Jumping Through Hoops: Getting Your Visa

A visa is an important travel document when you're on the go. It is just as essential as your passport, as you can legally enter some countries without it. So it's no surprise that people often devote a lot of time in getting one. Here are a few ways in which you can get your visa.

• On Arrival. The easiest way to get a visa is just to arrive at the airport. Some countries provide short-term visas through an immigration officer at the airport. However, you'll still have to apply for a long-term visa if you intend to stay for some time.

• At the Embassy. You can apply for a visa at the appropriate embassy in your home country. Bring along your passport, your birth certificate, and other pertinent documents. Consult with the embassy first on the requirements, and how to fill up the visa application form. After that, you'll have to go through the visa application process, which can take some time.

Finally, there are actually visa application agencies who can help you process a visa. Just provide them with the relevant documents and payment for the fees. They'll help move your application through the process quickly. You may still have to make a personal appearance for an interview for some countries, but most of the heavy lifting will be done by the agency.