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Visas

A visa is a document issued by a country's government allowing the holder to enter (or leave!) that country. Applying for a visa can be a daunting task, but we're here to help make it a bit easier for you.

Before you travel, it is essential that you find out if you need a visa. It is your responsibility to obtain a visa if needed.

Do I need a visa?

The information on this site relates to British Nationals. Participants of other nationalities may or may not require a visa and should consult the embassy or consulate of the country they are visiting as well as their country of citizenship.

Details of country specific visa requirements can be found here:

The Foreign and Commonwealth website
The embassy or consulate of the country you will be travelling to

I need a visa, what should I do?

Remember

Do not leave applying for your visa until the last minute; there have been past incidences where students have not arranged a visa and have not been able to travel. Outlook's insurance does not cover withdrawals due to this, so the whole cost of the expedition would be lost.

Ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your return travel date. If you need to renew your passport and obtain a visa, make sure you leave sufficient time.

If a visa is required, it will be a tourist visa. Although you are a student and may be taking part in voluntary work, ultimately you are on an Explore trip which would be classed as tourism. Please see the specific country visa pages (above) for further information.

All members of a team must obtain individual visas. It may be possible to obtain a group visa for a country, however this should be avoided as this effectively ties the whole group together. If in an instance where a team member has to return to the UK (e.g. medical or personal reasons) then it is very difficult for the group to split with a group visa.

The process for applying for visas are very detailed and explicit; if it says 'write in black ink' or 'pictures must be a certain size', then be sure to do so otherwise applications will be returned.

Paid visas are not refundable and the costs are not included in the price of the Explore trip.

Countries that require a visa

Laos
Malawi

Visa requirements can and do change so it is important that you visit the recommended websites above as well as using the information given in this guide. If you find any information that is different from the information provided in this guide then please contact us so we can update these pages.

I'm transiting through the USA, do I need a visa for this?

If transiting through the United States of America (USA) you will require an ESTA Visa Waiver.

The visa lasts for the duration of 2 years. If you have already purchased one and it is still within the 2 year duration, you do not need to purchase another. The visa costs $14. You can obtain this through the US Customs and Border Protection - Electronic System for Travel Authorisation website (www.esta.cbp.dhs.gov/esta).

Still confused?

If you're still confused or unsure then please contact us and we will help to resolve any issues you are having.