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- 1). Obtain a valid passport from your country of citizenship. If you are a U.S. citizen, you typically can obtain a passport at a local post office or Department of State passport agency. If you are traveling by plane, obtain a U.S. passport book and not a card (similar to a driver's license). If you currently have a passport, make sure that you have blank pages for your visa(s) or add extra pages.
- 2). Find the foreign country's government website about visas for foreigners. Most foreign countries operate embassies or consulates in the U.S. that provide specific information about visas. For example, the Chinese government established china-embassy.org, the French website is ambafrance-us.org, and Australian is usa.embassy.gov.au. Avoid solely relying on a non-government website that is created for commercial purposes.
- 3). Research visas and make an appropriate selection. Most countries offer single entry and multiple entry visas. If you plan to travel for a few weeks, you likely will need a tourist or visitor visa. If you plan to study at an institution, select a student visa, and if your trip is business related, consider a business visa.
- 4). Prepare a complete application, which often includes a basic form, passport-size photos and a filing fee. Read the application instructions carefully and address any concerns or questions. Some applicants require letters of invitation, such as from a foreign school or business, in order to issue a student or business visa.
- 5). Submit the application appropriately and timely. Each country has different visa application processing times. You might be able to expedite processing by paying a higher fee. If you are American and want a visa to go to China, then your application must be personally delivered (by you or someone you know) to the embassy in Washington, D.C., as no mailed applications are accepted.
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