How to speed up your visa application: Last minute travel tips

Booking a trip last minute can make it all the more exciting, but visa forms can be confusing when you’re short of time. With so much unclear information online, finding out how to get a visa quickly isn’t always easy.

Whether it’s an urgent business trip, or a spontaneous getaway to a trending destination, understanding the visa process is key to getting your documents approved quickly.

At OnTrailVisa, we’re experts in securing all types of international travel documents for British passport holders. We’ve created this express visa application guide to help you understand how to streamline the visa process, with insider tips for travellers needing a visa fast.

What’s the quickest way to get a visa?

Visas and travel document systems are individual to each country, meaning the time taken to inspect and approve each application varies. How you request your visa — in person, online, or by post — can also affect waiting times.

Generally, electronic permits are granted most quickly. Some digital travel documents are granted within just 1 to 2 days. Other online applications have a longer waiting time, like the UK Visit Visa, which usually takes 3 weeks to process.

If you’re not eligible for an online visa, you’ll have to attend an in-person appointment and apply for an embassy visa. Applying early is always best, but if you're short on time, check if a rush request service is available.

💡Tip: Choose an online application for the fastest response

Many countries are making their immigration systems digital, so electronic visas and entry permits are becoming increasingly common. If you’re short of time, opt for an online application to get the fastest possible processing time.

How to choose the right visa for last-minute travel

When you need an urgent travel visa solution, it’s tempting to start applying for the first entry permit you find. However, filling out the wrong type of application can cause hassle, delays, and complications when you least need them.

Not all entry permits are the same, and most countries have several options for foreign visitors. To avoid wasting time on unsuccessful applications, it’s crucial that you select the right visa the first time around.

Here are 4 key things to consider when choosing an entry permit:

💡Tip: Double-check your visa’s rules and requirements

Having the right entry permit is essential to avoid problems on arrival. Make sure to check the requirements carefully, especially if you’re booking your trip in a rush. Our destination guides have all the information you need.

Step-by-step guide to fast visa approval

Ensuring you complete all the steps in the correct order is key to making sure your visa application goes as smoothly – and as quickly – as possible.

Quick visa turnaround tips: How to fast-track your visa application

Processing times for visas and other travel permits are fairly rigid, but there are some things you can do to get your application off to the best start.

To help you get an urgent visa, we’ve compiled this quick visa application guide, which has expert advice on how to avoid potential delays and save time. Follow these last-minute visa application tips to improve your chances of speedy approval.

Avoid delays caused by typos or errors

One of the biggest causes of visa delays is simple errors on the application form. Though you may be short of time, taking five extra minutes to double-check your details is well worth it, especially when you need your visa approved as soon as possible.

Reduce your visa processing time by avoiding these common mistakes in your application:

💡Tip: Double-check that your application is 100% accurate

It’s easy to make mistakes, especially when you’re filling out forms in a hurry. However, it’s usually not possible to amend your details once your application has been submitted, so it’s vital you get them right the first time around.

All OnTrailVisa applications are reviewed by our team of visa experts before submission. We’ll pick up any mistakes and correct them to help you avoid rejection or delays. Our service is designed to help you make your urgent visa application stress-free.

Gather your supporting documents in advance

Having the right documents ready can significantly speed up the visa application process. Check the requirements thoroughly before you start the process and get everything ready.

Commonly required documents for international visas include:

💡Tip: Don’t skip any part of your application

To get approval, it’s essential to attach all the required supporting evidence. If you send off your application without key documents, it’ll likely be rejected and cost you precious time when planning a short-notice trip.

Most visa processes have strict rules on accepted file types and image sizes. With OnTrailVisa, photo and document editing is included in your application fee. Upload your supporting evidence in any format, and we make sure it meets the requirements.

Opt for expedited processing

Visa applications with priority service are a great way to speed up the process if you need your entry permit in a hurry. Instead of waiting through standard processing times, select the option to fast-track your visa for quicker approval.

Here’s a table with our most popular travel permits and their delivery times:

💡Tip: Find out wait times so you can plan accordingly

Last-minute uncertainty about your entry permit can put your entire trip at risk. When you’re making your application, consult the wait times so you can be sure you’ll have a decision as soon as possible.

At OnTrailVisa, all our travel documents have a guaranteed turnaround time, so you can apply with confidence. If you need a visa urgently, most can be delivered within just 1 hour if you select a priority visa application.

Essential paperwork beyond your entry permit

Your destination country might have additional requirements for visitors. These usually apply to all travellers, whether you need a visa or not, and must be completed before you travel.

It’s easy to forget about the extras when you’re travelling last minute, but you may face long waits and problems at the border if you arrive without meeting all the requirements. Here are some common travel documents you may need along with your visa:

1. Electronic arrival card

Destinations like Colombia and Malaysia require all international travellers to fill out an arrival card to streamline immigration controls. Rather than filling out a paper card, you must complete an online form.

2. e-Customs declaration

Indonesia, amongst other countries, has a customs declaration requirement for all travellers. You have to fill out the online form before you travel to declare any valuable goods, or large amounts of cash, you’ll bring with you.

💡Tip: Get your travel documents in order for a hassle-free trip

Some countries have requirements beyond a visa. Check the entry rules in advance and keep up with the latest travel news to avoid surprises on spontaneous trips and make sure you have everything ready before departure.

If you’re travelling as a family, don’t forget children usually need visas too. You might also need to carry a parental consent letter if you’re taking a trip as a solo parent.

With OnTrailVisa, you can apply for all your travel documents with peace of mind, knowing you’ll get a fast turnaround. We’re trusted by thousands of travellers each year to deliver visas efficiently and hassle-free.