Applying for an e travel visa should be simple, but small mistakes can cause delays—or worse, rejections. Whether you’re heading to the U.S., Canada, Australia, or any country offering online visas, one wrong step can cost you time, money, and even your travel plans.
This guide walks you through the most common errors travelers make when filling out electronic visa applications and how you can avoid them.
1. Entering Incorrect Passport Information
Your passport is the most important part of your visa application. If you enter even one wrong number or letter from your passport, your application can be denied automatically.
Common issues include:
- Typing the wrong passport number
- Using an old or expired passport number
- Mismatched names (example: missing a middle name that’s on your passport)
What to do: Always double-check the passport number, name, and expiration date before submitting the form. Make sure it matches your current passport exactly.
2. Not Meeting Eligibility Requirements
Each country has specific rules for who can apply for an electronic visa. For example:
- The U.S. ESTA is only for citizens from Visa Waiver Program countries.
- Canada’s eTA is for visa-exempt travelers flying into Canada.
- Australia’s ETA is available only to certain passport holders.
If you apply without meeting these basic requirements, your request will be denied.
What to do: Check the official immigration website of the country you’re visiting to confirm if you’re eligible. Don’t rely on general blogs or outdated sources.
3. Using Incomplete or Incorrect Travel Details
Many e-visa forms ask for your travel itinerary, including flight details, hotel names, and trip duration. If you leave these blank or give unclear answers, your application might be flagged.
Issues travelers report:
- Typing the wrong travel dates
- Giving vague addresses for accommodations
- Forgetting to mention transit stops
What to do: Fill in every field, even if it’s optional. Use the same details as your flight bookings and accommodation confirmations.
4. Applying Too Late
Some people assume an e-visa is instant—but that’s not always the case. While approvals can come in minutes, some take hours or days. If you apply too close to your departure date and get delayed or rejected, you could miss your flight.
What to do: Apply at least 3–7 days before your trip. For some countries like Australia, you may need even more time depending on your history or passport.
5. Ignoring Past Visa Rejections or Travel History
Countries like the U.S. and Canada keep records. If you’ve ever overstayed a visa, had a previous application rejected, or entered with incorrect details, it can affect your new application—even if it’s electronic.
What to do: Be honest in your answers. If the form asks if you’ve been denied before, say “yes” and provide a brief explanation. Hiding the truth can get your application flagged or banned.
6. Uploading Blurry or Cropped Documents
Some e-visa systems require you to upload a copy of your passport or other documents. If you send a blurry image, cut off part of the page, or use low resolution, your application might be delayed or rejected.
What to do: Scan or take a clear, high-resolution photo of your passport. Make sure all corners are visible, and the text is easy to read.
7. Not Paying the Correct Visa Fee
Each country sets a fee for their online visa. For example:
- The U.S. ESTA costs $21 (as of 2025)
- The Canada eTA is CAD $7
- The Australian ETA is around AUD $20
Some travelers enter the wrong payment info or don’t complete the payment, thinking the application was submitted.
What to do: Always check the official site for the current fee. Use a valid credit or debit card. Wait for payment confirmation before closing the page.
8. Falling for Fake Websites
Many travelers end up on scam websites that look like official government pages. These sites charge high fees or steal personal information.
What to do: Always use official government websites. They usually end in .gov, .gc.ca (Canada), or .gov.au (Australia). Avoid sites that promise “guaranteed approval” or charge huge fees.
9. Not Saving Confirmation Details
Once your e-visa is approved, you often get an email or PDF confirmation. Some travelers delete it by mistake or don’t print it, which causes issues at the airport.
What to do: Save your approval email. Print a copy and store it with your passport. Some countries don’t require a printout, but it’s safer to carry one.
10. Overlooking Transit Rules
Even if you’re not entering a country, a stopover can still require you to have an e-visa. For example, transiting through the U.S. usually needs a valid ESTA—even if you stay in the airport.
What to do: Check transit rules for every country on your flight path. Don’t assume you’re exempt just because you’re not leaving the airport.
Keep It Simple, Keep It Approved
Applying for an e travel visa is meant to make travel easier—but only if done correctly. The most common mistakes include entering wrong information, rushing the process, and using the wrong website. Taking a few extra minutes to double-check everything can save you from big problems later.
If you want stress-free guidance, E Travel Advisor offers helpful resources and support to make your visa application smoother and safer. Always plan ahead and stay informed to enjoy your travels without trouble.
