED (at the airport) or 150 AED (online)
- Entry up to 14 days
- Original Sources:
***
Africa
São Tomé and Príncipe
32. São Tomé and Príncipe
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 15 days
- Original Sources:
Also Read: 10 tips for happy and successful Airbnb stay
***
Asia
Boracay, Philippines
33. Malaysia
- Applies to Bangladesh, Bhutan, China, India, Myanmar, Nepal, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Vietnam passport holders only
- Must be in transit to reach the US as the final destination
- Eligible for visa EXEMPTION only at Kuala Lumpur Airport (KLIA1 and KLIA2)
- Must be flying by Malaysian Airlines, Air Asia or Malindo Air
- Entry up to 120 hours (5 days)
- Original Sources:
34. Philippines
- Applies to China and India passport holders only
- Entry up to 14 days for India passport holders
- Entry up to 7 days for China passport holders
- A 7 day visa extension can be requested at the Bureau of Immigration office
- Original Sources:
35. Singapore
- Applies to China and India passport holders only
- Must be traveling to or from India (example: Must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore or traveling to India from a third country via Singapore)
- Entry up to 96 hours (4 days)
- Original Sources:
36. South Korea
- Applies to all nationalities EXCEPT the following 24 – Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Cameron, Cuba, Egypt, Gambia, Ghana, Iran, Iraq, Kosovo, Kyrgyzstan, Macedonia, Myanmar, Nepal, Nigeria, Pakistan, Palestine, Senegal, Somalia, Sri Lanka, Sudan, Syria, Uzbekistan and Yemen
- Must be in transit to reach the US as final destination
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources:
37. Taiwan
- Applies to Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Laos, Myanmar, and Vietnam passport holders only
- Visa is EXEMPT but must apply online for ROC Travel Authorization Certificate (valid for 90 days) online before arrival
- A US visa that has expired less than 10 years ago can also be used
- Entry up to 14 days
- Original Sources:
Also Read: What is Visa on Arrival and how to get it successfully every time
***
VISA-FREE travel with US visa to British and Dutch Territories
US visa holders and US permanent residents (green card holders) can get visa exemption at the following British and Dutch Territories.
01. Bermuda (British Territory)
- Applies to all nationalities
- The US visa or greencard must be valid for a minimum of 45 days beyond the date of departure from Bermuda
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources: Bermuda Attractions and Government of Bermuda
02. Bonaire (Kingdom of the Netherlands)
- Applies to Bolivia, China, Cuba, Dominican Republic, Guyana, Haiti, India, Jamaica and Peru passport holders only (if in possession of a multiple-entry US visa)
- Applies to all nationalities (if in possession of US Green Card)
- Entry up to 30 days
- Original Sources: The Netherlands and You and Bonaire Travel Guide
03. British Virgin Islands (British Territory)
- Applies to all nationalities
- The visa must have at least 6 months of validity remaining
- Entry up to 190 days
- Original Sources: British Virgin Islands Tourism
04. Cayman Islands (British Territory)
- Applies to China, India and Jamaica passport holders only (if in possession of US visa)
- Applies to all nationalities (if in possession of US Green Card)
- Entry up to 30 days
- More info: Cayman Islands Immigration Department
05. Turks and Caicos (British Territory)
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 90 days
- More info: Turks and Caicos Tourism and Visit Turks and Caicos Islands
***
VISA-FREE travel with United States Green Card (Permanent Resident Card)
If you have been living in the US and hold the Permanent Resident Card (Green Card), you can also travel VISA-FREE to these additional countries.
01. Aruba
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 30 days
- More info: Visit Aruba
02. Bahamas
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 30 days
- More info: Bahamas.com, Consulate General of Bahamas in Washington DC and Nassau Paradise Island
03. Canada
- Applies to all nationalities
- Applicable to air travel only
- Must apply for Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) before arrival
- Entry up to 180 days
- More info: Government of Canada Immigration and Citizenship – visa requirement check
04. Sint Maarten
- Applies to all nationalities
- Entry up to 30 days
- More info: Government of Sint Maarten
***
Conclusion
There you have it! List of 37 countries you can travel visa-free with US visa. If you don’t have a US visa already, it’s time to apply for one and add another 37 to your list of VISA-FREE countries.
Do you know any other country (I haven’t listed here) that offers visa exemption for US visa holders? Let me know in the comments below.
How to get Thailand Visa on Arrival – A complete guide
How to travel 39 Non-Schengen countries VISA-FREE with Schengen visa
How to schedule US visa appointment- A step-by-step guide
Hi Thirumal … This is a Great Site. We live in The Gambia where there are hardly any Embassies.
We have a US & a UK Visa … & this really helps us plan a Holiday.
Hi Amrith! Thank you! Yeah, I feel your pain. There are embassies in India but most of them are in the capital city New Delhi. Sometimes I have to fly across the country to just apply for a visa.
I am glad the article is helpful to you. Most of these countries in the list also offer visa exemption to UK, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, etc visa holders. I am putting together a detailed article on this.
Hi, Thirumal, thanks for your information,
i want to know if the visa F-1 can offer us these countries.
Hi Cedric! Most countries do allow F-1 visa. If a country allows only a certain type of US visas, they would specify. What country passport do you hold? I can give you the exact list of countries that allow F-1 visa for your passport.
Hey Thirumal.
I have a Bangladeshi passport and have F-1 USA visa valid until 2022.
Yes Jim, F-1 visa is also considered as a valid US visa. So, you can travel all the countries on the list with your F-1 visa (except Chile and Argentina but that’s only for China passport holders anyway). Since you have Bangladesh passport, look for countries that say “applies to all nationalities”.
I got 5 years multiple B1/B2 USA visa just now on my Indian passport.
Does it allow me to travel to Philippines on Visa On Arrival Basis? That’s would be great if it does, otherwise Philippines consulate is asking for 8 working days.
Hi Raj! Yes, you can use your new US B1/B2 visa to travel to the Philippines. You will get 14-day entry. You can extend that for another 7 days at the immigration office in Manila. So, you can stay for about 21 days in total (including the extension) with your US B1/B2 visa.
If you would need to stay longer than 21 days, then you would need to get the visa from the Philippines consulate.
Hi! My name is William. Can you list the visa-free countries for a J-1 visa? It is a study exchange visa in the US. Thank you.
Hi William! Most countries on the list accept J-1 visa. For those countries that do not accept all types of visas, I have indicated which visas are accepted.
Hi! I’m currently using a US tourist visa (B2) Can I travel to Maldives for 3 days and re-enter in US?
Hi Jennelyn! Is your question about (1) entering Maldives (OR) (2) re-entering the US after being away for just 3 days?
Bro, thank you very much for your Valid Info…
very much helpful to us…
we will process the documents to get US visa at the earliest
Regards,
Anto
You’re welcome, Anthoni! Yeah, get your US visa. It will open up so many opportunities for you.
Hi Thirumal!
This is really helpful. I, myself, from the Philippines can access a limited number of countries with my weak passport but ever since I got a US Visa, it widened.
Would you know the latest rule on Bosnia and Herzegovina? Also, as far as I know, Kosovo can also be entered for 15 days with a US Visa 🙂
Thank you, Chris! Yeah, US visa can be really helpful for us with weak passports. Regarding Bosnia and Herzegovina, I haven’t gotten any response from the consulate yet. I will update you soon on that.
Regarding Kosovo, I couldn’t find any documentation that confirms the visa exemption with US visa. Were you able to get visa-exemption in Kosovo with your US visa? Do you know any documentation or official link for that?
Bosnia and Herzegovina confirmed that one can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina with a US visa for 30 days.
Thank you! I booked a great flight ticket deal for my mom and so badly needed to know if my mom could travel to Chile and Colombia with a US B1/B2 travel visa, else I could cancel within the 24 hours allowed by the airline.
Hi Chris! I’m glad you found the information you were looking for.
You haven’t mentioned what passport your mom holds. But, visa exemption for Chile currently applies to only China, Dominican Republic and India passport holders. Similarly, visa exemption for Colombia currently applies to Cambodia, China, India, Myanmar, Thailand and Vietnam passport holders.
Good day sir,am having a US B1B2 visa 5 years multiple entry with ghana passport,wanna know which countries can i visit with my Ghana passport
Hi Alidu! You can travel up to 18 countries with your Ghana passport and valid US B1/B2 visa. Below is the list –
NORTH AMERICA
-Mexico
-Belize
-Costa Rica
-Panama
CARIBBEAN
-Antigua and Barbuda
-Cuba
-Dominican Republic
EUROPE
-Albania
-Bosnia and Herzegovina
-Georgia
-Macedonia
-Montenegro
-Serbia
-Turkey (eVisa)
-United Kingdom (24hrs only)
MIDDLE EAST
-Qatar (VoA)
AFRICA
-São Tomé and Príncipe
ASIA
-South Korea
My sister is coming from China to the US to visit us with a B1/B2 visa. I am wondering if she needs a visa to go to Vancouver to take a cruise to Alaska. Thanks!
Hi Dian! Vancouver is in Canada, therefore your sister needs a Canada tourist visa. Unfortunately, she cannot use her US B1/B2 visa to enter Canada.
Oh my goodness! Thank you so much for such a thorough list! Definitely bookmarking to refer to!
Thanks! Yeah, the list is growing. I will add more to it as I find them.
Hello dear
For getting another countries visa at Indian passport, which country visa is better?
USA or UK or Europe ??
If you are asking which visa has a higher chance of approval for Indian passport, I would say Schengen visa. That being said, all visas are easy to get if you have proper documentation and enough funds to support yourself. Try to apply from the German embassy.
Hello Thirumal,
I have US visa currently and I want to apply for Schengen visa. My question is does Europe visa validity is only till the travel period like one month or does it have validity of more then 2 years.
Thank you for your help.
Hi Vennela! First of all, Schengen visas are not long-term visas. So, they are usually issued for up to 3 months. The Schengen visa validity varies from case to case. In a majority of the cases, the visa is issued for just the travel period plus a couple extra days. In a handful of cases, the visa is issued for a 3 month period.
US Visa holders are so lucky to get access like this!
True! I always encourage my readers to get a US visa at some point. Most of these countries in the list also accept Canada, Schengen and other visas. So, it’s always a good idea to get a US, Canada or Schengen visa.
Hi Thirumal,
Your data is indeed helpful !
Could you also confirm whether the valid B2 visa holders can travel to Australia / New Zealand / Schengen countries.
Thanks in advance !!!
Hi Sankar! Thanks for the kind words! Unfortunately no, you cannot use your US B1/B2 visa to travel to Australia, New Zealand or Schengen countries. You would need a visa from Australia to travel to Australia, a visa from New Zealand to travel to New Zealand and a Schengen visa to travel to any of the Schengen countries
Could you confirm that USA L1 (either L1 A or L1 B) visa holder with Indian passport is free to visit the NZ/AUZ without a tourist visa?
New Zealand and Australia DO NOT honor other visas. You must have a New Zealand visa to enter New Zealand and Austalia visa to enter Australia.
wow I had no idea that a US Visa could get you so many other places! I am an American Citizen so lucky like that I guess!
Yep. Especially for those who need visas to travel, US visa can help them a lot. I hope more countries offer visa exemption with US visa.
Hello man
How are you?Hope you doin good.
I have a friend from Ecuador and she wants to come in Albania.She have an american tourist visa B1/B2.So she can stay a month here in Albania without amy problem
Hey man! I’m doing good. How are you?
Yes, your Ecuadorian friend can visit you in Albania without a visa as she already has a US B1/B2 visa, provided that she has used her B1/B2 visa to enter the United States at least once before. Below is the official documentation from Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs –
“Foreign citizens who have a valid, multiple-entry US or UK visa, which has been previously used in the respective country of issuance, or have valid permit of stay in the US or UK.”
For more info, refer to the Albanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs website
Hello dear I have US B1 B2 visa we can visit Canada or no thanks
Hi Barez! You can avail visa EXEMPTION for Canada with your US B1/B2 visa ONLY IF you hold a passport from the following countries. If not, you would need to apply for Canada tourist visa.
* Brazil
* Bulgaria
* Romania
You can find more information on how to apply for Canada tourist visa here.
Highlighted this one. Thanks for sharing.
Thanks! Glad it was helpful.
Very helpful info! Thanks for this article. I have US visa and Japan visa. I’m planning to get my Europe visa soon, hopefully it will turn out fine just like my US and Japan visa application 🙂
Yes, you will be fine. Having US and Japan visas can definitely help with screening and travel history. Good luck!
I recently availed a UK visa on arrival at T5 in Heathrow. If you have a US Visa and are transiting through London , you can get Visa on Arrival for free in UK border control. The Visa is valid for 24 hours only though.
That’s a great news! Even 24 hours is something. Do you know if this VoA for all nationalities or just Indian passport holders?
Anyone ; I’m Kenyan
Anyone with a valid US visa
Good to know. Thanks, Steph!
I am wondering whether final destination should be USA/NZ/AUS? or any country? If say suppose I just want to go UK for a day? I am a Pakistani national.
Well, as far as I know, you must be in transit to or from the USA/NZ/AUS. For example: If you have US visa, then your itinerary should be Lahore-London-NewYork or NewYork-London-Lahore.
Yes me too ; I had a long transit from NYC with a B visa // immigration gave me a 24 hr visa to London as well 😉
Hi Steph. I am from Pakistan and have a B1/B2 valid visa of USA,now I have planned to go USA in last week of January 2018, so I want 24 hrs transit visa of UK,pls.guide me.Rgds
Hi Sajjad, Steph and other readers have availed the 24-hour transit visa at the UK airport successfully. But, I couldn’t find any official documentation from UK immigration services on this visa. I am still validating and in touch with the UK immigration officials. Meanwhile, I assume you can also avail the transit visa as quite a few of my readers were able to avail it.
https://www.gov.uk/check-uk-visa/y/pakistan/transit/somewhere_else/yes
this link might help
Hi Varun,
I am planning the same. So going to NewYork and intending to utilise the stopover at London to make visit the local spots. So just wished to confirm
1. if the transit visit was easy?
2. Any special queries by the UK immigration?
3. And you filled the transit vi’s form at the airport itself?
4. Would t matter if we apply for the transit visa on our return trip from USA to India rather than when going from India to the US?
5. Which airline would you recommend which give an 8-10 hrs stopover at London on route to New York? I see only rerun flights with such stopovers and not sure if getting the transit visa then would work?
Hi Gurbir! I am going to send a quick note to Varun to see if he can respond to your query. Most of my readers are also on the FB group Visa Talk. You can post your specific questions on the FB group as well to see if you can get a quick response. Stephanie is on the group, but Varun is not. I will invite Varun as well to join the FB group.
Here is the link to the FB Group – https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823074001290802/
I want to visit UK, London. I have US B1 Visa. Can I stopover and visit some place with US B1 visa in London. All I know that person need to leave UK within 24 hours. However, not sure, if person can roan around in UK within that 24 hours.
Usually, the stopover is enough to meet friends or check out 1-2 attractions.
Hello Thirumal, I have an Indian passport and I also have US visa. Can I enter China with US visa (no china visa)?
Hi Gopal! Unfortunately, no. You CANNOT use your US visa to enter China. You would need a China visa.
Is this list applicable to F1 (student) visa holders?
Yes. You can use your student visa as well.
Most countries want the US visa to be multiple-entry. But, they are no restrictions on which type of visa you can use. It can be B1/B2, F1 or H1.
There are a few countries which impose additional requirements on different visa types. For example, for Costa Rica B1/B2 must be valid for at least 1 day from the date of arrival. Where as, F1 or H1 must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival.
It’s hard to mention all these intricate details in a blog post. I have detailed all of these requirements/pre-requisites in my eBook which you can download from here.
Hi Thirumal, I have a US C1/D visa , can you please guide me if I can travel to Philippines without any Visa based on my US visa.
Philippines (Embassies as well as Bureau of Immigration) does not specify the types of US visas that are allowed. That means, in my opinion and experience, Philippines honors all types of US visas. I have personally traveled using my H1B visa. I know quite a few people who have traveled to Philippines using their B1/B2 visas. I believe you can use your C1/D visa as well.
Hi, I almost have same question. I have C1 US Visa. Can I enter Mexico for business purposes? And I have Philippine passport.
Hi Christian! Yes, you can use your US C1 visa to enter Mexico for business purposes (non-remuneration only). You do not need a separate Mexico visa.
Dear ,
Appreciate if you guide me , i have US B1/B2 visa having pakistani passport which countries i can visit with on arrival visa or no visa
Hi Shafiq! With Pakistani passport and US B1/B2, you can travel to 11 countries. List is below. Though all of these 11 countries EXEMPT visa for you (since you have US visa), they have slightly different rules. For example, South Korea EXEMPTs visa only if transiting from/to the USA. For complete rules and more information, I suggest to download my eBook. I’ve documented all the rules in the eBook. Link is below.
1. Albania
2. Costa Rica
3. Dominican Republic
4. Georgia
5. Mexico
6. Montenegro
7. Panama
8. Romania
9. Serbia
10. South Korea (While transit from/to USA only)
11. Turkey (eligible to apply for eVisa)
EBook – https://www.visatraveler.com/books/visa-free-travel-with-visa-from-us-uk-canada-schengen-australia-new-zealand-japan-singapore/
Dear Thrimul… It’s really great info and I think you need to add UK (24 hours) also in this list as per your eBook all nationalities are allowed so Paksitani passport holder are also entitled to enter UK for 24 hours if they are travelling to or from US with valid US visa, isnt it?
Hi Kashif! Though that info is already in my eBook, I’m still validating it to be added to this article. I know a handful of people who have availed the 24hrs UK transit visa. They are from different nationalities and I assume Pakistani passport holders are no exception. If you do avail this visa in the future, please let me know.
This article is really helpful. Thanks for all thr information provided here. I wana ask can i travel Romania with indian passport and US tourist visa.
Thanks
Unfortunately, Romania DOES NOT offer visa exemption for US visa. More info here -> https://www.mae.ro/en/node/2040
Macedonia also allows tourist visa for 15 days for Indian passport holders with US B1/B2 visa stamped.
Thank you! Great info. One more country from Europe.
My passport is Bangladeshi. & visa b1 for usa. Can I visit Canada for few days ? Pleasse let me know
Hi Shipon, unfortunately, you would need a Canada tourist visa in order to visit Canada. USA visa CANNOT be used to enter Canada.
But, Canada tourist visa is pretty easy to apply and it usually has a 10-year validity. Take a look at the Canada tourist visa requirements for more information.
Hello sir!
Thank you very very for this summary.
I hadn’t even imagined of this. 🙂
It was of great help.
I’ll be travelling to Los Angeles next month and I was thinking of going via South Korea. Now I after readinh your blog I’m not going to apply another visa for South Korea. I’ll have my flight for US after staying just for a single day in Seoul. So the visa for US would be enough to visit Korea.
Thank you very much for the list 🙂
Hi Sangram! Yes, you can use your US visa to transit through South Korea for up to 30 days. You can happily spend a day in Seoul before continuing your flight to the US. But be prepared to answer a lot of questions at the departing airport in India. Airline officials usually do not know these detailed requirements and they many ask several questions to verify. I suggest you take print of the visa requirements from the Korea Visa Portal (https://www.visa.go.kr/openPage.do?MENU_ID=10101) to show them if asked.
Hi there Thirumal,
Thanks for the article.
I am a Canadian permanent resident with a Nigerian passport and I have 10 years US Visa B1/B2. Does that mean I can travel to these 20 countries? Thanks 🙂
Hi Dominic! Unfortunately, not all 20 countries. With Nigerian passport and US visa, you can travel to 10 countries. Below is the list –
1. Mexico
2. Costa Rica
3. Panama
4. Dominican Republic
5. Turkey
6. Georgia
7. Albania
8. Montenegro
9. Serbia
10.South Korea (transit only)
Hey Thirumal, Thanks a lot. BTW I went to Cuba with just my passport and US visa. Probably others with a US tourist visa can as well?
Thanks again my friend
Good to know Dominic! Thanks for sharing the information. It would definitely help travelers like us. Thanks again!
Hey Thirumal, Thanks a lot.
Pls can I travel to Canada from the US with my USA visa?
Hey Michael! You CANNOT travel to Canada with a USA visa. You must have a Canadian tourist visa to travel to Canada, even if you are traveling from the USA.
Can I travel to Thailand with my B type US visa ?
No, Thailand doesn’t offer VISA EXEMPTION with a US visa. You would need to apply for Thai visa.
Thailand offers Visa on Arrival to Indians at a very cheap price
Yes, Rahul! The fee is 2,000 THB (around $62 USD) for 15 day Visa on Arrival. In my opinion, it’s not that cheap.
I thought if one comes by air, they offer 30 days tourist visa on arrival ?.
Nandan, Thailand offers only 15 days Visa on Arrival. I tried once with a 30-day itinerary, but I was denied. I was told that “there are no exceptions”. VoA is only for 15 days. If you need more days, you would need to apply for a pre-approved visa from the consulate prior to arrival.
Hi , This article is very helpful…. Thanks
Can I use this data for my travel site. If you allow.
Hi Briji! Thanks for checking out the article! It involved a lot of time, research as well as back and forth emails with consulates to compile this list. So, I would ask you to –
1. Use this information in a summary but NOT as is.
2. Attribute in some form with a backlink to this article.
Hi Thiru,
Great info.
I have USA valid visa, expired canadian Visa & I live in SIngapore as PR.
Would It be easier to get Greece visa (Sheng’ visa) in my situation.
Thanks
Additional info: I am holding Bangladeshi Passport.
Hi Rahman! Yes, absolutely! Having these visas and PR will help strengthen your Schengen visa application.
Schengen visa application requires employment and financial proofs. As long as you provide these two proofs, it doesn’t matter which passport you hold, your Schengen visa will definitely be approved.
If you have any more questions, feel free to ask.
Hi, can I get to Mexico with a C1 Visa?
Hi Graciotto! Yes, Mexico allows USA C1 visa. Your USA C1 visa must be valid and unexpired in order to avail visa EXEMPTION in Mexico airports. Take a look at the Mexico visa requirements for more info.
Hello! That’s great info,
So my friends and I are travelling to Philippines in a couple of days, and we have valid usa visas.
But the category is different.
I have b1/b2 visa, however my other two friends have c1/d visa with multiple entry.
Have been trying to figure if that’s valid or not, as we don’t have the time to apply for a visa now.
Would you have any info on this??
Hi Gunjan! As far as I know, Bureau of Immigration, Philippines does not specify the category of US visas that can be used. That means all categories are eligible. I have used my unexpired H1B visa and I have known friends/readers who have used their B1/B2, L1, and F1 visas. As long as your US visas are still valid (unexpired) and multiple-entry, you guys are fine.
Also, Philippines accepts valid multiple-entry visas and PRs from Australia, Canada, Japan, any Schengen country, Singapore, and the UK.
Very well complied list. I travelled to Peru in Sept on my H1b visa and visa free entry for India’s with valid H1b was recent change that happened in March 2017 and most of the other site didn’t have that on their list..
Appreciate the efforts you have taken to write this blog..
Thanks for the kind words, Payal! Hope you had a good time in Peru! I try my best to provide most recent and updated visa info for travelers like us. Let your friends and fellow travelers know about this article so they can benefit from it as well.
Hi Thirumal, thats a lot of vital information. I have a question and hopefully i did not miss out any similar query.
I have B1/B2 US visa issued recently on my Indian passport as i will have to undertake trip from my office for business in future. I may however first need to visit Mexico on business trip and can i transit via US ( Houston ) with this visa type. I need to go to Monterrey and its faster and cheaper via Houston.
During my last vist i had to get Mexico visa and travelled to Monterrey via Mexico city which was relatively expensive and takes more time.
As additional information, I work in Europe with initial Residence permit and as of now i need either Mexican or US visa to enter Mexico. Its possible to visit Mexico with Permanent Residence Permit from Schengen countries.
Also what i know and as detailed by you, lately its possible to have visa on arrival at Dubai for indian citizens having B1/B2 visa and the charges are extremely reasonable compared to standard online visa.
Hi Sunil! Of course, you can use your new US B1/B2 for transiting through Houston. Here is more info –
Mexico with US B1/B2
====================
Yes, you can use your new US B1/B2 visa to travel to Mexico. And yes, you can use your US B1/B2 to transit via the United States. It doesn’t really matter whether you are traveling for business or pleasure when it comes to “transiting” through the US. All you need is a visa and you have your B1/B2.
Mexico with PR from any Schengen country
========================================
Yes, you can also use your PR from any Schengen country to enter into Mexico.
More info on using your US B1/B2 or Schengen country PR for traveling to Mexico – https://consulmex2.sre.gob.mx/washington/index.php/visas?id=182
Dubai VoA for India passport holders with US B1/B2
==================================================
Yes, you can use your B1/B2 visa to avail visa on arrival at Dubai airport.
Hi Thirumal,
Thanks for the clarification.
I was also looking for a possible trip with short stay to CUBA and it seems, there is no need for VISA as it is possible to have tourist card in flight, provided I travel from US, Mexico or Canada & that I hold visa or PR from EU / US / Canada.
Since I have US B1/B2 visa and work in Europe with Long term Employment Pass ( this is Residence Permit & not PR) , can I travel to Cuba without Visa from Europe, say Vienna or Frankfurt.
Thanks in advance.
Sunil, that’s correct! If you have a visa or residence permit from US, Canada or any EU country, you can travel to CUBA. Your Long Term Employment Pass is a Residence Permit, so you should be able to use that to enter Cuba. Here is the detailed information from TIMATIC database (assuming that you live in Germany)
The following are exempt from holding a visa:
Nationals of India with a residence permit issued by Germany. They must also hold a Tourist Card (Tarjeta del Turista) issued to visitors traveling as tourists.
Additional information:
Tourist Cards (Tarjeta del Turista) must be obtained prior to arrival in Cuba and are available at:
– Cuban Embassies or Consulates;
– Authorized Airlines;
– Travel agencies.
Tourist Cards (Tarjeta del Turista) grant a max. stay of 30 days to nationals of India with a residence permit issued by Germany. They can apply to extend their stay for an additional 30 days.
The length of stay must be covered by USD 50.- (or equivalent in other convertible currency, in cash or traveler’s cheques) per person per day, unless passenger has previously contracted the touristic activities with MINTUR in Cuba.
Belize can also be added to the list.
Thanks, Ravi! Yes, I will add Belize to the list. Not sure how I missed it, haha!
Does this hold true for indian passport holder with J-1 visa?
Hi Gellard! Yes, this holds true for J-1 visa as well. If a country doesn’t specify the type of US visas it allows, that means it allows all types of US visas. But if a country specifies what types of visas it allows, then only those type of US visas can be used for that country.
Example: Here is the information from Embassy of Costa Rica in Washington DC.
“If the foreigner has permanent residence, a student visa, a work visa in the United States or Canada, he/she does not need a visa to enter Costa Rica. In addition, he/she must have a passport valid for at least six months from the date of entry into the country and a round trip ticket. Note 1: This type of visa must be stamped in the passport, and must be valid for at least six months. Note 2: Permanent residents must submit their residency card (i.e. green card), which must be valid for at least six months. Note 3: The residence proof stamped on a passport, refugee status, parole or work cards are not accepted. If this is what you have, you need to find out if you need a tourist visa at the Consulate of your jurisdiction.”
You can clearly see what’s not accepted. Similarly, pretty much all the countries in the above list have some kind of accepted and not accepted types. I haven’t seen J-1 being on the NOT ACCEPTED list anywhere. So yes, you can use your J-1 visa as well provided it’s multiple-entry.
Hi,
Visit to Serbia for Indians Is now Visa on arrival. I think this happened in September,2017.
That’s correct Gurbir! Serbia has started offering visa EXEMPTION for Indian nationals since Sep 02, 2017. Great move by Serbia and would like to see more countries joining the lead in offering visa exemption for Indian nationals.
Hi Thirumal,
Very useful info. Thanks.
A query. Does this list mean that if you have a US TOURIST visa, you get a visa in arrival at the airports if these listed countries or does this mean, you still need to apply to the concerned embassies of the listed countries but would be guaranteed a visa?
Gurbir, if you have a US visa (tourist, work, student, crew, etc.), you can avail visa EXEMPTION (no visa required). Meaning –
– You do not need to apply for a visa at the embassy (or)
– You do not need to apply for an eVisa (or)
– You do not need to apply for Visa on Arrival either
You would just have to show your US visa to the immigration officials at the port of entry and you will be granted entry into the country for a specified number of days.
Exemptions:
– For Turkey, you would need to apply for eVisa upfront using your US visa
– For UAE, you would need to apply for Visa on Arrival using your US visa at the airport in UAE
– For Qatar, you would need to apply for Visa on Arrival using your US visa at the airport in Qatar
– For Taiwan, you would need to apply for Travel Authorization upfront using your US visa
Hi Thirumal,
I will suggest that you should have the latest post on the top of your blog rather the other way around:). Your readers then read the latest updated info first. Cheers !,
Thanks for the suggestion Gurbir! I think that makes sense since the latest information is more relevant.
Hello Thirumal,
Hope you are doing well? I would like to know if as an Indian passport holder with a valid US B1/B2 visa I can enter Tbilisi, Georgia without visa considering I haven’t yet travelled to the USA .
Hi Shraddha! Georgia DOES NOT mandate for the US visa must have been used at least once. So, you can use your valid US B1/B2 visa without any restrictions while entering Georgia.
More information on the visa restrictions and rules at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Georgia website.
Recently Oman introduced some tourist visa relaxations for Indians with US Visa too!!
Yep, that’s correct! Visa is NOT EXEMPT but you are eligible to apply for Oman eVisa if you have a valid US visa.
More info at Sultanate of Oman, Royal Oman Police.
Thanks a million Thirumal. You are a great help and I can’t believe my eyes when I see such detailed information and that too up to date.. it’s really very useful to have someone like you, who is well traveled and aware. (I thought I was the one until today 😉 ) wishing you many more holidays and hope that you continue to support your followers. Cheers
Thanks, Amar! I try my best to keep this info up to date. Thanks again and happy travels to you!
I guess you missed out Malaysia
Yep, that’s correct. Though the consulate confirmed it, I am still waiting for someone who has actually used it. Were you able to use your US visa successfully in Malaysia?
I want to travel From Delhi, India to Santo domingo, Domican republic (SDQ) via a connecting flight of Air france which travel throught Paris, France (CDG).
Delhi to paris
Paris to santo domingo
A halt is around 7hrs in paris. Should i need to apply for transit visa.
Thanks
Hi Vikas, if your both DEL-CDG and CDG-SDQ flight are from Air France and are in a single itinerary, you will not need any transit visa provided, you have a visa to Dominican Republic and hold a valid visa from the US, UK or Canada.
Are you using your US visa to enter Dominican Republic? If so, then you already have a US visa and you do not need a transit visa for France.
More information on Transit Visa at France Visa Application Center.
No i dont have transit visa for any of europe, us or canada. I only do have a OK TO BOARD letter for santo domingo Domician republic.
Vikas, the flights that fly to the Dominican Republic usually have a layover in France, Spain, Germany, US or in a country where you would need a transit visa. I suggest you work with a local travel agent who can put together an itinerary that works best for you.
Hi Thirumal,
I have Pakistani Passport,
I have Usa B1 B2 visa
Please send me counties name which i can get visa on arrival or e visa ????
I have Schengen visa type C , issue by German embassy, with this Schengen visa which countries i can visit ?
Hi Ahsan! With Pakistani passport and valid US B1/B2 visa, you can visit the below countries without any visa –
North America
-USA
-Mexico
-Belize
-Costa Rica
-Panama
Caribbean
-Dominican Republic
Europe
-Turkey (eVisa eligible)
-Georgia
-Albania
-Montenegro
-Serbia
-United Kingdom (24 hr transit visa)
Middle East
-Qatar (VoA eligible)
Asia
-South Korea
With your Schengen C type visa, you can visit the below Schengen and European countries –
Schengen Countries
-Austria
-Belgium
-Czech Republic
-Denmark
-Estonia
-Finland
-France
-Germany
-Greece
-Hungary
-Iceland
-Italy
-Latvia
-Liechtenstein
-Lithuania
-Luxembourg
-Malta
-Netherlands
-Norway
-Poland
-Portugal
-Slovakia
-Slovenia
-Spain
-Sweden
-Switzerland
European Countries
-Bosnia and Herzegovina
-Croatia
-Romania
Hello Thirumal,
Thanks for All this really very important multi information
Usa B1 B2
Schengen C
You are welcome, Ahsan! Enjoy your travels!
Hi Thirumal,
Your replies are realy helpful.
I had gone through your reply.
I am Parvez with Indian Passport having valid USA B1/B2 on my old passport. Which I had applied for renewal.
I would be travelling Netherlands what all other documents required to travel without any issue.
Hi Parvez! Thanks! I know some of you would look into the comments because that’s a ton of information right there. Those are the common visa problems that we all have which I couldn’t think of while writing the article. So, I make sure to respond to all of these comments with as much research and detail as I can.
Regarding US B1/B2 visa in your old passport, it’s perfectly normal to have a “valid visa in an expired passport”. You just have to carry your expired passport and your new passport with you everytime you travel. You have to do that until all visas in your expired passport become expired.
Regarding traveling to the Netherlands, first of all, you must have your “Schengen visa”. I suggest carrying the below to avoid any issues at the arrival airport in the Netherlands
-Your new passport with valid Schengen Visa
-Your old passport
-Your return/onward ticket from the Netherlands
-Your visa to your return/onward country
-Last two months of your bank statements (usually, you will not be asked but having it handy will save time if asked)
Hi Bro! I’m Egyptian I have US visa for 5 years, so which countries I can enter without a visa or get the visa at the airport?
Thanks bro
Hi Adel! You can travel to all the countries in the list that says “applies to all nationalities”. The rules apply for all passport holders including Egyptian.
Thanks a lot for this detailed list. My Husband and I are planning to go for a cruise to east Caribbean region and I was really confused whether or not we will need a separate visa in spite of having US (h1B Visa) stamped on both of our passports. I see for Dominican republic we do not need any and I guess for US virgin Island and Puerto Rico as well will be covered by US valid visa ( as they are part of US common wealth) . however, do you have any idea about Grand Turks island that is part of Turks and Caicos Islands? I really appreciate if you can reply me back.
Your list is really helpful. thanks so much Thirumal.
Hi Krittika, you do not need a separate visa for Turks and Caicos as well. Visa is exempt for holders of US, Canada or UK visa. More information here -> Turks and Caicos Tourism. Goodluck and enjoy your cruise!
P.S. I will be updating this blog post with more countries soon. I have been compiling the new list but haven’t finished it yet.
Hi Thirumal,
Thanks for the list! Quick question – what kind of documentation are we supposed to carry while re-entering the US, for immigration purposes at Port of Entry? I’m on H1-B.
Thanks,
Aleena
Hi Aleena! You would need to carry your original passport with valid (unexpired) H1-B visa in it and your I-797 document. That is all you need to re-enter back in the US after vacationing abroad.
Hi! I have a US Visa and green card holder in the USA. Just want to confirm this. Is this sure for Korea? Because I’m planning to go on a trip this year to South Korea. So I’m wondering if I still need to apply for a visa or not. Thanks!
Hi Erica! Yes, you can avail VISA-FREE entry to South Korea with your US visa or green card. It’s confirmed information and quite a few of my readers have used it successfully. BUT IT’S VERY IMPORTANT TO MEET THE BELOW CONDITIONS, OTHERWISE THE AIRLINE WILL DENY BOARDING.
Info from Korea Visa Portal
Tourists in transit to Third Countries
1. Eligible Applicants
Citizens of all countries except Cuba, Macedonia, Syria, Sudan, and Iran.
2. Requirements
Persons who hold a visa (re-entry permit, permanent residency, etc.) to enter the United States, Canada, Australia, or New Zealand (hereinafter referred to as “the four advanced countries”) and
1) who go to one of the four advanced countries in transit through Korea; or
2) who stay in one of the four advanced countries and take a direct flight from the country to Korea to go to a country of nationality or a third country.
Please be noted that:
– If you are a U.S. visa holder who transit through Korea and Saipan to reach the U.S. as the final destination, you are permitted to enter Korea without a visa. (However, if you depart from the U.S. and enter Korea via Saipan, you are not granted no-visa entry to Korea.)
– If you are a Chinese group tourist holding a group-tourist visa to Japan and meet certain requirements (e.g. using a travel agency that only attracts Chinese group tourists), you are permitted to enter Korea without a visa.
– If you hold an e-visa to Australia and a visa label is attached to your passport, you are permitted to enter Korea without a visa. However, if the label is not on your passport, you are granted no-visa entry only when you depart from Australia and transit through Korea.
More information at Hi Korea (e-Government for Foreigners)
Airlines usually use the TIMATIC database to verify the visa requirements. Here is the information from TIMATIC database as well (using India passport as an example) – https://www.timaticweb2.com/integration/external-result/Foz8gv7V825opYOgkbwGSMgi_1LCTFYUsz1I5fU-ny0
By the way, which country passport do you hold?
hi Thirumal.
This is great info. many thanks for that. i am SriLankan but loves your travel posts. I have US business VISA already .Can you pl confirm if i can travel to UK with that ? it was mentioned there in this page. I wrote to UK embasy . but still did not get confirmation. do you have any link/document ? pl share.
thanks again
Hi Aruna! You can avail the UK 24 hours Visa on Arrival facility ONLY IF you are transiting through London’s Heathrow airport and have an onward flight within the next 24 hours. You cannot avail this facility to travel to the UK. It’s only meant for transiting passengers to get out for a few hours to explore London or stay in a hotel.
The UK 24 hours Visa on Arrival is solely dependent on the discretion of the immigration officer in Heathrow Airport. Quite a few of readers were able to avail this facility and they were all holding different country passports. The UK immigration has not confirmed this information yet but Heathrow did confirm.
You can find more information on Heathrow’s website -> https://www.heathrow.com/arrivals/immigration-and-passports
many thaks Sir , keep writing. visit SL . let me know if you hv any plans soon 🙂
Many Thanks
Add bosnia and herzegovina to the list of countries allowing holders of US valid visa enetring without getting Bosnia visa.
Regards
Thanks, Adham for letting me know! I am compiling a new list with a lot more countries that allow visa-free travel with a US visa. Stay tuned for the updates.
HEY i have a C1/D US visa can i travel to Dubai and get a visa on arrival .I have a Indian Passport.
Hey Tushar! Yes, you can avail Visa on Arrival in Dubai using your US C1/D visa, as long as your US visa is valid. The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs doesn’t specify the types of US visas that can be used. In that case, it is safe to assume that it is all types of US visas.
hi dear, im indian, i have been to UK for 1 year on student visa, i came back within visa validity, after that i also been to china, singapur and Macau as well. im working with NIKE as a store manager since i came back from UK. im having my own agriculture land worth of 2.5 crore. my salary is 25000/- monthly. i have also bank balance around 20 lac. im filling ITRs as well around 10 lac annual income. suggest me how to aaply for USA because im afraid to refusel. im married and i have baby boy 7Year old. my age is 31…. +919592388699
Hi Pargat! The two main aspects that US visa officers look for are (1) that you have strong ties to your home country and (2) you do not intend to remain in the US illegally. In order to support these two aspects, you must have a stable employment in India and have sufficient funds in the bank, which you already have. I am very certain that your US B1/B2 visa application will be approved.
That being said, have a proper itinerary for your US travel. Meaning, the cities you want to see, the dates, which cities you will visit in which order, how you will travel between cities (fly, drive), etc.
Thankew so much dear brother..
thanks dear for the info , a quick question,
i hold B1/2 visa , wanted to visit -Netherlands, is there possibility , from Albania or Georgia ?
You must have a Schengen visa for Netherlands. Netherlands DOES NOT offer visa exemption for US B1/B2 holders. You can visit Albania and Georgia with your US visa but not Netherlands.
Hi, I hold a US B1/B2 visa. Should I take a Schengen visa for visiting France for a business trip? My nationality: India.
Hi Praveen! You cannot use your US B1/B2 visa to travel to France. You would REQUIRE a Schengen visa. So yes, you should apply for a Schengen visa for your business trip to France.
I am an Indian living in abroad and today was my US B2 visa interview, Consular asked me tonly the confirmation page for myself and my family, not even asked any single supporting docs, asked few questions and said my visa application is approved and asked me to collect the visa printed in my passport tomorrow.
usually how many years visa will be provided for Indian nationals?
Hi Riyaz! Congratulations on securing your US B1/B2 visa for you and your family. US is issuing 10-year multiple entry visas for Indian nationals. You will get a 10-year visa.
I have a B1/B2 visa which was issued as I had to travel for business purpose. Unfortunately, the travel didn’t happen and there is no US stamp in passport . Without never traveling to US, do I still get to travel to the above places and avail the visa on arrival facility?
Hi Isha! Yes, of course, you can travel to the above countries VISA-FREE or avail VoA. Only a handful of countries have the requirement that the US visa must have been used at least once to enter the US. I believe it’s just Albania and Panama at this moment. Not sure how strict is Albania, but Panama is not strict about this requirement. I have been to Panama and the immigration officials did not check for stamps in my passport. The moment they saw my US visa, they stamped it and moved on to the next person in line.
YOU SHOULD ADD THE FOLLOWING
IF YOU ARE US GREEN CARD HOLDER THEN YOU CAN VISIT CANADA USING GREEN CARD ONLY(NO NEED FOR PASSPORT).
IF YOU ARE US GREEN CARD HOLDER THEN YOU CAN VISIT CANADA USING GREEN CARD (NO NEED FOR PASSPORT in case you are driving from USA TO CANADA).
Very useful info! Thank you!
Hi Thirumal
Thank you very much for this great post. It is indeed very useful and priceless info.
Upon reading your post, I contacted Philippines consulate in Dubai just to reconfirm about my intention to travel there for tourism, since I hold 10-year valid US visit visa.
Their response is as follows:
“Good day!
If you are traveling as tourist, you may use the valid USA visa to enter Philippines.
Thanks.
Visa Section”
Its a relief that we dont have to apply for a tourist visa to visit Philippines, since I hold valid US visa.
So thanks again for your valuable info.
Cheers.
Merc
Hello Merc! Thanks for the kind words! Yeah, all the information is thoroughly researched and verified. I have traveled to the Philippines myself 3 times so far with my US visa. Therefore, you will not have any problems using your US visa to enter the Philippines.
Thank you Thirumal. I am based in Dubai, so if I can help you or others with any questions, then please feel free to contact me.
Merc
Cool Merc! Your knowledge and experience can greatly benefit the facebook group – Visa Talk. I’ve created this FB group so people can get their visa queries answered quickly. Quite a few members have asked Dubai visa questions. Having you in the group can help all of us. Join the group here -> https://www.facebook.com/groups/1823074001290802/
I got my B1/B2 in 2014, but never have used it.
I have traveled to Dubai many times, but always with a visa, never knew i can get VOA for 14 days. You are awesome mate.
I am planning to travel without visa in May and avail the 14 days VOA in Dubai. Can you please confirm that i am good to go.
I have send request on FB page, please do accept.
Once again..thanks alot.
Yeah, you can get VOA at UAE airports with your India passport and US visa. This has been in place since May 01, 2017. You can check the official news here and requirements here.
The fee is AED100 for 14 days VOA. You can extend for another 14 days for another AED100. Your passport and visa must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry into UAE.
I am bangladeshi,lhave valite B1/B2 usa visa. l want go europe . please suggestions me. need visa or not . massage me.
Hi Abdulkarim! You would need “Schengen Visa” to travel to Europe. With your Bangladesh passport and US B1/B2 visa, you can travel VISA-FREE to the following countries in Europe –
– United Kingdom (24-hour visa on arrival, depends on the discretion of the visa officer)
– Bosnia and Herzegovina
– Montenegro
– Serbia
– Albania
– Georgia
– Turkey (eligible to apply for eVisa only)
I have us B1/B2 visa and also singapore visa, i have applied for u.k visa as well. Can i travel to france (paris) without schengen visa.
Rahul – No. You would need Schengen Visa to travel to France. You CANNOT use your US B1/B2 and(or) Singapore visa and(or) UK visa to enter France.
am Indian national i have obtained Cyprus visa and wants to visit Kosovo . Can i visit Kosovo based on cyprus visa and take on arrival visa or visa is exempted since i have cyprus visa. Pls advise.
Hi Sudhir! Is your Cyprus visa a multiple-entry Schengen visa? If so, you can enter Kosovo visa-free for stays up to 15 days. For more information, refer to the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Kosovo website.
Nice article. Gives me more appreciation for being a US citizen. Speaking of which…
As a US citizen, there are some countries I need a visa for. Do you know what visas I can get that open visa free doors to more countries?
Thanks! Good question. Never thought about that. I will have to do some research on that to get you the list (if at all there are any).
I have a Valid USA visa on my old passport and I am traveling to UAE from Saudi Arabia on newly renewed passport and will carry the old passport which has USA valid visa. Will I get UAE visa on arrival?
That’s correct! You need to carry your old passport along with your new passport whenever you travel since some of your visas in your old passport are still valid (ex: US visa).
Just hand over your old and new passport to the visa officer at VoA in UAE and mention that your US visa is in the old passport.
Note: UAE VoA with US visa is currently available for India passport holders only.
Thanks for confirming. Yes, I have an Indian passport.
Very informative… This made my day..
My question is, as a Nigerian passport holder with US multiple B1/B2 Visa, which countries can I travel visa exempt?
Must I only travel to those countries to/from the US or can I travel from my home country?
You can travel to all of these countries from anywhere including your home country (except for South Korea, for which you need to be in transit to/from the US). Below is the VISA-FREE list for Nigerian passport with US B1/B2 visa –
Mexico
Belize
Costa Rica
Panama
Dominican Republic
Antigua Barbuda
Turkey (eVisa)
Georgia
Albania
Montenegro
Serbia
Bosnia and Herzegovina
United Kingdom
Qatar
São Tomé and Príncipe
South Korea (must be in transit to/from the US)
I have a US B1/B2 visa with Indian passport. Can I travel to the UK with this visa?
Hi Ranjiv, you can enter London for less than 24 hours if you are traveling to the US via Heathrow airport. But if you want to travel to the UK itself, then you would need a UK tourist visa.
Hi, I have a valid US B1/B2 visa which I got it from Turkey. I’m Egyptian resident in Turkey but didn’t use this US visa yet. I mean I didn’t travel with it yet, but I have been before to the US and visa still valid. Can I travel to Serbia, Bosnia and Montenegro with this US valid visa ?
Yes, you can use your unexpired US B1/B2 visa to travel to Serbia, Bosnia and Montenegro. You don’t have to have your US visa used before in order to travel to these 3 countries. Just having the US visa in your passport is enough.
Thank you for your reply.
Hi Thirumal,
Am a US Visa holder. I need to travel to Georgia with ma family (all are US visa holders) on 15th APR for tourist purpose. Is it necessary to take Georgian E-Visa for the entry?? Or we get it on arrival???
Hi Meera, with your US visa you will get visa exemption for Georgia. Meaning, at the airport in Georgia, you should just show your US visa and you will be given entry. Since, everyone in your family has US visas, none of you need to get e-visas.
One of my reader from India recently been to Georgia and he has confirmed that the US visa alone is enough. No e-visa is needed. Good luck!
Hi, I called the Bosnian consulate in Istanbul to ask and to confirm entering Bosnia with B1/B2 valid us visa . They said I need to apply for visa to enter Bosnia which is weird . Do you think they are mistaking Or its a new rule but even should all Bosnian consulates know about it.Can I know please from where did you get information about allowing all nationalities to enter Bosnia with a valid B1/B2 us visa?
Hi Omneya! I have researched from various sources and they are all pointing that you do not need a visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina if you have a valid US B1/B2 visa. Below are all the sources –
– Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Bosnia – 2014 Visa Regime
– IATA Travel Center (This is used by the airlines to determine the visa requirements. Just enter the details and you will see the result.
– TIMATIC Web (This tool is also used by airlines to determine visa requirements)
– Wikipedia (Look for Substitute Visas section)
Send the consulate these links and ask if the requirements have changed recently? If it is a very recent change, then the information on these sources might have not been updated yet.
Hi, I am a passport holder of Nigeria. please with visit visa of UK which country can I travel to and still get visa on arrival?
With UK can I also visit Serbia and Croatia.
Hi Bami! With Nigeria passport and UK visa, you can visit the following countries –
Mexico
Panama
Antigua and Barbuda
Dominican Republic
Sint Maarten
Albania
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Georgia
Macedonia
Montenegro
Serbia
Turkey (eVisa)
Qatar (VoA)
Serbia: Yes, you can visit Serbia with your UK visa.
Croatia: No, you cannot visit Croatia with your UK visa. For Croatia, you would need Schengen visa or a visa from Bulgaria, Cyprus or Romania.
Many thanks sir. I appreciate your prompt reply. Gracia.
Hi, Am an Indian citizen with valid B1 visa (never traveled to US though). I am going to Vietnam via Singapore from Delhi. My connecting flight to HCMC (low budget carrier) will be after 20 hrs from Singapore. Do I need a Singapore visa if I am only in transit. Also same will be the case on my return journer ( probably Siam Reap- Singapore (Transit only) – Delhi) … btw my ticket (return) is a crew ticket which is subject to load, ALSO will this be an issue upon return. (pl note: Singapore to HCMC and return from HCMC or Siam Reap to Singapore is a confirmed ticket).
Vikram, I went through a similar situation last year and it’s slightly complicated. Low budget airlines such as AirAsia, Malindo, Scoot, etc are point-to-point airlines and they do not pay the airport for transit facilities. Therefore, you will pass through the immigration, pick up your bags and re-check them in. Since these airlines are point-to-point, it doesn’t matter if the flights are on a single itinerary or individually booked. Also, it doesn’t matter if you have checked bags or just carry on.
Scoot airlines is an exception since Singapore is their headquarters. They have a feature called “scoot thru” and it’s free.
That being said, you can use Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) using your US visa to transit via Singapore. But you won’t be able to use it for both times on your journey. More info -> https://www.ica.gov.sg/enteranddeparting/before/enteranddeparting_before_vftf
To avoid all these problems, I suggest you apply for Singapore tourist visa from VFS office. Since you already have confirmed tickets, you will not have any problem in getting your Singapore visa. It takes about 2-3 days and costs about $40 USD.
Greetings, please I will like to know if the e-visa for Turkey, will be changed to a sticker visa at the airport on arrival?
Thank you.
No. The e-Visa will be a paper visa. You can either print it on an A4 size paper or just show it on your smartphone. During the immigration check at the airport, you will show the e-Visa print (or on your smartphone) and passport.
Hi Thrimul,
I m Pakistani national and i have USA B2 visa
Im planning to visit USA soon so am i able to get the transit visa for 24 hours for UK ? if yes so we must have connecting flight at heathrow to USA for more then 12 tro 15 hours ??
Please guide
Hi Haroon, Yes you can avail the transit visa for 24 hours at Heathrow airport. But remember, it is completely dependent on the discretion of the visa officer at the immigration.
Yes, you must have a connecting flight within 24 hours and before midnight of the same day. Example: say if you arrive Heathrow at 8am and your connecting flight is at 11pm, you can head straight to the immigration and ask for 24 hours visa.
If the visa officer denies your visa requestion, try to make a strong case by showing your onward boarding pass, baggage tag, a list of places that you would like to see, etc.
hi Thirumal,
Many thanks for the guidance brother
MUCH APPRECIATED !!!
can i have you FB id ???
REGARDS
Hello Thirumal,
Thanks a lot for putting this information ! This is so useful to make international travel plans.
So I am an Indian national with a valid H-1B visa with an expiration date of April 24 2019. I am planning to travel to Dominic Republic (DR) end of October 2018 or early/mid November 2018. Reading your blog, it’s quite clear that I can travel to DR with my H-1B visa by purchasing the tourist card. However, my question is more around does it matter how long my H-1B visa should be valid (like atleast 6 months) while I travel to DR ? Based on my H-1B visa expiration date and travel date, I will have a little over 5 months of my H-1B visa valid during my travel. Please advise.
Thanks again for all the useful information !
Hi Prasanna! You’re welcome! DR authorities haven’t mentioned any visa validity requirements. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that your H-1B visa must be valid on the day of arrival in DR. 5 months of your visa validity at the time of your travel is more than enough. But, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival.
Also just an FYI, as of April 01, 2018, DR started incorporating the tourist card fee ($10 USD) into the airfare itself. You do not have to purchase the tourist card on arrival at the airport anymore.
Awesome. Thanks for your prompt response Thirumal !
By the way, have you written any blog on travel to Dominic Republic ? If yes, could you share the link ? Thanks !
No. I haven’t written any blog posts on DR yet. But you can refer to DRVisitor. The author of this blog is a very reputed blogger in the travel industry.
Thanks again Thirumal !
From Apr 20, 2018, Bahamas changed it visa waiver. Now Indian nationals with US visa can visit Bahamas.
https://www.bahamas.com/entry-requirements
Great info! Thanks for letting me know! I will update the list.
Dear Thirumal,
I’m Egyptian but I live in Kuwait, I have a valid US visa, do I need to apply for a visa for Serbia or I can issue it online since I have US visa?.
Ahmed, if you have a valid US visa, you DO NOT need a visa for Serbia. This is applicable to all nationalities (including Egyptian). Here is the link to the visa requirements -> http://www.mfa.gov.rs/en/consular-affairs/entry-serbia/visa-regime
Hi! This is very helpful as I have a “powerless” passport too.
By any chance, do you have updated information about Bosnia & Herzegovina? Will I be able to use my US visa there? Thank you!
Hi Carl, I’m still waiting on the confirmation from the Bosnia & Herzegovina consulate. I will update you on that soon.
I am holding Indian passport along with USA and Canadian Visa. Do I entitle on arrival visa to European Union country? Please reliable person give the proper answer to my Question. Thank you!
Hi Maxim! There are some countries in EU that you can travel with your India passport and US visa. Examples – Albania, Serbia, Etc. Check out the countries that say “All Nationalities” or “India” passport.
Hi, this is very helpful among all the info I scoured from the internet because it is clear that it’s for USA tourist visa holders and not just for green card holders.
I am travelling to Cuba.
I have a Philippine passport.
I have a valid USA tourist visa (10 years multiple entry).
I am travelling from US airport (Miami / New York).
You clearly stated and I also visited AITA that indeed I only need a Tourist CARD and not the regular tourist visa to enter Cuba, but the Timatic site says residence visas that’s why I am still confused…
If I indeed do not need a regular visa and only the Toruist CARD, should I apply this ahead at American Airlines rather than at the US airport?
Because I heard that some airlines will sometimes deny your boarding and tells you you need a visa just to give way to their standby passengers or friends, and as a non-citizen of Cuba nor US, you will be just afraid to insist your rights.
Can you enlighten me please? Thank you very much!
You DO NOT need a tourist visa to Cuba if you already hold a US B1/B2 visa. All you need is just a tourist card.
I just checked and both IATA and TIMATIC are pointing to the same information saying that “you need a visa issued by Canada, USA or any EU member state”.
Regarding obtaining the tourist card in advance, have you checked with American Airlines? Also, do they actually fly into Cuba now? Because there are travel restrictions to travel to Cuba from the US. As far as I know, you can only fly with a travel agency if you are flying from the US. Let me know what you find out from the airlines.
Hi, I like visa-free but how do I get it?
Well, Visa-free means “visa exemption”. That means, “no visa is required other than your valid US visa”. You can fly into any of the eligible countries from the above list and show your US visa to gain entry.
I’m from India living in Japan for few months. I want to visit the USA, can I get into the USA without a visa? There are some options like 90 days free travel without a visa. Can you please help me?
If you have an India passport, you would need a US visa to enter the United States. The information you might have heard was for Japan passport. Japan passport holders can travel to the US visa-free for 90 days under Visa Waiver Program.
More info here -> https://travel.state.gov/content/travel/en/us-visas/tourism-visit/visa-waiver-program.html
Nice and very helpful post I came across. I am actually searching for an option for myself to re-enter US as my child’s i94 is expiring. I stay in Detroit exploring options. Just applied for Canada Visa. Any idea how long it takes as an indian citizen staying in US?
Also can you please suggest what is the best and near by country to travel without/ on arrival visa as an Indian passport holder?
Venkat, Canada visa usually takes up to 30 days. If you have India passport and living in the US, CIC usually process the visa under CAN+ category. In this category, the visa application will be processed in 2-3 days. But, considering your application under this category is at the discretion of the consulate. So, it’s difficult to tell how long your application will take for processing.
India passport holders do not require a visa for Jamaica, Dominica, etc in Caribbean and Ecuador in South America. But, are you planning to go there for visa stamping for your child? I can give you more specific advice depending on your situation.
Hi,
My friend is Chinese, has permanent residency in Australia, I’m Australian, we would like to go to South America for a holiday. Would he be able to get a US visa for travel in South America, if he wasn’t intending to go to the US.
Would they grant a US visa for that reason?
Thanks, very useful site
Craig, if your friend discloses that his actual intention for the US visa is to use it in South America, the US visa officers may not grant him the visa. The primary purpose of a US visa is to travel to the US. The US visa officers may not even be aware that the US visa can be used elsewhere.
Any country granting visa-free access to the US visa holders is simply honoring US visa as a valid visa to enter their country.
Here is my suggestion. Just for the visa, prepare a US itinerary for a few days. Apply for the US visa, attend the interview and if asked, your friend should mention that he wants to travel to the US to see NYC, Chicago, LA, etc. Once he is granted the visa, he doesn’t really have to travel to the US. If he wants, he can, as he now has the US visa. Also, the visa will be valid for 10 years so he doesn’t have to apply for it again.
Hey Thirumal,
Thanks so much for your feedback and suggestion, it helps a lot for our planning.
cheers
Craig
Hi Thiru
I’m Indian passport holder. Recently I got US b1/B2 visa. Coming August I have a plan to visit USA. My visa is valid for a year only. After expired again for how many years they give visa. Very informative posts you are giving.
With us valid visa b1/B2 Canada and Schengen visa getting will be easier. How many days it will take from Mumbai.
Hi Robert! US B1/B2 visa is usually granted for 10 years. Not sure why you were granted for only 1 year. I’m sure your next visa will be granted for 10 years.
You US B1/B2 can definitely help in your Canada visa application as you will submit your past visas and travel history. Canada visa application process can take anywhere from 2 days to 30 days.
Schengen visa application doesn’t ask for past visas or travel history, so your US visa may not help you much in your Schengen visa application. Schengen visa application process usually takes 2 weeks. On top of that, you may have to wait about 2 weeks to get an appointment at the consulate.
On the other hand, quite a few European countries (non-Schengen) grant VISA-FREE entry for US visa holders.
Thanks Mr. Thirumal cheers
Hi
Thanks for the article.
Do you know if South Africans qualify for these exemptions?
Thanks for the help.
Dawid
Hi Dawid! Yes, South Africa passport holders qualify for these exemptions.
When I say, “Applies to all nationalities” in the above list, South Africa passport holders are also included. Example: Dominican Republic. All passport holders including South Africa are visa-exempted with US visa.
If it’s specific passport holders, then I listed them out. Example: Peru. Only India and China passport holders are visa-exempted with US visa.
Hi Thirumal, What an amazing compilation. Congratulations and thank you.
May I point out that for Singapore as an Indian passport holder you do not actually need to be in transit to or from the US but actually from anywhere, as long as you have an onward ticket in 96 hrs or less. If you agree, you may want to update the article.
Thank you again.
Thanks for the kind words, Lahiri! My understanding is also the same. But Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority did not confirm that when asked. I was in a similar case where I was flying into Singapore from Malaysia and flying out to the Philippines with a layover of few hours at Changi Airport. When asked, Singapore ICA, Changi Airport, and even the Scoot airlines couldn’t confirm if I can get VFTF.
Quite a few of my friends/readers were able to get 96 hr VFTF while in transit to the US and Australia. Therefore, I’m quite sure an Indian passport holder can get 96 hr VFTF if transiting to the US. But, so far, I haven’t found anyone who was able to get the 96 hr VFTF while transiting to a third country other than Australia, Canada, Germany, Japan, New Zealand, Switzerland, UK or USA.
Were you able to get VFTF while transiting to a third country other than the ones mentioned above?
I am Indian Citizen and having valid USA B1/B2 Visa. I want to travel Shenzen China and in East Africa. Please tell me which country I can travel without VISA and which country I can get VISA on Arrival.
Hi Indravadan! As an India passport holder, you would NEED visa for Shenzhen, China. There is Visa on Arrival facility just for Shenzhen area if entering from HK. But unfortunately, India passport holders are not eligible.
Below are the countries in East Africa that India passport holders can get Visa Exempt, eVisa or Visa on Arrival –
— Comoros (VoA)
— Djibouti (VoA)
— Ethiopia (VoA)
— Keyna (eVisa)
— Madagascar (VoA)
— Mauritius (Visa Exempt)
— Mozambique (VoA)
— Rwanda (VoA)
— Seychelles (Visa Exempt)
— Tanzania (VoA)
— Uganda (VoA)
— Zambia (eVisa)
— Zimbabwe (VoA)
Very useful website. Thank you for your effort in collating the information.
Thanks, Royth!
Hello Thirumal
just one question. Can Indian citizens travel to Macedonia with C1/D us visa.
thank you very much for your help in advance.
Hi Vasko, Macedonia doesn’t mention which type of US visas are eligible. That means it’s safe to assume that all US visa types are eligible. You can use your US C1/D visa to travel to Macedonia.
I read this on canada official website.can you please explain more about this ??
As of November 1st, 2017, if you have travelled to Canada in the last ten (10) years or currently hold a valid United States non-immigrant visa and can provide proof (entry stamps in passport, proof of the valid visa), no proof of financial support is needed.
Umer, it’s called “CAN+” program. It’s specific to India and China passport holders applying for Canada tourist visa. Applicants from these two countries with a travel history to Canada/United States might be considered under CAN+ program to expedite the application process. Usually, applications in this program are processed with 2-5 working days. Also, if you have a considerable travel history to Canada/US, it is not mandatory to provide financial proofs.
But, as an applicant, you cannot request/force your application to be processed in “CAN+” program. It is at the discretion of the CIC or the visa officer. So, my advice to you is to submit your application as a normal application with all the documentation (including financial proofs). If at all they consider your application in CAN+, you will be notified of the result in 2-5 working days.
Hello Thirumal,
Such an informative article. Can you also share list of countries where we can visit if one holds a valid UK visa? (I hold a Pakistani Passport)
Hi Sayyed, I’m in the process to put together a blog post specially on that (VISA-FREE with UK visa). It should be up in a few days. Meanwhile, for your reference, here is the list. This list is specifically for “Pakistan passport with UK visa”.
1. North America
— 1. Mexico
2. Central America
— 1. Belize (residence permit)
— 2. Costa Rica (residence permit)
— 3. Panama
3. Caribbean
— 1. Antigua and Barbuda
— 2. Aruba (residence permit)
— 3. Bermuda (British Territory)
— 4. Bonaire (part of Kingdom of Netherlands)
— 5. British Virgin Islands (British Territory)
— 6. Cayman Islands (British Territory)
— 7. Cuba
— 8. Dominican Republic
— 9. Sint Maarten
— 10.Turks and Caicos (British Territory)
4. Europe
— 1. Albania
— 2. Bosnia and Herzegovina
— 3. Georgia
— 4. Macedonia
— 5. Montenegro
— 6. Romania (residence permit)
— 7. Serbia
— 8. Turkey (eVisa)
5. Middle East
— 1. Qatar (VoA)
Hello Mr.Thirumal,
Can I travel Italy with an Indian passport and if I have US tourist visa. Thanks!
Hi Joseph! NO, you CANNOT enter Italy with a US visa. Italy is a Schengen country and you would NEED a Schengen visa to travel to Italy.
Hi Thirumal
Thank you for the info you provided in detail. It was very helpful. Can I ask you with an Indian passport holder having a valid US visa can travel to Mexico? The US visa is in OLD Indian passport and currently, I am possessing a new Indian passport. Tq.
Hi Anto! Yes, you can travel to Mexico with your India passport and valid US visa. Though you have a new passport, any visas in your old passport that were not expired are still considered as valid. So, you would need to carry both passports with you until all visas in your old passport are expired.
Just handover both your passports (your old and new) wherever you are asked to show your passport. At the immigration in Mexico, handover both your passports and mention that your US visa is in the old passport. That is all you would need to do. Have a great trip to Mexico!
Important: Even after all visas in your old passport are expired, always carry your old passport with you. You don’t need to show it everywhere, but it is extremely important to have your old passport on you while traveling.
I have one friend who want to travel from PAP to SCL with Copa Airlines and next connections to India with Qatar airways , so as per Copa airline he has to re-checking again at the SCL airport and putting the all luggage in Qatar airways.
So my question is if he will re-checking again then does he required the transit visa for Chili since he is Indian passport holder and he has confirmed ticket till Delhi.
Copa and Qatar are two different airlines and they do not codeshare. Therefore, your friend has to collect his check-in baggage in Santiago and re-check them in on Qatar Airways.
Baggage claim is always after immigration in pretty much any international airport. So, in order to collect his baggage and re-check them, your friend will have to go through the immigration in Santiago. Therefore, he needs a transit or tourist visa for Chile. If he can’t apply for Chile visa, I suggest looking for a different route that doesn’t require a transit visa.
Thank you so much for the information ,
However, I have checked the same information on the internet and below are a message I found on it
A visa is not required to transit through Chile. The traveler must be in possession of a passport valid for 6 months beyond travel dates, a round-trip or onward ticket, and a valid visa for the next destination (if required). Other Requirements: Valid onward destination visas (if applicable).
Kindly let me know as i m little bit confused about this even I had checked with Copa air and they said passenger has to have the ticket for final destination.
please clarify the same
Hi Rakesh! For a confirmed answer, you would need to check with the proper authorities. I’m neither a Chilean authority nor an airline staff to give you a “confirmed” answer. I only gave my answer based on my experience and knowledge. To my knowledge, Copa and Qatar are NOT partner airlines, so PAP-SCL-DOH-DEL is NOT considered a transit at SCL. Let me explain to you the difference.
Transit
“Transit” means that you arrive and depart on the same airline on a single itinerary. You have a boarding pass for the departing flight and your bags are checked-in all the way to your final destination.
Example: BOG-PTY-MEX on Copa Airlines. When you check-in in BOG, you get 2 boarding passes. One boarding pass for BOG-PTY and another for PTY-MEX. Your bags in BOG will be checked-in all the way to MEX. In PTY, you get off the flight, find out your connecting flight’s terminal/gate from the display boards and board the PTY-MEX flight. Collect your bags in MEX.
Multi-destination Itinerary
If you are traveling from country A to country B on one airline and country B to country C on another airline that DOES NOT codeshare/partner, then it’s NOT transit. It’s called “multi-destination itinerary”. You usually book this as 2 itineraries. If you have bought this as a single itinerary from Expedia or Kiwi, it would clearly mention “SELF TRANSFER”. Therefore, it’s your responsibility to secure any required visas for country B.
Example: CDG-LHR-DEL on Vueling and British Airways. When you check-in at CDG, you only get 1 boarding pass for CDG-LHR. You collect your bags in LHR, go to the British Airways counter, check-in your bags and get a boarding pass for LHR-DEL. When you arrive in DEL, you will claim your bags. In this case, it’s your responsibility to secure any visas for England.
Thanks
I have a friend who is serving in the military and he is holding the USA visa G2 on his official passport. Now he is planning to visit the US for holiday for 03 days. Please let me know on this visa type, will he be able to make a holiday in USA or not?
No. A B2 or B1/B2 visa is needed to enter the US for tourism. (Note: This information is for “ordinary” passport only. For official/diplomatic passports, please seek advice from appropriate authorities)
Thanks dear , will check on the same
Hi Thirumal, I am a Nigeria passport holder with a valid B1/B2 US visa. Can I get a visa on entry in Dubai, Qatar & China?
Hi Joy! You can get Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Qatar with your Nigeria passport and US B1/B2 visa. You would need to apply for an eTA before arrival in Qatar.
Unfortunately, Nigeria passport is not eligible for Visa on Arrival in UAE and China. You would need to get a pre-approved visa from the consulate for both UAE and China.
Hi, Thirumal, thanks for your information!
I want to know if the visa F-1 can offer us these countries (Vietnamese holder).
Hi Giang, Yes most of these countries can be traveled with a valid US F-1 visa. Here is the list of countries for Vietnamese passport and US F-1 visa –
NORTH AMERICA
-Mexico
CENTRAL AMERICA
-Belize
-Costa Rica
-Panama
CARIBBEAN
-Cuba (Vietnam passport holders only need Tourist Card)
-Dominican Republic
-Antigua and Barbuda
SOUTH AMERICA
-Colombia
EUROPE
-Turkey
-Georgia
-Albania
-Macedonia
-Montenegro
-Serbia
-Bosnia and Herzegovina
-United Kingdom (24 hours visa on arrival)
MIDDLE EAST
-Qatar
-Oman
AFRICA
-São Tomé and Príncipe
ASIA
-Taiwan
-South Korea
-Malaysia
Can I travel to Dominican Republic with a C1 Multiple US Visa (valid for 10 years)?
Hi Ria! In my opinion, the visa must be a tourist visa or any other visa that lets you travel to the US. Therefore, transit visa may not be recognized as a valid visa for DR. Here is the info from the Embassy of Dominican Republic in the US –
“Any person who can legally travel or reside in the United States, Canada and the European Union (including Great Britain) does not need a visa to visit the Dominican Republic for tourist purposes”
I suggest to directly contact your nearest DR embassy to enquire.
Thank you for this. I was able to travel to enter Dominican Republic with my C1 Visa.
I have another question, if C1 Visa is allowed to enter Panama?
Thanks for the information! Regarding Panama, yes, you can use your C1 visa. But it must have been used at least once to enter the US and should have at least one year of validity remaining on it.
Hey Thirumal,
Great Blog mate, I really appreciate your effort. By the way, I saw your update about “Bosnia and Herzegovina”. Applies to all nationalities that have visa regime with Bosnia and Herzegovina,
Does it apply to Indian Passport holders? I do have a multiple entry U.S visa, am I eligible to get a Free Entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina?
Hey Vipin, that’s correct. The embassy of Bosnia and Herzegovina in New Delhi has confirmed the information. Below is the information I received from them –
“Citizens of the countries with whom Bosnia and Herzegovina has a visa regime, may enter Bosnia and Herzegovina with passport, without the obligation to obtain a visa for entry, exit, transit and stay on the territory of Bosnia and Herzegovina only if they have a valid multiple entry visa or residence permit issued by the signatory countries of the Schengen Agreement, the EU member states or the United States of America.”
So, as per their email, the above statement applies to India passport holders. You can get a free entry into Bosnia and Herzegovina with your US visa. If you need more info, contact the B&H embassy in New Delhi.
Thank you, Buddy….. Have a Great Travel year ahead.
Hi Thirumal,
My question is a bit different , and relates to the Schengen Visa
I am writing this, in context of French Schengen visa extension for my mother (63 years old visa valid until 14th Aug’18), who is currently in UK on a tourist visa (Visa valid until 11th Jan’19), and also holds a US Tourist visa valid until year 2026 , and is currently residing with me in London.
I have been in UK- London on a work visa, with my wife for last 4 years, and we both have a Schengen visa valid until July’19.
To give you some background, we applied for a UK tourist visa , followed by the French Schengen visa for my mother from Mumbai, India.
The intention was that during her stay here in UK, we would be visiting quite a few European countries, primarily France, by car or other modes of transport.
So we had requested for at least a 6 months Schengen visa for her, and provided all required documentation.
She travelled to UK on the 12th July’18, as we had planned our first trip to France from 14th-21st July’18. We completed our trip .
Unfortunately she was only given French Schengen visa for 1 month, from 14th July until 14th August’18.
This has put all our Europe tour plans in limbo. As she is currently in UK – London, would request your help in providing some solution/advice in getting her Schengen visa extended from London, so that we can make our European trips, including visit to Paris.
Is this possible, what are the options for getting the visa extended or a new one issued from London or France? If we travel to France and request the Foreign office in Paris to extend her visa, will that be possible, as she has a Schengen visa issued by France.
Thanks
Raj
Hi Raj! Schengen visa extensions are extremely difficult except in some rare situations. You can only request the visa extension from the visa issued country (in your case, it’s France) and can only stay the extension period in that country.
My suggestion is to apply for another Schengen visa from the UK. A new application is much easier and quicker than trying to extend the existing one.
I have a L2 US Visa right now. Can visiting these countries change the I94? I am looking out for countries that dont affect the I94 (I have got my name in H1 lottery so the visa is due to get changed in october )
Hi Meenakshi! Yes, visiting these countries will change your I-94 (US arrival/departure record) dates. Visiting any of these countries is considered an international trip. Meaning, you will depart the US and re-enter after your trip. A new departure record will be created when you leave the US and a new arrival record will be created on your entry into the US.
Thanks thirumal, From one of my friend who visited peurto rico I got to know that puerto rico doesnt affect I94 as it is a US territory..Is this true!
That’s correct! Puerto Rico is a US territory. It is like a domestic trip, so your I-94 (arrival/departure record) will not affect.
Hi Thirumal,
I am planning to visit India for my H1B stamping.
My itinerary:
Onward journey:
SFO -> SINGAPORE(1.30 hr layover) -> CHENNAI
Return Journey:
CHENNAI -> SINGAPORE(2 day stopover) -> SFO
I plan for a 2 day stopover in Singapore while returning from India to USA to visit my friend.
I will have my H1B visa stamped while returning from India. Can i use visa free transit facility while returning from India?
Due to 2 day stop over in Singapore, will airlines create any problem while i travel from USA to India as i will be travelling on an expired H1B visa.
Please help me to clarify on this.
Hi Ravi! Yes, you can use VFTF in Singapore airport while traveling back to the US. The airlines on your journey to India will not ask anything about your return ticket. If at all they ask, you can simply mention that you will apply for Singapore visa from India as it gets closer to the travel date.
Hi Thirumal, very informative and well-written post! Also very kind of you to answer everyone’s questions.
Are you able to generate the list of countries where I can travel visa-free (or VoA etc.) using Indian passport + Permanent Residence in Switzerland (Schengen, but not EU)?
Thanks a lot.
Hi Jaya! Thanks for the kind words! You can visit 17 countries (and 1 Dutch territory) with your Switzerland Permanent Residency. Here is the list –
North America
– Mexico
Caribbean
– Aruba
– Bonaire (Dutch)
– Sint Maarten
Europe
– Albania
– Andora
– Bosnia and Herzegovina
– Georgia
– Kosovo
– Macedonia
– Romania
– San Marino
– Serbia
– Turkey
– Vatican City
Middle East
– Qatar
Asia
– Philippines
– Taiwan
This above list is in addition to all the Schengen countries. As a permanent resident in a Schengen state, you can travel to any Schengen state without an additional visa for a period of 90 days.
For detailed information, download my eBook and refer to the page “Any Schengen Country Visa/Residence Permit”.
I have a valid US tourist visa.
I am originally from Nepal but working in Japan for past few years. On the way to Nepal (Home visit) I am planning to visit Hong Kong just for a day and go Nepal. Do i need a Hong Kong tourist visa??
Thanks in advance
Hi Nirmal! Unfortunately, Nepal passport holders NEED a visa to Hong Kong. You can transit through Hong Kong without leaving the airport. But, if you want to leave the airport and spend a day in the city, you would need to have a Hong Kong tourist visa.
Hi Thirumal!..At the outset i would like thank you for such an informative post.
I am an Indian national & have a valid US B1 visa and I am planning to visit Singapore and Malaysia next month.
I’ll be travelling from India to Singapore first, staying there for 4 nights and then from there to Malaysia, staying there for 3 nights and then return back to India. I guess for Singapore i will have to take a Visa prior to my trip but can you guide me if I will get a Malaysian Transit pass at the KLIA or do i need to take a visa for Malaysia as well.
Hi Sreejith! Obtaining Transit Pass at KLIA is slightly tricky. Airlines are not aware of this requirement and they will deny boarding if you are not in possession of a Malaysia tourist visa. At the time of check-in, airline staff will verify the visa requirements in TIMATIC database. Transit Pass does not come up in the TIMATAC database.
Therefore, there are a few ways to handle your situation –
(1) Get your Singapore visa and also get Malaysia eNTRI. eNTRI allows transiting through Singapore, so you will be fine flying into Malaysia from Singapore. eNTRI costs about $20 USD.
(2) Get your Singapore visa and also get Malaysia eVisa. eVisa costs about $41.5 USD.
(3) Get your Singapore visa and plan to get VoA at Malaysia. You will be eligible for VoA at KLIA since you will be flying into KLIA from Singapore and you will have a Singapore visa. VoA fee is about $82.5 USD. VoA comes up in TIMATIC, so airlines will not deny your boarding. Now, when you arrive in KLIA, simply ask the visa officer that you want to get Transit Pass for 120 hours (5 days) instead of VoA. There is a pretty good chance you will be given Transit Pass. Recently, an Indian reader of my blog (holds India passport plus US B1/B2 visa) was able to get Transit Pass at KLIA while traveling back to India from Thailand. He was planning to get VoA, but the immigration officer gave him Transit Pass instead saying that he is staying less than 5 days and it’s free. So, there is a chance.
If you want to be on the safe side, go for option 1 or 2. If you want to take chances, go for option 3. If you go for option 3, you may end up getting VoA for $82.5 USD or you may end up getting Transit Pass for free.
Hi Thirumal
Can you give me the list of places I can visit with my Indian passport with a US b2 visa
You can visit about 34 countries from the above list. Here are the countries –
North America
– Mexico
Central America
– Belize
– Costa Rica
– El Salvador
– Guatemala
– Honduras
– Nicaragua
– Panama
Caribbean
– Antigua and Barbuda
– Aruba
– Bahamas
– Cuba
– Curaçao
– Dominican Republic
– Sint Maarten
South America
– Colombia
– Peru
Europa
– Albania
– Bosnia and Herzegovina
– Georgia
– Macedonia
– Montenegro
– Serbia (visa-free with India passport)
– Turkey (eVisa)
– UK (24hours during transit)
Middle East
– Oman (eVisa)
– Qatar (VoA)
– UAE (VoA)
Africa
– São Tomé and Príncipe
Asia
– Malaysia (120 hrs)
– Philippines
– Singapore (96 hrs)
– South Korea
– Taiwan
Hi Thirumal,
Happy to find your blog mate, and most importantly appreciate your time answering each question….
I have valid US B1 (Indian Passport) and will be travelling to Germany on a Job Seekers VISA. Can you please list out what countries permit me to travel with out VISA/VoA (for site seeing) with the US B1.
Can i travel to US (If required) from Germany with the same B1 VISA i have currently.
Thanks in advance.
Hi Satish! Thanks! You can travel to about 34 countries from the above list with your India passport and US B1 visa. Here are those 34 countries –
North America
– Mexico
Central America
– Belize
– Costa Rica
– El Salvador
– Guatemala
– Honduras
– Nicaragua
– Panama
Caribbean
– Antigua and Barbuda
– Aruba
– Bahamas
– Cuba
– Curaçao
– Dominican Republic
– Sint Maarten
South America
– Colombia
– Peru
Europa
– Albania
– Bosnia and Herzegovina
– Georgia
– Macedonia
– Montenegro
– Serbia (visa-free with India passport)
– Turkey (eVisa)
– UK (24hours during transit)
Middle East
– Oman (eVisa)
– Qatar (VoA)
– UAE (VoA)
Africa
– São Tomé and Príncipe
Asia
– Malaysia (120 hrs)
– Philippines
– Singapore (96 hrs)
– South Korea
– Taiwan
Can you travel to the US with your existing B1 visa? Absolutely! That is why the visa is given for 10 years, so you can travel to the US whenever you need. You can travel to the US from anywhere. It doesn’t have to be from your home country.
Hi Thirumal,
Your blog is very informative. I am Vietnamese working for US cruise line company. I just have C1D visa. Can I enter Serbia or apply for Turkey eVisa with this C1D visa?
Thank you in advance,
Thanh
Hi Thanh Vu! Thanks! Serbia and Turkey do not specify the type of US visas they honor. So, it is safe to assume that your C1/D visa can be used. Since you hold a Vietnamese passport, there are some additional criteria for Turkey eVisa. You can only enter Turkey by air and only with Turkish Airlines, Pegasus Airlines, Onur Air or Atlasglobal Airlines.
Hi Thirumal,
I have US B1/B2 visa. Can I get American Samoa visa-on-arrival with US visa ?
Thank you.
Hi Jayan! Unfortunately, American Samoa has it’s own immigration rules. Though American Samoa is a US territory, they do not honor US visas. You would need an entry permit (they do not issue visas) to enter American Samoa.
Note: Apologies for including American Samoa in the article. I will remove it.
Thanx Thirumal and no issues.
I am travelling since 2009 (so far 92 foreign countries/regions and all continents) and I have seen visa rules changing so frequently that one has to keep updated information every month. At present with valid visa of any developing country travelling is much easier for Indian passport holders but still we are behind Chinese. I hope our government pushes as does China.
Regards.
That’s awesome! There is so much to learn from you. It’s always a pleasure to learn from experienced visa travelers.
I completely agree with you on the visa rules. It’s difficult to keep up with the changing visa requirements. I have to go through various sources once every month to make sure the information is still current and relevant. India passport is slowly becoming better, especially with having visas from the US, Canada or Schengen. Hopefully, we’ll be able to catch up with Chinese passport soon.
Wow very informative… great effort. You are so kind to give reply. Dear Mr. Thirumal, valid US visa (B1/B2) holding and can I travel Singapore with return ticket from India (IND-SIN-IND)? If Yes, How many days can stay there?
Hi Venugopal! You CANNOT use your US B1/B2 to enter Singapore in your situation. You must be traveling “via Singapore” not “to Singapore”. Let me explain in more detail –
Requirement: You can use your US B1/B2 visa to enter Singapore ONLY IF you are transiting via Singapore to reach a third country, preferably the US or India as final destinations.
Examples with the US as the final destination: India-Singapore-USA, Thailand-Malaysia-Singapore-USA, etc
Examples with India as the final destination: Indonesia-Singapore-India, Thailand-Singapore-India, etc
Suggestion: I suggest to add another country to your itinerary and travel “via Singapore” on your way back. Examples: India-Thailand-Singapore-India, India-Bali-Singapore-India, India-Malaysia-Singapore-India, India-Vietnam-Singapore-India. In this case, you are allowed to stay up to 96 hours (4 days) in Singapore.
Hi Dear Thirumal,
Wow great knowledge you shared, really appreciable and big salute, thanks alot. Sure will add one more country as INDIA-CAMBODIA-SINGAPORE-INDIA.
R Venugopal
Cochin
Hi Thirumal,
Last month I was transiting via heathrow enroute to the usa when I tried to seek uk visa on arrival, the immigration officer told me that he doesn’t see a valid reason in letting me go out though I had a onward ticket to the usa in the next 8 hours.
Hi Selvam! The 24 hr visa on arrival is not officially documented anywhere. It completely depends on the discretion of the immigration officers. That being said, quite a few of my readers were able to obtain 24hr visa on arrival at Heathrow en route USA. Even one reader was able to get it both ways.
You, of course, must have a strong reason to step out of the airport. 8 hours is technically not enough to do anything. You must come back to the airport at least 3 hours before your flight and the tube to the city will at least take an hour each way. So, you will be left with just 3 hours in the city.
In my opinion, if you have at least 15+ hours layover, have a solid itinerary for those hours or a friend meeting at a certain location will work well in convincing the immigration officer.
Hi Thirumal,
Thanks for providing such exhaustive info. Really appreciate the effort.
I need some clarity re if I need a UK transit visa with regards to the below.
My details
– I hold an Indian Passport.
– Am travelling from India to a Schengen country and considering flying through Heathrow(won’t exit the airport)
– I hold a USA B1/B2 visa
In your article above, to be exempt from a UK transit visa, it is mentioned that the traveller
“Must be in transit to/from the US only and must have an onward ticket within 24 hours”
However, on the UK visa site, the following is mentioned:
“You don’t need a visa if you have one of the following: a visa for Canada, New Zealand, Australia or the USA (this can be used for travel to any country)”
Would you be able to tell me which one holds true as of today?
Thanks for your help
Hi Peter! The 24 hours visa is to exit the airport. If you are not leaving the airport, you don’t need to worry about this. Since you have Schengen visa and also US visa, you can transit through Heathrow (airside transit only, you cannot exit the airport).
if Indian passport holder need visa for travelling to Kosovo .if they are holding valid US, UK and schenzen visa.
Hi Parthiban! If you have a valid multiple entry Schengen Visa, you can travel to Kosovo visa-free for up to 15 days. Remember, only Schengen visa. US and UK visas cannot be used.
Nice article..I have a C1/D visa on my Indian passport..which countries can I visit basis the visa?
You can visit pretty much all the countries in the list except the UK and South Korea as the US must be the final destination for these countries.
Hello Thirumal,
Inspired from your blog, I recently did a tour of few Balkan countries (viz. Macedonia, Albania, Montenegro, Bosnia and Herzegovina and Serbia) on my Indian passport with US B1/B2 visa. I had no trouble at any of the immigration counters/border crossings in these countries.
Thanks for this fantastic post.
Hi Aaneet! That’s fantastic. Hope you had a great time. Thanks for sharing the information.
I have Indian passport and have valid US B1/B2 visa and connecting flight is from France in Airfrance with layover of 7 hours.
Can I enter France to see outside the airport with valid US B1/B2 visa.
I used to travel denmark Via france or Amsterdam before and visa got expired by May 2018. Kindly let me know if any possible of visiting France ?
Kr
Lavan
Hi Lavan! France does not honor US visas. You must have a valid Schengen visa to leave the airport.
I have US b1/b2 visa Valid till 2024, my last travel to US was on 2014 , Will there any problem or concern if i want to travel now. I hold indian Passport and i have visited many countries in between 2014 and till date
Hi Pawan! There won’t be any problem. You can travel to the US anytime till 2024. There is a reason why the US visas are granted for 10 years. So, the visa holders can travel anytime during those 10 years.
Dear Thirumal,
Thank you for your Blog, I just visited 2 countries (Bosnia and Montenegro) based on the information on your blog and it was a breeze.
Thank you once again.
Best regards
Nitin
Hey Nitin! That’s awesome! Hope you had a great time in Bosnia and Montenegro! I’m glad my blog was helpful.
Hey! This is great but i’m wondering if these apply to the Pakistani passport as well when combined with a US visa.
Specifically for Cuba. Do you think i can travel to Cuba from US?
Hi Najib! Yes, these apply for Pakistani passport as well. When I say “applies to all nationalities”, the visa-free rules apply to all passport holders including Pakistani passport.
Yes, Pakistani passport holders can travel to Cuba with a US visa. If you are traveling from the US, make sure to get the Tourist/Travel Card before arriving in Cuba. American Airlines have set up kiosks in Charlotte and Miami airports where you can purchase your Tourist/Travel card.
Hi,
What is my chance of getting approved for US tourist visa if I want to visit my American BF? I will pay for my trip (2weeks trip) and I work as a freelancer (Shopify store manager) for over a year. Hope you can give me tips.
Thank you!
Hi Annie! The chances of approval are higher for US visa (or any visa in general) if you have a genuine purpose of travel. You have 2 options –
(1) Traveling to the US to visit your American BF – This might work but it can also raise questions such as “why not your BF visit you or meet elsewhere?”. Therefore, you must have a compelling reason to visit him only in the US.
(2) Traveling to the US as a tourist – This works great if you have considerable travel history and can have a decent conversation in English with the visa officer.
In my opinion, your purpose of travel is more important than your job or income. So, you should ok as a freelance as long as you have a true purpose to travel to the US.
Hi Thirumal,
Thank you so much for your reply. I really appreciate it.
My BF has visited me here in the Philippines 5x already, we’ve been together for 2 years. We have also traveled to Hong Kong together last May 2018.
He wants me to visit him and meet his family in South Dakota and Illinois. We also want to travel in central america for 5 days.
If I will be asked “why not your BF visit you or meet elsewhere?”, I’d say that my BF has visited me 5x already , has met my family and relatives, and this is the right time to meet his folks since i have saved up for the trip.
Let me know what you think.
Hi Annie! You have a perfect reason to travel, that is – to meet your boyfriend’s family. Make sure to pay extra attention to the details when completing your DS-160. Explain your purpose of travel clearly and provide your BF (or his parents) details as your contact person in the US. The result of your visa to a large extent depends on what you fill in DS-160. Good luck!
Hi,
I feel relieved 🙂 Thank you for your help.
Yes, I did put my BF as contact person. My interview is next week 🙂
That’s perfect! Let me know if you need any interview tips. Good luck!
BTW, how will i establish strong ties to my home country?
I don’t have business, properties, car.
My parents lives here in the Philippines and i don’t have siblings.
Single and no kids.
What possible questions might arise?
You can establish that in a few ways
– Demonstrating strong travel history. If you have traveled to countries that require a visa, such as countries in Europe, Japan, Canada, etc., it shows that you do not have illegal immigration intent, which basically translates to strong ties with your home country.
– Not showing any signs of desperation in your DS-160 or interview. This shows that you are content with your life and quite happy to return back to your home country. Visa officers are very well trained and have years of experience. They can easily spot desperation.
– Be honest. It doesn’t matter if you have strong ties with your country or hold businesses or properties, honesty in your answers is what the visa officers look for. They can easily spot manipulative answers.
– Carry your recent bank statements and invoices (or salary slips if your Shopify store owner provides any). This shows that you are independent and capable.
– During your interview, try to answer your questions with only relevant information. Any additional irrelevant information can lead to unnecessary questions that you may not have answers for.
Hope that helps! Good luck!
Hi Again,
I put 2 weeks in DS-160, but the situation is I will only spend 1 week in the US and the 2nd week is travel to Central America (5 days) and come back to US one day before the flight back to US.
When the officer asked for how long will I stay, should i say 2 weeks? or should i explain that situation i mentioned above?
Thank you!
Just say 2 weeks. Do not complicate your situation. Remember, the more you complicate, the more questions you get. So, just go with 2 weeks.
Hi,
If I will travel to maybe 2 more visa free asian countries and pay taxes as a freelancer, will it increase the chance of visa approval?
Traveling to “visa required” countries will help. Tax documents “only” work if the VO asks for it. If they don’t ask for any documents, they make their decision on what you have entered in DS-160. There is no question/field in DS-160 about taxes. I sent an email with more suggestions that I think would help.
I’m planning to reapply in Dec
Hi Thirumal,
Thanks for this wonderful blog, it is super helpful. So as an Indian with US visa I still need to do the regular Visa for Chili & Argentina? 🙁
– Pavan J
Hi Pavan! Unfortunately yes, we still need to get a visa for Chile and Argentina. So far, it’s only for China passport but I’m quite certain soon India passport will be on the list. Till then, yeah we have to get a visa from those two countries.
Thanks a lot mate, I actually got inspired by your blog & have planned a 2 month travel to South & central America (mostly the countries who let me inside free with my US visa).. Is it ok if I share my travel plan with you & ask for some advises? How can I get in touch with you? Appreciate your effort in putting together this wonderful blog, I hope it inspires much more people to pack their bags.. 🙂
Hi Pavan! You’re welcome! Yeah, please share your travel plan and ask for any advice. I’m here to help. You can email me at thirumal@visatraveler.com and I will respond with whatever info/advice you need. Alternatively, you can join my facebook group Visa Talk to share or ask any travel visa related questions. Good luck and enjoy your travels!
Hi Thirumal,
Firstly thanks for this selfless support that your are giving, I can’t tell you how helpful it is & how thankful I am. I have sent you a mail on my questions. Thanks a lot once again.. 🙂
BR,
Pavan J 🙂
Argentina added India and some more country for the eTA/EVA scheme for people having valid US B2 and Schengen Type C Passport.
http://www.migraciones.gov.ar/ave/index.htm
Hi Diptarka! That’s fantastic! Thanks for the information! I will update the article.
Thanks for the information, a visa is always an issue for people like us who love to travel around the globe, This is great! I would probably add Mexico or Korea to the list because the weather is still nice and there’s so much to do. All of these are great places to go and it looks like I need to move a few up on my travel list!
Hi Kanika! I know visa is an issue, but that should not discourage us from traveling the world. Both Mexico and Korea are fascinating. You will definitely have a great time. Enjoy your travels!
Hi Thirumal, i was checking your comment on a post, are your sure that having a pakistani passport with US B1/B2 visa on it we can travel to Schengen Countries ??
please guide.
January 31, 2018 at 2:55 am
Hi Ahsan! With Pakistani passport and valid US B1/B2 visa, you can visit the below countries without any visa –
North America
-USA
-Mexico
-Belize
-Costa Rica
-Panama
Caribbean
-Dominican Republic
Europe
-Turkey (eVisa eligible)
-Georgia
-Albania
-Montenegro
-Serbia
-United Kingdom (24 hr transit visa)
Middle East
-Qatar (VoA eligible)
Asia
-South Korea
With your Schengen C type visa, you can visit the below Schengen and European countries –
Schengen Countries
-Austria
-Belgium
-Czech Republic
-Denmark
-Estonia
-Finland
-France
-Germany
-Greece
-Hungary
-Iceland
-Italy
-Latvia
-Liechtenstein
-Lithuania
-Luxembourg
-Malta
-Netherlands
-Norway
-Poland
-Portugal
-Slovakia
-Slovenia
-Spain
-Sweden
-Switzerland
European Countries
-Bosnia and Herzegovina
-Croatia
-Romania
Hi Furqan! You would NEED a Schengen visa to enter any Schengen country. You CANNOT use your US B1/B2 visa to enter Schengen countries.
I think you are a bit confused regarding Ahsan’s question. He had 2 questions. He wanted to know the – (1) list of countries for his US B1/B2 visa and (2) list of countries for his Schengen C-type visa. If you look at my answer to Ahsan’s question carefully, the first list is for his US B1/B2 visa and the second list is specifically for his Schengen C-type visa.
Hi Thirumal,
I refer to your blog often to help with my travel plans and I must say you are doing fantastic job.
A small contribution from me to keep this blog updated with Visa changes for Indians in Jordan .
I visited Jordan last month and Indian now can get VOA with Jordan pass as well as in some case Visa fees is waived if you are part of group tour recognized by Jordan Government and your travel meets certain criteria.
(I visited as part of Explore! tour and there was representative from company waiting for me at the airport before immigration to help with VOA and my visa fees was waived).
http://international.visitjordan.com/GeneralInformation/Entryintojordan.aspx
Hope this information helps to keep this blog updated.
Hi Payal! First of all, thank you very much for the kind words! Second, thanks for the info! Definitely very useful to Indian readers. Hope you had a great time in Jordan.
Hey Thirumal,
Nice and helpful article dude. I have a couple questions though and I guess you can surely answer. My current H1b is valid until June 2020 that is another 20 months from today. so when you say visa exempt, does it mean I can fly straight away to let’s say Peru for my vacation and get an on arrival?
2nd one is regarding Iceland. Do we get to fly out to Iceland and get a visa on arrival?
Appreciate your time and answers dude.
Beedu
Hi Beedu! “Visa Exempt” means “Visa NOT Required”. NOT EVEN visa on arrival. When you fly into Peru, the immigration officers will verify your passport and US visa. Then they will put an entry stamp in your passport. After that, you will just walk out and take a taxi.
Note on VoA: A “Visa on Arrival” is still a visa. VoA are separate counters in the airport where you will submit your documents, pay the visa fee and will get a visa sticker affixed in your passport. Instead of getting a visa from the consulate, you will get the visa at the airport. Same procedure and same sticker.
Note on Visa Exemption: Visa Exemption is “Visa NOT Required”. No visa is issued or affixed in your passport.
Hey Thirumal,
Thanks again… that makes it clear.
Beedu
This is just what I was looking for this morning! Super helpful! I see very recent comments and your responses to it so I am hoping this list is the most updated one?
Thank you so much for putting this together!
Hi Rashida! Yes, the list is up to date. I check my sources, websites and contacts regularly to keep this list updated.
First of all, thank you for creating this, Thirumal!
I downloaded the guide since I am considering traveling to Romania. Slight confusion:
In Romania section it does not mention I can go with a UK visa but in UK section it marks Romania as 1 of the countries. I have an Indian passport with long-term multiple entry US, UK and Australian visas currently visiting Serbia, and planning on going to Romania next if possible. Schengen has expired already unfortunately.
Hi Raghav! For Romania, UK visa is not eligible. You would need a permanent residence permit in the UK. Here is the information from Romanian Ministry of Foreign Affairs –
“The holders of permanent residence permits issued by the UK or Ireland (the validity of which is of 5 years or more).”
I apologize for the confusion. I made a mistake in the eBook. I will fix and update the eBook. Thanks for pointing it out!
Great work compiling all this information Thirumal, it has been very helpful! I thank you deeply for it. My wife and I are planning our trip to Georgia now 🙂
Best regards
Mohit
Hi Mohit! Thank you for the kind words! Have a great time in Georgia!
Hi Thirumal you have done a great job. I have a quesry:
With Indian Passport having valid B1/B2 Visa for USA, whether i can enter UK without visa? If it is a Transit from USA how long i can stay in UK.
Hi Saravanan! You can enter UK using your US visa on these below conditions –
– You can enter ONLY through Heathrow airport
– You must have an onward flight to the US within 24 hours
– Entry will be given for 24 hours only (you can stay up to 24hrs in the UK)
– Issuing the 24hr visa depends completely at the discretion of the immigration officer
Many readers were able to get the 24 hour visa at Heathrow successfully. But be prepared to spend your layover in the airport in case you were not given the 24-hour visa.
Thanks Thirumal; Will get in touch with you if i have any further queries
You are doing a great job… All the best wishes for your work, keep going…
Thanks
Hi Thirumal, extremely helpful information rendered by you. Thanks much.
A question – I have an Indian passport with B2 USA visa stamped, valid for 10 years. 1) Can i travel to Croatia (multi entry) with this B2 visa and not taking a Croatian visa ? 2) I understand I will not need a visa to visit Montenegro as i have the B2. Pls confirm.
Thanks in advance – Vidya
Hi Vidya! (1) Unfortunately, Croatia DOES NOT honor US visas. Croatia accepts Schengen visas, so you would need a Schengen visa or a Croatia visa to enter Croatia.
(2) Yes, you can use your US B2 visa to enter Montenegro. Montenegro honors US, UK and Schengen visas.
Hey Thirumal, i have USA visa on my Indian passport.
can i visit Chile, Colombia, Peru, Uk , Miami and Puerto rico ?
Hi Nitin! You can use your US visa to enter Colombia, Peru, US (Miami and Puerto Rico) and UK (for 24hrs only), but not Chile. Only Chinese passport holders are eligible for Chile. So, here is the summary
Chile – NO (only Chinese passport holders)
Colombia – YES
Peru – YES
UK – YES (but for 24hrs only)
US – YES (Puerto Rico is also part of US)
Hi Thirumal,
What a blog… Answered my many queries!
For Chile, I am confused though as in the main description, you’ve mentioned that with a valid US Visa, on gets visa exemption, however in your reply above you have said it is not!! Kindly clear the confusion.
Cheers!
Amit
Hi Amit! The response above was from Dec 2018. At that time, Chile did not allow US visas for Indians. Chile announced visa exemption for Indians with US visas in April 2019. It’s new information and I have updated the article recently.
Thanks for the article. It helped me and my travelers’ friend to know about the 20 countries in which we can travel free with the US visa.
Hi Kanika! You’re welcome! I’m glad the article was helpful to you and your traveler friends.
Hi Thirumal! I find your articles very interesting and informative as well and your latest article has inspired me to travel to Mexico. I have an query in this regard. I have valid visa for Canada and USA but yet to travel to both countries on these visa/s. Can I plan to visit Mexico first having these visa/s and Canada and USA thereafter. I mean is it possible for me to travel to Mexico with valid USA/Canada visa without having touched USA/Canada. Your guidance shall be highly appreciated. Thanks.
Hi Heera! Thanks! I’m glad I was able to inspire you to travel to Mexico. Yes, you can use your “unused” US or Canada visa to enter Mexico. Mexico doesn’t require you to have your US/Canada used to enter US/Canada before (unlike countries like Panama).
Hi Thirumal,
I know you have already explained about Indian passport holders having valid US visa (B1/B2) do not need a Mexican visa. But i have couple of questions for which i need to know the answers. They are as follows,
1. Do i get the tourist visa on arrival at the immigration in Mexico?
2. What documents i will need to get this visa on arrival. I will be staying with my friend during my stay in Mexico. I have his passport, and driving license. I also have his rent agreement which the flat owner. He is a Mexican citizen.
3. Do i need hotel confirmation if they dont accept the rent agreement and my friends documents? Previously I have booked the hotel and took the print out of the hotel confirmation page. But then i canceled the hotel booking so that i can have the confirmation page in worst case scenario.
4. Do i need any invitation in order to get the visa on arrival?
Thank you in advance
Victor
Hi Victor! All you need is your passport with US visa. You don’t need anything else. Here are my comments to your questions –
(1) What you get with your US B1/B2 in Mexico is VISA EXEMPTION (Not VISA ON ARRIVAL). VISA EXEMPTION means “no visa required”. Therefore, you will just get an entry stamp (not a visa sticker) on your arrival in Mexico.
(2) Since it’s Visa Exemption (not Visa on Arrival), you don’t need to fill any forms or submit any documents. You will also do not need any of your friend’s documents.
(3) Usually, you will not be asked to show a return ticket or hotel confirmation at Mexico immigration. I have entered Mexico many times and I was never asked for a return ticket or hotel booking. But, it’s a good practice to have one handy just in case.
(4) Since it’s visa exemption, you don’t need any visa-related documents including invitation letters.
Thank you very much Thirumal. You have explained everything in detail which is very helpful. Now i know what i need and i dont have to worry about things. Thank you once again for giving your valuable time and answering my questions. Nice work…cheers
You’re welcome, Victor! Enjoy your time in Mexico!
Thank you very much Thirumal. You have explained everything in detail which is very helpful. Now i know what i need and i dont have to worry about things. Thank you once again for giving your valuable time and answering my questions. Nice work…cheers
Hi Thirumal……bro u r doing great service to travellers across globe. Im Indian having B1/B2 USA Visa taken in the year 2015 and valid upto 2025. However I have not used it yet. I intend to travel to Philippines next month. Do I have to take Visa since I have not used USA visa even once ?
Hi Prakash! Philippines has no such restriction on the US visa. Therefore, you can use your “unused” US visa to enter the Philippines.
Hi Thirumal,
I have US b1/b2 visa on my Indian passport. Can I travel to Mexico and Canada with US b1/b2 stamped on my passport? My visa is stamped for 4 weeks though. Please let me know.
Hi Vinay! You can travel to Mexico with your US B1/B2. But your US visa must be valid during your entire stay in Mexico. That means, if you enter Mexico 2 weeks before your US visa expiry, you may get only 2 weeks entry in Mexico.
For Canada, you would need a Canada visa. You cannot use your US visa to enter Canada.
Do I need to come back to USA after visiting Mexico, or can fly back to India from Mexico only? Which all other nearby countries can I visit with US b1/b2 visa
You don’t need to come back to the US. You can return back to India directly from Mexico or go to another country.
With your India passport and US B1/B2, you can travel to Belize, Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama in Central America. You can also travel to Bahamas, Cuba, Dominican Republic, etc in the Caribbean. They are all near Mexico.
Hi, I am having US B1/B2 Tourist Visa. Using this visa can I visit Singapore? I am an Indian national.
Hi Darshan! Yes, you can visit Singapore with your US B1/B2 visa. You must meet the following conditions –
(1) You must be traveling to India from a third country via Singapore (Ex: Indonesia-Singapore-India)
(2) You must be traveling to a third country from India via Singapore (Ex: India-Singapore-Indonesia)
Hi
I am a Sri Lankan passport holder having a valid US visa. Do I need to get a Malaysian visa to enter Malaysia?
Hi Chinthaka! If you are on the way to the US via Malaysia, you can request a 5-day entry at Kuala Lumpur (KLIA/KLIA2) airport. The entry is limited to Kuala Lumpur only. Ex: Colombo-KL-LA. That being said, I have had a reader (Indian passport) avail the 5-day entry while on his way back from Thailand to India. So, to the most part, the 5-day entry depends on the immigration officers’ discretion.
Another option is to apply for an eVisa. For more details on eVisa, refer to my Malaysia Visa Guide.
Thanks for the information it’s useful. I tried Malaysian visa through an online agent and he took $80 and next day sent a message saying could not process due to technical issue and will refund money. Tried official website that was the most difficult ever online visa application process I tried.
Hi Chinthaka! I applied for Malaysia eVisa 3 times. It was always quite easy and straight forward. I had to enter my information, upload the documents and pay the visa fee. It took me an hour to complete the application. About 2 working days for the visa result.
Which website are you using for eVisa? Which part did you find it difficult? Let me know, maybe I can help.
Thanks Thirumal, 1st time I applied through and agent online. 2nd time applied using the official government website. Uploading picture to the size they want (35mm x 50mm ) is the most difficult part. Also it says need to buy the ticket and they dont accept just reservation only.
Yeah, uploading the picture is a pain. The website doesn’t easily accept the picture. You will have to zoom in and out a few times until it’s accepted.
Malaysia eVisa has a very low refusal rate. So, it’s safe to purchase your tickets and upload the itinerary. If they need something, they either ask you to upload additional documentation or set up an appointment at the Malaysian consulate for you.
The being said, you can still use a reservation instead of purchased tickets. If the visa is denied, they are not going to refund your flight fare, so you have every right to use a reservation. If they ask, just explain that you don’t want to lose money on the tickets. Just a tip, I have used Expedia 24 hr cancellation tickets for one my Malaysia eVisa application. I didn’t have any issues. You can try that option if it works for you.
Thanks so much.
hi Thirumal,
I am holding valid US B1/B2 visa. I am planning a trip from India to Phillipines with transit in Singapore. Can I avail transit visa for Singapore as well as free visa for Phillipines on this trip?
Regards,
Rohit
Hi Rohit! Yes, you can avail Visa Free Transit Facility (VFTF) at Singapore for up to 96 hours. Your US B1/B2 visa must be valid and multiple-entry. More info at Singapore Immigration and Checkpoints Authority.
You are “visa exempted” in the Philippines since you hold India passport and a valid US B1/B2. When you arrive in the Philippines, just mention that you have a US visa. You will be stamped and given a 14-day entry. For more info, check out my Philippines Visa Guide.
Hi Thirumal,
My name is Anna and i am a Pakistani. I do have USA B1/B2 valid visa for 5 years. Can you please let me know which country i can travel on my USA Visa.
Thanks for your help.
Hi Anna! With your Pakistan passport and US B1/B2 visa, you can travel to these 19 countries –
North America
=============
01. Mexico
Central America
===============
02. Belize
03. Costa Rica
04. Panama
Caribbean
=========
05. Cuba
06. Dominican Republic
07. Antigua and Barbuda
Europe
======
08. Albania
09. Bosnia and Herzegovina
10. Georgia
11. Macedonia
12. Montenegro
13. Serbia
14. Turkey (eligible to apply for eVisa)
15. United Kingdom (must be in transit to reach the US, entry for 24 hours only)
Middle East
===========
16. Qatar
Africa
======
17. São Tomé and Príncipe
Asia
====
18. Malaysia (must be in transit to reach the US)
19. South Korea (must be in transit to reach the US)
Thirumal, Thank you so much for your quick reply.
Thanks you for you quick reply. Definitely will check out the links.
HI Thirumal Good day
I have a Valid B1/B2 and C1/D US Visa on my Indian Passport, can you please tell me whether i can visit Bahamas with that and if yes for how many days.
Hi Prem! YES, you can visit Bahamas with your India passport and valid US B1/B2 visa. You can stay up to 90 days in the Bahamas. Below is the information from the official sources
“Nationals of India with a visa issued by Canada, United Kingdom, USA or Schengen Member State for a maximum stay of 90 days.”
Hey,
I am from India and planning to travel to turkey but do not have time to apply for a sticker visa.
I have traveled to turkey before using E-visa but that was the time when i had a valid schengen visa.
Sadly this time, i do not. But my US C1/D visa is valid.Can i use that ?
i read some similar posts, were these people able to get in through immigration with C1/D visa ?
Hi Kartikay! YES, as far as I know, you can use your US C1/D visa to apply for your Turkey eVisa. Turkey accepts all types of US visas. The only visas they don’t accept are “eVisas” from other countries. Good luck and enjoy your trip to Turkey!
Okay, thanks a lot.
I’ll book my tickets and will let you know what happens.
You’re welcome! Have a great trip!
http://www.migraciones.gov.ar/ave/index.htm?fbclid=IwAR0SJZ5H4hbXtE8R4KKq32225BINnU4up42eHJV587Ses1jt8gHIm6lG6ZM
Hi Thirumal
Indian PP holders can travel to Argentina now, with B1/B2 US visa.
Hi Krishna! Thanks for the information! This is good news!
I received the confirmation from Argentina National Immigration as well. I will add India and other countries to Argentina. Thanks again!
I have a usa green card and I am willing to travel to Asia and Europe this summer.
It is said that you can enter South Korea without a visa if your final destination will be the USA.
I was thinking of going to Korea then Georgia and then the United Kingdom and from the United Kingdom to the USA (making USA final destination ). So is it still possible to enter Korea without a visa?
Hi Bibek! Yes, it’s possible but may require a lot of convincing. The airline staff or the immigration officers may not easily understand your complicated itinerary. Therefore, it may require a lot of convincing from your side.
That being said, according to HiKorea, you have to have a ticket to the US, Canada, Australia or NZ within 30 days of entering South Korea.
“A person who has a departure ticket to the countries above within 30 days from South Korea, for who has not been an illegal alien and non-endorsable offenses”
So, I won’t have any problem with Korean immigration, right?
I cannot assure you that. The requirements are not clear and it depends on how the airline staff and immigration officials interpret it.
I can assure you that going to the US right after Korea works. I have done that myself. Traveled from Taiwan to Korea and then to the US. Even then, the airline staff had to talk to their managers and immigration officer had to go through a lot of data to understand the requirement. Therefore, I recommend making the US your next destination after Korea.
The best itinerary in your case is Korea-US-UK-Georgia.
To give you more clarity, here is the information from TIMATIC –
“The following itineraries are possible:
– arrive from a third country and departing to the country that issued the visa (e.g. DEL-ICN-YVR); or
– arrive from a third country and depart to another country for a maximum stay of 3 days, before departing to the country that issued the visa (e.g. DEL-ICN-SGN-YVR); or
– arrive after transiting through a third country for a maximum of 3 days (e.g. DEL-SGN-ICN-YVR).”
Thanks for the valuable information, Thirumal! This is something important to every traveler who actually wants to visit these countries. Thanks for the great share! Keep posting.
Hi Kanika! You’re welcome! And, thanks for the kind words!
My Friend has a Vietnam Passport but also has a US Green Card. Is she allowed to go to Iceland OR is there another process for here and if so any idea how involved it would be. Would like to go on a vacation there but wasnt sure of the requirments. THanks!!
Hi Don! Unfortunately, your friend cannot use her US Greencard to enter Iceland. She would need a “Schengen visa”.
Schengen visa is a simple process if she has employment, funds in the bank, etc. It would probably take 4-5 days for the visa process. You can refer to my Schengen visa guide for the procedure.
I have US (C1/D) transit visa valid till 2024 and I want to travel to the Philippines. Will I be eligible for an on-arrival visa for the Philippines or I have to apply for their visa in my own country? Also is hotel booking is compulsory?
Hi Avinash! Philippines hasn’t mentioned which type of US visas can be used. Therefore, it is safe to assume all US visas can be used. You can enter the Philippines on your India passport and US C1/D visa as long as your visa is “multiple-entry” and “valid”. You will get a 14-day entry.
You don’t need any hotel booking. But you would need to have a return/onward ticket within 14 days of arrival.
Hi very nice blog and detailed info ! I have a question , I am on valid H4 visa & B1/B2 visa stamped on my Indian passport and I currently live in USA. Am I eligible for Turkey e-visa ? And in the E-visa website they are asking for Select Country/Region of Your Travel Document , that would be India right ? As my travel document is India with Ordinary passport selection ?
Another question I have is of my friend who has valid B1/B2 stamped on the passport lives in India , have been to USA only once are they also eligible for e-visa for Turkey / Istanbul.
Really appreciated or advise on the above.
Hi Heta! Yes, you are eligible for Turkey eVisa, since you have a valid B1/B2 visa. For the eVisa application, your travel document would be “ordinary passport” and country/region of your travel document would be “India”.
Yes, your friend is also eligible for Turkey eVisa. It is not mandatory to have the US visa used before for Turkey eVisa. So, yes, your friend is also eligible.
Thank you for the clarification ! Your blog is amazing ! Another point will my H4 visa be of any use ? Because technically I m on H4 visa and have been on H4 visa ( dependant ) for 8 + years here in USA ? Or is e-visa only for B1/B2 ?
Yes, you can use your H4 for Turkey eVisa as well, as long it’s still valid. All US visa types can be used for Turkey eVisa.
You can use your H4 for all the countries listed in this article, except Argentina. Argentina eTA requires a B2 or B1/B2.
hey actually i have usa green card i am thinking of going nepal on march ..
So from usa can i book a flight to london (heathrow ) and catch flight to nepal within 24 hr ..
So can i still be able to enter uk for 24 hr without visa ???
The 24-hour entry at Heathrow is at the discretion of the immigration officers at the airport. Therefore, you may or may not be permitted to leave the airport for 24 hrs.
Keeping that in mind, you should book your flight from the US to Nepal on a single itinerary. That way, if you are denied the 24-hour entry, you can at least remain airside and catch your connecting flight to Nepal.
If you are given the 24-hour entry, yes, you can enter the UK for up to 24 hours.
Hi,
I am Indian passport holder with US B1 visa, plan to travel Vietnam on May on wards, returning time I want stay a week in Guangzhou China, can i get visa on arrival in China. Your site is very very help full solo travelers like me.
Thanks in advance
Hi Srinivasan! Unfortunately, India passport holders require a pre-approved visa to enter China. You must first obtain a visa from the Chinese consulate prior to your arrival in China.
Thank you so much for the clarification ! Your Blog is just amazing , very to the point and clear information. Let me know if you have any ideas On Istanbul , like things to do and etc. I will be travelling in May.
WITH INDIAN PASSPORT HAVING VALID US VISA, WE CAN TRAVEL TO THAILAND VISA FREE.
Hi Premal! That’s interesting. I haven’t heard this news. Can you please provide the link to the official source?
Hi Thirumal
I have C1 D US VISA with Indian passport….. May I get on arrival visa at Dubai…. Or I have to take visa first .. and then plan to go to Dubai….
Hi Ginni! The official websites of UAE don’t specify which US visas can be used. Therefore, it’s safe to assume that you can use your C1/D visa to get visa arrival in Dubai.
I have tried their online system for Visa on Arrival, and the options to select are “US Visa”, “US greencard”, “UK residence permit” and “EU residence permit”. Therefore, in my opinion, any US visa can be used.
Hi ..
Very nice blog ..
I have a question plz ..
I have a valid B1/B2 visa on my Jordanian passport, can I visit Canada without visit visa ?!!!
Hi Obada! Unfortunately, you CANNOT use your US B1/B2 visa to enter Canada. Jordanian passport holders REQUIRE a Canada tourist visa to visit Canada.
For Indian passport to get South Korea visa-on-arrival you should have direct flight from USA/Guam to South Korea or South Korea to USA/Guam.
Btw do you have any info about Canada visa-on-arrival if having any USA visa ?
Hi Raj! Thanks for the info! Unfortunately, India passport holders REQUIRE a visa for Canada. You cannot use your US visa to enter Canada.
Pls ensure indonesian passport with valid B1/B2 US Visa can enter Argentina without argentina visa
Hi John! According to the Argentinian Ministry of Interior, Indonesian passport holders with a valid B2 (or B1/B2) are eligible to apply Argentina eTA online. Note that eTA takes about 20 working days and costs $50 USD.
Hello!! Firstly I would like to express how great your website is. You’ve been a big help for a lot of travellers around the world. My question is, I plan to visit Albania and for a US Visa holder like me they would allow me a visa free access however my US Visa should have at least been used once for a travel to the US. I have not used my US Visa yet at USA itself but I used it to enter Guam which is still a territory right? Will that one time use to Guam be okay for me to enter Albania just using my US Visa???
Hi Joan! Thanks! Entry requirements for Guam are the same as any US destination, meaning, you must a hold a valid US visa. Therefore, yes, entering Guam is considered as entering the US. But to be sure, let me ask you a question. How does the Guam entry stamp look like? Is it the same as the US entry stamp?
Hi Thirumal, You did a great job!! I am holding US B1/B2 visa for 10 years. Can I work in US with this visa?
Thank you!!
Hi Yoosuf! B2/B2 is strictly for tourism or business. You would need a work permit such as H1B to work in the US.
I have visited Canada in 2017 for 3 months. My visa is expired. I am going to apply again. So if I will get visa for 10 years than which countries are eligible to travel for me?
Hi Ashish! You can travel to about 25 countries VISA-FREE with a Canada visa. Refer to my blog post on how to travel VISA-FREE with Canada visa.
I have valid 10 years us visa and traveled 2 times for a month. Now I have applied for Canada tourist visa also my visa category is consider as Can+ visa category. So, I want to know that can I get visa with 10 years validity or not?
Hi Riki! Considering for CAN+ program is on the discretion of the visa officers. Having traveled to the US or Canada in the last 10 years definitely helps.
Generally, Canada visas are issued for 10 years or till the expiration of your current passport, whichever is lesser.
Can you please help if US Visa holder can get free Transit visa or free entry in Bucharest, Romania
Hi Khan! You DO NOT REQUIRE a transit visa if you hold a US visa. Most passports are transit visa exempt (airside transit only) and for those who require a transit visa, they are exempt as well if in possession of a US visa. You can find the official information on the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania website.
Hi thirumal, really informative..
I have valid b1/b2 US visa, planning for a trip to US from muscat connecting Frankfort.. Please let me know, whether I have to take airport transit visa or not… While coming its via Zurich.. Waiting for your kind reply..
Hi Smrithesh! India passport holders REQUIRE a transit visa for Germany. But holders of US visa are transit visa EXEMPT. India passport holders do NOT REQUIRE a transit visa for Switzerland. So in summary, you don’t need a transit visa for both Germany and Switzerland.
Thank you..For the confident reply…
I’m holding a Philippine passport with US 10 yrs multiple entry visa. Now my question is do I need a tourist visa to South Korea? How about Japan? Thanks for your reply!
Hi Michael! YES, you can travel to South Korea with your Philippines passport and US visa ONLY IF you will be traveling to the US via South Korea. For example, Manila to Seoul and Seoul to LA. If you have such flight tickets, you will be allowed to enter South Korea and remain in South Korea for up to 30 days.
NO, you NEED a visa for Japan. You cannot use your US visa to enter Japan.
Hi brother! I got your information useful. I am from Pakistan and want to ask you having USA B1/B2 visa, which countries I can really travel. Can I travel to the UK with 24 hours option? I have been deported from the UK in 2012 for being overstayed. Please advise me with your best information regarding it. Another thing is that I traveled 3 times to the USA and two of my kids are US citizens.
Please let me know especially about Romania and Bosnia. I am currently having turkey trip. Does it help me to travel to Bosnia/Romania with a valid US visa on Pakistani passport?
Hi Adnan! You can go through the list of countries in this article for your passport. All those countries that say “applicable to all passports” or “Pakistan” are VISA-FREE countries for Pakistani passports.
I don’t think the UK would allow you a 24-hour VISA-FREE entry due to your overstay record. But you can certainly try while flying via London’s Heathrow airport.
You CAN enter Bosnia with your US visa. But you CANNOT enter Romania with a US visa as you would need a visa from Romania or a Schengen visa.
Thank you soo much brother! Your reply is so satisfied. I have a question, how much validity of US visa there should be to travel to these countries?
Most countries in the above list require at least 6 months of validity remaining on your US visa.
Hi, I have a US B1/B2 visa and Indian passport. I plan to visit the US in June. Before that, in May I am going to Dubai. Will Visa on arrival be applicable for me since I hold US visa or is it mandatory to have visited the US once to get visa on arrival for UAE. Any response will be appreciated.
Hi Nikita! There is no such restriction on the US visa to enter the UAE. You can use your current (unused) US B1/B2 visa to get Visa on Arrival in UAE.
Hi Thirumal,
From 01 April, 2019 Indian passport holders with US B1/B2 visa can get Chile VoA. I wonder why Argentina asking for eTA ?
Hi Raj! The official sources (such a Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Chile) haven’t been updated yet with the new visa rules for India passports with US visa. I’m still waiting for these official sources to be updated so I can update this article as well.
Argentina has always been offering eTA for US visa holders but it was only for China passport holders. Recently they made many other nationalities eligible for eTA.
Every country has it’s own visa requirements. Therefore, it’s really difficult to know why Argentina requires an eTA whereas Chile doesn’t. Many countries including the US (ESTA) have eTAs in place. These are required to record incoming tourists, check their backgrounds, etc.
Good day. Great info. Thank you.
I read through all the comments, and I hope I did not miss this one. I have a South African passport. I have had multiple Visa’s. I currently have a ten year B1/B2 visa and will soon have an L1a visa. With this visa and my passport, what countries can I enter without a specific visa for those counties? If you could advise on both please. L1 and B1
Hi Tommy! Though L1 and B1 are equally good, I think your B1 visa is slightly better and gets you more VISA-FREE travel than your L1 visa. South Africa passport is somewhat stronger than the passports that I usually write for. Therefore, some of the countries in this article may already offer visa exemption to South Africa passports.
Hi Thirumal,
This week I have received e-mail confirmation from Chilean Consulate in New York & Chilean Embassy in UAE that Indians with normal PP and USA B1/B2 visa (with at least 6 months validity) can visit Chile and Easter Island without visa.
Hi Raj! Thanks for the update! I was finally given a link to the official information. I have updated the article as well. Thanks again for updating me and all our readers/community!
Hi! My friend has a C1/D visa and would like to travel to Serbia and Montenegro. Can he get a visa on arrival in both countries? If not, can you suggest other countries which he can get voa using C1/D visa? Thanks much for your reply in advance!
Hi RD! If a country clearly indicates that they don’t allow US transit visa (C1/D), then your friend, of course, cannot use his C1/D visa. For countries that do not allow US transit visa, I have clearly indicated them (ex: Argentina, Chile, etc). For the rest, your friend can use his US C1/D visa to enter.
Hi Thirumal, I am a Bangladeshi national and I have a valid US visa. So, can you tell me whether the US visa facilitates me to travel to Mexico, Canada and the UK or not? Is it for the travel in transit only?
Hi Mejanur! With your Bangladeshi passport and valid US visa, you can travel to Mexico. For Canada, you would need a Canada visa. You cannot use your US visa for Canada.
For the UK, you can request for a 24-hour entry at London’s Heathrow airport if you are flying via London to reach any city in the US.
Hi Thirumal thank you for your information, it helps a lot! I have 2 questions and it’s gonna be really long. I will truly appreciate for your response. So I hold a US student visa (F1) valid till 2020, however there is a little accident that happened: I traveled to the Dominican Republic earlier this year after I finish my school and when I re-enter the US I was told that my student visa is not valid to enter the US no more because I left after the school is over, so I should not come back and told me my student visa is not valid anymore (they let in luckily since I was leaving the US anyway in a week just go back to pack ), so my question is: will I still be able to enter those countries with my student visa? I believe the customs in each country is not connected right?
My other question is about Chile, so in the article it says “The US visa must be B1/B2 or green card only (work/student/crew/transit/dependent visas are not eligible)”, but when I look up for info in Chinese language they did not mention if it was available for B1/B2 visa only, so I assume it’s available for all visa types? I would like to confirm.
Sorry, there are so many words, thank you so much!
Hi Will! Yes, you can use your student visa to enter the countries on this list. The only requirement is that the visa must not be expired.
For Chile, the visa-free entry with B1/B2 visa was available for Chinese nationals from a long time. They recently included India as well as the greencard. Can you send me a link to the article that you are referring?
Hi Thirumal!
This is Chandra, Indian passport holder working in Houston. I have a valid B1/B2 visa and I am working on L1-visa here. Will both be valid; and I can travel where they don’t let people with US work-permit?
Appreciate your help.
Regards,
Chandra
Hi Chandra! A few countries on the list have some limitations on work/student/transit visas. But all countries accept US B1/B2 visa. In fact, they all prefer a B1/B2 visa over all other US visas. Therefore, I suggest using your B1/B2 visa to travel to any of the countries listed in this article.
If I have L1 or L1 A visa and Indian passport, can I go to Alaska or do I need a separate visa for it?
Hi Preethi! Alaska is part of the US. Therefore, you can use your L1 or L1 A visa to travel to Alaska. But make sure you have a direct flight from the US mainland to Alaska. If you transit in Canada, then you will need a Canada visa.
Hi Thirumal,
I have a valid US B1/B2 for 10 years. Can I use my Indian passport to travel to the Philippines for a visa on arrival?
Am checking if it is still accepted in today’s date? (16th May 2019).
Thank you very much.
Hi Imtiaz! Yes, the requirement is still valid today. You can enter the Philippines with your India passport and US B1/B2 visa. You will be given 14 days entry. More information on the Embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi website.
Hi Thirumal,
You are doing a fantastic job helping each and everyone with detailed guidelines.
I had a doubt, I have a valid B1 visa for the next 10 years, so can I visit any of these countries on Vacation or it has to be restricted strictly to Business Discussion.
Thanks again.
Hi Krishnakant! Yes, you can visit all of these countries with your B1 visa for “vacation”.
Is this rule applicable for US tourist/visitor visa only or also for US F-1 visa as well? A few days ago I was approved for it so I am double checking it with you if it is the case? Thanks!
Hi Asad! Many countries in the list accept US F1 visa as well. There are only a few countries that do not accept F1 visa (ex: Chile and Argentina).
Hi, dear Thirumal. Can I know if I can visit Georgia with US C1/D visa? I’m a Moroccan citizen.
Hi Basma! Georgia hasn’t specified the types of US visas that are allowed. Therefore, it is safe to assume that all types of US visas are allowed. So, you can use your US C1/D visa to enter Georgia.
Hi Thirumal,
I have Valid B1/B2 Visa of the US, can I travel to Italy, Greece without a prior Schengen visa or VoA in Europe?
As well as kindly provide a list of Schengen countries which I can travel with B1/B2 Visa & without prior Schengen Visa.
Thanks in advance, your webpage is amazing and quite helpful.
Hi Kaushal! Unfortunately, none of the 26 Schengen countries accept/allow US visas. You would need a Schengen visa for all 26 Schengen countries including Italy and Greece.
Non-Schengen countries in the European continent such as Albania, B & H, Georgia, Macedonia, Montenegro, Serbia and Turkey accept US visas. You can find more details on these countries in the article under “Europe”.
Hi, I would like to inquire, we are planning to travel to Bosnia this coming June 2, 2019. Is it applicable for us Filipino holding valid USA visa to entry Visa upon arrival to Bosnia? Thanks.
Ja
Hi Ja! Yes, you can enter Bosnia and Herzegovina without a visa with your Filipino passport and valid US visa.
Thanks for the extensive list. Really helpful. I have a question. With B1 US visa from India, if we use solely for a trip to some eligible country (say Malaysia) without going to the US at all and return back, will that not be a black mark on the visa? I understand that it is possible but Is that legally allowed?
Will the country where we are landing does not question us?
Hi Nagarajan! Each country has its own visa/immigration/entry rules. You are supposed to follow/obey the rules. If you violate a rule, you may be able to get away with it or you may be flagged.
Airlines, governments, immigration departments, etc share data. There are also third-party databases that some countries refer to. Any such actions may end up somewhere in those databases. Eventually, they come up and start causing issues with your future travels.
Hi Thirumal, Thanks for sharing all the information. Can you please confirm that with a US Business visa with 10 years multiple entries can I travel to Israel, Jordan, South Africa, and Turkey? Please confirm.
Hi Sudarshan! You cannot use your US visa to enter any of those 4 countries, except Turkey (eVisa). Details below.
Israel: NO
Jordan: NO
South Africa: NO
Turkey: NO but certain passport holders with US visa are eligible to apply for Turkey eVisa.
Hi Thirumal,
Hope you are fine! I am from India & I have a B1/B2 currently in the USA for visit & wants to travel to the UK. Can I travel? Please advice at earliest. If no, then which other countries I can travel through B1/B2 visa without any problem.
Thanks & Best Regards
Arun
Hi Arun! If you are traveling to the US via the UK, you can request for a 24-hour entry at the London’s Heathrow airport. But if you need to spend more than 24-hours in the UK, you would need a UK tourist visa.
With your India passport and valid US B1/B2 visa, you can travel to all the countries listed in this article.
Hi Thirumal
Please, advice can I apply for Canada visa online? I have a B1/B2 visa and I am currently in the USA.
Thanks & Best Regards
Arun
Hi Arun! Yes, you can apply for your Canada visa while you are in the US. Biometrics are mandatory and therefore you will have to make an appointment after your online application. Overall, the visa process can take up to 30 days.
Hello Thirumal. I am from Nepal and I recently got an F1 Visa to study in the US. I am planning to stay in S. Korea for a couple of days via transit to the US. Do I need any kind of visa to get out of the airport in S. Korea? Any help would be really appreciated.
Hi Ashish! Unfortunately, Nepal is one of the 24 EXCLUDED countries for VISA EXEMPTION with US visa. Therefore, you won’t be allowed to leave the airport in South Korea on your way to the US. You will have to arrange for a South Korea visa from the consulate before your trip.
Hi Thirumal. I am from Mizoram, India. I have a J1 Visa for my upcoming fellowship program in the US. I will be joining a University starting in August of this year. I was wondering if I can travel to Mexico on the J1 visa in July 2019. I understand that the Mexican embassy here in India has a notice that ANY VALID US visa allows entry to Mexico. My main concern is that is the J1 visa considered valid even if I have not used it before to travel into the US.
Hi Mizo! Yes, your J1 visa is considered valid for entering Mexico. As far as my knowledge goes, you will not have any issue. But I suggest carrying some documentation on your fellowship program. If asked, you can show that you will be returning to the US to start your fellowship program.
Hi Thirumal, I am planning to travel to Cuba. I am a Philippines passport holder and have a valid US visa and Canadian Visa. I am flying from Miami to Cuba. I just wanted to confirm regarding the info you’ve provided, Do I only need to obtain the Tourist card (usually purchase from airlines)? I do not need to apply for a separate A1 Cuban visa? Thanks in advance.
Hi Catherine! You DO NOT need an A1 Cuban visa as you already have a US visa (or Canada visa). All you need is a Tourist Card. You can obtain your tourist card from the “Cuba Ready” Kiosk at Miami airport. Just ask any airport staff, they will direct you to the kiosk.
NOTE: Many Filipino readers with Philippines passport with US visa have traveled to Cuba from Miami with American Airlines. They have all obtained their Tourist Cards in the Miami airport without any problem.
Hi Thirumal, I hold a Philippines passport with a PR visa category IR2. I plan to go to Europe without getting the Schengen visa. What countries would be best in my situation?
Best,
Jefe Rogel
Hi Jefe! None of the countries in the Schengen zone accept a US visa or green card. But, there are quite a few non-Schengen countries in Europe that you can visit with your green card. Please refer to the countries in the section “Europe” in this article.
Hi Thirumal, I hold a Indian passport with a US B1/B2 visa. I was planning to visit turkey on my way to USA. Is it possible? While applying for Turkish e-visa, they mentioned for return flight?
Hi Nikhil! Yes, it’s possible. You can use your Turkey-US ticket as your return/onward ticket. You don’t need to enter the flight details while applying for the eVisa, but you will be asked to show at the first port of entry in Turkey.
I have a USA visa(B1/B2), and I have a visa for Portugal. Can I visit other countries like Spain, Italy with these.
Hi Mudita! You cannot use your US B1/B2 visa to travel to the Schengen zone. But if you have a visa from Portugal, then you have access to the entire Schengen zone. So, you can use your Portugal visa to travel to Spain and Italy.
I would like to know if I can use my US visa to transit Australia(Sydney) for less than 2 hrs. I am an Indian national.
Hi Ellen! Indian nationals with “ordinary” passports REQUIRE a transit visa to transit through airports in Australia. You can apply for an Australia transit visa (Subclass 771) online and an eVisa will be issued. The Austalia immigration and citizenship website says that it can take up to 19 days for the visa process. So apply as early as you can.
Transit Visa Requirement: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/transit-771/travellers-eligible-to-transit-without-visa
Transit Visa Application: https://immi.homeaffairs.gov.au/visas/getting-a-visa/visa-listing/transit-771#Overview
I have H1B visa and can I stay up to 24 hours from India to the UK or it should be on the way to the US? Also, can I go to Singapore while to/from the USA to India? Thanks in advance.
Hi Mani! Yes, you can request for a 24-hour entry at London’s Heathrow airport on both ways – (1) While going to the US. Ex: India-UK-US and (2) While coming back from the US. Ex: US-UK-India.
Yes, you can enter Singapore for up to 4 days using your US visa. You must be either (1) going to a third country visa Singapore. Ex: India-Singapore-Indonesia or (2) going to India from a third country. Ex: Indonesia-Singapore-India.
Thanks a lot. Is the itinerary should be the same ticket (as per your above source)? ex: US to Singapore to India? can it be two itineraries i.e US to Singapore and Singapore to India?
Yes. It can be two itineraries. US to Singapore and Singapore to India. You will not any issues getting VFTF with two itineraries.
Previously, Singapore VFTF information was not available in the TIMATIC database. All airlines refer to TIMATIC database to validate the visa requirements for boarding passengers. Therefore, it was difficult to convince the airline bound to Singapore that you plan to get VFTF in Singapore. They had no idea what VFTF was since it wasn’t in TIMATIC. But now, TIMATIC is updated with Singapore VFTF. Therefore, you will not have any issues boarding the flight bound to Singapore with US-Singapore itinerary. You just have to show the airline staff your flight booking for Singapore-India within 96 hours of arrival. I will update the article as well to remove the single itinerary requirement.
What about an Egyptian who hold valid USA Visa? What Countries can he enter without visa or just on arrival visa?
Hi Ahmed! This article applies to all passport holders including Egyptian. For VISA-FREE countries with your Egyptian passport and valid US visa, refer to the countries that say “applies to all nationalities”.
Hi Dear! How many Countries can I Travel with Pakistan Passport with valid US VISA B1/B2 visa?
Hi Najib! You can travel to all countries in this list that says “applied to all nationalities”.
Hi, Thank you for your detailed blog. My friend is traveling through Germany to USA in the following way IST- Frankfurt- Munich-Chicago. He has a student F1 visa but does not have a Schengen visa or even a transit visa. He wouldn’t have to collect his baggage until Chicago however I am assuming he would have to go through immigration and passport control in Frankfurt (there is no terminal change, however). Would he be able to transit using his US visa? I read on other sites that US visa holders do not need a transit visa in the Schengen area and wanted to confirm if that would work out for him. He won’t be leaving any airport in Germany. Please let me know! Many thanks in advance.
Hi KT! Your friend DOES NOT need a transit visa in Germany since he holds a valid US F1 visa. However, he is making two stops in Germany and the flight between those two stops can be a domestic flight. In such a case, he may be changing terminals or entering the Schengen zone. Check with the airline if the flight between Frankfurt and Munich is also an international one.
Thank you for the reply Thirumal! I had another question — as an Indian citizen who hasn’t lived in India for a few years, can I still apply for a Schengen visa in India? I read about some residency rule. Will the visa by denied even though I have Indian passport?
You must apply for the Schengen visa in the country where you currently live. You will have strong ties with your country of residence than your home country. That being said, if you are in your home country and you’re pressed for time, you can apply in your home country as well. But, acceptance of your application depends on the consulate, VFS and the authorities in your home country.
Dear Thirumal,
Thanks for the detail list. I have a question. I have US B1/B2 multiple 10 years stamped on the old passport and travelled to the US also once on that. Now is it possible to get Visa Free Facility on the new passport also? (US visa valid for 8 more years).
Rgds,
Krishna Kumar
Hi Krishna! Yes, you can get visa-free access to the countries listed in this article with your US visa, even though it’s in your old passport. But you MUST carry both passports with you – your old and new passports. It doesn’t matter where you are traveling but must carry your old passport until all visas in it expire.
What about J1 and J2 holders? Is it the same case?
Hi Mo Ali! Yes, you can use your J1/J2 visa to enter most countries listed in this article. Read the details to make sure all visas are accepted. For example, Chile accepts only B1/B2 visa. I have pointed out such restrictions in the details.
I have a valid B1/B2 US Visa. I understand I can travel to Mexico without a need to apply for Mexico Visa (which would possibly be visa on arrival) and I can travel to the US while returning back from Mexico as well.
Hi Anish! That’s correct! You can use your valid US B1/B2 visa to enter Mexico. You do not need a separate Mexico visa. You can also enter back into the US while returning with your valid US B1/B2 visa.
Hi, I have PH passport and US C1 multiple entry Visa. Do I still need to get a Mexican Visa if I’m traveling there for a business trip (5 days)
Hi Krystal! Yes, you can use your US C1 multiple-entry visa to enter Mexico for business purpose.
It’s great what you have done. One mistake about South Korea, Sri Lankans need visa though they are traveling to the US with B1/B2.
Hi Crish! Thanks for letting me know! I will update the article with the new exception list. Thanks again!
Hi Thirumal,
I have Canada multiple entry visa valid till June 2020. As my passport expiring in June 2020, can I renew my passport and is it possible I can travel to Canada on a valid visa on old passport which I will attach with my new passport which I will renew in January 2020 to travel to Canada in April 2020. Please guide.
Hi Haris! Yes, you can still use your Canada visa in your old passport. You have to carry both old and new passports when you travel.
Hi Thirumal, I have US H1B visa, Canada visa and Schengen valid till December. I want to go to Chile, can I use either of these visas? I do not have B1/B2 US visa though.
Thanks
Hi Pankaj! Unfortunately, Chile is currently honoring only US B1, B2, B1/B2 and green cards for India passport holders. I believe Chile would add more visa types in the near future but as of now, you cannot use your US H1B, Canada or Schengen visa to enter Chile.
Hi Thirumal, I have a Korean work visa. Are there any countries that allow Korean visa?
Hi Sandeep! Yes, currently there are 3 countries that allow South Korea visa.
– Panama
– Malaysia
– Taiwan
Hi Thirumal! I am an Indian national with a valid J1 visa in the US. I have been trying to find out if I can travel to the Turks and Caicos Islands on this visa. They only specify resident or work visa on their website. I’d be grateful for any help!
Thanks!
Hi Ira! I believe a J1 or F1 visa is also considered a resident visa since the visa holders remain in the US much longer than tourists. If T&C allows H1B, they must allow J1/F1 as well. But I suggest contacting and confirming with them before buying your flight tickets.
Hi Thirumal, I just wanted to say Thank You for your quick and efficient replies. I have J1 US Visa and inquired last month if I could travel to Mexico with it, to which you replied Yes.
This is to kindly let you know that I traveled to Mexico City with no issues at immigration. The only thing that the lady at the immigration asked me was which visa I was going to use – Mexico or US, to which I showed my US J1 visa. No further questions asked and I was promptly admitted to Mexico. Thanks to you I had extra confidence! I also wanted to point out that my US J1 visa was unused, meaning, I have not used it to travel to the US before.
Hi Lalchhanhima! Thanks for the update! I’m glad my response to your query has helped you travel to Mexico without any issues. I hope you had a great time in Mexico.
Thank you! Yes, I confirmed with the embassy and they said they allow any valid US visa.
Hi Ira! That’s great! Enjoy your trip to Turks and Caicos!!
Hi Mr.Thirumal. I want to go to the US as a tourist. For the visa, how many days are required?
Hi Ajith! The US visa process itself doesn’t take much time, just a few days. You have to fill DS-160 which might take about 2 days. Then you have to schedule an appointment at your nearest US consulate. This can take longer as wait times at some consulates are much longer, sometimes up to 120 days. I suggest starting your visa application as early as you can.
Dear Thirumal, I plan to visit Japan end of this year. On return, I plan to break in Manila for 4 days. I am having a B1 visa. Can I need to apply a separate visa for the Philippines or I will get on arrival?
Thanks in advance.
Hi Srinivasan! You DO NOT NEED a separate visa for the Philippines. You can use your US B1 visa to enter the Philippines. You just have to show your US visa at the airline check-in in Tokyo and at the immigration in Manila airport. That is all. You will get 14-day entry.
Dear, I am an Indian national working in KSA. I have a B1/B2 visa for the US. I would like to travel to Spain for a 3 days trip. Do I need to apply for a visa or I can travel directly? Please advise.
Hi Vajeed! You cannot use your US B1/B2 visa to travel to Spain. Spain does not honor US visas. You would need a Schengen visa to travel to Spain.
Hello Sir, I have a question to ask you regarding I’m planning to travel to Dubai for a week and I got a B1 US VISA with me. So am I eligible to go Dubai with the US visa? Kindly waiting for the swift response. Thanks.
Hi Dev! If you hold an INDIA passport, then yes, you can travel to Dubai with your US B1 visa. You can get Visa on Arrival at Dubai airport and you can stay up to 14 days in Dubai.
Hello Thirumal,
I didn’t find this scenario discussed in any of the above threads. I am an Indian citizen.I have a stopover travel in UAE. I’ll be traveling to UAE from US, have a stopover for 3 and half days and then will go to India. Will be back to US after a month. My Student visa will expire in exactly 6 months 14 days on the day of arrival in UAE.
The question I have is I got my H1B last year. So basically I am on my H1B visa, which would make my student visa invalid in the US. I don’t have my H1B visa stamped in my passport. UAE provides VoA for Indian citizens with a valid US visa. Can I travel to UAE and show them my F1 visa (can’t show my H1B documents because I don’t have the stamp yet)?
Not sure, but I’m thinking UAE wouldn’t know that my F1 visa was expired (expires in 6 months 14 days on passport) because of my H1B right? So I probably should still get VoA for UAE, right? Although, unrelated I am getting my H1B stamp when I’m in India. So I’m expecting return to the US wouldn’t be a problem.
Should I just apply online before hand itself and pay 150 AED instead or should I just do VoA for 100 AED? Thoughts? Suggestions by everyone will also be appreciated.
Thanks,
Ravi Prasad
Hi Ravi! You can use your F1 visa to enter the UAE. You may have a change of status in the US, but your F1 is still valid and that’s all you need. You can pay a bit more and get it online, so you will be on the safe side.
Another safe option is to get a 96 hour (4 days) transit visa from the airline. All airlines that fly via Dubai offer this service. It costs about 110 AED. Your arriving and departing flights must be from the same airline though.
Hi, I have an H1 visa and my son wants to study visit to Greece for 2 weeks. He has an H4 visa. Can he travel?
Hi Venkat! Unfortunately, your son cannot use his US H4 visa to enter Greece. He needs a Schengen visa to visit Greece.