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  • Trusted Traveler Programs
  • How To Apply

How to Apply

NEXUS is designed to expedite the border clearance process for low-risk, approved travelers into Canada and the United States. By paying one fee, NEXUS members have crossing privileges at air, land, and marine ports of entry that support the program.

U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) and the Canada Border Services Agency (CBSA) are cooperating in this joint venture to simplify border crossings for members, while enhancing security.

To apply for membership in the NEXUS program:

  • Use the Trusted Travelers Programs (TTP) website ;
  • Submit an application and go through a registration process;
  • Satisfy the eligibility criteria;
  • Be admissible in Canada and the United States; and
  • Pass risk assessments by both countries.

The application-processing fee of $50  (USD) per adult applicant is non-refundable . Children under the age of 18 must also apply and, if eligible, are admitted to the program free of charge.  Once approved, membership is valid for five years. For more information regarding the program requirements, please visit the NEXUS Program page.

Once the risk assessment by the United States and Canada is complete, you will receive an email on the dashboard of your TTP account.  When this notification is received, you will be “conditionally approved” and eligible to schedule an interview at a NEXUS enrollment center to complete the application process. 

Reasonable Modifications for Applicants with a Disability

After you have submitted your application and scheduled an interview at a NEXUS Enrollment Center , if you require assistance for the interview because of a disability, contact the NEXUS Enrollment Center where your interview is scheduled to request a reasonable modification or auxiliary aid or service to complete the interview.  Requests for a modification, aid, or service should be made as soon as possible and prior to the date of an interview to allow sufficient time for making the appropriate arrangements at the interview location.

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us travel apply

An official website of the United States government

Here’s how you know

Official websites use .gov A .gov website belongs to an official government organization in the United States.

Secure .gov websites use HTTPS A lock ( Lock Locked padlock icon ) or https:// means you’ve safely connected to the .gov website. Share sensitive information only on official, secure websites.

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Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements.

While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool . On the country’s information page, you will find entry, exit, and visa requirements. You will also find travel advisories and a link to the country’s embassy.

LAST UPDATED: December 6, 2023

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Ask a real person any government-related question for free. They will get you the answer or let you know where to find it.

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A Comprehensive Guide To Applying For A Travel Visa To China

  • Last updated Apr 30, 2024
  • Difficulty Beginner

Michaela Krajanova

  • Category Travel

how to apply for a travel visa to china

China is a country that is rich in history, culture, and diverse landscapes, making it a sought-after destination for travelers from all over the world. However, before you can pack your bags and embark on your adventure, you'll need to navigate the process of applying for a travel visa to enter China. In this comprehensive guide, we'll walk you through the steps, requirements, and tips to ensure a smooth and successful visa application process. Whether you're traveling for tourism, business, or to visit friends and family, this guide will provide you with all the information you need to make your dream of visiting China a reality.

What You'll Learn

Research the requirements for a chinese travel visa, gather and prepare the necessary documents for your visa application, complete the visa application form accurately and completely, submit your application and await the visa processing time.

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If you are planning to travel to China, one of the first steps you need to take is to apply for a travel visa. The visa application process can be quite complex, so it's important to research the requirements carefully to ensure a successful application.

The first step in applying for a Chinese travel visa is to determine which type of visa you need. China offers several different types of visas, including tourist visas, business visas, work visas, and student visas. Each type of visa has its own specific requirements, so it's important to choose the one that best suits your purpose of travel.

Once you have determined the type of visa you need, the next step is to gather all the necessary documents. The exact requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, but in general, the following documents are required for a Chinese travel visa application:

  • Passport: You will need a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and blank visa pages.
  • Visa application form: You will need to fill out a visa application form, which can be downloaded from the official website of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country.
  • Photo: You will need to provide a recent passport-sized photograph with a white background. The photo should be full-face and without a hat or sunglasses.
  • Invitation letter: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to provide an invitation letter from a Chinese organization or individual. For example, if you are traveling for business, you may need an invitation letter from a Chinese company.
  • Proof of travel arrangements: You may need to provide proof of your travel arrangements, such as flight tickets and hotel reservations.
  • Financial documents: You may need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in China, such as bank statements or a letter of financial support.
  • Health certificate: In some cases, you may need to provide a health certificate, especially if you are traveling to China for an extended period of time.

Once you have gathered all the necessary documents, you can submit your visa application to the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. It's important to note that the application process may take several weeks, so it's advisable to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates.

In conclusion, applying for a Chinese travel visa requires careful research and preparation. By understanding the specific requirements and gathering all the necessary documents, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application. Remember to allow plenty of time for the application process, and don't hesitate to seek help or clarification from the Chinese embassy or consulate if needed.

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When applying for a travel visa to China, it's important to gather and prepare all the necessary documents to ensure a smooth and successful application process. Here is a list of documents you will need to provide:

  • Passport: Your original passport is required for the visa application. It should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned entry date to China and have at least one blank visa page.
  • Visa Application Form: You need to complete and sign the visa application form accurately. You can usually find the form on the website of the Chinese embassy or consulate. Make sure to use black ink and write clearly. Don't forget to affix your recent passport-sized photo to the form.
  • Travel Itinerary: Provide a detailed travel itinerary, which includes your planned entry and exit dates, flight details, hotel reservations, and any other relevant travel arrangements. This will help the authorities understand the purpose and duration of your visit.
  • Invitation Letter: If you are traveling to China for business purposes, you may need an invitation letter from a Chinese company or organization. The letter should include your full name, passport number, purpose of visit, dates of the visit, and details of the inviting party. Make sure the letter is on official company letterhead and signed.
  • Financial Documents: You will need to show proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in China. Provide bank statements from the last six months, as well as any additional supporting documents such as employment letter, income tax returns, or pay stubs.
  • Flight and Hotel Reservations: Include copies of your flight tickets and confirmed hotel reservations. This demonstrates that you have a planned itinerary and a place to stay during your visit.
  • Personal Statement: Write a brief letter explaining the purpose of your trip, your intended activities, your travel plans, and any additional information that may support your visa application. Be concise and to the point.
  • Other Supporting Documents: Depending on the purpose of your visit, you may need to provide additional documents. For example, if you are visiting family or friends, you may need an invitation letter from your host. If you are attending an event or conference, provide the event invitation or registration confirmation.

It's crucial to double-check the requirements and guidelines of the specific Chinese embassy or consulate where you will be submitting your application, as they may vary slightly. Make sure to prepare all the necessary documents in advance to avoid any last-minute complications and delays.

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When applying for a travel visa to China, it is crucial to complete the visa application form accurately and thoroughly. Any mistakes or missing information on the application form can lead to delays or even rejection of your visa application. To ensure a smooth and successful visa application process, follow these steps:

  • Obtain the correct visa application form: First, visit the official website of the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country to download the most recent version of the visa application form. Make sure you are using the correct form, as different types of visas may have different application forms.
  • Read the instructions carefully: Before filling out the application form, read the instructions and guidelines provided by the Chinese embassy or consulate. The instructions will contain valuable information regarding the specific requirements for each section of the application form.
  • Provide accurate personal information: Start by providing accurate personal information, such as your full name, gender, date of birth, and nationality. Double-check that all the information matches the details on your passport.
  • Provide details of your trip: Indicate the purpose of your visit, whether it is for tourism, business, or other reasons. Include the planned dates of entry and exit, as well as the cities you will be visiting in China. If you have already made hotel reservations or have a detailed itinerary, provide this information as well.
  • Fill in contact information: Include your current address, phone number, and email address. This information is important for communication purposes and may be used for further correspondence regarding your visa application.
  • Signature and date: Sign and date the application form, confirming that all the information you have provided is true and accurate to the best of your knowledge.
  • Check for completeness: Before submitting your application, review it thoroughly to ensure that you have completed all the required sections. Double-check that there are no mistakes or missing information.
  • Bring supporting documents: Along with your completed application form, you may need to provide additional supporting documents, such as a passport-sized photograph, a copy of your passport bio page, round-trip flight itinerary, hotel reservations, and a letter of invitation if applicable. Make sure to read the instructions provided by the Chinese embassy or consulate to determine which documents are required for your specific visa type.
  • Submit your application: Once you have completed the application form and gathered all the required supporting documents, submit your application to the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country. You may be required to do this in person or through a visa processing center, depending on the consulate's policies.
  • Pay the visa fee: Upon submitting your application, you will be required to pay a visa processing fee. The fee amount and payment method will vary depending on your nationality and the type of visa you are applying for. Make sure to inquire about the fee and payment requirements beforehand.

By following these steps and completing the visa application form accurately and completely, you can increase your chances of a successful visa application process. Remember to start the application process well in advance of your trip to allow sufficient time for processing and to avoid any unnecessary delays or complications.

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After you have gathered all the necessary documents and completed the application form, the next step is to submit your application for a travel visa to China. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to do it:

  • Find the nearest Chinese embassy or consulate: Determine the location of the Chinese embassy or consulate that is responsible for processing visa applications in your country. You can usually find this information on the official website of the Chinese embassy or consulate.
  • Make an appointment (if required): Some Chinese embassies or consulates require applicants to make an appointment in advance before submitting their visa application. Check whether this is necessary and book an appointment if required.
  • Visit the embassy or consulate: On the designated date and time, visit the Chinese embassy or consulate in person. It is advisable to arrive early to avoid any potential delays.
  • Submit your application documents: When you arrive at the embassy or consulate, you will be required to present your application documents. This typically includes your completed application form, a valid passport (with at least six months of validity remaining), a recent passport-sized photo, flight itinerary, hotel reservations, invitation letter (if applicable), and other supporting documents.
  • Pay the visa fee: At the time of submitting your application, you will also be required to pay the visa fee. The fee amount varies depending on the type of visa and your nationality. It is important to check the exact fee amount before visiting the embassy or consulate, as they usually only accept cash or certain types of payment.
  • Collect your visa: After you have submitted your application and paid the fee, you will be given a receipt or collection slip. This will have the date on which you can collect your visa. Make a note of this date and keep the receipt safe.
  • Await the visa processing time: The processing time for a Chinese travel visa can vary depending on various factors, such as the type of visa and the embassy or consulate's workload. It is important to be patient during this waiting period. The embassy or consulate will inform you when your visa is ready for collection.
  • Collect your visa: On the designated collection date, return to the embassy or consulate to collect your visa. Bring the receipt or collection slip given to you at the time of submission as proof of your application.

Remember, it is crucial to follow all the instructions provided by the Chinese embassy or consulate and to ensure that you have completed all the necessary paperwork accurately. Failure to do so may result in delays or rejection of your visa application.

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Frequently asked questions.

To apply for a travel visa to China, you will need to submit a completed visa application form, a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and two blank visa pages, a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of your travel itinerary including flight and hotel bookings. You will also need to provide proof of financial means to cover your expenses during your stay in China.

The processing time for a travel visa to China can vary depending on the embassy or consulate where you apply. Typically, it takes around four to five working days for the visa to be processed, but it can take longer if additional documents or information is required. It is recommended to apply for your visa well in advance of your planned travel date to allow for any unexpected delays.

No, currently, you cannot apply for a travel visa to China online. You will need to submit your application in person at the Chinese embassy or consulate in your country of residence. However, some embassies or consulates may offer the option of submitting the application by mail. It is advisable to check the specific requirements and procedures of the embassy or consulate where you plan to apply before submitting your application.

Michaela Krajanova

  • Michaela Krajanova Author Reviewer Traveller

Karisa Garcia

  • Karisa Garcia Author Reviewer Traveller

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The US National Park Permits You Need To Apply For

Posted: March 26, 2024 | Last updated: March 26, 2024

<p>Home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders on the planet, America’s national parks are unlike anywhere else on Earth. As more and more people are making the most of the great outdoors, the number of park visitors is on the rise. To keep places less crowded and maintain their natural beauty, several of the most popular parks and recreation areas have introduced lottery systems for visitors.</p>  <p><strong>Read on as we take a look at some of the best travel lotteries across the US you can enter...</strong></p>

Try your luck

Home to some of the most beautiful natural wonders on the planet, America’s national parks are unlike anywhere else on Earth. As more and more people are making the most of the great outdoors, the number of park visitors is on the rise. To keep places less crowded and maintain their natural beauty, several of the most popular parks and recreation areas have introduced lottery systems for visitors.

Read on as we take a look at some of the best travel lotteries across America you can enter...

<p>Nestled within California’s spectacular Sierra Mountains, at 14,494 feet tall, Mount Whitney is the highest peak of the lower 48 states. Hiking or backpacking up the incredible mountain requires a permit year-round which you can win through the Mount Whitney lottery. Though the lottery closed for 2024 entrants on 1 March, any unclaimed date slots from it will be released for reservation online on 22 April at 7am PST. </p>

Mt Whitney lottery, Sequoia National Park and Inyo National Forest, California

Nestled within California’s spectacular Sierra Mountains, at 14,494 feet tall, Mount Whitney is the highest peak of the lower 48 states. Hiking or backpacking up the incredible mountain requires a permit year-round which you can win through the Mount Whitney lottery. Though the lottery closed for 2024 entrants on 1 March, any unclaimed date slots from it will be released for reservation online on 22 April at 7am PST. 

<p>Permit winners can explore the famous Mount Whitney trail, which takes travelers on a challenging 22-mile round-trip to the rocky peak and back, offering jaw-dropping views across the wilderness and mountain scenery. The trail begins in the Inyo National Forest, gaining over 6,200 feet in elevation before reaching the Mount Whitney summit in Sequoia National Park. </p>

Permit winners can explore the famous Mount Whitney trail, which takes travelers on a challenging 22-mile round-trip to the rocky peak and back, offering jaw-dropping views across the wilderness and mountain scenery. The trail begins in the Inyo National Forest, gaining over 6,200 feet in elevation before reaching the Mount Whitney summit in Sequoia National Park. 

<p>Lying at the bottom of one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, Phantom Ranch is the only lodging facility below the Grand Canyon’s rim. With its remote location, the ranch can only be reached by mule, on foot or by rafting on the Colorado River. Built in the 1920s, the ranch includes dormitories, cabins and a canteen. Due to necessary repairs, the dormitories are currently closed, but to stay in the cabins and secure an overnight mule ride, guests will need to enter a lottery between the 1st and 25th of the 15th month before their desired month of stay.</p>

Phantom Ranch, Grand Canyon National Park, Arizona

Lying at the bottom of one of the world’s most incredible natural wonders, Phantom Ranch is the only lodging facility below the Grand Canyon’s rim. With its remote location, the ranch can only be reached by mule, on foot or by rafting on the Colorado River. Built in the 1920s, the ranch includes dormitories, cabins and a canteen. Due to necessary repairs, the dormitories are currently closed, but to stay in the cabins and secure an overnight mule ride, guests will need to enter a lottery between the 1st and 25th of the 15th month before their desired month of stay.

<p>Nestled along the Colorado River and tucked beside Bright Angel Creek, the ranch is around 4,600 feet below the canyon’s South Rim. Surrounded by the Grand Canyon’s stunning and mostly untouched landscape, the ranch has become a popular stop-over point for hikers and mule riders traveling to the bottom of the rim. With no phones or televisions, the lodge is the perfect spot for a secluded stay. </p>

Nestled along the Colorado River and tucked beside Bright Angel Creek, the ranch is around 4,600 feet below the canyon’s South Rim. Surrounded by the Grand Canyon’s stunning and mostly untouched landscape, the ranch has become a popular stop-over point for hikers and mule riders traveling to the bottom of the rim. With no phones or televisions, the lodge is the perfect spot for a secluded stay. 

<p>On the Alaskan Peninsula, the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary protects the largest concentration of brown bears in the world. Those wanting to see the bears will need to apply for the permit lottery which costs $30 to enter. After winning, guided viewing permits for visiting the sanctuary and attending bear viewing sessions cost $225 for Alaskan residents and $525 for non-residents. Camp-standby viewing permits allow visitors to camp and see the bears from the beach and campground area, and cost $112 for residents and $262 for non-residents.</p>

McNeil River Sanctuary, McNeil River State Game Sanctuary, Alaska

On the Alaskan Peninsula, the McNeil River State Game Sanctuary protects the largest concentration of brown bears in the world. Those wanting to see the bears will need to apply for the permit lottery which costs $30 to enter. After winning, guided viewing permits for visiting the sanctuary and attending bear viewing sessions cost $225 for Alaskan residents and $525 for non-residents. Camp-standby viewing permits allow visitors to camp and see the bears from the beach and campground area, and cost $112 for residents and $262 for non-residents.

<p>Spread across 200 square miles, the sanctuary is home to an abundance of wildlife including moose, wolves, bald eagles and waterfowl. Guided viewing permit winners will stay at a campground and watch the bears feed for typically six to seven hours a day. The permits are valid for a four-day period between 7 June and 25 August. Those interested can apply online or via a mail-in application by 1 March of the year you wish to visit. </p>

Spread across 200 square miles, the sanctuary is home to an abundance of wildlife including moose, wolves, bald eagles and waterfowl. Guided viewing permit winners will stay at a campground and watch the bears feed for typically six to seven hours a day. The permits are valid for a four-day period between 7 June and 25 August. Those interested can apply online or via a mail-in application by 1 March of the year you wish to visit. 

<p>With its jagged peaks, deep forest valleys, tumbling waterfalls and glittering glaciers, Washington’s North Cascades National Park is brimming with natural beauty. To stay overnight in the park’s backcountry landscape, permits are needed year-round. Those wanting a permit during peak season can apply for the early access lottery, which costs $6 to enter with a flat fee of $20 per permit. The lottery closed for 2024 entrants on 15 March, but if you were successful, you can then make an Early Access reservation between 25 March and 23 April. </p>

North Cascades National Park Backcountry Permits, North Cascades National Park, Washington

With its jagged peaks, deep forest valleys, tumbling waterfalls and glittering glaciers, Washington’s North Cascades National Park is brimming with natural beauty. To stay overnight in the park’s backcountry landscape, permits are needed year-round. Those wanting a permit during peak season can apply for the early access lottery, which costs $6 to enter with a flat fee of $20 per permit. The lottery closed for 2024 entrants on 15 March, but if you were successful, you can then make an Early Access reservation between 25 March and 23 April. 

<p>The park’s backcountry spans everything from pretty turquoise lakes to rugged mountain scenery, with almost 400 miles of trails slicing through it, making it ideal for climbing, hiking and camping. Visitors are limited to 14 days for the backcountry permit and 30 days per calendar year. </p>

The park’s backcountry spans everything from pretty turquoise lakes to rugged mountain scenery, with almost 400 miles of trails slicing through it, making it ideal for climbing, hiking and camping. Visitors are limited to 14 days for the backcountry permit and 30 days per calendar year. 

<p>Soaring nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, Half Dome is one of Yosemite National Park’s most striking sights. Visitors need a permit to hike the cables, which trail up the granite dome for safety and conservation purposes. Day hike permits are available via two lotteries: a preseason lottery which closes on 31 March 2024, and a two-day-in-advance lottery that dispenses a small number of day permits every day that the cables are up (until 19 May).</p>  <p><span><strong>Liking this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING</strong></span></p>

Cables on Half Dome, Yosemite National Park, California

Soaring nearly 5,000 feet above Yosemite Valley, Half Dome is one of Yosemite National Park’s most striking sights. Visitors need a permit to hike the cables, which trail up the granite dome for safety and conservation purposes. Day hike permits are available via two lotteries: a preseason lottery which closes on 31 March 2024, and a two-day-in-advance lottery that dispenses a small number of day permits every day that the cables are up (until 19 May).

Liking this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

<p>The Half Dome Cable Hike is a thrilling 16-mile round-trip with an elevation of up to 4,800 feet and takes about 10 to 12 hours to complete depending on skill level and weather. Those who reach the top of Half Dome will be rewarded with incredible views of Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap and Vernal Fall as well as sweeping panoramas across Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra mountains. </p>

The Half Dome Cable Hike is a thrilling 16-mile round-trip with an elevation of up to 4,800 feet and takes about 10 to 12 hours to complete depending on skill level and weather. Those who reach the top of Half Dome will be rewarded with incredible views of Nevada Fall, Liberty Cap and Vernal Fall as well as sweeping panoramas across Yosemite Valley and the High Sierra mountains. 

Coyote Buttes North forms a part of the 176-square-mile Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness Area which stretches across northern Arizona and southern Utah. To visit you’ll need to enter the permit lottery which costs $9, and, if selected, there is also a recreation fee of $7 per person or dog.

Coyote Buttes North Advanced Lottery (The Wave), Paria Canyon-Vermilion Cliffs Wilderness, Arizona and Utah

<p>A wild and remote landscape, Coyote Buttes includes the famous Wave, a distinctive red sandstone rock formation nestled between eroded sandstone domes. The rock layers have swirling patterns and have become one of the most photographed destinations in the southwest. The hike to the rocks is a challenging 6.4-mile round-trip through the wilderness, dotted with an array of incredible rock formations. The advance lottery for July is open now until 31 March 2024, or you can enter the daily lottery, where applications must be submitted two days before your planned hike.</p>

A wild and remote landscape, Coyote Buttes includes the famous Wave, a distinctive red sandstone rock formation nestled between eroded sandstone domes. The rock layers have swirling patterns and have become one of the most photographed destinations in the southwest. The hike to the rocks is a challenging 6.4-mile round-trip through the wilderness, dotted with an array of incredible rock formations. The advance lottery for July is open now until 31 March 2024, or you can enter the daily lottery, where applications must be submitted two days before your planned hike.

<p>Nicknamed 'the Great West Canyon,' Left Fork is often hailed as one of the most beautiful canyons in Zion. The deep gorge can be explored either by canyoneering or hiking, which requires a permit. An online advance lottery is held for all canyon trips between April and October, and applications must be submitted two months prior to your planned trip with up to three prioritized dates and a $6 fee. The permit is $10 per person.</p>

Left Fork (The Subway) of North Creek, Zion National Park, Utah

Nicknamed 'the Great West Canyon,' Left Fork is often hailed as one of the most beautiful canyons in Zion. The deep gorge can be explored either by canyoneering or hiking, which requires a permit. An online advance lottery is held for all canyon trips between April and October, and applications must be submitted two months prior to your planned trip with up to three prioritized dates and a $6 fee. The permit is $10 per person.

<p>Permit winners can explore the canyon’s most prominent feature, known as 'The Subway,' which is a pretty slot canyon featuring tumbling waterfalls, deep pools and narrow channels. Water flows through the long tubular passage with only a small opening above with waterfalls plunging down, making it a challenging climb. Some of the pools are so deep that visitors will have to swim or wade through them, and the water can be cold. </p>

Permit winners can explore the canyon’s most prominent feature, known as 'The Subway,' which is a pretty slot canyon featuring tumbling waterfalls, deep pools and narrow channels. Water flows through the long tubular passage with only a small opening above with waterfalls plunging down, making it a challenging climb. Some of the pools are so deep that visitors will have to swim or wade through them, and the water can be cold. 

<p>The world’s first national park which spans Wyoming, Montana and Idaho attracts around four million visitors each year. Those wanting to stay overnight in the park’s backcountry can enter the permit lottery which allows visitors to stay in a designated campsite. The early access lottery costs $10 to enter, with a recreation fee of $5 per person per night. The deadline for early access applications in 2024 has closed but keep an eye out for next year.</p>

Yellowstone National Park Backcountry Permits, Yellowstone National Park, Wyoming, Montana and Idaho

The world’s first national park which spans Wyoming, Montana and Idaho attracts around four million visitors each year. Those wanting to stay overnight in the park’s backcountry can enter the permit lottery which allows visitors to stay in a designated campsite. The early access lottery costs $10 to enter, with a recreation fee of $5 per person per night. The deadline for early access applications in 2024 has closed but keep an eye out for next year.

<p>Beyond its more developed areas, Yellowstone is home to 293 designated backcountry campsites and over 1,000 miles of trails through its diverse mountainous landscape. The maximum stay per campsite ranges from one to three nights per trip, while group size limits are between four to 12 people. </p>

Beyond its more developed areas, Yellowstone is home to 293 designated backcountry campsites and over 1,000 miles of trails through its diverse mountainous landscape. The maximum stay per campsite ranges from one to three nights per trip, while group size limits are between four to 12 people. 

<p>Once known as the Temple of Aeolus, with its incredible canyon scenery, Angels Landing in Utah is one of the most popular destinations in Zion National Park. Permits are needed to hike the rock formation, obtained through either a seasonal or day-before lottery. You can apply for a permit for up to six people, the application fee cost $6 plus a fee of $3 per person for the permit. The deadline for the next permit lottery (for 1 June to 31 August) is 30 April 2024.</p>

Angels Landing: Spring (Hikes on 1 March–31 May), Zion National Park, Utah

Once known as the Temple of Aeolus, with its incredible canyon scenery, Angels Landing in Utah is one of the most popular destinations in Zion National Park. Permits are needed to hike the rock formation, obtained through either a seasonal or day-before lottery. You can apply for a permit for up to six people, the application fee cost $6 plus a fee of $3 per person for the permit. The deadline for the next permit lottery (for 1 June to 31 August) is 30 April 2024.

<p>One of the world’s most renowned hikes, Zion Canyon’s 270-million-year-old ochre-hued landscape is truly breathtaking. An exhilarating trail was carved out in 1926 and climbs up to 5,790 feet in elevation towards the rocky summit. Hikers that are brave enough to reach the top are rewarded with jaw-dropping views across the park and beyond.</p>

One of the world’s most renowned hikes, Zion Canyon’s 270-million-year-old ochre-hued landscape is truly breathtaking. An exhilarating trail was carved out in 1926 and climbs up to 5,790 feet in elevation towards the rocky summit. Hikers that are brave enough to reach the top are rewarded with jaw-dropping views across the park and beyond.

<p>Located in northwest Montana, Glacier National Park is a hiker’s and camper's paradise. Standard group lottery applications for one to eight campers and large group lottery applications (nine to 12 campers) are now closed for 2024. However, from 1 May to 30 September 2024, all wilderness campgrounds not reserved will become available to the general public at the Recreation.gov website.</p>

Wilderness Camping, Glacier National Park, Montana

Located in northwest Montana, Glacier National Park is a hiker’s and camper's paradise. Standard group lottery applications for one to eight campers and large group lottery applications (nine to 12 campers) are now closed for 2024. However, from 1 May to 30 September 2024, all wilderness campgrounds not reserved will become available to the general public at the Recreation.gov website.

<p>A landscape of lofty peaks, ice-carved valleys, alpine lakes and rocky ridges blanketed in forests, the beauty of Glacier National Park is everywhere you look. The park’s wilderness area is made up of nearly one million acres of landscape with over 700 miles of trails slicing through it. </p>  <p><span><strong>Liked this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING</strong></span></p>

A landscape of lofty peaks, ice-carved valleys, alpine lakes and rocky ridges blanketed in forests, the beauty of Glacier National Park is everywhere you look. The park’s wilderness area is made up of nearly one million acres of landscape with over 700 miles of trails slicing through it. 

Liked this? Click on the Follow button above for more great stories from loveEXPLORING

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(Updated: October 11, 2023)

All receipts for payment of Machine-Readable Visa (MRV) fees issued before October 1, 2022, expired September 30, 2023. There will be no extensions of fee validity. Applicants must have scheduled an appointment or submitted an interview waiver application before September 30, 2023 to avoid paying a new fee. If you paid the MRV fee on or after October 1, 2022, you must have scheduled the appointment within one year of your MRV payment date. Please note that the interview itself does not need to take place within one year, but an interview appointment needs to be made in the system, even if it is scheduled months into the future. Furthermore, applicants using MRV fees paid before October 1, 2022 to book an appointment are cautioned not to attempt to change their appointment dates on or after October 1, 2023. Doing so will result in forfeiture of both the original appointment slot and the MRV fee receipt. The applicant will be required to pay a new fee and submit a new application package.

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  1. USTravelDocs

    Apply for a U.S. Visa. At this website, you can learn about obtaining a visa, as well as applying for your visa. How to apply for your nonimmigrant visa for travel to the United States. What documents, photos and information you need to apply for your visa. How to access visa application forms and instructions.

  2. U.S. Visas

    A citizen of a foreign country who seeks to enter the United States generally must first obtain a U.S. visa, which is placed in the traveler's passport, a travel document issued by the traveler's country of citizenship. Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the ...

  3. DS-160: Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application

    The DS-160, Online Nonimmigrant Visa Application form, is for temporary travel to the United States, and for K (fiancé (e)) visas. Form DS-160 is submitted electronically to the Department of State website via the Internet. Consular Officers use the information entered on the DS-160 to process the visa application and, combined with a personal ...

  4. Visitor Visa

    Generally, a citizen of a foreign country who wishes to enter the United States must first obtain a visa, either a nonimmigrant visa for a temporary stay, or an immigrant visa for permanent residence. Visitor visas are nonimmigrant visas for persons who want to enter the United States temporarily for business (visa category B-1), for tourism (visa category B-2), or for a combination of both ...

  5. Official ESTA Application Website, U.S. Customs and Border Protection

    You plan to travel to the United States for business or pleasure. ... The estimated average time to complete this application is 23 minutes. If you have any comments regarding this burden estimate you can write to U.S. Customs and Border Protection, Office of Regulations and Rulings, 90 K Street, NE, 10th Floor, Washington DC 20229. ...

  6. Visit the U.S. as a tourist

    Travel; Travel to or within the U.S. Visit the U.S. as a tourist. Visa Waiver Program and ESTA application; Get or renew a tourist visa; Check the status of your visa application; Visa application rejected; COVID-19 international travel advisories; Entering the U.S. from Canada, Mexico, the Caribbean, and Bermuda; Form I-94 arrival-departure record

  7. How to apply for or renew a U.S. tourist visa

    How to renew a visitor visa. You must renew your visitor visa at a U.S. embassy or consulate abroad. Only diplomatic visa holders and their dependents can renew their visas within the U.S. The process to renew a visitor visa is the same as getting one for the first time. Follow the process to apply for a visitor visa from the Department of State.

  8. Consular Electronic Application Center

    Welcome. Welcome to the Consular Electronic Application Center! On this website, you can apply for a U.S. Nonimmigrant Visa; apply to renew an A, G, or NATO Visa; apply for an Immigrant Visa; or check the status of your visa application. On this website, you can also pay certain fees associated with your Immigrant Visa application. Please note ...

  9. Nonimmigrant Visa

    The first step in applying for a U.S. nonimmigrant visa is to complete your application. It takes approximately 90 minutes to do this. After you submit your application, you can move on to the next steps such as scheduling your interview. Important: Before You Start. Learn about Types of Visas.

  10. Electronic System for Travel Authorization

    Electronic System for Travel Authorization. ESTA is an automated system that determines the eligibility of visitors to travel to the United States under the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Authorization via ESTA does not determine whether a traveler is admissible to the United States. U.S. Customs and Border Protection officers determine ...

  11. Visas

    Nonimmigrant visas allow people to visit the United States for short periods and for specific purposes. If you want to move here permanently, please see the information below on immigrant visas. A foreign national traveling to the United States for tourism needs a visitor visa (B-2) unless qualifying for entry under the Visa Waiver Program.

  12. U.S. citizens traveling abroad

    Authenticate an official document for use outside the U.S. Apostilles and authentication certificates show U.S. documents are genuine. Learn when to use each. Make traveling abroad easier: learn about visas, Trusted Traveler Programs, driving, and emergencies. Also, learn to authenticate documents with apostilles.

  13. Global Entry

    Last Modified: Oct 25, 2023. Trusted Traveler Program Enrollment Global Entry is a U.S. Customs and Border Protection (CBP) program that allows expedited clearance for pre-approved, low-risk travelers upon arrival in the United States. Members enter the United States by accessing the Global Entry processing technology at selected airports.

  14. How to Apply

    Submit an application and go through a registration process; Satisfy the eligibility criteria; Be admissible in Canada and the United States; and. Pass risk assessments by both countries. The application-processing fee of $50 (USD) per adult applicant is non-refundable. Children under the age of 18 must also apply and, if eligible, are admitted ...

  15. Apply for a U.S. Visa

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  16. Official U.S. Department of State Visa Appointment Service

    Welcome, U.S. Nonimmigrant Visa Applicants. You are at the official nonimmigrant (temporary) visa information and appointment website for the U.S. Embassy in Canada. Select this option if you have never used this site before and you have completed a DS-160 https://ceac.state.gov/genniv. Select this option to continue or review an existing visa ...

  17. Travel

    × 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.

  18. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Vietnam. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Hanoi and the Consulate in Ho Chi Minh City.

  19. Entering the U.S.

    Certain international travelers may be eligible to travel to the United States without a visa if they meet the requirements for visa-free travel. The Visa section of this website is all about U.S. visas for foreign citizens to travel to the United States. ... Plan your travel and visa application as far in advance as possible. Complete your ...

  20. Visas for U.S. citizens traveling abroad

    If you are a U.S. citizen planning to travel abroad, you may need a visa to enter a foreign country. Learn how to find your destination's visa requirements. While not all countries require visas for American travelers, many do. Look up your destination using the U.S. State Department's Learn About Your Destination search tool.

  21. A Comprehensive Guide To Applying For A Travel Visa To China

    To apply for a travel visa to China, you will need to submit a completed visa application form, a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity and two blank visa pages, a recent passport-sized photo, and proof of your travel itinerary including flight and hotel bookings. ... The world is a book, and those who do not travel read ...

  22. U.S. Passports

    Find Location to Apply. Passport News and Alerts. Apr 26, 2024. We're holding special Passport Fairs across the United States to help you get your passport. Adults who are first-time applicants and all children can apply early and avoid the rush! New events will be added each week.

  23. The US National Park Permits You Need To Apply For

    You can apply for a permit for up to six people, the application fee cost $6 plus a fee of $3 per person for the permit. The deadline for the next permit lottery (for 1 June to 31 August) is 30 ...

  24. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Nepal. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy Kathmandu, Nepal.

  25. Best No-Annual-Fee Travel Credit Cards Of April 2024

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  26. Apply for a U.S. Visa

    Apply for a U.S. Visa. Welcome to the U.S. Visa Information Service for Egypt. On this website you can find information about U.S. immigrant and nonimmigrant visas and the requirements to apply for each. You can also learn how to pay the required visa application fee, and book an interview appointment at the U.S. Embassy in Cairo.

  27. Closures begin May 15 for US 60 Queen Creek bridge project

    SUPERIOR - Motorists who travel on US 60 between Miami and Superior should plan ahead for about six months of three times-a-week daytime closures starting Wednesday, May 15, as rock blasting begins for a project to replace the Queen Creek and Waterfall Canyon bridges. When scheduled, the blasting will lead to closures of US 60 on Tuesdays, Wednesdays and Thursdays between 9 a.m. and 2 p.m ...

  28. U.S. Passports

    Routine: 6-8 weeks* Expedited: 2-3 weeks and an extra $60* *Consider the total time it will take to get a passport when you are booking travel. Processing times only include the time your application is at a passport agency or center.. It may take up to 2 weeks for applications to arrive at a passport agency or center. It may take up to 2 weeks for you to receive a completed passport after we ...