Home / How Much Is A Passport In California?

How Much Is A Passport In California?

Budgeting an upcoming trip, especially one that requires international travel, can be a stressful and confusing process for many. There are a number of things you need to take into consideration, including lodging, activity-planning, and transportation costs, and you might not know where to begin when it comes to estimating costs. All you want to do is focus on packing your bags and having an amazing time, but planning your trip might be leaving you with little motivation. Fortunately, there are some costs that are likely much easier to factor in than you think, because they’re the same no matter what part of the United States you live in. If you’re a Californian with the question- How Much Is A Passport In California?– Travel Visa Pro passport agency is a place with an answers!

U.S. passports cost the same for all U.S. citizens. This means that you’ll be paying the same price at any passport acceptance facility across the nation for your documentation. Passport books, which are required for international air travel, cost $110 while passport cards cost $30. Passport cards are cheaper and more convenient, as they’re able to be tucked into your wallet, have the same validity as a passport book (ten years for adults and five years for those under 16), and are valid forms of identification and serve as proof of citizenship, but they won’t be accepted if you’re traveling by plane. Furthermore, if you’re traveling by cruise ship, it would be wise (and might even be required of you by the cruise line) to take a passport book with you to ensure that you can fly home from the nearest airport if there is an unexpected emergency situation. You can, however, use passport cards if you’re traveling by personal watercraft or by car. No matter what type of passport you opt for, you’ll need to pay a separate execution fee of $25.

In addition to fronting the payment for your documents, you’ll need to go through an entire application process. After you make it through this process, it will take you four to six weeks to receive your passport in the mail, but you can upgrade to an expedited passport service for an extra cost and receive your passport within two to three weeks. Some agencies that provide expedited services, such as renewals, can have your passport to you in as little as 24 hours. Be sure to speak with an agent about your needs and see what can be done for you!

Your passport application will need to be filled out and submitted in person, and you should expect to fill out a DS-11. You’re going to need to have multiple forms of identification prepared when you make it out to the passport acceptance agency.

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What are passports used for?

A passport is a travel document that essentially gives you permission to enter your destination country by verifying your trip details, identity, and citizenship status. Unlike passport cards, passport books have the ability to collect visas for different countries. They have 28 pages, 17 of those pages being visa pages, and you may request a 52-page passport book at no additional cost by checking the box that reads “52 page” on your DS-11. Passport cards, though, are handy alternatives for those who know they won’t be traveling by air.

You should be prepared to provide your social security number, if you have one, or a signed and dated statement reading, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” if you do not. Furthermore, you’ll need to submit evidence of U.S. citizenship, a photocopy of the front and back of that evidence, and one more valid form of identification as well as a photocopy of the front and back of that identification. Acceptable forms of citizenship evidence include valid and undamaged U.S. passports, Certificates of Citizenship, Certificates of Naturalization, U.S. birth certificates, and Consular Reports of Birth Abroad or Certifications of Birth. As for identification, a valid driver’s license, military ID, or government ID will suffice. You should also bring a photo of yourself that follows all passport photo guidelines or be prepared to have a photo taken on-site.

How Much Is A Passport In California?

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Acquiring a passport in the state of California doesn’t need to be difficult! Travel Visa Pro has offices in San Francisco, Los Angeles, San Diego & San Jose with agents who are happy to walk you through the paperwork, get your photo taken care of, and help you feel confident in your itinerary as you become one step closer to going abroad. Our team stays updated on all rules and regulations by communicating with consulates and embassies all over the globe, and we can’t wait to hear more about your needs! Reach out and take a closer look at our website today to find out how we can give you an absolutely seamless experience.

Home / Do I Need A Visa To Go To Costa Rica?

Do I Need A Visa To Go To Costa Rica?

It can be difficult and confusing to try and conduct research on what you’ll need to have prepared for an adventure abroad. With all of the paperwork there is to go through and documents that you may be required to have in order to enter specific territories, you might be feeling a bit overwhelmed. Fortunately, Travel Visa Pro is here to give you the scoop on everything you need to know about your upcoming trip to Costa Rica.

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If you’re a citizen of the United States that’s ready to explore the magnificent rainforests of Costa Rica, you’re likely wondering what you’re going to need for your upcoming trip. While you will definitely be needing a passport to enter and exit this Central American country, the good news is that you will not be needing a visa if you’re a tourist with intentions of staying in Costa Rica for less than 90 days.

But, you will be needing a passport that is valid through your length of stay. Keep in mind that passport books are required for international air travel, whereas passport cards can be used for travel by land and/or sea. Passport cards are cheaper and more convenient options for those who won’t be boarding a plane, as they can fit in your wallet, serve as proof of citizenship and verify your identity, and have the same validity as passport books – ten years for adults and five years for children under 16. You should always carry your identification with you, including your passport. Expedited passport services can be found here.

In addition to your passport, you’ll also need to present proof of funds. You will need to prove that you have at least $100 for every month you plan on spending in Costa Rica. You will also need to present your return ticket to show that you intend to leave on a specific date. There will be a $29 tax to exit the country. You should check with your airline to see if this fee was included when you purchased your plane ticket.

Visa regulations change every so often, so it’s important to do your research and work with an agent who stays up-to-date on Costa Rican visa regulations. Travel Visa Pro’s agents work closely with consulates and embassies across the globe to ensure that you’re presented with accurate information before moving ahead with your paperwork.

It’s still important to know what visas are needed in different scenarios in case you find yourself needing to acquire one or you’re informed of a change in regulations. Visas are authorization stamps, stickers, or records that are placed in your passport book to verify that you have permission from your destination country to enter, remain in, and exit specific territories. They tend to specify the length of your stay, reason for visiting, how many visits you are allowed to make in a certain period of time, your scheduled date of entry, and whether or not you may study or work during your trip. In some countries, visas are separate from formal permission to enter, and immigration officials can revoke your visa at any time. These officials typically review your circumstances when you arrive, including your financial situation and reason for visiting, before they decide whether or not you may enter.

If you’ve found that you do need a visa before beginning your journey, you’ll need to apply for one in advance either by mail, online, or in person. There are many different types of visas, so don’t be afraid to ask for help if you’re having trouble figuring out which type best suits your needs. Some visas are for visits as short as a few days while some allow you to stay in the country for months or years at a time. You might need a visa even if you’re just passing through a certain country to get to your final destination! (This is called a transit visa.) Some visas, on the other hand, are stepping stones toward permanent residency.

You’ll need a business visa for business trips, a tourist visa if you’re visiting a country for fun with no intention of working during your stay, a private visa if you’re staying with residents of your destination country, or a working holiday visa if you’re a student looking to work temporarily while you’re abroad, an athletic, artistic, or cultural exchange visa if you’re an athletic or artistic performer who’s performing abroad, competing abroad, or taking part in a cultural exchange program. You might also be able to get a visa if you’re looking to receive medical treatment abroad.

If you’re in need of a longer trip abroad, you might need one of the following visas: a refugee visa if you’re seeking shelter and fleeing a dangerous situation in your home country, a pilgrimage visa if you’re traveling for an educational and meaningful religious experience, a temporary worker visa if you’re going on a lengthy business trip but not looking to stay in your destination country permanently, a student or research visa if you’re a student looking to study or conduct research abroad, an asylum visa if you’ve been exiled from your home country or are in fear of persecution, a retirement visa if you’re looking to retire in your destination country, an immigrant visa if you’re looking to become a permanent citizen of your destination country, a residence visa if you’re looking to become a permanent resident of your destination country, a spouse visa if you’re looking to settle with your partner in your destination country, or a marriage visa if you plan to be wed in your destination country.

So, Do I Need A Visa To Go To Costa Rica?

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There are all sorts of options available when it comes to finding the perfect visa for your circumstances, and we recognize how complicated it can be to figure everything out on your own. Travel Visa Pro is eager to give you a memorable and magical adventure by taking on the hard work, guiding you through the documentation process, and avoiding unnecessary hiccups. We encourage you to explore more of our website and give us a call today to find out how we can help make your experience absolutely seamless!

Home / How Much Is A Passport In Texas?

How Much Is A Passport In Texas?

One of the most stressful parts of traveling abroad can be budgeting your trip. With transportation, lodging, and activities needing to be scheduled and accounted for, it can be difficult to determine the cost of your trip ahead of time. Thankfully, some prices never change no matter your starting location. If you’re a Texan with the question How Much Is A Passport In Texas?- Travel Visa Pro is here with answers! Expedited passport services available at Travel Visa Pro. Contact our office for more information.

U.S. passports cost the same in every state. Passport books, which are required for those traveling abroad by plane, are $110. Passport cards, which are good for travel by land or sea, are $30. You can get both a passport book and a passport card for $140. Execution fees are paid separately and are $25.

In addition to putting forward the payment, there’s an entire application process one must go through to obtain a passport. It typically takes four to six weeks for one to receive their passport. If you require expedited services, you may receive it in two to three weeks. At passport agencies, expedited services can allow you to have your passport in your hands even faster. Expedited renewals can have a turnaround time of as short as 24 hours.

Your application must be submitted in person and you’ll need to have plenty of identification prepared. The form you’ll have to fill out is called a DS-11.

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What is a passport, anyway?

A passport is a travel document that serves as a form of identification and proof of citizenship, and it verifies your international destination. As mentioned, passport books and passport cards are different. Passport books contain 28 pages, 17 of which can hold visa stamps. Passport cards have been made available since 2008 and are a cheaper, more convenient option that can be used by those traveling exclusively by land and/or sea. They’re the size of a driver’s license or credit card and can prove your citizenship and verify your identity, but they can’t be used to collect visas and cannot be used for air travel. If you’re traveling by cruise ship, it’s always a good idea to have a passport book rather than a card in case you find yourself in an emergency situation that requires air travel. It might even be required by the cruise line that you bring a passport book rather than a card. Passport books and passport cards have the same validity, lasting up to ten years for adults and five years for those who are younger than 16.

Got it! I have my payment ready, but what else do I need?

When you’re filling out your application form, you’ll need to provide your social security number. If you have never been issued one, you’ll need to submit a signed and dated statement that says, “I declare under penalty of perjury under the laws of the United States of America that the following is true and correct: I have never been issued a Social Security Number by the Social Security Administration.” You can request a passport book that contains 52 pages if you so desire by checking the box on your DS-11 that says “52 page.” This will not cost you any additional fees.

You must submit an original document or certified copy that contains evidence of U.S. citizenship. Acceptable documents include U.S. birth certificates, valid, undamaged U.S. passports, Consular Reports of Birth Abroad or Certifications of Birth, Certificates of Naturalization, and Certificates of Citizenship. Birth certificates must be issued by the city, county, or state of birth and need to include your full name, date of birth, place of birth, and your parent(s)’ full names. It must have the date filed with the registrar’s office within one year of your birth and must include the registrar’s signature and have the seal of issuing authority. You must also submit a photocopy of the front and back of your U.S. citizenship evidence. This photocopy should be legible, in black and white, and on white, standard 8.5″x11″ single-sided paper. A second certified copy rather than a photocopy will also be accepted. Finally, you will need to present one more form of ID that can readily identify you as well as a photocopy of that ID.

How Much Is A Passport In Texas?

Obtaining a passport in Texas doesn’t have to be difficult! Reach out to Travel Visa Pro today to learn more about the passport services we offer. We’re here to help you make it through the application process without any unnecessary hiccups. It’s time for you to focus on packing your bags while we take care of the paperwork! What are you waiting for? Take a closer look at our website and give our team a call today!

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Home / Can You Smile In A Passport Photo?

Can You Smile In A Passport Photo?

Applying for the travel documents necessary for international exploration can be quite a confusing process. Between passports and visas, there are all kinds of guidelines and regulations that one needs to be aware of as they enter the application process and prepare for an adventure abroad. Taking a passport photo, for instance, might sound like a simple concept, but there are many rules that one must follow as they capture their self-portrait.

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Passports serve not only as a place to stamp visas that allow you to enter certain countries, but they serve as a form of identification and proof of citizenship. This means a photo is required in your passport application to ensure that you can be properly identified. That being said, it’s crucial that your photo does not show you making any silly or unnatural expressions.

If you’re wondering whether or not you’re allowed to smile for your passport photo, the answer is that it depends on the type of smile you’re going for. If you want to show off a wide grin, you’re going to have to save that for another occasion. Only a slight, natural smile is acceptable in a passport photo, and neutral expressions are actually preferred.

There are guidelines beyond those regarding your facial expression. You must face the camera directly with your entire face visible, not to be obstructed by hair or clothing, and both of your eyes must be completely open. It’s acceptable for infants to have their eyes partially or completely closed in their photos, but older children and adults may not have their eyes closed in the slightest.

In addition to your eyes being completely open, they must also be completely visible. You may not wear any glasses, including sunglasses, tinted glasses, and prescription glasses. If you cannot remove your glasses for medical reasons, you must include a statement from your doctor when you submit your application. Hats, hoods, and headwear should be removed as well, not including headwear that is worn for medical or religious purposes. A signed statement from your doctor should be included with passport photos that include medical headwear, and photos that include religious headwear should be submitted alongside a statement verifying that the headwear is customarily worn in public as part of a recognized religious tradition. If you are wearing headwear in your photo, it must not cast shadows upon your face or obscure your face or head in any way. You may not be wearing headphones or any sort of wireless devices in your photo. You may wear everyday accessories, such as earrings or necklaces, so long as they do not obscure your face or head.

It’s also important that you avoid wearing any uniforms, clothing that resembles a uniform, or camouflage print. Your clothing should be the same as it would be on an average day.

If you’re wondering about natural changes caused by aging, such as the growth of a beard, or unnatural changes such as dyed hair, piercings, or tattoos, don’t fret too much; you should still be recognizable and identifiable. You will only need to apply for a new passport if you’ve grown to look completely different or have body modifications that have drastically changed your appearance. Children will not need to apply for a new passport as they go through the natural aging process.

Infants can have their photo taken while they are laying down, but guidelines are otherwise the same as with older children and adults. No shadows or articles of clothing may obscure their face or head, and no other person should be visible in their photo.

The production process is as important as your appearance. You’ll want to make sure you take your photo in front of a solid white or off-white background that’s free of shadows, lines, or patterns of any kind. You should be sure to take your photo in color and have the exposure set to show your skin tone accurately. Make sure that your head is in the center of the photo, with the print size being two inches by two inches (2”x2”) and your head size being between between one inch and 1.4 inches (1” to 1.4”). The camera should be positioned carefully to avoid a fish-eye effect from being too close to you and to avoid making you appear too small to be properly identified. Furthermore, your camera should always be in focus, and your printer settings should be adjusted to avoid any visible printer dots, pixels, or blurriness. Grainy textures or blurry subjects can make it difficult to identify the person in the photo.

You should never crop out your original background and replace it in editing instead of using an original white background. This will alter your body’s outline. The only acceptable photographic alteration is the removal of red eye. Professional photographers will be happy to help you get the perfect passport photo, but these guidelines should always be followed no matter who is taking your photo.

If you’re still lost when it comes to capturing and printing an acceptable photo, you can always reach out to Travel Visa Pro for help! Step inside one of our many offices to get your photo taken, printed, and added to your application. Our team offers a wide variety of expedited passport services, and we’re happy to walk you through your paperwork to ease your worries and ensure that you have a seamless travel experience. Give us a call or explore our website to learn more about how we can help! It’s time for you to pack your bags and let us take care of the hard work.

Home / What Does VISA Stand For?

What Does VISA Stand For?

When it comes to international travel, there’s paperwork that needs to be submitted before you have everything you need, and all of the required documentation can be difficult to understand. Passports and visas in particular can be quite confusing, so it’s important to get the scoop on what’s what before you make your way through the application or renewal processes.

You might be wondering what the term “visa” stands for. The truth is, while some people might say it stands for Verified International Stay Approval or Virtual Important Stamp Authorization, the term “visa” is a simple noun rather than an acronym. A visa is an authorization sticker, stamp, or record that is placed in your passport book to verify that you have formal permission to enter, remain in, and/or leave a certain country.

Visas tend to specify the length of your stay, your scheduled date of entry, what territories you’re allowed to visit, how many visits you’re allowed to make, and whether or not you’re allowed to study or work during your trip.

A visa isn’t necessary for every country, but requirements and regulations are constantly changing, so it’s best to do your research or speak with a representative from a passport agency to ensure that you’re kept up to speed on the latest information regarding your destination. In some locations, visas are separate from formal permission to enter the country, and they never guarantee entry; immigration officials can revoke your visa at any time. They typically review travelers’ circumstances, including financial situations and reasons for visiting, before deciding whether or not the individual may enter the country. Some destinations might not require a visa at all, especially for short visits. If you find that you do need a visa, you’ll need to apply for one in advance, and you may do so by mail, in person, or online.

You can contact Travel Visa Pro for assistance figuring out what is expected of you, or you can visit one of our many offices throughout the United States if you’re looking for expedited passport services and help getting through all of the paperwork! Our agents remain in close contact with embassies and consulates all over the globe, and we listen carefully to your needs and do everything we can to give you a worry-free experience.

There are many different types of visas, so it’s important to do your research and decide which visa you should apply for based on your individual needs and circumstances. Some visas are for extremely short visits or folks passing through a country on their way elsewhere, and some visas are stepping stones toward permanent residency. Don’t hesitate to connect with an expert for help applying for the visa that best matches your needs.

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Types Of Visas

Short-stay or visitor visas are for travelers who only need to remain in their destination country for a short period of time. If you’re visiting residents of your destination country, you should look into a private visa. If you’re traveling for fun with no intention of working during your trip, you’ll need a tourist visa. Business is not allowed to be conducted under a tourist visa, so be sure that your trip is being made purely for leisure.

Some short-stay visas are for people entering a country for a very specific purpose. If you are looking to conduct business while on your trip, you’re going to need a business visa. Students who are looking to work temporarily while they’re abroad should seek out a working holiday visa. Athletes and performers who are needing to compete or perform abroad, or who are taking part in a cultural exchange program of some kind, should apply for an athletic, artistic, or cultural exchange visa. Some visas can even be granted for those who are looking to receive medical treatment in their destination country.

Transit visas are for even shorter trips through specific countries. These visas are granted to those who are only entering the country as a means of crossing the land to get to a different country. Typically, these visas are only valid for a few hours or days, depending on how wide the territory is and how long it should take to travel through it.

Refugee visas are available for refugees who are seeking shelter and are fleeing a dangerous situation in their home country, whether that danger comes from natural or man-made causes.

Pilgrimage visas are available for religious travelers who are traveling for an educational and meaningful religious experience. These trips are usually made in groups rather than solo.

Long-stay visas give travelers permission to remain in their destination country for lengthier periods of time, whether their needs are based on familial, academic, or business needs. Those on business who need to stay abroad for an extended period, but not on a permanent basis, can apply for a temporary worker visa. Students looking to study or conduct research abroad can apply for student visas and research visas. There are solutions for people in dire straits as well; those who have been exiled from their own country or are in fear of being persecuted can apply for an asylum visa.

If you’re genuinely looking to reside in your destination country, a residence visa can help you get to the point of becoming a permanent resident. Similarly, immigrant visas are for travelers looking to become permanent citizens of their destination country. You can also apply for a spouse visa if you’re looking to settle with your partner, or a marriage visa if you plan to be wed in your destination country. Finally, retirement visas are an option for those who have proof of foreign income and have no intention of working anymore, but who instead wish to retire in their destination country.

There are loads of options when it comes to choosing the visa that’s best for you, and we recognize the difficulties that come with balancing paperwork and trip-planning. The Travel Visa Pro team is eager to help give you an unforgettable experience by taking on the hard work and bringing you one step closer to boarding your flight. We look forward to learning more about your trip!

Home / China Work Permit: Make sure you’re allowed to work in China

China Work Permit: Make sure you’re allowed to work in China

Do you need an escape from the US economy, or just a temporary contract allowing you to work in Asia? Applying for a work permit in China may be just the break you’re looking for. As the second largest economy in the world, China is becoming more popular for foreign workers seeking a different kind of career path in addition to companies looking to strengthen ties with their Chinese counterparts.

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Starting the application process for a China work permit

Anyone considering working in China must first obtain a Z Visa. There can be a variety of reasons bringing workers to China, but any organization or business must be accredited to employ foreigners. Foreign men seeking a China work permit can be no older than 60 while women no older than 55.

Once you’ve arranged a company in China, obtained an invitation letter from them, and received the corresponding work permit, you’re ready to head to the closest Chinese embassy or consulate with a passport photo and application form to apply for a Z visa. Like any other Chinese visa, there is a fee of $140 or more depending on the processing time.

Getting a work permit in China

Before heading to the embassy, gathering all the documentation necessary for the company to process your China work permit may take some time. Depending on the type of work and the company, you’ll need:

1. Criminal background check. For US citizens, this means a certified document from the FBI, and most likely apostilled.
2. Bachelor’s degree. Or any documentation showing expertise in your field.
3. Medical check. A clean bill of health.
4. Reference letter. In addition to a contract from the sponsoring Chinese company showing place of employment, salary, work hours, etc.
5. Passport. Valid for at least six months (expired visas do not need to be transferred to new passports).
6. Photo. You’ll need a few for your China work permit and your Z visa application.

Once you’re in China…

After all is said and done and you’ve passed through immigration with your Z visa and work permit in hand, you’re still not finished. There are local procedures to follow in China, and one of them is to immediately register for a Temporary Residence Permit within thirty days of arrival.

If this all sounds a little daunting, the experts at Travel Visa Pro are available to assist in processing your China Z visa. Not only can we ensure your application is expedited, but can make recommendations for travel insurance once you’ve safely landed in China.

Are you interested in working in China? Do you already have a China work permit?

Home / Shanghai Visa on Arrival Explained

Shanghai Visa on Arrival Explained

Many cities in the People’s Republic of China are currently offering transit visas, giving those on international stopovers the chance to throw some money into the local economy and promote tourism to other travelers. While Beijing and nearly every international port of entry into China have 24-hour transit visas available for those who just need a few hours to catch their connecting flight, a few areas have gone above and beyond this simple measure and given travelers the chance to leave the airport and explore. A Shanghai visa on arrival allows international visitors to see the Chinese city for up to a week without any fees.

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Getting a Visa in Shanghai on Arrival

First of all, a Shanghai visa on arrival is no substitute for a work, business, student, or tourist visa. While it can be used for tourism and business in China, there are significant restrictions. For one, anyone landing in Shanghai and receiving a transit visa is limited to traveling through the municipalities of Shanghai, Jiangsu, and Zhejiang; catching a train or flight to Beijing and returning before the visa expires is not permitted. In addition, because getting a visa in Shanghai on arrival is depending on your travel itinerary, no round trip tickets will be accepted; you must be arriving from one country and departing to another.

Marketed as the 144-hour travel plan, a Shanghai visa on arrival can technically be used for up to 167 hours if your flight arrives advantageously; the clock on the visa doesn’t start ticking until midnight of the day following your arrival, i.e. landing at 2:00 AM on Tuesday means the 144 hours starts at 12:00 AM Wednesday. Other than providing your departing flight information and any accommodations you’ve booked for your brief stay in Shanghai, no other information is necessary. However, arriving at your departing airport early is essential to ensure gate agents understand you’ll be getting a Shanghai visa on arrival.

Other Shanghai Visas on Arrival

Just because the 144-hour transit visa offers the longest stay at no cost to travelers, are there other choices available. The 24-hour transit visa and the 72-hour one are available upon request, but will still require the same documentation as the 144-hour: proof of departure and accommodations. Aside from those, there are special circumstances – usually due to diplomatic, technical advisory roles, or a business involved with major trade in China – for which a business visa on arrival may be granted. For details on these, it’s best to consult with a Chinese consulate.

Do you have any questions about getting a visa on arrival in Shanghai? Leave them in the comments below.

Home / Guangzhou Visa Requirements for US Citizens: Transit Visas

Guangzhou Visa Requirements for US Citizens: Transit Visas

Extended transit visas are one of the Chinese government’s solutions to make the country more appealing to tourists; if you could have a few extra days to explore a Chinese city before your vacation in Manila, Tokyo, or Seoul, why not do it? Guangzhou may not be the most common city for international stopovers, but because it’s relatively close to Hong Kong (Province of China) and offers more freedom with its transits visas, travelers to China might consider adding it as one of their destinations.

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Guangzhou Visa on Arrival

Guangzhou is part of the People’s Republic of China, and subject to the same laws concerning tourist and business visas for visiting US citizens. However, different Chinese cities offer different transit visas on arrival. A visa for Guangzhou allows the traveler up to 72 hours in the entire region, whereas a visitor to Shanghai is permitted 144 hours and limited to three neighboring municipalities.

Whatever your destination in China, it’s important to stay informed about the transit visa regulations. A Guangzhou visa is acceptable only if you arriving from one country by air and departing to another with 72 hours; no roundtrip tickets will be considered. However, though Guangzhou requires an arrival by airplane, an international departure by train is perfectly fine. Travelers can have Hong Kong (Province of China) as their destination, fly into Guangzhou, and continue south by rail (assuming they clear immigration before departing).

Tourist Visa for Guangzhou

A standard tourist visa for Guangzhou is the same for those visiting anywhere in China. The L visa must be obtained in advance at any Chinese embassy or consulate abroad, where an application form can be accepted for a $140 fee (more for expedited processing). Proof of incoming and outgoing flight reservations are required, as is a Chinese visa invitation letter or proof of accommodations, depending on the circumstances. Even if you’re planning on getting a Guangzhou visa on arrival, it’s best to have the name, address, and contact information for your hotel on hand.

While there is no wait time for a Guangzhou transit visa save a few minutes needed to verify your information at immigration, a tourist visa takes 1-4 business days to process: standard service costs $140 and takes 4 business days, express service $160 and 2 business days, and rush service $170 and 1 business day. Avoiding the fees is just another reason to consider adding a Guangzhou visa to your passport.

Visiting Guangzhou with Travel Visa Pro

Travel Visa Pro’s staff has been helping travelers obtain tourist visas to China for over a decade. If you have any questions regarding the Guangzhou transit visa or transiting through other Chinese cities, stop by one of our offices and we’ll work out the best way to get you where you want to go in Asia.

Home / Shanghai Visa Requirements for US Citizens

Shanghai Visa Requirements for US Citizens

Unfortunately, more travelers heading to Asia are opting out of stopovers in China in favor of Tokyo and Seoul. These two cities don’t require a mandatory transit visa for short layovers as visas on arrival are available and free for US citizens. In response, the Chinese government has expanded its transit visa program. Getting a Shanghai visa for transiting is one of more lucrative options if you’re hoping for a quick getaway in China, but let’s look at the advantages.

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Shanghai Transit Visas

US citizens are ordinarily charged $140 for tourist, business, and work visas to China, and usually must provide extensive documentation including proof of departure and accommodation, and in some cases a letter of invitation from a Chinese national. These regulations deter many from wanting to squeeze in a few days in Shanghai or Beijing, but with the Shanghai transit visa, some travelers may soon be changing their minds.

If you’re a US citizen traveling through Shanghai, Jiangsu, or Zhejiang through any international port – train, boat, or plane – and connecting to a third country, you qualify for a Shanghai visa transiting. In previous years, foreign nationals spending even a few hours in a Chinese airport had to disembark and wait in line with their next boarding pass to apply for a transit visa and be granted entry to the international terminal. These immigration booths can often be undermanned and slow, opening up the potential for missed flights and unnecessary stress.

For Shanghai visa seekers, there are other options. Most Chinese cities offer 24- and 72- transit visas, but as of last year Shanghai started offering arrival visas valid for up to a week, known as the 144-hour transit visa. Although this Shanghai visa isn’t necessarily the best for tourism, if your travel plans meet certain criteria, it can help you avoid paying the fees for a China tourist visa and make traveling much less painful.

Getting a Shanghai Visa for Transit

To qualify for a transit visa for Shanghai, you’ll need to arrive in one of the three municipalities – Shanghai, Jiangsu, or Zhejiang – and provide proof of onward travel within 144 hours. Travelers can get up to 167 hours if the timing works out, because the transit visa clock doesn’t start until midnight the day after their arrival. Unfortunately, no roundtrip tickets can be accepted for Shanghai visas; travelers must be arriving from one country and departing to another.

Other Considerations for Visas for Shanghai

Anyone traveling to a country requiring a visa like China will have their documents checked in the airport before being allowed to check in or board. Because many airport staff aren’t always familiar with the Shanghai visa for 144-hour transit, this can lead to delays and missed flights; it’s best to arrive even earlier.

With the right itinerary and a savvy travel mind, you can avoid those tourist visa fees and enjoy up to one week in Shanghai for business or pleasure.

Home / How to Get an Expedited Child Passport

How to Get an Expedited Child Passport

When it comes to traveling with children, there are always going to be more considerations to make than when one is traveling solo or even with a group. While the application process for children’s passport is different, getting an expedited child passport is surprisingly similar, provided all the paperwork is in order and the parent is willing to pay the appropriate fees.

Get Passport For Child Here

What’s involved in getting a children’s passport?

The documents involved in getting a child’s passport, whether it’s the first time or for a renewal, are the same with one exception. Parents bringing in proof of US citizenship may choose to do so by providing the child’s expired US passport. Otherwise, a birth certificate or Certificate of Citizenship may be used.

In addition, both parents should be present at the passport agency or consulate and bring proof of their relationship and current identification, e.g. their US passports. Both parents’ permission is necessary for the child to travel abroad, but there are some exceptions; one parent may present the application alone or neither, instead entrusting the application with a third party like Travel Visa Pro.

Naturally, a current passport-sized photo is required with every application. If the child’s last passport was issued when he or she was under five years old, additional photos must be provided (one per year, at least) showing age progression.

Getting an expedited child passport

Children’s passport may have to go through additional checks and balances once they’re in the system, but the application process isn’t too difficult for those who have had experience renewing adult passports.

Unlike passports for those over 16 which cost $110, children’s passports start at $80 for a 52-page book. However, no applications for expedited child passports can be submitted through the mail. As a result, the US Department of State requires an “Execution Fee” of $25 in addition to the expedite fee of $60. All passport renewals submitted in person at an agency require this Execution Fee.

Using your child’s passport

Despite the plethora of paperwork required to even obtain an expedited child passport, it’s not always wise to leave it at home once the trip begins. Immigration officers can be remarkably scrupulous, and even with a valid US passport for a child sharing the same surname as a parent, it never hurts to bring a few age progression photos and proof of your relationship with the child… just in case.

What else do you want to know about taking your children traveling?