What is a Multiple Entry Visa?

People travel much more these days than they used to because it’s so accessible and there are many ways to reach your destination. But as we know not all countries require a visa when you travel. Further, some of those visa have different purposes depending on your plans for the trip.

For example, do you know how many of visas are available? Frequent travelers are likely familiar with the specific visas given to tourists, businesspeople and students. Many countries even offer an e-visa to make the whole process easier.

But, even the most travel-weary people might not know about a Multiple Entry Visa.

So, what’s the Multiple Entry Visa and how is it different from the standard travel visa?

A travel visa permits you to enter your destination lawfully and usually only once, sometimes a couple of time, but that depends on the country.

If you wish to return to the same nation repeatedly in a short period of time, you’ll want to apply for the Multiple Entry Visa. This is the kind of visa that you’ll want if you frequent the country to visit relatives every few months.

Depending on the country, the visa can last from up to 10 years. This is true for India and China, although these countries prefer that you stagger your trips. For example, you need to space your travel plans to India every two months before returning to your destination. You can stay for up to six months at a time though.

Alternatively, China is stricter than India.

They allow travelers to stay between 30 to 120 days depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. For the time being, China only permits visitors from three countries, Canada, the United States and Argentina.

But, even those travelers can’t just flash their special visa like it’s a yearround pass to an amusement park. To re-enter the country before the designated waiting period, you must have special permission from proper authorities, such as the Consular’s office.

Prices also vary depending on the type of visa you need and the country you’re traveling to. Generally speaking though, prices range from about $90 to $200. It can take up to a few months to receive your official visa, so it’s best to apply for it as soon as you can. Be sure to submit the requested documents as well to avoid delays in processing your application.

The U.S. government does not issue visas like the passport; rather, they are issued by the country you wish to visit. Therefore, it’s important to check with the nation you’re visiting to see if they need you to have a visa before entering their country.

Not all countries want you to have a visa to cross their borders, but many do, and most want you to have a passport as well.

Do you need any other information about travel visas? Passport Health can help! Give us a call at or check out any of our other passport and visa services.

Written for Passport Health by Sabrina Cortes. Sabrina is a freelance writer with a Bachelor’s Degree from Georgian Court University. She currently lives in the Smokey Mountains of western North Carolina.