Important Disclaimer
Visa requirements change frequently and vary by passport nationality. The information below is for general guidance only and was last updated in March 2026. Always check official government sources and your country's embassy before making travel plans. If you book through our sister site, VolunteerToTheWorld.com, ask what visa guidance is included before you pay.
General Tips for Volunteer Visas
- Tourist visas are usually sufficient for short-term volunteer placements (2-12 weeks) in most countries. You are not receiving payment, so a work visa is typically not required.
- Passport validity matters. Most countries require at least 6 months of validity remaining on your passport from your date of entry. Check and renew early.
- Carry printed documents. Have paper copies of your visa approval, program confirmation letter, accommodation details, and return ticket. Digital copies alone may not be accepted at immigration.
- Apply early for embassy visas. If your destination requires a pre-approved visa, apply at least 4-6 weeks before departure to allow for processing delays.
- For stays longer than 90 days, you may need a specific volunteer visa or social/cultural visa. Your program organization can provide a letter of invitation to support your application.
East Africa
| Country | Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kenya | eTA | Check official site | Check official site |
| Uganda | Tourist Visa | 30 days | $50 |
| Tanzania | eVisa | 90 days | $50 |
| Ghana | Tourist Visa | 60 days | $60-150 |
Kenya: An Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) replaced the e-Visa — apply online before you travel. Yellow fever certificate required if arriving from a transmission-risk country (FCDO, retrieved 2026-09-19).
Uganda: Apply online. Yellow fever vaccination mandatory.
Tanzania: Multiple entry available for $100. Apply at immigration.go.tz.
Ghana: Apply at Ghana embassy. Yellow fever certificate required.
South & Southeast Asia
| Country | Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Nepal | Visa on Arrival | 15-90 days | $30-100 |
| Thailand | Visa Exempt | 30 days | Free |
| Indonesia | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | $35 |
| Sri Lanka | ETA | 30 days | $20 |
| Cambodia | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | $30 |
| India | eVisa | 30-365 days | $10-100 |
| Laos | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | $35-42 |
| Vietnam | eVisa | 30 days | $25 |
Nepal: $30 (15 days), $50 (30 days), $100 (90 days). Cash USD.
Thailand: Most Western passports. Tourist visa ($40) for 60 days at embassy.
Indonesia: Extendable once for 30 days. E-VOA available online.
Sri Lanka: Apply online at eta.gov.lk. Extendable to 90 days in-country.
Cambodia: eVisa also available. Bring one passport photo.
India: 30-day eVisa from $10. 1-year tourist visa from $40.
Laos: Price varies by nationality. Bring passport photos and USD cash.
Vietnam: Some nationalities exempt for 15-45 days. Check before applying.
Latin America
| Country | Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Costa Rica | Visa Exempt | 90 days | Free |
| Peru | Visa Exempt | 90 days | Free |
| Ecuador | Visa Exempt | 90 days | Free |
| Colombia | Visa Exempt | 90 days | Free |
| Guatemala | Visa Exempt | 90 days | Free |
Costa Rica: Most Western passports. Must show return ticket and proof of funds.
Peru: Extendable at immigration offices. Must show return ticket.
Ecuador: Including Galapagos Islands. Proof of travel insurance required.
Colombia: Extendable for another 90 days at Migracion Colombia offices.
Guatemala: Part of CA-4 agreement. 90 days total for Guatemala, Honduras, El Salvador, Nicaragua.
Other Destinations
| Country | Visa Type | Duration | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| Morocco | Visa Exempt | 90 days | Free |
| Jordan | Visa on Arrival | 30 days | $56 |
| Fiji | Visa Exempt | 120 days | Free |
| Romania | Visa Exempt (EU) | 90 days | Free |
Morocco: Most Western passports. Register with local police if staying long term.
Jordan: Free with Jordan Pass ($70+, includes Petra). Single entry.
Fiji: 4-month permit on arrival for most nationalities. Must show return ticket.
Romania: EU/Schengen rules apply. 90 days within 180-day period.
Need Personalized Visa Advice?
When you book through our sister site, VolunteerToTheWorld.com, ask them about visa guidance tailored to your nationality and destination.