With global visa requirements evolving rapidly, I frequently receive questions about eVisas in my role as COO of Travel Document Systems (TDS). eVisas have become increasingly common since the global pandemic, as many countries shifted from traditional visa stamps in passports to electronic visas that can be sent via email directly to travelers.

At TDS, we have established a dedicated eVisa department to handle processing and navigate the many nuances associated with these electronic visas. Some of the most common questions we encounter include:

• Do travelers need to submit their actual passport? No. Only a scanned copy of the passport is required for eVisa applications.

• Are all countries’ eVisa requirements the same? Not at all. Each country has its own rules and procedures, so requirements can vary significantly.

• Is eVisa processing instant? Unfortunately, no. Even though eVisas are electronic, travelers must still go through a thorough security and approval process before a visa is issued.

It’s important to remember that issuing a visa—electronic or otherwise—is a sensitive matter. Immigration authorities carefully review each application to ensure compliance with national security and regulatory standards. While eVisas make the process more convenient, they do not eliminate the careful vetting that every traveler undergoes.

At TDS, our goal is to simplify the eVisa process for travelers while ensuring full compliance with each country’s immigration requirements. In today’s complex travel environment, having experienced guidance can make all the difference.