Visa Required (Sticker/Stamp Visa)
Visa required means you must apply for and receive a visa from the country's embassy or consulate before you travel.
What It Means
When a destination is marked 'Visa Required' for your passport, it means you need to go through a formal application process before your trip. This typically involves filling out an application form, gathering documents (financial proof, employment letters, hotel bookings, etc.), visiting a visa application center for biometrics, paying a fee, and waiting for processing. The visa is usually placed as a sticker in your passport or stamped. This is the most involved visa process but is standard for many popular destinations.
What This Means for Indian Travelers
For Indian passport holders, most Western countries (US, UK, Canada, Australia, Schengen countries) require a traditional visa application. The process can take anywhere from 1 week to several months. The key to success is thorough documentation — strong financial proof, clear travel purpose, and evidence of ties to India (employment, property, family) that show you'll return. Previous travel history to developed countries significantly helps subsequent applications.
Examples
- 1US B1/B2 Visa — $185 + $250 integrity fee (~$435 total since Jan 2026), in-person interview required, 10-year validity
- 2UK Standard Visitor Visa — GBP 115, biometrics at VFS Global
- 3Schengen Visa — €90, covers 27 European countries
- 4Canada Visitor Visa — CAD 100, online application possible
Frequently Asked Questions
How early should I apply for a visa?
Generally 4-8 weeks before travel for most countries. US visa appointments can have wait times of 2-6 months in peak season. Schengen allows applications up to 6 months in advance.
What happens if my visa is rejected?
You can usually reapply, but you should address the reasons for rejection first. Some countries (like the US) may ask you to wait before reapplying. Rejection doesn't permanently bar you.
Can I apply for multiple country visas at the same time?
Yes, but be aware that some embassies keep your passport during processing. If you need your passport for another application, plan the timing carefully or consider priority processing.
Pro Tips
- Start gathering documents early — bank statements, ITRs, and employment letters take time
- Never lie or misrepresent information — it can lead to permanent bans
- Previous travel stamps in your passport (especially to US/UK/Schengen) help future applications
- Consider getting a US or Schengen visa first — it unlocks easier access to many other countries
Related Terms
eVisa (Electronic Visa)
An eVisa is a digital visa that you apply for and receive entirely online, without visiting an embassy or consulate.
Visa on Arrival (VOA)
A visa on arrival is issued at the port of entry (airport/border) when you land in the destination country, without prior application.
Visa-Free Travel
Visa-free travel means you can enter a country with just your passport — no visa application, no fee, no stamp needed before arrival.
Schengen Visa
A Schengen visa is a single visa that grants access to 27 European countries in the Schengen Area for up to 90 days within a 180-day period.
Biometrics (Visa Biometrics)
Biometrics in the visa process means providing your fingerprints and photograph at a visa application center, used for identity verification.
Ready to Plan Your Trip?
Now that you understand the terminology, check out our detailed visa guides for specific destinations.