These 15 destinations still require paperwork before you can visit.
If you hold an American passport, you’re probably used to traveling internationally with relative ease. You may be surprised, then, to learn several countries still require Americans to jump through some paperwork hoops to visit. As of this writing, at least 15 countries require American citizens to obtain either a tourist visa or another form of electronic travel authorization prior to visiting.
Note: this list focuses on countries actively issuing visas to Americans; it doesn’t include places the State Department has flagged with Level 4 “don’t go there” advisories.
The Electronic Authorization Gang
United Kingdom The Brits have joined the digital age with their Electronic Travel Authorization; think of it as the UK’s version of America’s own ESTA system. For about $22 (16 British pounds), you’ll get a two-year pass that allows multiple visits up to six months each. Processing takes up to three business days, so don’t leave it until the last minute. Apply online or through the app.
Australia The Land Down Under requires an Electronic Travel Authority that’s surprisingly affordable at roughly $13 (20 Australian dollars). The beauty of this one? It typically processes within a single business day and gives you unlimited three-month stays over 12 months. Perfect for multiple Sydney-to-Melbourne adventures.
New Zealand The Kiwis keep things interesting with their Electronic Travel Authority, which costs different amounts depending on how you apply. Use their app for $10 (17 NZ dollars) or go online for $14 (23 NZ dollars). Here’s the kicker: you’ll also need to pay a 100 NZ dollar ($59) International Visitor Conservation and Tourism Levy. Think of it as your contribution to keeping those stunning landscapes pristine.
Kenya Kenya’s Electronic Travel Authorization runs $30 and gives you 90 days from issuance to use it. Processing typically takes three business days, making it fairly straightforward for safari planning.
The Traditional Visa Countries
China Still the champion of visa complexity, China requires a full tourist visa that’ll set you back $140. You’ll need to apply online first, then visit a Chinese embassy or consulate in Chicago, Los Angeles, New York City, San Francisco, or Washington, D.C. Plan for four business days processing time, and you’ll typically get 60 days per visit.
Brazil As of April 2025, Brazil now requires an eVisa costing $80.90. The good news? It’s valid for 90 days of travel within one year, and processing takes up to five business days. Perfect for exploring everything from Rio’s beaches to Amazon adventures.
India India’s eVisa system is straightforward, with costs ranging from $10 to $80 depending on when you visit and how long you want the visa to last. Processing takes 72 hours, and you’ll get 30 days of travel validity over one year.
Bolivia Bolivia hits Americans with a hefty $160 visa fee, one of the priciest on this list. You can apply online, in person at a Bolivian embassy in the U.S., or even at the border. The visa gives you 30-day visits totaling 90 days within one year.
Egypt Egypt offers flexibility with their eVisa; apply online beforehand or get one on arrival at Egyptian airports. A single-entry visa costs $25, while multiple entries run $60. You’ll get 30 days of travel within a 90-day window.
Vietnam Vietnam’s electronic visa is reasonably priced at $25 for single entry or $50 for multiple entries. Processing takes three business days, and you’ll have 90 days from issuance to use it for single or multiple visits.
Ghana Ghana requires some patience with their visa process: 15 to 20 business days from when they receive your hard-copy application. Single entry costs $60, multiple entries $100. You’ll get either one 30-day visit over three months or multiple visits over a longer period.
Myanmar Myanmar’s tourist eVisa costs $50 and gives you 28 days of travel within 90 days of issuance. Processing takes three business days.
Indonesia Indonesia offers a visa on arrival you can apply for online beforehand. It costs 500,000 Indonesian rupiahs (about $30) and gives you 30 days within 90 days of issuance.
The Unique Cases
Pakistan Pakistan offers free online visas (though processing details vary) that are valid for multiple visits within 90 days. Processing typically takes just one business day.
Bhutan Bhutan takes a completely different approach with a $40 application fee plus a $100 daily Sustainable Development Fee for adults ($50 for kids 6-11; free for under 6). Children under 6 travel free of the daily fee. You’ll need to work with a local tour operator, and processing can take up to five business days.
Twist’s Take: The world might be getting smaller, but some destinations still want to know you’re coming. Be sure to check visa requirements before your flight!