Completing my Brazil e-visa application brought back a memory I’ll never forget—my first encounter with travel visas, when I almost didn’t make my own wedding.
Flights? Already booked.
Wedding dress? Ready.
Life? About to change.
And for whatever reason—something I can only describe as God—we decided to stop by the Ghana Embassy before our flight. We had made other pre-travel arrangements, such as the yellow fever vaccination. Daniel thought we could apply for a visa on arrival.
When we told them our travel plans, they looked at me and said:
“You need a visa to enter Ghana… or you will not be allowed in.”
We immediately paid the rush fee so they could process the visa that same day.
That visa took up an entire page in my passport—a full 3-month visa stamped and sealed.
That was my introduction to international travel preparation.
The very next day, I had my second encounter with travel visas in Kenya. I tried to make the most of a layover to visit the giraffe sanctuary. I didn’t make it to the giraffe sanctuary, but I was able to get a visa on arrival right at the airport.
Same continent. Two completely different entry requirements.
Every Country Has Its Own Rules
That experience taught me something I will never forget:
There is no “one-size-fits-all” when it comes to travel visas.
- Some countries require a visa before you leave
- Some allow a visa on arrival
- Some require online pre-authorization
- And others? Just your passport
Therefore, before you travel internationally, you need to:
- Check visa requirements
- Confirm entry rules
- Give yourself enough processing time
And most importantly…
Don’t assume anything.
Do U.S. Citizens Need a Visa?
As of 2026, U.S. citizens can travel to 179 countries and territories without needing a visa in advance—or you can get one on arrival.
That means you can visit places like:
- Mexico
- Jamaica
- France
- Thailand
…with just your passport (and sometimes a quick form when you land).
But—and this is important—not every country operates this way.
Countries That Require Visas for U.S. Citizens
In several countries, you must apply for a visa before your trip.
Asia & Middle East
- Afghanistan
- Bhutan
- China
- India
- Iran
- Iraq
- Russia
- Saudi Arabia
- Syria
- Vietnam
Africa
- Algeria
- Cameroon
- Chad
- Ghana
- Liberia
- Libya
- Nigeria
- South Sudan
- Tanzania
- Uganda
Americas
- Brazil (visa requirement reinstated)
- Cuba (tourist card required)
- Suriname
Europe (Coming Soon)
Starting in the fourth quarter of 2026, U.S. travelers will need ETIAS authorization to enter countries like:
- France
- Italy
- Spain
This is not a visa, but a required pre-screening before entry. Visitors from over 60 exempt countries must obtain an ETIAS authorization before traveling to 30 European countries. The digital authorization will cost $23, cover short-term stays, last 3 years, and must be obtained online before travel. No charge for those under 18 or over 70.
My Brazil E-Visa Process
Let me bring this home with a real example.
Before my trip to Brazil, I had to apply for a visa. A friend of mine told me that she knew someone who did not apply for their Brazil visa in advance and was not allowed to enter the country.
Here’s what that process looked like:
What I Needed:
- Completed the visa application that I completed online
- Valid passport (with at least 6 months’ validity). I had to submit a photo of my Bio page.
- Passport photos (not a screenshot of a photo in the passport)
- Expected travel arrival and departure
- Visa fee $80.90 ($80 visa fee + .90 service fee).
Processing Time:
The site stated it would typically take 10 business days. I applied on 4/6/2026 and received my e-visa on 4/7/2026. I received my visa via email and was directed to bring two copies with me to Brazil.
Pro Tip:
The Brazilian government recommends applying 2-3 months in advance to avoid stress. I’m going in June, which is considered their shoulder season or low season. I can’t imagine how long it takes to process visas during Carnival Season (a five-day festival held annually from the Friday before Ash Wednesday to Ash Wednesday), which attracts over 1 million international tourists. Thankfully, once you are approved for the Brazilian visa, it lasts for 10 years.
Why You Should Always Double-Check
Visa rules can change quickly.
Before you book, always check the U.S. Department of State website and the websites of the Embassy or consulate in your destination.
This ensures you have the correct documents, avoid being denied boarding, and you travel confidently and prepared.
Who knew that after such a beautiful and momentous time at the Dead Sea, I would be stranded at the Dead Sea, the lowest point on Earth.
I’m happy we could laugh about it in the moment, but being stranded in another country can be truly frightening.
We got stuck at the Dead Sea in Israel because we did not book our second leg to the next city. We thought we could just pay and get on the bus. Every time a bus showed up, it was full, so we had to think on our feet and basically, hitchhike to the next city.
My goal is to keep you from learning lessons the hard way as I did.
Helpful Links
Before you book your next trip…
1 | Discover your travel style so you can plan with confidence
2 | Grab my First-Time International Travel Starter Kit for pre-sale (perfect if you’re just getting started)
3 | And if you want a done-for-you experience, let me create your custom itinerary.
Want Help Planning Your First International Trip?
I create customized travel itineraries for first-time and infrequent international travelers who want a clear plan without the overwhelm. Let’s turn your dream trip into a real itinerary.
