visa single journey

• Countries & Regions
• International Organisations (IOs)
• Climate Change
• Counter Terrorism
• Disarmament
• Cybersecurity
• International Peacekeeping
• Singapore's Voluntary National Review
• Small States
• Sustainable Development
• Pedra Branca
• Singapore Universal Periodic Review
• Water Agreements
• Find A Singapore Overseas Mission
• Foreign Representatives To Singapore
• COVID-19 Information
• Travel Tips
• Visa Information
• I Need Help Overseas
• Passport Matters
• Legalisation of Documents
• Travel Advisories and Notices
• Useful links
• Press Statements, Transcripts & Photos
• Announcements and Highlights
• Experience Singapore
• Foreign Service Officer (Functional and Corporate)
• Foreign Service Officer (Political and Economic)
• Foreign Service Administration Specialist
• Job Opportunities
• Pre-University
• Undergraduate
• Foreign Service Scholarships
• Recruitment
• Scholarship
• Reach.gov.sg

Frequently Asked Questions on Visa

Quick Navigation

• When do I need to submit my visa application?
• Does the validity period of visa includes the date of expiry?
• Can the validity period of visa be amended?
• Do I need to apply for a new visa if the visa validity period ends before my return date?
• How can I extend my Visa?
• How to check visa validity?
• Where can I download my e-Visa?
• What if I do not have the visa application reference number?
• What is the validity period of a Singapore Visa?
• Do I need a visa if I just want to transit in Singapore?
• How do I transfer my valid visa issued on my old travel document to the new one?
• What is the difference between Multiple and Single Journey Visa?
• What is the difference between visa and visit pass?
• How do I appeal against my visa rejection?
• I want to know the reason for my visa rejection.

1. When do I need to submit my visa application? Answer: You are advised to apply for an entry visa within 30 days prior to arrival in Singapore. It is recommended to submit an application at least one week before a trip during the non-peak season and two to four weeks before a trip during the peak season (i.e. March to May).

2. Does the validity period of visa includes the date of expiry? Answer: The visa validity period is inclusive of the date of expiry.

3. Can the validity period of visa be amended? Answer: The visa validity period cannot be amended once the visa has been issued. You may wish to approach an Authorised Visa Agent to submit a new application.

4. Do I need to apply for a new visa if the visa validity period ends before my return date? Answer: There is no need to apply for a new visa as long as your travel date to Singapore is within the visa validity period.

5. How can I extend my Visa? Answer: There is strictly no extension of visa validity or change of visa type. You can submit a fresh application upon the expiry or upon utilisation of your current visa. However, please note that each visa application is assessed on its own merits.

6. How to check visa validity? Answer: The visa validity is printed on the visa.

7. Where can I download my e-Visa? Answer: You can retrieve your e-visa via the status enquiry with the visa application reference number and travel document number.

8. What if I do not have the visa application reference number? Answer: Visa application reference number is generated on the acknowledge page when a visa is successfully submitted. You may wish to contact the Authorised Visa Agent in which you had submitted the application to for the retrieval of visa application reference number.

9. What is the validity period of a Singapore Visa? Answer: Every application for a visa, including the duration of the visa granted, will be considered on its own merits and subject to approval. Applicants who are applying for the visa online are advised to submit the application about 30 days prior to the intended arrival into Singapore so that the visa validity will be sufficient for the visit.

10. Do I need a visa if I just want to transit in Singapore? Answer: Passengers who have arrived at Singapore Changi Airport and have been issued with their onward boarding passes for connecting flights out of Changi Airport may remain within the Changi Airport transit area until time for flight departure. Passengers who are able to obtain their onward boarding passes from any of the Transfer Lounges within the transit area can also remain in the transit area. All other passengers should exit the transit area as soon as possible. We wish to further highlight that most passengers who are arriving on a Low Cost Carrier (LCC) or connecting to a LCC are required to seek immigration clearance and obtain their onward boarding passes in the respective Departure Check-in Hall. Foreigners who seek immigration clearance will have to satisfy the prevailing entry requirements, which include possessing an entry visa, where applicable. All passengers are strongly advised to liaise with the relevant airlines before embarking on their journeys. For more information on flights connection and transit facilities/services, please visit the Changi Airport Group's website.

11. How do I transfer my valid visa issued on my old travel document to the new one? Answer: You can transfer your valid visa on your old travel document to the new one which you are intending to travel to Singapore with. You may approach one of the Authorised Visa Agents for assistance. Basic supporting documents required from you are:

• Your old and new travel document (original and copy)
• Printout of the valid visa
• Form 14A duly completed and signed
• Your recent passport-sized colour photograph taken within the last three months. Please see Photo Guidelines for information on photo requirements.

12. What is the difference between Multiple and Single Journey Visa? Answer: If you have been issued with a single journey visa, it only allows you to use the visa once. If you possess a Multiple Journey Visa, there is no limit on the number of times that you can use the visa so long it is within the validity period. Please note that possessing a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore. Visitors have to satisfy the basic entry requirements before they can be considered for entry into Singapore.

13. What is the difference between visa and visit pass? Answer: Visitors must note that Singapore visa is not an immigration pass. It is a pre-entry permission for the holder of a valid Singapore visa to travel to, and seek entry, into Singapore. Possessing a valid visa does not guarantee entry into Singapore. Visitors who are eligible for entry will be issued with visit passes upon arrival. These visit passes determine the number of days that visitors are allowed to stay in Singapore and it is not tied to the validity of your visa.

14. How do I appeal against my visa rejection? Answer: You are able to submit the appeal within one month from the date of the visa rejection. Applicant can submit an appeal through the Authorised Visa Agent in which the application was submitted to. Please note that the processing time for appeal is generally 14 working days depending on its complexity. Each appeal is assessed and considered on its own merits.

15. I want to know the reason for my visa rejection. Answer: ICA do not disclose the reason of rejection due to confidentiality of information. We seek your understanding on this matter.

The Ministry of Foreign Affairs is a ministry of the Government of Singapore responsible for conducting and managing diplomatic relations between Singapore and other countries and regions.

Travel Page

Singapore Solved

Types Of Visas In Singapore: Explained

Ready to uncover the Lion City’s visa varieties? Don’t worry! We’ve got you covered!

The glitz of Marina Bay Sands, the allure of hawker centers, and a thriving business hub : Singapore is more than just a stopover. Whether you’re exploring, working, or settling, the right visa type is your ticket in.

Let’s dive in!

Singapore Visa

A Singapore visa is an official document issued by the Singaporean Government that allows foreign nationals to enter, stay, and engage in various activities within the country’s borders. 

It serves as legal authorization for individuals to visit Singapore for tourism, work, study , or business purposes , depending on the type of visa obtained.

A Singapore visa allows the holder to enter a Singaporean point of entry, where they will be checked by the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers. The ICA decides whether the visitor meets the country’s entry requirements.

You have to apply for a Singapore visa at least 30 days before you arrive in Singapore.

But keep in mind that just because you have a Singapore visa does not mean you will be allowed to enter since the Singapore visa is just pre-entry permission.

If you meet the entry requirements, however, you will receive a Pass allowing you to enter Singapore and stay for the duration the Pass is issued. 

For example, for a Singapore tourist visa, you will receive a Visit Pass, usually valid for a maximum of 30 days within 90 days.

Do You Need To Apply For A Visa To Go To Singapore?

The majority of the world’s countries can freely enter Singapore without a visa . However, for those who do need a visa, the application process has been simplified. You can apply online anytime after Singapore introduced the e-Visa.

The countries whose citizens need a Singapore visa have been categorized into two groups. The Assessment Level I Countries and Assessment Level II Countries. 

The level in which your country is in determines part of the application process as well as the visa processing time.

Types Of Visas And Passes For Singapore

• Short-Term Visit Pass allows the holder to enter Singapore for a short social visit for tourism or medical reasons.
• Work Passes and Permits: This is what would otherwise be called a Singapore work visa. A work permit or employment pass holder can legally take up work in Singapore.
• Dependent’s Pass , available to the family members of Employment Pass. It allows the holder to remain in Singapore for as long as the EP holder does.
• Long-Stay Visit Pass , available to the family members of EP holders who do not qualify for the Dependent Pass.
• Student Pass: This is the Singapore student visa, available to international students who want to pursue higher education in Singapore.
• Visa-Free Transit Facility – a Singapore transit visa available only to nationals from certain countries. It allows them to leave the airport’s transit area and stay in Singapore for up to 96 hours while waiting for a connecting flight.

Singapore Tourist Visa

If you want to travel to Singapore for tourism purposes, you need to apply for a Singapore tourist visa . The tourist visa application process in Singapore is as explained above.

When you reach the immigration checkpoint, if the officers find you suitable for entry, they will give you an Entry Pass .

The Singapore entry pass for a Singapore tourist visa is called a Visit Pass, and it is valid for 14-30 days . If you overstay your visa, you will be punished, so make sure not to do so.

If you want to stay longer than the permitted time, you must apply for a Singapore tourist visa extension before your current visa expires. The visa extension application can be submitted online on ICA’s website or in person at their offices in Singapore.

You must enter via a Singapore tourist visa to take up paid employment.

How To Submit A Singapore Visa Application?

Countries from either assessment level can apply for a Singapore at one of the following:

• Online , through a local Singaporean contact or a strategic partner, using ICA’s e-Service.
• At a Singaporean diplomatic mission.

Even though you fill out your visa application form and gather your documents , you need help submitting a Singapore visa application. 

It would help if you found an authorized visa agen t, strategic partner, or local contact in Singapore to submit the Singapore visa application for you.

Authorized visa agents and strategic partners are travel agencies the Singaporean Government has authorized to submit visa applications. 

They can submit an application on your behalf through the SAVE (Submission of Application for Visa Electronically), which is available on ICA’s (Immigration & Checkpoints Authority) website.

You can ask the nearest Singaporean mission for information on how to get in touch with a strategic partner.

A Singapore local contact is someone you know and trust in Singapore (citizen or permanent resident) who is eligible to register on SingPass and submit an application for you. They must be at least 21 years old .

If you are applying through a Singaporean diplomatic mission, you will have to get in touch with them regarding their requirements and application process.

What Are The Required Documents For A Singaporean Visa Application?

The requirements for a Singapore Visa application are:

• Completed Singapore Visa application form: You have to answer questions regarding your personal information , marital status, where in Singapore you will be staying, your address in your home country, the purpose of your visit, your intended stay, and so on. 
• You must sign the document yourself. When you arrive at the entry port in Singapore, the ICU could ask you to submit it.
• Your Passport/Travel Document: It has to be valid for at least six months after your visa expires.
• Photocopy Of Your Passport’s Bio-Data: It has to be in an A4 format.
• Photocopy of booked airline ticket or travel itinerary . A4 format.
• Passport-Size Picture Of Yourself: It must have been taken in the last three months , have a white background , and show you facing forward with a neutral expression. You are not permitted to have headgear unless it is for religious reasons. Even so, the headgear cannot obstruct the face.
• Letter of Introduction. This document must be signed by your local contact or strategic partner and be attached to your application. 

It asks your contact/partner in Singapore to provide your personal information, the reason you want to visit Singapore, how long you will stay, as well as the relationship between you and them.

• A credit card. You will use the card to pay for the Singapore visa processing fee. The card must be a VISA or MasterCard.
• Yellow Fever Vaccination (If applicable) . 

Suppose you have been to the countries in the table below six days before traveling to Singapore. In that case, you must show the ICA officers an International Certificate of Vaccination for yellow fever at the entry point.

After You Receive Your Singapore Visa

Once you receive your Singapore visa, you or your partner can print a paper copy of the e-visa. If you are from an Assessment Level I Country , it will usually take about 1 day for your Singapore visa to be processed.

Your visa will be processed within three days if you are from an Assessment Level II Country. In both cases, some applications may take longer to process than usual.

Then, after receiving your visa, you can travel to Singapore, where the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA) officers determine at the entry points whether you should be allowed to enter and issue you a Pass.

What Is The Difference Between Multiple And Single Journey Visas?

• The Single Journey Visa can only be used once . After you leave Singapore, you cannot travel to Singapore with that visa again, even if you still have remaining days.
• The Multiple Journey Visa can be used multiple times for as long as it is valid.

What Are The Fees For A Singapore Visa?

Here is the complete fee structure:

• Singapore Student Visa : SGD 30 and issuance fee of SGD 60.
• Singapore Work Visa : Up to SGD 405 , depending on Work pass type.
• Singapore Dependent Visa : SGD 105 , and another fee of SGD 225 for the Pass.
• Singapore Golden Visa : SGD 10,000 + Investment.

How Long Are Singapore Visas Valid For?

The detailed length of stay is as follows:

• Singapore Student Visa : 3 months to the length of study
• Singapore Work Visa : 6 months – 3 years
• Singapore Dependant Visa : Up to 2 years , tied to the validity of the main work pass
• Singapore Golden Visa: 5 – 10 years

Visa Extension

Most Singapore visas can be extended , but the process and eligibility depend on your visa type. Here’s a general overview:

Short-Term Visit Pass

If you’re in Singapore on a tourist visa or a short-term visit pass, you can extend it under exceptional circumstances. 

You can apply for an extension of your stay in Singapore online using the Immigration & Checkpoints Authority (ICA).

Long-Term Visit Pass and Dependant’s Pass

These can be renewed online via ICA’s e-Service or through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) website, depending on the specifics of the Pass.

Employment Pass

S Pass and other work-related passes can be renewed through the Ministry of Manpower’s (MOM) online portal. Your employer typically handles the renewal process.

Student’s Pass

If you’re studying in Singapore, your educational institution will usually assist with the renewal of your

Student’s Pass. Renewal can be done online through the SOLAR (Student’s Pass Online Application & Registration) system.

Moving To Singapore

Living in Singapore is something that many people dream of because life here is considered by many to be life at its best. 

Singapore is an efficient and clean Asian city that retains much of the charm of its British colonial days while offering a cutting-edge, well-developed environment.

Singapore’s position on the southern tip of Malaysia has allowed it to develop into one of the most important trade and finance centers in Asia, and today, it is the fifth wealthiest country in the world according to GDP. 

It also has the fourth-largest foreign exchange trading center in the world.

Singapore’s population of 5.08 million people (June 2010) primarily consists of people of Chinese (70%), Malay, and Indian backgrounds.

Singapore is a city of robust laws , which are adhered to strictly. While this has given it a reputation as an authoritarian state, the reality is that it keeps the city safe, clean, and well-ordered.

The main religions followed in Singapore are Buddhism, Islam, Hinduism, Christianity and Tao.

Singapore As An Expat Destination

Expats from all over the world move to Singapore in large numbers yearly; there are approximately 1.31 nonpermanent residents/citizens living in Singapore (June 2010). 

Singapore is widely regarded as the most accessible city in Asia for expats to fit into, and it allows foreigners an opportunity to become acquainted with different cultures in a relatively safe and modern environment.

Singapore is an excellent location to raise a family, and the availability of high-quality education, low price of home help, and strong security means that bringing up children here is often easier than it would be in your home country.

The standard of living available in this city is notoriously high , and the healthcare facilities are second to none. Singapore has a meager crime rate , and the streets are safe, even in the middle of the night. 

There is no shortage of expat groups and clubs throughout the city, so no matter what your nationality, you can always be sure of finding fellow expats somewhere in the city.

One of the few disadvantages of living in Singapore as an expat and becoming a digital nomad is government-censored information that is broadcast via TV and media. 

However, the reliable and inexpensive broadband services entail that expatriates can easily overcome this obstacle.

The official language of Singapore is Mandarin Chinese , which is the Singaporean Government’s language. However, English is the most common language and is the language of business and trade. 

Children will generally be taught in English in schools but will also be expected to learn Mandarin . Other common languages in Singapore include Tamil, Malay, and Cantonese.

Many Singaporeans speak a language that has come to be known as Singlish . Singlish is a mixture of English and other languages and can be difficult for English speakers to understand. 

English speakers seldom experience real problems communicating with people in Singapore.

Critical Facts Every Expat Should Know About Moving To Singapore

• It is actually warmer and drier in the eastern part of Singapore. This is worth bearing in mind when you are choosing which area to live in.
• In Singapore, you must pay a tax to own a television (the license fee).
• There is a restriction on which dog breeds you can bring into the country. There is also a limitation on the number and type of animals you are allowed to own depending on the building you live in.
• Left-hand drive cars are not allowed in Singapore, and there is no point in importing any left-hand drive vehicle.
• You may drive in Singapore on your license for up to one year, but after this period, you will be required to convert to a Singapore license . 

Singapore, with its blend of cultures, cuisines, and commerce, remains a top destination for many. As you’ve navigated the plethora of visa options , remember: the right paperwork is your passport to everything the city-state offers.

Visa Victory!

But wait! There’s lot more that you might be interested in following:

• Freelancer Visa In Singapore
• Spouse Visa In Singapore
• Job Seeker Visa In Singapore

Similar Posts

Social Security Number In Singapore: Explained

Navigating through the lush gardens of Singaporean bureaucracy can seem like an intricate dance, especially when you’re in pursuit of a Social Security Number. But fear not, adventurous expats! We’ve got your back! This article is your choreographer, guiding you through each move with grace and precision. Let’s sway through Singapore’s social security system and…

Work Employment Visa In Singapore: Explained

Embarking on a professional journey in Singapore? You’re not alone! We’ve got your back! Securing the right work and employment visa is your ticket to exploring boundless opportunities in this dynamic city. In this guide we’re slicing through the red tape to bring you straightforward, witty insights to kickstart your Singaporean adventure! Let’s dive in!…

Student Visa Process In Singapore: Explained

Ready to hit the books in the Lion City? Navigating the student visa process in Singapore can feel like cramming for an exam. But fear not! We’ve got you covered! This guide is here to turn your student visa conundrums into a walk through the campus. Let’s unravel the academic tape and set you on…

Freelancer Visa In Singapore: The Ultimate Guide

Singapore’s vibrant cityscape offers more than just a picturesque skyline; it’s a bustling hub for freelancers seeking to tap into its dynamic market. Looking for a guide to get freelancer visa in Singapore? Worry Not! we’ve got your back! However, navigating the pathway to legally freelancing in this global city requires understanding the intricacies of…

Tourist Visa In Singapore: A Simple Guide

Dreaming of the iconic Marina Bay Sands skyline or the aromatic lanes of hawker centres? Fret not! We’ve got your back! But first, let’s help you navigate the gateway: the Singapore tourist visa. Unravel it with ease, and you’re one step closer to the Lion City. Let’s dive in! What Is A Tourist Visa For…

How To Register Your Address In Singapore?

Singapore, with its blend of urban marvels and green retreats, is a desirable haven for many. But before you can truly call it home, there’s the essential step of registering your address. Fear not, astute expats! We’ve got your back! This guide is your trusty navigator, steering you seamlessly through the process, ensuring every “i”…

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Immigration help for your business

• News & Reports

B-1/B-2 Visitor Visa, Explained

Understanding the b visas for u.s. business and tourism, in this guide.

• How long does it take to get a B-1/B-2 visa? 
• How many times can you visit the U.S. with a B-1/B-2 Visa? 
• B-1/B-2 Visa Cost
• Can you change status from B1/B2?
• Required documents for a travel visa
• Frequently Asked Questions
• Boundless guides
• B-1/B-2 Visas

What is a B-1/B-2 visa?

A B-1/B-2 visa is a non-immigrant , visa that allows foreign nationals to travel to the United States temporarily for business (B-1), tourism (B-2), or a mix of both (B1/B2). This visa category is widely used for brief visits to the U.S. B visas are typically valid for up to 10 years from the issue date, and travelers to the U.S. can stay up to 180 days, with the option to return to the U.S. again after that time.

Take our 5-minute quiz to check your eligibility.

Learn how to increase your chance of travel visa approval, and get unlimited, live application support from start to finish.

How long does it take to get a B-1/B-2 visa?

As of December 2023, the average wait time (processing time) for most B1/B2 visa interview appointments is between 2 months (Brazil) to 2+ years (Canada). To check the wait time for your specific embassy or consulate, enter your city in this  handy State Department tool  under the section “Appointment Wait Time.” Note that if you are applying for an interview in a country other than your home country, wait times may be longer.

How long can you stay in the USA on a B-1/B-2 Visa?

A maximum of 6 months may be obtained for any B-1/B-2 entry, with the possibility for extensions within the U.S. in qualifying cases. The exact duration varies per visa holder, but you can typically stay in the U.S. for up to six months. The B1/B2 visa is a multiple-entry visa, which means you can use it to enter the U.S. more than once. There’s no set limit to the number of times you can visit the U.S. in a year, and it depends on the specific circumstances and discretion of the CBP officers who review your case each time you enter.

It’s important to remember that the B1/B2 visa is intended for temporary, occasional visits for business, tourism, or medical treatment. It’s not meant to be used for living long-term in the U.S. or spending the majority of your time in the country.

What’s the difference between a B1 visa and a B2 visa?

The B1 is used for short business trips (conferences, meetings, contract negotiations, etc). Those with B1 visas cannot work in the U.S. in the traditional sense, as of March 2023, B1 or B2 visa holders can apply for jobs in the U.S. and attend interviews. 

The B2 (tourist visa) is for tourism, vacation, or visiting friends and family. It also covers certain medical treatments and participation in social events or contests, like music or sports, without receiving pay. In most cases, a B1/B2 visa is issued together, allowing the holder to travel for both business and pleasure. 

How many times can you visit the U.S. with a B-1/B-2 Visa?

Depending on the context, the number of times you can visit the U.S. with a B visa varies. B1B2 visas are multiple-entry, meaning they can be used to enter the U.S. more than once. There’s no set limit to the number of times you can visit the U.S. in a year, and it depends on the specific circumstances and discretion of the CBP officers who review your case each time you enter.

If officers think you’re trying to live in the U.S. through frequent or extended visits, or if you’re not maintaining significant ties to your home country, they may suspect you’re misusing the visa, which could lead to denial of entry or future visa issues.

While there’s no official limit, it’s vital to respect the purpose and restrictions of your visa to avoid any problems. If you need guidance on your specific situation, it’s a good idea to consult with an immigration expert.

Currently, the government filing fee for a B visa is $185, which does not include the cost of gathering documents and evidence and acquiring passport photos.

Boundless has helped more than 100,000 people navigate the visa application process, and we’ll help you make a travel visa plan based on your unique situation. Get started today!

B visa requirements

A B1/B2 visitor visa is for many types of trips to the U.S., including business and non-business activities like tourism. If you want to apply for a B1 or B2 visa, you need to prove that your trip to the U.S. is only for a short time.

You must also show proof that you plan to return to your home country after your visit, and that you have a place to live outside the U.S. that you will not leave for good. These points help show that you will follow the rules of the B1/B2 visa.

Reasons for travel under a B1 visitor visa include:

• Business consultations : This might include meetings, negotiations, or discussions with business associates in the U.S.
• Attending conferences or seminars : This can cover professional, educational, scientific, or business conventions.
• Settling an estate : If someone inherits property or assets in the U.S., a B1 visa can allow them to handle these matters legally.
• Contract negotiations : If a person needs to sign or negotiate a contract with a U.S. company, a B1 visa is often the correct choice.
• Professional examination and licensing : Some professionals must be in the U.S. to take exams or get licenses only available there.

Reasons for travel under a B2 tourist visa include:

• Tourism : This could be sightseeing, visiting famous landmarks, exploring cities, or simply enjoying the country’s culture and atmosphere.
• Visiting family or friends : Many people use a B2 visa to visit their loved ones living in the U.S.
• Medical treatment : If someone requires medical treatment or a procedure that’s available in the U.S., they might apply for a B2 visa.
• Social events : Attending events like concerts, cooking classes, conventions, festivals, or other social gatherings can be another reason for using a B2 visa.
• Participation in events or contests : If the event doesn’t involve professional participation (like amateur tournaments or contests), a B2 visa could be suitable.
• Short courses of study : If the course duration is less than 18 hours per week, this falls under B2 visa regulations.

You cannot travel under this visa to engage any of the following:

• Long-term employment by a U.S. firm
• Paid performances, or any professional performance before a paying audience
• Arrival as a crewmember on a ship or aircraft
• Work as foreign press, in radio, film, print journalism, or other information media
• Permanent residence in the United States

Boundless has helped more than 100,000 people with their immigration and U.S. travel plans. We’ll be your partner from beginning to end. Get started today!

Boundless tip

The Visa Waiver Program allows nationals from certain countries to travel to the United States without a visa for business, tourism, or while in transit for up to 90 days. The program currently covers 38 countries and territories, including most countries in the European Union.

Canadian nationals also typically do not need a visa to enter the US for tourism purposes. Canadian nationals will need the appropriate visa if they have specific plans to study, work, or move permanently to the U.S.

Different entry requirements also apply to Canadian nationals, depending on whether they plan to work, study, invest, or immigrate. The maximum length of stay can vary, depending on circumstances, between 6 months and 1 year.

The B1 visa and B2 visa do not grant  permanent resident status  — they are temporary visas – but you can adjust your status from a B1/B2 visa to another type of visa while you are in the U.S., as long as you meet certain requirements. This process involves submitting a change of status application to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS).

Here are a few key points to consider:

Key points to consider if you want to change status from B1/B2

• Purpose of stay : Your reason for wanting to stay in the U.S. should match the new visa type. For example, if you wish to study, you may apply to change to a student visa (F-1). If you find an employer willing to sponsor you, you could apply to change to a work visa (like H-1B).
• Timing : You should apply before your current status expires, typically indicated on the I-94 Arrival/Departure Record. USCIS recommends applying at least 45 days before your current status expires.
• Eligibility : Not everyone can change their status. For example, you cannot change your status if you entered the U.S. under the Visa Waiver Program unless it is due to marriage to a U.S. citizen.
• Status violation : If you’ve violated the terms of your current status (for instance, if you’ve started working while on a B1/B2 visa without authorization), you usually can’t change your status.
• Approval : Even if you meet all conditions and file an application, the final decision is up to USCIS.

If you’ve just married someone who’s a U.S. citizen or a permanent resident (they have a green card), you can also apply for a marriage green card. This lets you stay in the U.S. and live with your spouse. You can either apply for a green card while you’re still in the country in a process is called “adjustment of status” (AOS), or you can apply from your home country through what’s called consular processing. To find out if you’re eligible for a B1B2 visa or to change your status from a B1B2 visa, take our eligibility quiz. Get started today!

Documents needed to apply for a B1/B2 visa include:

• A passport valid for six months past the date of return
• A recent digital photograph that meets government requirements
• Documentation of the past five previous trips to the United States, if applicable
• Proof of funds to cover the entire cost of the trip, including travel, accommodation, and living expenses
• Proof of binding ties to the applicant’s home country, such as a job, property, or family

B1/B2 visa application process

Applications are processed by the United States Embassy or consulate in your country.

You will need to attend an interview before your visa is approved. You can attend an interview at an embassy or consulate in a third country, but you will likely wait longer for a visa appointment.

Steps to getting a B Visa

• First, you must complete the Online Non-Immigrant Application, Form DS-160. File the form online and print the confirmation page as you will need it for your interview.
• Upload your digital photo
• Attend the visa interview

As part of the process, ink-free, digital fingerprint scans are taken, typically at the interview. After the interview, the consular officer may request additional documents or information to make a decision about your case.

Boundless’ Travel Visa Service makes applying a breeze with online filing, 1:1 interview coaching, interview scheduling, and support if your visa is denied. Take our approval odds quiz to check your eligibility.

B-1 visas are issued for short business trips, while B-2 visas are issued for tourism purposes, such as vacations or visiting family.

If you’re looking to temporarily visit the U.S. for either holiday or work purposes, for example, attending a conference, touring a place or visiting relatives, then you can apply for a B-1/B-2 visa. You may need to show proof that you have ties to your home country, and that you plan on leaving the U.S..

When you enter the U.S., a customs officer will give you authorization to stay in the the country for up to six months . If you’d like to stay for longer, you may be able to apply to extend this for up to one year.

If you are nearing the end of your permitted stay in the U.S., then you may wish to extend it, especially since there can be future consequences if you stay in the U.S. longer than you were allowed to.

If you’re on a B-1 visa or a B-2 visa, you can request to extend your stay up to one year. To do this, you will need to file Form I-539 to extend or change your status. It’s recommended that you apply to extend your status at least 45 days before your authorized stay expires, so make sure you’re thinking ahead.

No. While you can enter the U.S. for business purposes, you cannot work or be employed by a U.S. employer. If you’re interested in working in the U.S. for a U.S. employer, you may be interested in other visa categories, such as the H-1B visa .

How can I renew my B1 visa or B2 visa?

If you would like to renew your B-1/B-2 visa, then you will need to go through the original process. Depending on the U.S. embassy or consulate where you apply, you may be able to complete your visa renewal without the need for an interview.

Should I apply for a B-1/B-2 visa or an ESTA?

If you are a citizen of one of the 38 countries that are part of the Visa Waiver Program , then you have the option of applying for an ESTA instead of a B1 visa or B2 visa.

Both allow you to enter the U.S. for the same reasons of tourism or business, but you can apply for the ESTA online. Entering the U.S. this way only permits you to stay for up to 90 days, however, so if you would like to stay in the U.S. for travel or business purposes for longer, the B-1/B-2 visitor visa may be an option for you.

Do Canadian citizens need a B-1/B-2 visa?

For casual business or tourism travel, most Canadian citizens don’t need a visa and will automatically be admitted on a B-1 visa or B-2 visa category.

Is the B-1/B-2 visa an immigrant or non-immigrant visa?

The B-1/B-2 visa is a non-immigrant visa, but if your circumstances change, for example, you marry a U.S. citizen or permanent resident, there are several paths from a visitor visa to a green card . Learn more to see how Boundless can help you avoid major headaches and make the process easier.

Do I need a certain amount of money in my bank account to be approved for a travel visa?

No. A common misconception about the travel visa process is that in order be approved, you must provide proof of a certain amount of funds in your bank account. Although financial considerations are one aspect of the B-1/B-2 process, and the consular officer may check to see if you are able to support yourself financially during your time in the U.S., there is no minimum required amount of funds that needs to be met. Evaluation of finances will vary from applicant to applicant, depending on a variety of other factors. Learn more common myths about the travel visa process in Boundless’ blog post .

Not sure how to get started? Boundless + RapidVisa can help.

Not sure how to get started? Boundless can help.

Article Contents

Apply for your visa with boundless., unlimited live support. lawyer review. money-back guarantee., which service.

Looks like you were working on a application just now. Applicants typically only require one service at a time.

You unlocked a $50 discount!

Congrats! Because your friend referred you, your application with Boundless is discounted. Start the application with Boundless within the next 14 days, and you'll save $50.

• Handyvisas.com >
• Glossary >

What Is a Single Entry Visa?

Visas can be divided into 2 main categories : single-entry visas and multiple-entry visas .

A single-entry visa permits the bearer to cross the border and enter the country of issue just once . Many countries issue visas that allow a single entry.

Single-entry permits are often issued as online visas , via a quick application form. Using the internet to obtain visas is a growing trend due to its convenience and is quickly becoming the modern way to get most types of travel authorization.

Depending on the destination and the nationality of the traveler, they may need to take the longer route of applying for a single-entry visa from a diplomatic mission , such as an embassy .

Single-Entry Visa Meaning

A single-entry visa is a travel permit that allows the holder to enter the destination country on one single occasion .

Once the travelers has arrived in the country and cleared immigration, the visa cannot be used again .

If issued as a separate document to the individual’s passport, it is still important to keep the visa for the duration of the stay in the foreign country. This is because it proves that the visitor is authorized to be in the country.

After departing from the country , a single-entry visa ceases to be valid. If the traveler wishes to return, they must apply for a new visa.

In some cases, it might only be possible to obtain a single-entry visa to visit a country. Other destinations allow travelers to select either a single-entry or multiple-entry visa. Single-entry visas typically come at a lower price .

What Is the Difference Between a Single and a Multiple Entry Visa?

A single-entry visa allows the holder to enter the country once.

A multiple-entry visa permits the holder to enter more than once.

The exact terms of multiple-entry visas vary depending on the country of issue. In many cases, the number of entries is unlimited while the visa is still valid . This means that the holder can travel to the destination country as many times as they like until the visa expires.

In other cases, multiple-entry visas permit a specified number of visits . They may be referred to as “dual-entry visas” or “triple-entry visas”, depending on the number of trips allowed.

Some destinations issue only single-entry visas, while others only have multiple-entry visas. Others allow visitors to choose. In these cases, single-entry visas are usually more affordable .

The number of entries permitted may also vary depending on the type and purpose of the visa.

Disclaimer Handyvisas.com is not owned by, or affiliated with any government agency. We are a private, online agency that provides assistance in submitting applications for tourist visits to different countries around the world. Applications can also be made directly through government websites.

Update May 10, 2024

Information for u.s. citizens in the middle east.

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Tourism & Visit

Study & Exchange

Other Visa Categories

U.S. Visa: Reciprocity and Civil Documents by Country

Visa Information & Resources

Share this page:

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Japanese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Turkish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Hebrew

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Albanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Tagalog

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Russian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Polish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Ukranian

Visa Wizard

Visa Denials

Fraud Warning

What the Visa Expiration Date Means

Automatic Revalidation

Lost and Stolen Passports, Visas, and Arrival/Departure Records (Form I-94)

Directory of Visa Categories

Straight Facts on U.S. Visas

Customer Service Statement

Photo Requirements

Photo Examples

Digital Image Requirements

Photo Frequently Asked Questions

Photo Composition Template

Online Immigrant Visa Forms

DS-260 Immigrant Visa Electronic Application - Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

DS-160: Frequently Asked Questions

Administrative Processing Information

Visa Appointment Wait Times

Nonimmigrants in the United States–Applying for Visas in Canada or Mexico

Frequently Asked Questions

Visa Applicants - State Sponsors of Terrorism Countries

What is a U.S. Visa?

About Visas - The Basics

Rights and Protections for Foreign-Citizen Fiancé(e)s and Spouses of U.S. Citizens and Spouses of Lawful Permanent Residents

Your Rights and Protections

Ineligibilities and Waivers: Laws

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers

Advisory Opinions

Fees for Visa Services

Treaty Countries

Fees and Reciprocity Tables

Temporary Reciprocity Schedule

Country Acronyms

Reciprocity: What's New? 2019 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New? 2022 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New? 2020 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New? 2021 Archive

Reciprocity: What's New?

Reciprocity: What's New? 2023 Archive

Safety & Security of U.S. Borders: Biometrics

National Visa Center Customer Service Pledge

Americans Traveling Abroad

The United States and China Agree to Extending Visas for Short-term Business Travelers, Tourists, and Students

Special Visa Processing Procedures Pursuant to Section 306

Capitalizing on Visa Demand to Spur Economic Growth in the United States

Congressional Testimony

Cuban Family Reunification Parole (CRFP) Program Appointments

List of U.S. Embassies and Consulates - K1-K3 Visas

U.S. Government Fact Sheet on Female Genital Mutilation or Cutting (FGM/C)

Skill List by Country

Presidential Proclamation 9645 and the January 2020 Presidential Proclamation

Public Inquiry Form

List of U.S. Embassies and Consulates

Affidavit of Support Fee Refund

Immigrant Visa Prioritization

USCIS Extends Suspension of Premium Processing Service for Religious Workers (R-1) Nonimmigrant Visa Classification

Record Numbers of U.S. Students Are Studying Abroad

U.S. Student Visas Reach Record Numbers in 2007

U.S. security officials will begin scanning all 10 fingerprints of most non-Americans traveling to the United States

Electronic Submission of Diversity Visa Lottery Applications

USCIS Centralizes Filing for H-2A Petitions

USCIS Field Office Adopts Teletech Call Appointment System For Filing Waiver of Inadmissibility Applications

Application Fees for Non-Immigrant Visas to Increase on January 1, 2008

Senior Advisors to Brief Press on the Latest Developments in Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa Issues

Briefing on Developments in the Iraqi Refugee and Special Immigrant Visa (SIV) Admissions Programs

DHS Proposes Changes to Improve H-2A Temporary Agricultural Worker Program

Testimony of Stephen A. “Tony” Edson on U.S. House of Representatives, Committee on Science and Technology Subcommittee on Research and Science Education, House Committee on Science and Technology

Update: Biometric Changes for Re-entry Permits and Refugee Travel Documents

With All the Talk about Illegal Immigration, a Look at the Legal Kind

Latvia, Estonia Sign Deals with US on Visa-Free Travel

Fact Sheet: Changes to the FY2009 H-1B Program

USCIS Announces Interim Rule on H-1B Visas

USCIS Releases Preliminary Number of FY 2009 H-1B Cap Filings

USCIS Extends Comment Period for Proposed Change to H-2A Program

USCIS Runs Random Selection Process for H-1B Petitions

17-Month Extension of Optional Practical Training for Certain Highly Skilled Foreign Students

DHS Begins Collecting 10 Fingerprints from International Visitors at Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport

Hague Convention on Intercountry Adoption Enters into Force

USCIS to Accept H-1B Petitions Sent to California or Vermont Service Centers Temporary Accommodation Made for FY 09 Cap-Subject H-1B Petitions

USCIS Revises Filing Instructions for Petition for Alien Relative

USCIS Announces Update for Processing Petitions for Nonimmigrant Victims of Criminal Activity

USCIS to Allow F-1 Students Opportunity to Request Change of Status

Immigration Tops Agenda at North American Summit

USCIS Issues Guidance for Approved Violence against Women Act (VAWA) Self-Petitioners

USCIS Modifies Application for Employment Authorization Previous Versions of Form I-765 Accepted until July 8, 2008

Overseas Education More Attainable for Chinese Students

New York Business Group Seeks Fewer Restrictions on Foreign Worker Visas

What types of visas are available for people to come to the United States?

There are more than 20 nonimmigrant visa types for people traveling to the United States temporarily. There are many more types of immigrant visas for those coming to live permanently in the United States. The type of Visa you need is determined by the purpose of your intended travel. For an overview of visa types, please see  Types of Visas for Temporary Visitors  or  Visa Types for Immigrants .

After Visa Issuance

How do i read and understand my visa.

Please use the illustrated guide below to learn how to read your new nonimmigrant visa (for travel to the U.S. as a temporary visitor). In addition, as soon as you receive it, check to make sure information printed on the visa is correct (see below). If any of the information on your visa does not match the information in your passport or is incorrect, please contact the nonimmigrant visa section at the embassy or consulate that issued your visa.

What is a Visa? Nonimmigrant Visa Types (Classifications) Immigrant Visa Types (Classifications)

My visa expires in 5 years, what does this mean?

A visa must be valid at the time a traveler seeks admission to the United States, but the expiration date of the visa (validity period/length of time the visa can be used) has no relation to the length of time a temporary visitor may be authorized by the Department of Homeland Security to remain in the United States. Persons holding visas valid for multiple entries may make repeated trips to the United States, for travel for the same purpose, as long as the visa has not expired, and the traveler has done nothing to become ineligible to enter the United States, at port-of-entry.

Visa Validity

My old passport has already expired. my visa to travel to the united states is still valid but in my expired passport. do i need to apply for a new visa with my new passport.

No. If your visa is still valid you can travel to the United States with your two passports, as long as the visa is valid, not damaged, and is the appropriate type of visa required for your principal purpose of travel. (Example: tourist visa, when your principal purpose of travel is tourism). Both passports (the valid and the expired one with the visa) should be from the same country. When you arrive at the U.S. port-of-entry (POE, generally an airport or land border) the Customs and Border Protection Immigration Officer will check your visa in the old passport and if s/he decides to admit you into the United States they will stamp your new passport with an admission stamp along with the annotation "VIOPP" (visa in other passport). Do not try to remove the visa from your old passport and stick it into the new valid passport. If you do so, your visa will no longer be valid.

My visa will expire while I am in the United States. Is there a problem with that?

No. If the Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection Immigration Officer at the port-of-entry admitted you into the United States for a specific period of time, s/he will note your authorized period of stay on your admission stamp or paper Form I-94, called an Arrival/Departure Record. You will be able to remain in the United States during your authorized period of stay, even if your visa expires during the time you are in the United States. Since your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 documents your authorized stay and is the official record of your permission to be in the United States, it is very important to keep inside your passport.

What are indefinite validity visas (Burroughs visas) and are they still valid?

Indefinite validity visas (Burroughs Visas) are tourist/business visas manually stamped into a traveler’s passport which were valid for ten years. Effective April 1, 2004, all indefinite validity Burroughs visas became void. Therefore, if you have an indefinite validity visa you must apply for a new visa for travel to the U.S.

I changed my name. Is my U.S. visa with my old name still valid?

If your name has legally changed through marriage, divorce, or a court ordered name change, you will need to obtain a new passport.  Once you have a new passport, the Department of State recommends that you apply for a new U.S. visa to make it easier for you to travel to and from the United States.

Administrative Processing

What is administrative processing.

Some refused visa applications may require further administrative processing. When administrative processing is required, the consular officer will inform the applicant at the end of the interview. The duration of the administrative processing will vary based on the individual circumstances of each case.  Except in cases of emergency travel (i.e. serious illnesses, injuries, or deaths in your immediate family), before making inquiries about status of administrative processing, applicants should wait at least 180 days from the date of interview or submission of supplemental documents, whichever is later. Learn more .

Visa Refusals

My visa application has been refused. why can't i get my money back.

The fee that you paid is an application fee. Everyone who applies for a U.S. visa anywhere in the world must pay this fee, which covers the cost of processing your application. This fee is non-refundable regardless of whether you are issued a visa or not, since your application was processed to conclusion. As one example, if your application was refused under Section 214(b) and you choose to reapply for a visa, whether applying at the same embassy or elsewhere, you will be required to pay the visa application processing fee. See the  Fees for Visa Services  page for a list of fees.

I have a nonimmigrant visa that will expire soon and I would like to renew it. Do I need go through the whole visa application process again?

Yes, you will have to go through the whole visa application process each time you want to apply for a visa, even if your visa is still valid. There are some situations where a visa applicant may not need to be interviewed when renewing his/her visa. See the U.S. Embassy or Consulate website for more information.

Entering and Departing the United States

After i have my visa, i will be able to enter the u.s., correct.

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States. A visa allows a foreign citizen to travel to the U.S. port-of-entry, and the Department of Homeland Security U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) immigration inspector authorizes or denies admission to the United States. See  Admissions  on the CBP website.

How can I find out how long I am authorized to stay in the United States?

A visa does not guarantee entry into the United States, but allows a foreign citizen coming from abroad, to travel to the United States port-of entry (generally an airport or land border) and request permission to enter the United States. The Department of Homeland Security, U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) officials have authority to permit or deny admission to the United States, and determine how long a traveler may stay. At the port of entry, upon granting entry to the United States, the Department of Homeland Security, U.S. immigration inspector, provides you an admission stamp or paper  Form I-94, Arrival/Departure Record  in your passport. On this admission stamp or paper form, the U.S. immigration inspector records either a date or "D/S" (duration of status). If your I-94 contains a specific date, then that is the date by which you must leave the United States. Your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 is very important to keep in your passport, since it shows your permission to be in the United States. Review information about  Admission  on the CBP Website. Also, see  Duration of Stay .

I did not turn in my paper Form I-94 when I left the United States, what should I do?

If you failed to turn in your paper Form I-94 Departure Record, see  Department of Homeland Security, Customs and Border Protection  website for more information.

Lost, Stolen or Damaged Visas

My passport with my visa was stolen, what should i do.

If your passport with your admission stamp or paper Form I-94 are lost or stolen, you must get them replaced immediately. There are a number of steps you need to take, learn more, see  Lost and Stolen Passports, Visas, and Form I-94s .

My visa was damaged. What should I do?

If your visa has been damaged in any way, you will need to reapply for a new visa at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad. 

U.S. Citizens

I may have a claim to u.s. citizenship. can i apply for a u.s. visa.

With few exceptions, a person born in the United States acquires U.S. citizenship at birth. A state-issued birth certificate serves as evidence of citizenship. Review the  Apply for a Passport  webpage to learn more.

Persons born in countries other than the United States may have a claim to U.S. citizenship if either parent is a U.S. citizen under U.S. law. Learn more on the  Birth of U.S. Citizens Abroad  webpage.

If a person is a U.S. citizen, he or she is not eligible for a visa.  Any prospective applicant believing he or she may have a claim to U.S. citizenship should have his or her citizenship claim adjudicated (officially determined) by a consular officer at a U.S. Embassy or Consulate before applying for a U.S. visa.  

I have dual citizenship. Which passport should I use to travel to the United States?

All U.S. citizens, even dual citizens/nationals, must enter and depart the United States using his/her U.S. passport.

Further Questions

Can i get a visitor visa for birth tourism.

Birth tourism (travel for the primary purpose of giving birth in the United States to obtain U.S. citizenship for a child) is not a permissible basis for issuance of a visitor visa.  For more information, please click here

How do I know whether to contact the Department of State or Department of Homeland Security about my issue?

Contact the Department of State,  U.S. Embassy or Consulate  abroad with questions about U.S. visas, including application, the status of visa processing, and for inquiries relating to visa denial. Once in the United States, the traveler falls under the authority (jurisdiction) of Department of Homeland Security. The Department of Homeland Security,  U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS)  is responsible for the approval of all petitions, the authorization of permission to work in the United States, the issuance of extensions of stay, and change or adjustment of an applicant's status while the applicant is in the United States.

I would like to know if my friend has applied for a visa and what the status is. Who should I contact?

Your friend, the visa applicant. Under U.S. law, specifically the Immigration and Nationality Act (INA) 222(f), visa records are confidential. Therefore, the visa applicant should inquire at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate abroad where he/she applied regarding necessary information about visa application status. Because of confidentiality of visa records, you’ll need to ask your friend, the visa applicant your questions about whether a visa application was made, or a visa was issued or denied.

Visa Applicants from State Sponsors of Terrorism Countries

To find information regarding FAQ's from visa applicants from state sponsors of terrorism countries please  click here .

Social Media Identifiers

On May 31, 2019, the Department of State updated its immigrant and nonimmigrant visa application forms to request additional information, including social media identifiers, from most U.S. visa applicants worldwide. Please see our Frequently Asked Questions .

More Information

Visa Types After Visa Issuance Visa Validity Administrative Processing Visa Refusals Renewals Entering and Departing the U.S. Lost and Stolen Visas U.S. Citizens Further Questions

Immigrant Visa Interview-Ready Backlog Report

Global Visa Wait Times

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - English

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - French

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Spanish

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Portuguese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Mandarin

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Arabic

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Italian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - German

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Vietnamese

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Romanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Korean

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Armenian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Bulgarian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Czech

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Hungarian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Indonesian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Lithuanian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Serbian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Thai

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Mongolian

Rights and Protections for Temporary Workers - Kurdish

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

Single Entry and Multiple Entry Visas

U.S. visas in the passports of non-U.S. citizens will give them permission to travel to a U.S. port of entry but do not guarantee entry into the country. Visas will be issued to foreigners by consular officers abroad after they review their applications for U.S. visas and after making sure that they are admissible into America.

Immigration authorities at the ports of entry will allow them to enter the U.S. after verifying their eligibility. Immigration officers will also stamp their passports and indicate the date on which they will need to leave the country.

The visa expiration date and the length of time they are permitted to stay in the U.S. are both different. The expiration date of the visa and the date on which it was issued can be found on the visa. Visa validity is the time period between the date on which the visa was issued and the expiration date of the visa. During that period, visa holders can travel to U.S. ports of entry.

There are two types of nonimmigrant visas being issued, single entry and multiple entry visas. Based on the nationalities of the applicants, single or multiple entry visas will be issued to them.

A single entry visa can be used by the visa holders to travel to a U.S. port of entry just one time. They can travel to the U.S. any time before the visa expiry date. Once they leave the U.S. they will not be able to travel again to the U.S. with the same visa even if it is still valid.

Multiple entry visas can be used to travel to U.S. ports of entry as many times as the visa status. The number of times the visa holders can travel to the U.S. with those particular visas will be denoted under “entries” on the visas. These visas will be valid for a certain period of time which is known as the visa validity period. During this period, the holders of these visas can travel to the U.S. multiple times for the purpose the visas were issued. However, they must not exceed the number of entries allowed on their visas.

Before you continue, please understand that:

• This website is run by a private company. We have no connection to U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services (USCIS) or any other government agency.
• YOU must send your completed government forms directly to the USCIS or other government agency. We don’t do that for you.
• YOU must pay any required fees directly to the USCIS or other government agency. We don’t do that for you.

• Visa types Tourist Visa Transit Visa Multi - Single Entry
• Status of my visa
• Choose a visa Angola Antigua and Barbuda Armenia Australia Azerbaijan Bahrain Benin Brazil Cambodia Canada Colombia Cuba Djibouti Dominican Republic Egypt Ethiopia Europe Georgia Guinea India Ivory Coast Kenya Kuwait Kyrgyzstan Laos Madagascar Mexico Montserrat Myanmar Nepal New Zealand Oman Papua New Guinea Puerto Rico Russia Rwanda Saudi Arabia Singapore Sri Lanka Tanzania Thailand Turkey Uganda United Arab Emirates United States Vietnam Zambia Zimbabwe

Single-entry and multi-entry visa

What is a single-entry visa.

A single-entry visa allows you to enter only once in the country during a specific time period. Once you leave its territory, you have to apply for a new visa. The single-entry visa is usually the cheapest and fastest visa to obtain.

What is a multi-entry visa?

A multi-entry visa allows you to enter and leave your destination multiple times during its validity without applying for a new visa or travel registration. Be aware that usually each visit is limited by a certain number of days. Also, some countries might still limit the number of entries. Always check the details before applying.

What is the difference between a single-entry and multiple-entry eVisa?

A single-entry visa allows you to enter the country just once during its validity and if you want to travel to the same country again, you will need to apply for a new visa. Multiple-entry visas allow you to go to a foreign country multiple times. Nevertheless, there are some multiple-entry visas that allow only 2 or 3 entries.

How much do multiple-entry visas cost compared to single-entry?

The multiple-entry visas cost more, but both price and visa types differ from country to country. Choose the country you plan to visit and see the pricing details for each visa.

Which Schengen countries give multiple-entry visas?

The multiple-entry Schengen visa covers all members of the Schengen area and is valid for 1, 3, or 5 years. Countries included are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, Slovakia, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland.

• Remember me Not recommended on shared computers

Forgot your password?

Or sign in with one of these services

Free US immigration self-help guides, example forms, community discussion, case tracking & estimated approval dates!

• How to Use VisaJourney ❯ Join Today for Free! Who are we? For over 20 years, VisaJourney has been your one-stop immigration community for Work, Student and Family Visas (K1 & IR1 Visas), Green Cards, US Citizenship, DACA, the Diversity Lottery and all other topics. Share your experiences and relax -- you are not alone!

DV Lottery of K1 Visa - Can I file for both?

Petrisaint Mpaka posted a topic in K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures , January 4

Confused about steps after marriage

SP1988 posted a topic in Adjustment of Status (Green Card) from K1 and K3 Family Based Visas , January 20

N-400 interview in TWO days. Last wise words?

Marrienne posted a topic in US Citizenship Case Filing and Progress Reports , July 25, 2023

Divorce from non-immigrant (out of status) and financial responbsibility

MarktheShark posted a topic in Effects of Major Family Changes on Immigration Benefits , June 27, 2023

Recently filed 129F - still so many questions - here's the first

Dan and Akari posted a topic in K-1 Fiance(e) Visa Process & Procedures , June 29, 2023

Tourist visa cancelled by CBP agent. Can we still get a CR1 or K1 Visa?

yotajeeper posted a topic in What Visa Do I Need - Family Based Immigration , June 16, 2023

* The point of this post is to provide encouragement for someone in the future who may feel like this whole convoluted process is convoluted. It is! But it's okay. Hang in there.

Background: Our case was received at the embassy and marked READY March 28th; upon email inquiry, the embassy told us to wait to submit the DS-160 until my fianc e receives a welcome email (presumably packet 3)

It has been 47 days now and she has not received a welcome email. I spent all weekend souring the USCIS/ NVC /embassy website documentation and could not find a step-by-step guide that included "submit the DS-160 before/after the embassy contacts you". I have searched Facebook groups and this website and have read reports of people filing before being contacted, and getting the interview scheduled as soon as they submitted, whereas others have been reprimanded by the embassy for submitting. Some comments indicate "if you get packet 3" and indicating that many embassies don't send it, and others send packet 3 and packet 4 together after the interview is scheduled. The CEAC status gives instructions that direct me to a site explaining the interview process, but the same workflow has a place to submit the DS-260, but not the DS-160.

Needless to say, it's all overwhelming and confusing.

No worries, just check and see what other timelines look like for applicants from our embassy. Great! Somehow I don't think the last three cases from this embassy (who had interviews in 2018, 2014, and 2014 respectively) bear too much resemblance to the current situation.

So today I placed an international call, waded through the various touchtone response menus and finally spoke with a person. I was told to be patient and continue waiting.

That's it. The clear answer of when to file the DS-160 is, IT ALL DEPENDS . Thank you for coming to my TED Talk.

So as we close out Day 47, we continue waiting.

Hi! I'm asking for planning and informational purpose. Few questions about the Utah online marriage.

1. Will it be recognized in Morocco for CR1 purposes?

2. Does it matter if I visit the Moroccan before or after the online marriage?

E.g. if I met someone on a trip to Morocco and we decided to get married, can I go back to the US and do the online marriage? Then apply for CR1.

Or does the in person meeting have to happen after the online marriage? Then I apply for CR1.

Morocco has a complicated and long process to get a local mixed marriage permit. This is why I'm considering doing the Utah online marriag instead of going through the local Morocco government process.

I went on a trip abroad in between my interview and my oath ceremony. The oath notice states I need to bring supporting documents in case of travel - what would that be? Tickets proving departure/arrival dates?

The trip was short and it does not impact continuous residency.

thanks in advance!

@Ontarkie you seem to know a lot about these issues. I need your opinion on this issue. My husband has been in AP with the London Embassy for 6 months. Initially, they kept his passport but we requested for after 3 months of waiting. When we sent an inquiry through our congressman, they said the Application was under review. Now, 2 weeks ago, my husband received an email to redo his medical since the initial one had expired. He was asked to email them after he s done with the medical. He went ahead to get it done a week ago and sent an email to the embassy through the same email address he received the message. There has not been any update on CAEC since the medical was done and he hasn t received any instruction to submit his passport. Do you think the email was not read or received? Do you think they re done with the AP or it s just an automated email to update his medical? We re so confused.

I just got another NOA2 in the mail. We received the first one the first week of March, Notice date 3/1/24, valid from 3/1-6/30.

The new one has a new notice date of 5/8, valid until 9/7.

Is this normal? What does it mean? Is there a duplicate case at the NVC ? Is this just them getting a jump on an extension, halfway through the validity dates for some reason? How does this affect our timeline? No other updates have been sent from USCIS or NVC .

Thanks for any info.

Recent Status Updates

Tarandeep Singh

robintz  »  weelisa

Popular Contributors

Quick Links

• Immigration Wiki
• US Immigration Guides
• Example Immigration Forms
• Visa Frequent Questions
• Immigration Form Downloads
• Discussion Forums
• Country Portals
• US Embassy Info
• Embassy & USCIS Reviews
• POE Reviews
• Processing Times
• Immigration Timelines
• Immigration Subscriptions
• Existing user? Sign In
• Immigration Guides
• Form Downloads
• K1 Fiancé Visa
• CR1 & IR1 Spousal Visa
• US Visa FAQs

Office Reviews & Info

• Consulate & USCIS Office Reviews
• US Port of Entry Reviews
• US Consulate Information
• VJ Partners
• Ask a Lawyer
• All Activity
• Popular Topics
• Create New...

Popular Searches

Visa Comparison: Single Entry vs Multiple Entry Visa

Updated On Sep 01, 2023

Share on Whatsapp

Share on Email

Share on Linkedin

Limited-time offer : Access a free 10-Day IELTS study plan curated for you

Table of Contents [ Show ]

What is a Single Entry Visa?

What is a multiple entry visa, difference between single entry visa and multiple entry visas, which countries offer both single entry visa and multiple entry visa options to travelers, tips to help choose the right visa for your travel needs.

• Single Entry Visa
• Multiple Entry Visas

Understanding the differences between them - single entry vs multiple entry visa can help you make an informed decision that aligns with your travel needs.

A single entry visa permits you to enter a country only once during the visa's validity period. Once you exit the country, the visa is no longer valid for re-entry. This type of visa is suitable for travelers with a fixed travel itinerary or those visiting a specific destination for a single trip.

Highlights of Single Entry Visas:

• Cost-effective for one-time trips.
• Simpler application process with less documentation.
• Suited for fixed itineraries and specific travel purposes.
• Less scrutiny at borders for a smoother entry.
• No need to plan for re-entry, simplifying travel arrangements.
• Easier visa extensions for longer stays if needed.

A multiple entry visa allows you to enter and exit the country multiple times within the visa's validity period. This type of visa is beneficial for travelers who intend to visit multiple destinations or need to make frequent trips for business or leisure.

Highlights of Multiple Entry Visas:

• Flexibility for frequent travel within the visa's validity period.
• Economical for business travelers and those visiting the same country multiple times.
• Time-saving with a single visa covering all entries.
• Ideal for multi-country itineraries and extended stays.
• Simplified travel planning without re-entry considerations.

Now that you are equipped with the single and multiple entry visa meaning and their difference it is now time to learn which countries offer both single and multiple entry visas to travelers.

Many countries offer both single and multiple entry visas. However, visa policies and requirements for these undergo consistent iterations over time. Here is a list of some countries that commonly offer both types of visas:

• United States
• United Kingdom
• Schengen Area countries (A group of 26 European countries that have abolished passports and other types of border control at their mutual borders)

To select the appropriate visa type, consider your travel plans carefully. Evaluate factors such as the number of countries you'll visit, the duration of your trip, and your travel frequency. If you're planning a single, one-time trip, a single entry visa may suffice.

However, if you foresee multiple entries or visits to various countries, a multiple entry visa would be more practical. Below mentioned are a few tips that could ease your decision for choosing the right visa

• Research visa requirements for your destination countries.
• Plan your travel itinerary and determine the number of entries required.
• Consider the cost-effectiveness of each visa type.

GetGIS: Your Rightful Assistance Partner for all Your Abroad Travel Plans

The choice between a single entry visa and a multiple entry visa depends on your individual travel plans and requirements. Understanding the benefits and limitations of each visa type is crucial in making an informed decision to ensure a smooth and enjoyable travel experience.

Before embarking on your journey, always check the visa policies of the destination country and plan accordingly to ensure a hassle-free entry and stay. Alternatively, you can also seek guidance from experienced consultants like GetGIS , who ensure to take every necessary effort to assist your fair, safe, and secured immigration.

Useful Links: For Further Information

• Advantages and Disadvantages of Travelling Abroad
• Top 10 Cheapest Countries To Travel From India
• What Are the Different Types of Visas?

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I switch from a single-entry visa to a multiple-entry visa if I decide to extend my travel plans?

Are there any additional fees or requirements for obtaining a multiple-entry visa compared to a single-entry visa?

Are there any specific restrictions or limitations on the number of entries allowed within the validity period for a multiple-entry visa?

Can I visit multiple countries with a single entry visa during a single trip?

How does the validity period differ between single-entry and multiple-entry visas?

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu , 

Sr. Content Marketing Specialist

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu has been working as Content Marketing Specialist with GetGIS since 2022 and has been extensively working to help candidates’ career transitions. Her experience spans across multiple industries in the fields of Sales and Marketing. Her core competencies include communication and research, which enable her to create and deliver in-depth guides as a Subject Matter Expert

Related Articles

What You Need to Know About CEFR Levels: A Comprehensive Guide

Lakshmi Lavanya Pagallu

Canada Minimum Wages List in 2024 (Updated)

Shakthivel Krishnaraj

Top 10 Tourist Destinations in Germany: Best Places to Visit

Krithika Babu

Cost of Living in Nova Scotia in 2024: What You Should Expect?

Office of International Students & Scholars

Traveling in o-1 status.

Below are some basic guidelines for travel. However, it is recommended that you check with your adviser before you travel.

All international scholars and family members planning to depart temporarily from the U.S. and return to the Yale area must have a valid passport in order to exit the U.S. The passport must also be valid for a minimum of six months into the future at the time of re-entry to the U.S.Some countries have an agreement with the U.S. that automatically extends passport validity for 6 months , for U.S. entry purposes only.

Visa Stamps

Except for Canadian citizens, all international scholars will also need to have a valid O-1 visa stamp in their passport issued by a U.S. embassy or consulate. Visa stamps cannot be obtained or renewed within the U.S.

Visa Documents:

The visa document for the O-1 is called the Notice of Action Form I-797.

I-94 Record

Every nonimmigrant entering the U.S. on a sponsored visa will have what’s called an I-94 record created by the authorities upon entry. It is the responsibility of international students, scholars and family members to look up their I-94 record after entering the U.S. to ensure there are no errors.

Third Country Visits:

When planning to visit a country outside the U.S. which is not your country of citizenship or legal permanent residency, be sure to research whether or not you will need a visa to enter that country .

Canada, Mexico and contiguous islands:

If you are traveling to Canada, Mexico or the contiguous islands for less than 30 days, you may be eligible for a visa renewal exemption .

Travel Checklist:

• Valid I-797 Approval Notice for Yale University
• Copy of all supporting documents issued to you in the OISS approval package (Form I-797 approval notice, I-129, and the Labor Condition application)
• Copy of most recent payroll from Yale
• If this will be your first O-1 visa application, it is recommended that you bring a copy of the entire application
• If this is not your first O-1 visa stamp, just bring a copy of the Yale support letter

Travel During Change of Immigration Status

Scholars are advised not to travel outside the U.S. during a pending change of status petition (e.g., those who are changing from an F-1/J-1/Other to O-1.) Please contact your OISS adviser for further details.

Travel During Extension or Change of Employers

If you have any plans to travel outside the U.S. during the O-1 extension process, you should speak to your OISS adviser as soon as possible. If you plan to return to the U.S. before the expiration of your current approved O-1 status and with a valid O-1 visa stamp, there may not be any difficulty. However, in many cases the action of departing from the U.S. during the extension process can make the new O-1 extension inactive, or void.

If you plan to leave the U.S. and your current O-1 status has expired, you cannot return to the U.S. until the extension application is approved, and the approval notice is sent to you. Finally, you would have to apply for a new O-1 visa stamp with a consulate or embassy before you can return to the U.S.

After you have received the new, extended O-1 approval notice, you may travel outside the U.S. once again. However, while outside the U.S. you will have to obtain a new O-1 visa stamp at a U.S. embassy or consulate. It is not possible to obtain visa stamps inside the U.S.

Language selection

• Français fr

What is the difference between a single and a multiple entry visa?

The main difference between these two visa types is that a single entry visa allows entry to Canada for one-time only and a multiple entry visa allows entry many times .

Which type of visa to get

You don’t need to choose. A multiple entry visa is what all visa applicants are automatically considered for. We will review your application and issue you a visa depending on your situation.

Multiple entry visa

While valid, a multiple entry visa will let you travel to Canada for six months at a time as many times as you want. It will be valid for up to 10 years or one month before your passport expires, whichever is shorter. You must arrive in Canada on or before the expiry date on your visa.

Single entry visa

A single entry visa lets you travel to Canada only one time. For instance, you may only be eligible for a single entry visa if:

• you are eligible for a fee-exemption and the purpose of your entry to Canada is limited (such as, for an official visit by a foreign national)
• you are taking part in a one-time special event in Canada
• there are approved country-specific procedures or guidelines in place.

In most cases, once you have left Canada, you will need a new visa to enter Canada again.

You won’t need a new visitor visa to return to Canada if you are travelling directly to the United States (including its Territories and Possessions) or St. Pierre and Miquelon.

New entry requirement now in effect

Visa-exempt foreign nationals need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to fly to or transit through Canada by air. Exceptions include U.S. citizens and travellers with a valid Canadian visa. Canadian citizens, including dual citizens , and Canadian permanent residents cannot apply for an eTA.

Did you find what you were looking for?

If not, tell us why:

You will not receive a reply. Telephone numbers and email addresses will be removed. Maximum 300 characters

Thank you for your feedback

Answers others found useful

• Do I need a visa to visit Canada?
• Do I need a Canadian visa if I have a United States visa?
• How do I apply for an eTA for travel to Canada?
• I am visiting the U.S. I want to come to Canada. Do I need an eTA?
• Do I need a visa if I am travelling through Canada without stopping or visiting?
• How do I help a family member or friend apply to visit Canada?
• I am travelling with my minor child without my spouse. What documents must I present?
• What’s the difference between a visitor visa and a visitor record?
• Do I need to apply for both a visitor visa and an eTA?

How-to video

Form and guide

• Application for a temporary resident visa

Glossary term

• Multiple-entry visa
• Single-entry visa
• Temporary resident

Search Results

Related faqs for.

No Related FAQs Found.

• Logout Login
• Adventure Holidays
• Weekend Getaways
• Driving Holidays
• Travel News

Top Searches

World Most Climbed Mountains

Lahaul Spiti

Cannes Places

Giza Pyramid

Earth Hot Places

Most Unusual Countries

Understanding visa options: Single-entry vs. multiple-entry visas

Times of India TIMESOFINDIA.COM / TRAVEL NEWS , WORLD / Created : Feb 24, 2024, 10:00 IST

You're Reading

The choice between a single-entry and a multiple-entry visa depends on individual travel needs and plans. Careful consideration of factors such as the purpose of the trip, frequency of travel, and anticipated duration of stay is c … Read more

The choice between a single-entry and a multiple-entry visa depends on individual travel needs and plans. Careful consideration of factors such as the purpose of the trip, frequency of travel, and anticipated duration of stay is crucial to making an informed decision and ensuring a seamless international travel experience. Read less

More from Travel News

Entry limitations

Most scary, yet fascinating, natural places on Earth

Duration of stay, flexibility.

Cost-effectiveness

Planning considerations, comments (0).

Refrain from posting comments that are obscene, defamatory or inflammatory, and do not indulge in personal attacks, name calling or inciting hatred against any community. Help us delete comments that do not follow these guidelines by marking them offensive . Let's work together to keep the conversation civil.

Comments ( ) Sort: Newest UpVoted Oldest Discussed Down Voted closecomments

SIGN IN WITH

Or post without registration.

Visual Stories

Popular Galleries

World's top 5 national parks to see the coolest wild animals TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD

Most haunted forests in the world TRAVEL TRENDS , WORLD

10 reasons why adventure travellers love Lahaul-Spiti so much TRAVEL TRENDS , LAHAUL-SPITI

Trending stories.

World's top 5 national parks to see the coolest wild animals

• From North Korea to Kiribati, 8 of the world’s most unusual countries

• Gangotri’s 5 divine attractions to explore this season

Most haunted forests in the world

5 national parks to visit near Ooty this summer

• 1 Understanding visa options: Single-entry vs. multiple-entry visas
• 2 You can own this 1,000-year-old UK castle if you have INR 4 crore!
• 3 Pamban Bridge, India's first-ever vertical lift sea bridge, to be up and ready soon! Key highlights
• 4 Hemkund Sahib Yatra to start from May 25; check key details here
• 5 Vizag: Indian Navy finds wreck of PNS Ghazi, the Pakistani submarine that sunk in 1971 war

THE DEFINITIVE GUIDE TO DESTINATIONS, ITINERARIES, THINGS TO DO, RESTAURANTS, NIGHTLIFE and LOTS MORE!

FOLLOW US ON

Places to visit.

• Places to visit in Bangalore
• Places to visit in Mumbai
• Places to visit in Delhi
• Places to visit in Goa
• Hotels in Goa
• Hotels in Jaipur
• Hotels in Shimla
• Hotels in Mumbai

Things To do

• Things to do in Goa
• Things to do in Mumbai
• Things to do in Bangalore
• Things to do in Delhi

Travel Inspiration

• Visa on arrival for Indians
• Honeymoon Places in india
• Hill Stations in India
• Weekend getaways in Mumbai
• Weather in Delhi
• Weather in Chennai
• Weather in Bangalore
• Weather in Mumbai

Best Beaches

• Goa Beaches
• Mumbai Beaches
• Pondicherry Beaches
• Kerala Beaches
• Restaurants in Bangalore
• Restaurants in Chennai
• Restaurants in Pune
• Restaurants in Jaipur
• Hill Station near Delhi
• Winter trip to Ladakh
• Places to visit in Kerala
• Winter Honeymoon Destinations
• UK visa guide for Indians
• Winter Trip to Manali
• Vaishno Devi Yatra
• Special Train Ticket Booking
• HP inter-state Bus
• Honeymoon Destinations India

Latest News

• Glass bridges in India worth travelling for
• Why does Mount Everest make terrifying noises at night?
• Extreme travel: Exploring the hottest places on Earth
• How to reach Sangla Valley in Himachal Pradesh?
• Mysterious unknown structure discovered near Giza pyramids

Congratulations!

You have been successfully added to the mailing list of Times of India Travel. To complete the subscription process, kindly open your inbox and click on the confirmation link which has been emailed to you.

Share with friends

Thank You for sharing! Your friend will receive the article link on email mentioned.

• (For more than one recipient, type addresses separated by commas)

The choice between a single-entry and a multiple-entry visa depends on individual travel needs and plans. Careful consideration of factors such as the purpose of the trip, frequency of travel, and ant...

• 更多 母婴 健康 历史 军事 美食 文化 星座 专题 游戏 搞笑 动漫 宠物

新加坡电子签证你能看懂多少

去了那么多次新加坡，新加坡电子签证你能看懂多少

去了那么多次，你知道自己的签证有效期是多长吗？知道什么时候能入境什么时候该出境吗？别着急，新加坡为你一一解读新加坡签证的重点信息。

看一张新加坡电子签证~~

先回答以下两个情景题：

1）假定持这个签证的是位要来带孙的奶奶，其初衷是待满3个月就撤，以免伤了婆媳和气，她能如愿吗？

2）有没有可能，持证者可以留在新加坡过个难得的热带圣诞节？ Yes or No

先hold住你的答案，我们一起来分析几个容易混淆的知识点~

Visa Issue Day，指签证签发日，像上图中的2014年9月29日，代表你从9月29日，就可以手持这张签证，入境新加坡了。

Visa Valid till，指护照到期日，像上图中的2014年12月1日，代表你最迟可以在那天持签证入境。

有多少人看到这两个日期，会以为意味着持证人可以从9月29日，一直呆到12月1日的呢？

重点来了（敲黑板），理解错误！！！这两个日期，只代表允许你可以在期间任何一天入境，并没有确定你可以在新加坡合法待多长时间。

那多长时间，谁说了算？你入境时，在柜台遇到的海关官员，Ta决定你可以在新加坡待多久。一般情况下给30天，至于极端情况~~抱歉你可能会被就地遣返。不少人吐过槽：就算有新加坡签证，海关也可能拒绝你入境。

现在，我们可以回答上述情景题了。来带孙子的奶奶，如果是9月29日入境，护照上盖的出境日期，大致上会是10月29日。按移民法，到时她就得打道回府了。

那有没有办法，让她可以多待一些时间？

有两个办法。 仔细查看你拿的签证的“Type of Visa”一栏，到底是“Single Journey（单次旅程）”，还是“Multiple Journey（多次旅程）”

Single Journey： 向ICA申请延期，具体批不批，批多少天，拼人品，决定权在于ICA。

Multiple Journey： 可以出国待一段时间后，再转回来，海关人员会重新给你一个居住有效期。

到底要出国待多久？说法不一：有说“出国一日游”就能搞定的；也有听过另一种说法：必须在出国72小时后，才能回返新加坡。准确情形如何，欢迎大家在评论里留言，彼此造福。

至于再次入境的时长，是否一些网友所说的“又有30天”， 郑重提醒：咱们说了不算，全看海关人员在盖章时的心情，他给你多少天，就是多少天，没得商量。

未免节外生枝要申请延期，建议你在申请电子签证的时候，在Type of Visa一栏，勾选Multiple Journey（多次旅程），那出来的签证，就如下图红框所示了。

来举个最幸运的例子！第一题中的奶奶，在申请了多次旅程签证后，可以最迟在10月29日，出境转一圈，附近国家如马来西亚或印尼，都可以。短期旅行后再入境，移民厅官员批准她再待30天。

那么算起来，她大概就能待到11月尾了。原则上到期限后，她可以再试着出境转一圈后回来，只要能赶在12月1日前入境就可以了。如果海关工作人员够Nice，Ta或许还能给奶奶30天，那奶奶就能如愿待够三个月，多和孙子培养感情了。

事实上，周围遇见的人，为多留下一段时间，出国转过一次的有，还真没见过出国转两次的。毕竟出国一次，在人力物力财力等各方面，都是一种消耗。

如果理解了第一题的答案，第二题就容易答了。持卡人想在新加坡过圣诞，太easy了。

1）可以晚点启程，只要赶在12月1日前入境。按惯例能拿到30天居留期，感受赤道圣诞的热情，妥妥滴。

2）就算持卡人来得早了些，按照第一题做法，他还是可以试着出境转一圈后再入境新加坡，延长居留时间直到过圣诞。

PS:新加坡签证重点信息：拿到签证一定要注意看啊！

Credit cards are getting smarter

How banks are using huge amounts of data to separate legitimate purchases from scams

In mid-March, a scammer in California tried to buy $150 worth of Wingstop using my debit card. Aside from being impressed at the sheer size of the order, I was relieved because Citibank, which issued my card, declined the transaction on the spot and alerted me to the fraud. In minutes I was able to shut off my card, heading off any more purchases by the scammers, and order a new card. All's well that ends well.

When I went to Buenos Aires in April, I figured I might run into a similar situation . Sure, the banks say you don't have to call ahead when you travel anymore, but I assumed I'd still have some purchase flagged as potential fraud, as had happened in past trips abroad. Miraculously, everything went off without a hitch. I don't know how JPMorgan Chase knew that I would spend $200 on Botox in Argentina, but it did. (No, I didn't book my flight on the same card, and whatever, everybody gets Botox now .)

It's great that banks and credit-card companies are getting better at discerning which payments are fraudulent and which are legit. Many people have some horror story about having their credit card stolen or having their own legitimate transactions flagged as suspicious. And it's nice not to have to spend 20 minutes on the phone before a vacation explaining where you're going and when. Credit-card fraud protection is still far from perfect, but there's no denying that the technology is improving. On the flip side, it's also kind of wild to consider just how much financial institutions must know about you to make the right calls.

I was curious about how it all works — and, frankly, a little creeped out. So I reached out to some credit-card companies and academics to learn more. Why don't people have to alert their credit-card companies about travel anymore? And, more broadly, just how have banks gotten so good at figuring out what's normal about our spending habits and what isn't?

The Federal Trade Commission receives thousands of card-fraud complaints each year. The Nilson Report, which tracks the card industry, says payment-card fraud resulted in $33 billion in losses worldwide in 2022 and $13.6 billion in losses in the US. As such, credit-card issuers and banks are keen to do what they can to spot fraud. They want to keep their customers happy, and, more importantly, they want to stem their losses. In the US, the major credit-card issuers and banks generally have a zero-liability policy , which means that when a customer gets scammed, the organization, not the customer, has to eat the cost.

Years ago, whether a transaction went through was based on things like whether a physical card was present, whether you had enough money to make the purchase, and (if the cashier wanted to look) whether your signature on the receipt matched the one on the back of your card. In some cases, the cashier may have even asked for ID or called the bank to verify the funds. We've come a long way from those bad old days by using the same tools that power most innovations: data and computers. Credit-card companies and banks know a lot about us — where we shop, when we spend, and how much we're usually willing to pay for things — and they're getting better and better at turning that knowledge into action.

The models are evaluating a trillion dollars' worth of transactions a year.

While it's all the rage to talk about newfangled forms of artificial intelligence , fraud detection owes a lot to machine learning, a field within AI that's been around for years. A bunch of data gets dumped into computer systems, and algorithms figure out patterns and relationships. The algorithms create decision trees to predict the likelihood of different outcomes and identify what may be considered normal or fishy. It's not that your credit-card company knows that you, specifically, would blow a bunch of cash on A and not on B — it knows that customers with your profile are in the "likes A" camp and not the "likes B" one.

"It's looking at what's happening that is very much out of the ordinary for your general behaviors," said Tina Eide, an executive vice president of global fraud risk at American Express. "And when I talk about general behaviors, it is generalized, right? It is not down to the specific purchase or to the specific merchant." Eide added, "The models are evaluating a trillion dollars' worth of transactions a year."

The machines know more now than ever. Mike Lemberger, Visa's regional risk officer for North America, said that over the past five years the number of data points people generate with their credit cards has grown tremendously. People are increasingly using cards over cash. And they don't just have a physical card they're pulling out at the store — they've got their card credentials in their Amazon account, Netflix account, iPhone, etc. The more purchases the card issuer can analyze, the more accurate the fraud detection will be.

"Visa, we don't have consumer information — that's your financial institution that has that — but what we have is this triangulation of all these data points," Lemberger said. "We can create more and better scores, layer on top of that machine learning and AI abilities, and it becomes a much, much more powerful predictor, which we then feed into all of our partners to say, 'Hey guys, if you want to make the best decisions, here's a whole bunch of really good information.'"

Visa isn't going to block your card directly, but it'll alert your bank that your purchase looks suspicious or that fraud has been detected at the merchant you're dealing with.

This all seemed pretty simple until I talked to Yann-Aël Le Borgne and Gianluca Bontempi, a pair of researchers at the Université Libre de Bruxelles in Belgium who work on machine learning and card fraud . They emphasized the vast scale of this fraud-detection technology. Companies and their algorithms are ingesting millions of transactions and creating so many decision trees to categorize certain activities that it can defy human logic, they said. Basically, the computer may be right that your transaction looks funky even if it's made in your home city at a fairly innocuous vendor, or it may be right that the transaction is fine even though it's made in a faraway place — but when humans try to figure out what did or didn't sound the alarm, nobody will really be able to pinpoint why.

"Machines can consider many more features, and at the end of the day it's not clear if all those features have meaning for humans," Bontempi said. "Humans are used to working with two, three features, at most five features, while machines can work with hundreds of features. So there are really different levels between what a machine can do."

There are human-written rules, which are generally interpretable, and there are machine-written rules, which can be a black box. They're more accurate, but they may be harder, if not impossible, for people to reverse engineer. And banks may be using several different algorithms, making this even more complicated. Data scientists are the ultimate decision-makers, but the information they're dealing with is based on highly complex tech.

Humans are used to working with two, three features, at most five features, while machines can work with hundreds of features.

When I explained to experts my somewhat embarrassing wings-versus-wrinkles conundrum and asked what may have triggered one alert and not the other, they offered up different explanations. Eide, from American Express, said that even though I hadn't booked my trip to Argentina with the credit card I used to buy the Botox, something else had probably tipped off the system that I was there. I realized I'd also bought a package of spin classes in Buenos Aires on my phone with the same card. I had also paid for a meal in the city. Lemberger, from Visa, emphasized that it's about all the data and spending patterns and said that given my spending patterns, the Botox likely matched my profile more than the massive delivery order.

"I hate to say this to you, but at the end of the day, all these data points build personas. Just like in marketing somebody would use personas to market to you, we're using that same technology to protect you," he said. "And the fact is that we use those data points to not just secure you but the whole ecosystem."

At some point it occurred to me that the supercomputers that credit-card companies and banks are working with could know more about me than I even know or understand about myself.

"It's probable that the exact reason why a transaction caused your card to be blocked has no straightforward interpretation," Le Borgne said.

I also asked whether there was a big difference in credit-card protections and debit protections and was told not really — maybe banks will be a little more restrictive about credit because they're technically lending you money that's not limited by your actual cash balance. I also asked if companies don't worry about preclearing travel because they don't care as much about losing money to fraud anymore, to which the answer was a hard no.

"At the end of the day, somebody's got to pay for the fraudulent activity," Lemberger said. Credit-card companies will give you your money back if you're a victim of fraud, but they'll find another place to recoup that money, just as they always do .

Instinctually, I am not a technology-is-awesome person — if the AI really is going to kill us, I feel like we should unplug it. I'm not super freaked out about the privacy stuff, but I also don't love the idea that AmEx and JPMorgan and Citi have me so pegged. But it's cool that companies really are making fraud detection better, especially in a world where fraudsters themselves are constantly getting better. I don't want to be like "Yay, banks!" but maybe here the answer really is a little "Yay, banks!" At least that's the case until the next major data-privacy breach, at which point I will regret everything.

Emily Stewart is a senior correspondent at Business Insider, writing about business and the economy.

About Discourse Stories

Through our Discourse journalism, Business Insider seeks to explore and illuminate the day’s most fascinating issues and ideas. Our writers provide thought-provoking perspectives, informed by analysis, reporting, and expertise. Read more Discourse stories here .

Related stories

More from Retail

Most popular

• Main content

• Credit cards
• View all credit cards
• Banking guide
• Loans guide
• Insurance guide
• Personal finance
• View all personal finance
• Small business
• Small business guide
• View all taxes

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Review: Highly Rewarding for Travelers

What’s on This Page

The bottom line, pros and cons, detailed review, compare to other cards, benefits and perks, drawbacks and considerations, how to decide if it's right for you.

This card was built with frequent travelers in mind, and while it's missing a few perks offered by other cards at its price point, it still packs plenty of value and flexibility.

Rewards rate

Bonus offer

• Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

Ongoing APR

APR: 21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR

Cash Advance APR: Refer to Important Credit Terms

Balance transfer fee

3% for 120 days from account opening, then up to 5%, min: $5

Foreign transaction fee

• Select “Apply Now” to take advantage of this specific offer and learn more about product features, terms and conditions.
• Earn unlimited 5X points on hotels, 4X points on airlines, 3X points on other travel and restaurants, and 1X points on other purchases.
• $95 annual fee.
• Book your travel with the Autograph Journey Card and enjoy Travel Accident Insurance, Lost Baggage Reimbursement, Trip Cancellation and Interruption Protection and Auto Rental Collision Damage Waiver.
• Earn a $50 annual statement credit with $50 minimum airline purchase.
• Up to $1,000 of cell phone protection against damage or theft. Subject to a $25 deductible.
• Find tickets to top sports and entertainment events, book travel, make dinner reservations and more with your complimentary 24/7 Visa Signature® Concierge.

Bonus categories

Annual airfare credit

No reward caps

Cell phone insurance

New cardholder bonus offer

Has annual fee

No free checked bags

No free anniversary night

No luxury perks

Requires good/excellent credit

For frequent globe-trotters, the $95 -annual-fee Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card can help take some of the sting out of travel costs .

Cardholders will earn a generous 5 points per $1 spent on hotel stays; 4 points per $1 on airfare; 3 points per $1 on other travel and dining; and 1 point per $1 on other qualifying purchases. Those reward rates on travel in particular are best-in-class among comparable travel credit cards — and unlike many of the card's competitors, you don’t need to book travel through a dedicated portal to earn those high rates on flights and hotels. Plus, you'll have plenty of options when it's time to redeem those points, including the ability to transfer them to various travel partners, which can supercharge the card's value.

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card does lack a couple of perks you might expect to find on a travel card at this price point, and its list of travel partners is comparatively small and narrow. (There's just one domestic partner, for example.) But it still packs a lot of value into one package.

» MORE: Benefits of the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey

Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card : The basics

Card type: Travel .

Annual fee: $95 .

Sign-up bonus: Earn 60,000 bonus points when you spend $4,000 in purchases in the first 3 months – that’s $600 toward your next trip.

5 points per $1 on hotels booked directly with the hotel.

4 points per $1 on airfare booked directly with the airline.

3 points per $1 on other travel and dining purchases.

1 point per $1 on all other qualifying purchases.

Wells Fargo Rewards points are worth 1 cent each when redeemed for a statement credit, gift cards or travel through the Wells Fargo travel portal. You can also transfer points to various travel partners, which can often lead to even better value for those points. More on that below.

APR: The ongoing APR is 21.24%, 26.24%, or 29.99% Variable APR .

Foreign transaction fee: None .

Other benefits:

Access to multiple transfer partners: See the full list below.

$50 annual airfare credit: MInimum $50 purchase required. Available at the start of each calendar year. Terms apply, more on this below.

Cell phone protection : Up to $1,000 in coverage, with a $25 deductible, if you pay your cell phone bill with the card.

Trip cancellation/interruption protection: Up to $15,000 reimbursement for a covered reason when you pay for travel with the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card .

Autograph Card Exclusives : Get access to special concert/entertainment events.

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card vs. the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card has a $0 -annual-fee sibling, the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card . The cards have different reward structures, but some of the same benefits.

Excellent reward rates on travel, dining

The everyday bonus categories on the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card are designed for frequent travelers. You'll rack up Wells Fargo Rewards fast by earning 5 points per $1 spent on hotels; 4 points per $1 on airfare; or 3 points per $1 on dining and other travel, like cruises or bookings through online travel agencies.

Those best-in-class earning rates on travel put the card ahead of stalwarts like the Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card and the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , which require you to book travel directly through the issuer’s travel portal to earn the highest rewards rate. That gives you fewer options to shop for the best price, whereas the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card allows you to book directly with the hotel, airline or through a third-party travel agency.

» MORE: How to pick your first travel rewards credit card

Plentiful redemption options

You’ll have plenty of options for putting your rewards to work with the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card . As noted above, points are generally worth a penny apiece if you use them for statement credit, gift cards or booking travel through Wells Fargo's portal.

But to squeeze even more value from those points, cardholders will want to consider using the card’s travel transfer partners:

Air France-KLM (1:1 ratio).

Avianca (1:1 ratio).

British Airways (1:1 ratio).

Aer Lingus (1:1 ratio).

Iberia (1:1 ratio).

Choice Privileges Hotels (1:2 ratio).

While that partner list isn't as broad as other cards that earn transferrable point currencies — such as Chase Ultimate Rewards® or American Express Membership Rewards — it should still be possible to find good deals if you're willing to put in the research.

Points can be combined among Wells Fargo primary-cardholder accounts. For example, if you hold the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card , cash-back rewards earned on that card can also be combined with rewards from the Wells Fargo Autograph℠ Card and the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card . However, if you hold only the Wells Fargo Active Cash® Card , you cannot transfer rewards to travel partners.

Cardholders will receive an annual $50 statement credit when they make a minimum $50 purchase with an airline, and that credit resets at the start of each calendar year. The credit can be used on tickets booked directly with the airline and through the Wells Fargo travel portal. It can also be used on tickets purchased through third-party travel agencies, but there’s no guarantee those purchases will "code" as airfare to trigger the credit.

The freedom to use the credit on bookings outside the issuer’s travel portal adds a lot of flexibility and value to this benefit. If you were going to book a flight anyway, you could view the credit as a way to effectively decrease the annual fee. Just be aware of the $50 minimum required purchase to trigger the credit.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best airline credit cards

No TSA PreCheck or Global Entry credit

Some travel credit cards with a $95 annual fee offer a credit to cover the cost of TSA PreCheck or Global Entry . Unfortunately, the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card is not one of those cards.

If being able to fast-track through airport security is an important feature for you, you’d be better suited with a card like the Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card or the Bank of America® Premium Rewards® credit card .

Short list of transfer partners

As of this writing, the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card was offering just six transfer partners: five airlines and one hotel chain. None of the airlines is a domestic carrier, and if you're not familiar with, say, Aer Lingus, you'll likely have to put in some research to find deals and redemption sweet spots. Other travel credit cards at this price point offer more (and more well-known) transfer partners. The aforementioned Capital One Venture Rewards Credit Card , for example, has more than 15 transfer partners — including some of the same airlines as the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠, but also featuring three U.S. hotel chains. The venerable Chase Sapphire Preferred® Card , too, features more than a dozen partners, including major U.S. companies like United, Southwest, JetBlue, Marriott and more.

Wells Fargo says it plans to add new transfer partners throughout the year.

No primary auto insurance

Unlike other travel-centric cards that offer primary rental car insurance — which applies before your individual auto insurance policy in the case of an accident or theft — the Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card offers secondary coverage. That means the coverage on your card kicks in only after your personal coverage pays. This can still be a valuable benefit, but because you have to submit a claim first through your primary insurance carrier, you’ll potentially be on the hook for increased premiums.

» MORE: Best credit cards for rental cars

The Wells Fargo Autograph Journey℠ Card is a solid value for frequent travelers who can take advantage of the rich rewards in categories like hotels, airfare, general travel and dining. Additionally, the $50 annual airfare credit is flexible and can help put a dent in that annual fee. However, the card faces stiff competition at its price point, and if you travel only intermittently, it's worth doing some comparison shopping.

» MORE: NerdWallet's best credit cards

This card also offers generous rewards on travel purchases — although you must book through Chase's travel portal to earn the highest rate. You'll also get access to multiple transfer partners, including major domestic ones like United, Marriott, Hyatt and more.

Looking For Something Else?

Methodology.

NerdWallet reviews credit cards with an eye toward both the quantitative and qualitative features of a card. Quantitative features are those that boil down to dollars and cents, such as fees, interest rates, rewards (including earning rates and redemption values) and the cash value of benefits and perks. Qualitative factors are those that affect how easy or difficult it is for a typical cardholder to get good value from the card. They include such things as the ease of application, simplicity of the rewards structure, the likelihood of using certain features, and whether a card is well-suited to everyday use or is best reserved for specific purchases. Our star ratings serve as a general gauge of how each card compares with others in its class, but star ratings are intended to be just one consideration when a consumer is choosing a credit card. Learn how NerdWallet rates credit cards.

About the author

Craig Joseph