Many travelers, professionals, and aspiring expats weigh the ease of visa processes heavily when choosing their next destination. 

In fact, the simplicity of obtaining a visa can greatly influence tourist influx and relocation trends for a country.

Use this comprehensive guide to discover the countries with the most straightforward visa procedures.

We’ve broken them down into the various visa categories. 

Let your journey begin with confidence…

*Disclaimer: All amounts and facts mentioned in this article were correct and accurate at the time of publication and may have shifted since.

5 Factors That Make a Visa "Easy" to Obtain

When we talk about the “easiest visas”, we’re generally referring to a set of factors that make the process of obtaining a visa much simpler and more painless.

Here are the 5 main factors we believe directly impact the ease of getting a visa:

Application Simplicity

The fewer the steps and clearer the instructions, the easier the visa application process is likely to be. 

Straightforward online forms, concise document checklists, clear guidelines, and accessible applicant support services can significantly simplify the visa application experience for travelers.

Short Processing Time

No one wants to wait months on end for visa approval, especially when you’re trying to capitalize on a potentially time-sensitive opportunity. 

Countries with quicker turnaround times offer a more attractive proposition for tourists and expats alike.

Learn More: Quickest Visas

Lower Costs

High visa application fees can be a major deterrent to potential applicants. 

Countries that charge reasonable fees or even offer free visa-on-arrival services often see a higher interest from global visitors.

Learn More: Cheapest Visas

Less Stringent Eligibility Criteria

The fewer hoops to jump through, the less stressful it becomes to obtain a visa. 

Visas that require minimal documentation, less background scrutiny, and no stringent financial proofs are often perceived as more accessible.

Low Rejection Rates 

A country's reputation for having a high visa acceptance rate can be a magnet for travelers. 

Knowing that there's a lower likelihood of visa application denial boosts confidence and encourages more applications.

Easiest Tourist Visas

The easiest tourist visas arise from the visa policies and procedures of countries that are relatively straightforward, hassle-free, and designed to encourage tourism. 

These visas are usually granted for short durations and are meant primarily for leisure travel.

Under this category, countries with visa-on-arrival options or e-visa processes are the easiest.

Take a look at your options:

Countries With Visa-On-Arrival 

If you can’t travel visa-free, then visa-on-arrival is your next best option.

The following countries grant visas on arrival:

• Armenia
• Bangladesh
• Bolivia
• Cambodia
• Egypt
• Gabon
• Georgia
• India
• Kuwait
• Laos
• Nepal
• Papua New Guinea
• Qatar
• Saudi Arabia
• Taiwan
• Turkey
• Thailand
• Vietnam

Many of these on-arrival visas are only obtainable from certain entry points in the relevant country and may be: 

• single-entry only
• available for arrivals by air travel only
• valid for only 15 to 90 days
• available to specific nationalities only

It’s very important that you verify the exact terms of each country’s on-arrival visa before entering that country.

Countries With E-visa Processes

Most countries now offer e-visa processes, but you may still need to attend an in-person visa interview after completing the relevant online forms and document uploads. 

The following countries offer reasonably easy e-visa processes for tourists:

• Armenia 
• Bahrain 
• Cambodia
• Egypt 
• Gabon 
• Georgia
• India 
• Kenya
• Kuwait 
• Malaysia 
• New Zealand
• Rwanda
• Singapore 
• South Korea
• St. Kitts and Nevis
• Sri Lanka 
• Tanzania
• Turkey
• United Arab Emirates 
• Uganda 
• Zambia 
• Zimbabwe 

Easiest Working Holiday Visas

A working holiday visa (WHV) allows young people, typically aged between 18 and 30 (or 35 for some countries), to travel and work in a foreign country for an extended period.

The ease of obtaining a WHV often depends on bilateral agreements between countries and the applicant's nationality. 

Here are our top 10 countries known for relatively straightforward WHV processes, keeping in mind that the exact requirements can differ based on your nationality:

• Australia (Working Holiday Visa, Subclass 417, and the Work & Holiday Visa, Subclass 462): Available to ages 18-30 (some exceptions up to 35). This visa is valid for up to 12 months.
• New Zealand (Working Holiday Scheme): Available to ages 18-30 or 18-35, depending on your country of origin, and valid for up to 12 months (or 23 months for UK citizens).
• Canada (International Experience Canada - IEC): Ages 18-35, depending on the country of origin, and available under 3 categories (Working Holiday, Young Professionals, and International Co-Op).
• Japan (Working Holiday Visa): Ages 18-30, and generally valid up to 12 months.
• Ireland (Working Holiday Authorisation): Ages 18-30 or 18-35, depending on your country of origin, and valid up to 12 months.
• South Korea (H-1 Working Holiday Visa): Ages 18-30, and valid for up to 12 or 18 months, depending on your nationality.
• Taiwan (Working Holiday Scheme): Ages 18-30 or 18-35, depending on your nationality, and valid for up to 12 months.
• United Kingdom (Youth Mobility Scheme - Tier 5): Ages 18-30, and valid for up to 24 months.
• Germany (Working Holiday Visa): Ages and conditions vary based on bilateral agreements with partner countries, and is typically valid for 12 months.
• France (Working Holiday Visa): Ages 18-30 or 18-35 depending on your nationality, and valid for 12 months.

Remember

The ease of obtaining a WHV also depends on the number of slots available each year and the demand. 

Easiest Retirement Visas

Retirement visas are designed for foreign nationals who wish to retire in another country. 

The criteria for such visas typically involve proving a certain level of financial stability or income, and the specifics can vary greatly from one country to another. 

Here are 5 countries that are often cited for their relatively straightforward retirement visa processes:

• Mexico (Temporary Resident Visa & Permanent Resident Visa): The temporary visa under this category can be valid for up to 4 years and can then lead to a permanent visa. Financial proof typically involves showing a consistent monthly income or a certain amount in savings.
• Panama (Pensionado Visa): This is one of the most popular retirement visas worldwide, partly because it comes with various discounts for services in Panama, such as medical services, entertainment, and travel. You’ll require proof of lifetime monthly pension income to qualify.
• Malaysia (Malaysia My Second Home - MM2H): This visa is initially valid for 10 years and is renewable. It requires depositing a specific sum in a Malaysian bank (amount varies based on your age) and proving a regular monthly income.
• Costa Rica (Pensionado & Rentista Programs): For the Pensionado program, you’ll require proof of a monthly pension of a specific amount. If you opt for the Rentista program, you’ll need to provide proof of stable monthly income for at least 2 years or a lump sum that would generate such income. Both of these visa options grant temporary residency for 2 years and are renewable.
• Portugal (D7 Passive Income Visa): This visa is designed for retirees and those with regular passive income. You’ll need to provide proof of stable income, such as pensions, rental income, dividends, or other means. It can lead to permanent residency after 5 years and citizenship after 6 years.

Dive deeper 

While these countries offer relatively easy paths to obtain retirement visas, it's essential that you thoroughly research the specific requirements, benefits, and potential drawbacks before making a decision. 

Local immigration laws and requirements change, so it's always best to consult the latest official sources or consider getting advice from immigration experts or lawyers when considering retirement abroad.

Easiest Student Visas

Acquiring a student visa generally involves proving your admission to a recognized educational institution in the host country and showing sufficient funds to cover tuition and living expenses. 

However, the process can vary and is easier in certain countries. 

Here’s our expert list of the top 6 countries known for having relatively straightforward student visa processes:

Germany 

Germany’s student visa is known as the National Visa for Study Purposes.

The main features that make this student visa easy are listed below:

• No or low tuition fees: Many public universities in Germany charge no or very low tuition fees for international students, making it financially attractive.
• Clear financial proof: A blocked bank account system makes it clear exactly how much money students need to show as proof of funds.
• Efficient processing: Germany has a reputation for efficient administrative processes.

France 

France’s student visa is known as a Long Stay Study Visa.

The main features that make this student visa easy are listed below:

• Standardized requirements: France offers clear criteria for health insurance, proof of funds, and acceptance.
• Campus France: A centralized agency, Campus France, assists students throughout the application process, providing clarity and guidance.

Australia 

Known as a Student Visa - Subclass 500, this is one of the most popular student visas globally.

The main features that make this student visa easy are listed below:

• Streamlined visa processing: For students of participating universities, the visa process is streamlined, reducing the amount of documentation required.
• Unified student visa: A single visa subclass (subclass 500) covers all study areas, simplifying the process.

Canada 

Canada’s student visa is known simply as a Study Permit.

The main features that make Canada’s student visa easy are listed below:

• Work opportunities: The possibility to work while studying and post-graduation pathways to work make it an attractive choice.
• Clear online guidance: The Canadian immigration website offers clear guidelines, checklists, and online tools to guide applicants.
• Direct path to permanent residency: Programs like the Canadian Experience Class (CEC) and the Post-Graduation Work Permit Program (PGWPP) offer students a direct pathway to permanent residency.

New Zealand 

New Zealand’s student visa is simply named Student Visa.

The main features that make New Zealand’s student visa easy are listed below:

• Straightforward requirements: Clear criteria for admission, proof of funds, and insurance.
• Part-time work rights: Students are allowed to work part-time without seeking additional permissions, which can be an attractive proposition for many.
• Post-study work rights: New Zealand offers extensions for students to seek employment after their studies, providing an incentive for many to choose the country.

Spain 

Spain’s student visa is also known simply as a Student Visa.

The main features that make Spain’s student visa easy are listed below:

• Centralized process: The visa application process is standardized and centralized through Spanish consulates.
• Flexibility: Spain's student visa also allows for part-time work with the appropriate authorization, making it financially easier for students.
• Cultural programs: Spain offers various programs for cultural immersion and language studies, often with simplified visa processes.

While these countries are known for their relatively easy student visa processes, it's crucial to ensure that all specific requirements are met.

In general, what makes student visas "easy" is a combination of clear and standardized requirements, streamlined processes, support systems or agencies that assist students, and additional benefits like work rights or pathways to longer stays or permanent residency. 

Easiest Employment-Based Visas 

Employment-based visas are generally defined as visas awarded specifically based on a job offer that you've received.

Here’s our definitive list of the top 4 easiest employment-based visas globally:

Australia’s Temporary Skills Shortage Visa (Subclass 482)

This visa is Australia's effort to bridge its skills gaps with global talent.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest employment-based visas are listed below:

• Clear criteria: The visa has well-defined skill categories and occupation lists.
• Streamlined process: If the employer is already an approved sponsor, the process can be more straightforward.
• Online application: The entire process is digitized, making it more accessible.

Germany’s EU Blue Card 

This visa is aimed at non-EU nationals with recognized university degrees and a guaranteed job offer.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest employment-based visas are listed below:

• Unified European system: The Blue Card is a standard across the EU, simplifying the process for those who understand it.
• Salary thresholds: Instead of assessing job importance qualitatively, Germany uses salary as a metric, which provides clear cut-offs.
• Recognized qualifications: If your degree is recognized in Germany, it simplifies the process.

Ireland’s Critical Skills Employment Permit

The Ireland Critical Skills Employment Permit allows highly skilled professionals to work in specific sectors facing labor shortages in the country.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest employment-based visas are listed below:

• Targeted occupations: The visa targets specific high-demand occupations, so those in the right fields find it easier to apply.
• Clear guidelines: The process is transparent with clear documentation requirements.
• Fast-track residency: Given its link to critical skills, it offers a faster route to long-term residency.

United Kingdom's Skilled Worker Visa

The UK’s Skilled Worker Visa grants foreign professionals the right to work in the UK based on sponsorship from an approved employer and meeting specific job and salary criteria.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest employment-based visas are listed below:

• Sponsorship system: The UK uses a sponsorship system where employers play a vital role, making the process more defined.
• Transparent points system: Applicants can self-assess their chances based on clear criteria like salary, job level, and language proficiency.
• Job type categories: The UK provides a list of eligible jobs, simplifying the decision process.

Easiest Work Visas

Work visas typically relate to more general work permissions. 

A work visa typically grants the holder broader rights to seek and change employment in a foreign country; unlike employment-based visas, it’s not tied specifically to a particular employer or job offer.

We’ve compiled a list of the top 4 easiest work visas globally for you:

New Zealand’s Essential Skills Work Visa

New Zealand's Essential Skills Work Visa allows foreign workers to fill positions in sectors with skill shortages for a specified duration, with visa length determined by the job's skill band and salary.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest work visas are listed below:

• Clear criteria: Based on shortage skill lists.
• Duration flexibility: The length of visa varies with skill band and salary.
• Renewability: The ability to renew the visa based on local job market conditions.

South Korea’s E-7 Visa – Special Occupation

South Korea's E-7 Visa – Special Occupation permits foreign professionals to work in specific fields within the country based on their expertise and qualifications.¹

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest work visas to get are listed below:

• Defined professional fields: The visa has clear categories of eligible occupations.
• Flexibility: It's not strictly tied to one employer for the visa duration.
• Clear requirements: There's an emphasis on proven experience or relevant qualifications.

Japan’s Specified Skilled Worker Visa

Japan's Specified Skilled Worker Visa enables foreign workers to be employed in designated industries facing labor shortages, with the possibility of extending their stay based on skill enhancement.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest work visas to get are listed below:

• Targeted industries: The visa is for industries facing labor shortages.
• Flexibility: It allows changes in jobs within the designated industry.
• Skill enhancement: There are opportunities to extend stays based on improving skill levels.

Mexico’s Temporary Resident Visa

Mexico's Temporary Resident Visa allows foreigners to stay in Mexico for various purposes, including seeking employment, for up to 4 years with potential renewals.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest work visas to get are listed below:

• Broad purpose: It serves various purposes, including seeking employment.
• Initial flexibility: It may start with a specific job offer but offer some flexibility afterward.
• Extended stay: It's valid for up to 4 years, with renewals possible.

Easiest Business Visas

A business visa is typically issued to individuals traveling for short-term business-related purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiations, without taking up employment in the host country.

In our opinion, these are the top 4 easiest business visas available globally:

The USA’s B-1 Business Visa

The B-1 visa is specifically designed for short-term business activities, including consulting with business associates, attending professional conferences, or negotiating contracts.²

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest business visas to get are listed below:

• Clear guidelines: The US provides explicit guidelines about what activities are permissible under the B-1 visa, reducing ambiguity.
• Efficiency: The process for obtaining the B-1 visa, while thorough, is streamlined, with many applicants receiving decisions relatively quickly.
• Widely recognized: Many businesses and institutions across the world are familiar with the B-1 visa, making it easier for attendees and hosts to coordinate meetings, training, or other business-related activities.
• Extensions possible: Though initially short-term, in certain circumstances, B-1 visa holders can apply for extensions if their business needs require a longer stay.
• Visa Waiver Program (VWP): Citizens of countries under the VWP can enter the US for business (or tourism) for up to 90 days without obtaining a B-1 visa, further simplifying short-term business travel for many.

The United Kingdom's Standard Visitor Visa for Business Purposes

This visa permits a wide range of business-related activities like attending meetings, conferences, interviews, and negotiations.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest business visas to get are listed below:

• Clear criteria: The UK provides explicit guidelines on permissible business activities, ensuring applicants know precisely what is allowed under this visa.
• Unified visa: The same visa caters to tourists, business visitors, and others, simplifying the application process.
• Online application: The application can be completed and submitted online, making the process convenient and straightforward.
• Widespread acceptance: The UK frequently engages in international business, making its business visa process familiar and well-accepted among global professionals.

Schengen Area's Schengen C-Visa (Business Category)

This visa allows business professionals to travel freely within the 26 Schengen countries for meetings, conferences, and other business-related activities.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest business visas to get are listed below:

• Standardized requirements: With harmonized visa requirements across the Schengen Area, applicants face a consistent set of criteria regardless of which member country they apply through.
• Defined duration: Permits stays for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, aligning well with typical business trip durations.
• Efficient processing: Many Schengen countries have streamlined visa processing systems, leading to relatively quick decision times for applicants.

Australia's Business Visitor Visas (Subclass 600)

This visa is specifically designed for business people traveling to Australia for short-term business activities like general business or employment inquiries, negotiations, or participating in conferences.

The factors that make this visa one of the easiest business visas to get are listed below:

• Clear eligibility criteria: Australia provides straightforward guidelines on permitted business activities, reducing ambiguity for applicants.
• Electronic application: The eVisitor system allows eligible passport holders to apply online, simplifying the submission process.
• Fast processing: Many applications are processed quickly, especially when all required documentation is provided accurately.
• Broad scope: The visa encompasses a range of business-related activities, making it versatile for various short-term business purposes.

Easiest Digital Nomad & Remote Work Visas

Due to the rise of remote working, several countries have introduced digital nomad and remote work visas to draw people who can work from anywhere. 

Here’s our definitive list of the top 3 easiest digital nomad & remote work visas, based on accessibility, clarity of requirements, and benefits:

Estonia's Digital Nomad Visa

Estonia was one of the first countries to introduce such a visa specifically for digital nomads.

This visa has these characteristics:

• It allows remote workers to live in Estonia and legally work for their employer or their own company registered abroad.
• It has clear criteria based on income thresholds and proof of continuous remote work.
• It has a transparent application process laid out on official websites, with a list of required documents and steps.

Barbados' 12-Month Welcome Stamp

This visa allows remote workers to live and work in Barbados for up to 12 months.

This visa consists of the following:

• It has a straightforward online application process with a commitment to processing within 5 working days.
• There is no income tax on the money you earn during your stay.

Georgia's Remote Work Visa 

This visa permits international remote workers to live and work in Georgia for at least 360 days a year.

Here's what you should know about this visa:

• It targets freelancers, full-time employees, or business owners who can stay connected remotely.
• It has a simple application process with clear guidelines on required documentation.

Easiest Transit Visas

The ease of obtaining a transit visa often depends on the country's immigration policies, bilateral relations, and the applicant's nationality. 

However, some countries are generally known to have straightforward transit visa processes.

Here are the top 5 easiest transit visas to get, based on our seasoned experience:

• Germany’s Airport Transit Visa: For those who need it, the process is typically efficient if you can prove an onward journey and visa (if needed) for the next destination.
• France’s A Transit Visa: It has clear criteria based on the traveler's citizenship, residency status, and destination.
• Canada’s Transit Visa: This transit visa is free of charge, and many travelers can transit without a visa if they meet specific criteria under the Transit Without Visa (TWOV) program or the China Transit Program (CTP).
• Australia’s Transit Visa (subclass 771): It allows travelers to transit through Australia for up to 72 hours and has no application charge.
• The UAE’s Transit Visa: This visa is offered for 48-hour and 96-hour transits. Airlines frequently facilitate it, making the process even more convenient for travelers.

Easiest Immigrant Visas 

Immigrant visas, by nature, come with a more extensive set of criteria, given that they lead to permanent residency and potential citizenship. 

The relative ease or difficulty of obtaining an immigrant visa often hinges on an individual's circumstances, including their profession, familial connections, and other personal factors.

However, considering streamlined processes and clear criteria, here are 5 countries often cited for their relatively straightforward immigrant visa or residency by investment programs:

• Canada (Express Entry System): This operates on a points-based system that takes into account factors like age, work experience, education, and language proficiency. It has clear criteria, and regularly updated draws provide transparency. Its Provincial Nominee Programs (PNP) also offer additional pathways.
• Australia (General Skilled Migration Program): Points-tested visas like the Skilled Independent Visa (subclass 189) have clear criteria based on age, work experience, education, and language skills. It also has a well-defined occupation list that provides clarity for applicants.
• New Zealand (Skilled Migrant Category Resident Visa): It has a points-based system where factors like age, work experience, and qualifications are considered.
• Portugal (Golden Residence Permit Program): Offers residency through investment routes, such as real estate purchases or job creation. Moreover, it has clear investment criteria and the potential for eventual citizenship after 5 years.
• Malta (Individual Investor Program): Malta provides citizenship through investment, with clear financial criteria including donation, real estate investment, and stock or bond purchase. While it has a substantial financial requirement, the process and criteria are straightforward and well-regulated.

It's vital to note that "ease" can be subjective and highly dependent on individual circumstances. 

Always consult with immigration experts or official sources when considering immigration to a new country.

Learn More: Citizenship by Investment (CBI) and Residency by Investment (RBI)

Common Questions

In Conclusion

There are several countries with relatively straightforward and accessible visa procedures. 

While the definition of the "easiest" visa varies depending on individual circumstances, understanding and researching these options can greatly simplify your travel or relocation plans. 

Whether you're looking for a new adventure, a temporary stay, or a fresh start, the world is full of opportunities waiting for you, and the WorldPassports team can assist you along the way! 

Are you enjoying learning about the wide array of visas available to an enterprising traveler? 

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Learn More: What Exactly are Visas?