Navigating the eVisa Application for Dual Citizens
If you have dual citizenship, you may be worried that traveling with an eVisa may be complicated. However, for most destinations, that’s not the case. You just need to be aware of some peculiarities related to navigating electronic visa applications when having two passports.
With some knowledge, eVisa can significantly simplify entry procedures and make your trip more enjoyable.
Doing Research
First of all, start with learning the entry requirements for both countries of your citizenship. Often, conditions are different: your destination may offer an electronic visa only to one of them.
Also, even if the eVisa is available for both passports, it is possible that the requirements are not the same. For example, to apply with the first passport, you need to prepare more documents, such as a visa/residence permit from an eligible country, proof of sufficient funds, onward tickets, etc.
Another important thing to note is that the validity, allowedperiod of stay, and price for one type of eVisa may vary depending on nationality.
Therefore, research the offers for both your passports and choose the most suitable one, requiring fewer documents, allowing to stay in the desired country for a longer period, or just charging less.
Preparing the Documents
Once you know what is necessary to complete the eVisa application, start gathering the mandatory documentation. The most important document for international travel is your passport.
Make sure both your passports stay valid for at least 6 months from the planned date of arrival.
Other documents depend on the chosen type of visa. They must be recent and relevant. Moreover, some of the documents will contain your passport details. It is crucial that these data match the passport you are applying with. Otherwise, your visa may be denied.
Keep in mind that the copies of documentation must be clear, of decent quality, and show all the information. You can use a scanner or your smartphone/tablet camera.
Completing the eVisa Application
The next step is to fill out the electronic visa application. It is essential to be attentive during this process and provide only true and accurate information.
You need to enter your personal details (name, surname, birthdate, nationality, etc.) and travel data (travel dates, port of entry, purpose of travel, and others).
The eVisa application form should contain the details of the passport that you will use for this trip. They must match your travel document exactly.
Additionally, the form may request information about your dual citizenship. You must answer all the questions, providing actual details. False data may cause not only visa refusal but also legal consequences.
Attach appropriate documentation to the form, make the payment, and wait for the notification. Often check your inbox to know the result as soon as it arrives. The approval will come as a PDF document. It will be sent directly to your email address.
Sometimes, you may receive requests regarding additional information or documents. Your timely reply will speed up processing.
Traveling with an eVisa
Before departure, you must ensure you have all the obligatory documents to enter your destination without issues. Even though many countries support digital copies, we strongly advise that you carry a printout. Technical issues do happen, so taking a physical copy can save your trip.
Bring both your passports to the trip. Check again if the information on the issued eVisa matches your passport. Visit the official sources to get the latest updates on the entry rules of your destination: entry policies and vaccination requirements may change at any minute.
When going through the border control, show the passport you used for your visa application. However, keep the other passport nearby, as you will be asked to provide it as well.
Remember that you can enter your destination only during the visa validity period. If you meet all the entry requirements, your travel with an eVisa will be smooth and problem-free.
