Difference Between Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa in 2025

Written by

Alisha Azeem

Fact check by

Divyansh Chaudhari

Updated on

Dec 21,2024

Understanding the Difference Between Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa- TerraTern

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Key Highlights

Latest Facts and News

  • Recent changes in visa policies affecting tourists and visitors.

  • Statistics on the number of tourist vs. visitor visas issued last year.

  • Notable countries with specific distinctions between tourist and visitor visas.

Are you distressed because of your international adventure and the visa options you've got to keep in mind? You are not alone. Travel documents can be very complicated, particularly the part where you will have to figure out the differences between a visit visa and a tourist visa. We will try to provide you with clarity in this article concerning these two types of visas by covering 12 major differences in every traveler's checklist. We can help you with purpose, time constraints, funds, and activities permitted to students.

Knowing the various differences between the visa types is the first thing to consider when deciding the best and right visa for your specific needs, whether it would be simply relaxing and enjoying a vacation, carrying out business, or meeting relatives overseas. Thus, let's start the learning process and make visa choices easier so that you can avoid having a stressful and complicated time when traveling internationally. Get out of your comfort zone and give your travel experience an upgrade. You must guide us through when we explore the visit and tourist visa issues!

Understanding Visit Visa and Tourist Visa

When it comes to crossing borders, two types of visas often come into play: visit visas and tourist visas. However, what is the difference?

On the surface, they may appear to be indistinguishable. After all, both enable entry into a foreign country. However, they serve different purposes and have different rules that govern their use.

A tourist visa is like a ticket for your vacation travel. It's designed for travellers who seek comfort, amusement, and relaxation. Consider pleasurable beach holidays, city tours, or mountain retreats!

On the other hand, a visit visa is more versatile. It consists of a broader range of activities, including business meetings and family reunions.

The most essential distinction? Purpose and flexibility. Although tourist visas are intended primarily for recreation, a visit visa allows for various non-immigrant activities.

Understanding these distinctions is important for successful travel. Choose the wrong visa, and you may find yourself facing some serious challenges at the border!

Difference Between Tourist Visas and Visitor Visas Based on Purpose of Visit

Let's break down the key differences of these visas:

1. Tourist Visa

  • Mainly for vacation and sightseeing
  • Explore the sites, eat local food, and feel the culture
  • Great for that long-anticipated trip to Paris or a beach holiday in Bali

2. Visit Visa

Covers a wider range of purposes:

  • Business dealings and conferences
  • Visiting relatives
  • Receiving medical assistance
  • Short-term studies or research

For example, you would require a visit visa if you are going to attend a business conference in London and, at the same time, a family gathering there.

There are a few differences between a tourist visa and a visitor visa. Here’s a table highlighting the key difference between a tourist visa and a visitor visa:

Criteria 

Tourist Visa

Visitor Visa

Purpose 

Primarily for travel, tourism and entertainment purposes only

It has a broader purpose and includes visiting family and friends or for business purposes 

Duration of Stay

Typically shorter, usually for a few weeks to a few months.

It can vary widely. Depending on the purpose of the visit, it might be similar to a tourist visa or longer.

Allowed Activities

Sightseeing, leisure, and attending cultural events.

This includes tourism, visiting family or friends, business meetings, and conferences.

Work Permission

No work allowed during travel time.

Usually, no work is allowed, but business-related activities may be permitted under specific conditions.

Application Requirements

Often requires proof of travel itinerary, accommodation, and financial funds.

It may require additional documentation like an invitation letter, proof of relationship (if visiting family), or business-related documents.

Who can Issue it?

Typically issued to individuals travelling for tourism purposes.

Issued to individuals visiting for various reasons, such as tourism, family visits, or business.

Common in Countries

Many countries issue tourist visas, including the Schengen Area, the USA, and Australia.

Common in countries like Canada (Visitor Visa), the USA (B-2 Visa for visitors), etc.

Flexibility

It's less flexible as it’s strictly for tourism and travel.

It is more flexible and covers a wider range of purposes for visits.

Note: These are the major key differences between a tourist visa and a visitor visa, according to our team members' latest research. It might have some minor changes depending on the country.

Also Read: Difference Between Single Entry and Double Entry Visas

 

Major Pros and Cons of Each Visa Type

There are some major difference between tourist visa and visitor visa. Both visas have pros and cons of their own. Here’s a brief overview of the pros and cons of both visas, which are due to the difference between a tourist visa and a visitor visa.

 Pros and Cons of Tourist Visa Table:

Tourist Visa

Pros

Cons

Tourist visas are often easier and faster to obtain compared to other types of visas.

Tourist visas typically allow for only short stays, often ranging from a few days to a few months.

Allows travel to multiple countries without needing to apply for long-term residency.

Tourist visas usually restrict you from working, studying, or engaging in business activities.

Application fees for tourist visas are generally lower than those for other visa types.

You cannot legally work in the host country, limiting your ability to earn money during your stay.

The documentation needed is usually straightforward, often requiring just a passport, photos, and proof of funds.

If you plan to stay longer, you may need to leave the country and reapply, which can be costly and time-consuming.

Offers the opportunity to explore new cultures, languages, and environments.

Overstaying or violating the terms of the visa can result in fines, deportation, or bans from future travel.

Ideal for short-term visits without the need to commit to long-term residency.

Extensions are difficult to obtain and usually require strong justification.

You can often enter and exit the country multiple times within the visa’s validity.

There’s no guarantee that a tourist visa will be renewed, even if you’ve visited the country before.

Contributes to the economy of the host country through spending on accommodation, food, and activities.

You may not have access to public healthcare services, requiring you to purchase private health insurance.

 

   Pros and Cons of Visitor Visa Table:

                                                            Visitor Visa

Pros

Cons

It allows you to visit family and friends in the host country for special occasions or spend time together.

Visitor visas are often short-term, typically allowing stays from a few weeks to a few months.

Often easier to obtain than long-term visas, with simpler application processes.

Like tourist visas, visitor visas usually do not permit employment or permission to study in the country.

Some visitor visas allow for multiple entries, letting you enter and leave the country within the visa’s validity period.

You may be restricted to non-commercial activities, having work, study, or business engagement.

Generally less expensive than long-term or immigrant visas.

Extending a visitor visa can be difficult and often requires a strong reason.

It allows you to travel on your schedule, making it convenient for short visits.

Typically, visitor visa holders do not have access to public healthcare, requiring private insurance.

Besides visiting loved ones, you can also explore tourist attractions in the host country.

Overstaying a visitor visa can result in penalties, deportation, or future visa denials.

Usually, it requires basic documentation like a passport, proof of funds, and sometimes a letter of invitation.

Stays are often fixed and cannot be easily extended without leaving and reapplying.

Suitable for short visits without the need for residency or long-term stays.

The renewal process is not always straightforward and can be denied without clear reasons.

It is useful for those who need to make regular short visits to a country.

Some countries impose additional entry restrictions or require specific documentation beyond the visa.

 

Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa Application Process and Documentation Differences

Going through the visa application proce­dure can be quite a tough task. However, fe­ar not, we are here­ to guide you in every step:

1. Tourist Visa Application

  • Complete the application form

  • A passport with a valid visa is a must

  • Submission of recent pictures is a must

  • A proper hotel booking at the destination and a return ticket

  • It is necessary to confirm that you have funds to pay for your stay.

2. Visit Visa Application

  • Filling out the application form

  • Deposition of the passport with the visa stamped on it

  • Providing only the newest photographs

  • A good reason for travel and a specific reason from the company to family visits given in the letter collaboration is demonstrated unequivocally

  • Other documents like employment or business details and proof of your connection to your home country are usually shown.

  • You can meet the requirement with funds for your stay

Most of the time, the visit visa application comes with some significant paperwork. Like for example, if you are entering for business purposes, you will mostly be required to submit the following documentation:

  • A letter from the company that sent you

  • The description of the place where you are hosted

  • A clear explanation of the projects you have in mind

Always remember to provide all the necessary documents. Having everything you need is always easier than forgetting something important!

Difference Between Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa According to Duration of Stay

The stay limit applicable for visit and tourist visas is set to differ widely:

1. Tourist Visa

  • Usually, it can be used for short periods

  • Ranges anywhere from thirty to ninety days

  • Several countries offer tourist visas for a maximum of six months.

One example of a specific country is Thailand; a standard thirty-day tourist visa coupled with a trip to Koh Phangan with its heavenly beaches will be a whopper!

2. Visit Visa

  • Frequently, they are granted for a longer time

  • Sometimes, it can be used for a few months and even for years

  • Offers the possibility of extra months for more visits

Imagine, for instance, with a UK Standard Visitor visa, you can go for stays of up to 6 months, and the usual medical and work visits can break up your talk.

The tenure of a person's visit can also be affected by the specific country and visa decrees. It is always safer to contact the embassy or consulate of your destination country for the latest information.

Permissible Activities Under Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa

Being clear about what is legal and what is not legal under each type of visa is essential. It's the same as knowing the rules of a game before you play:

1. Tourist Visa Activities

  • Sightseeing and Exploring attractions

  • Trying local food and cultural activities

  • Short-term recreational courses (e.g., a week-long cooking class in Italy)

  • Visiting friends and relatives (but not for a long time)

Can you picture yourself strolling through the streets of Rome, licking an ice cream, or diving in the largest coral formation in the world, Australia? That's what tourist visas are for!

2. Visit Visa Activities

  • All tourist visa activities

  • Attending business meetings and conferences

  • Making contracts or investigating business opportunities

  • Staying with family for a long stay

  • Getting short-term medical treatment

  • Taking part in short programs or research activities

First, you could go to a technology convention in Silicon Valley on a visit visa, and then, you could go on a San Francisco city tour.

Note that neither of these visas, no matter the type you have, allows you to:

  • Work on a permanent basis

  • Live in the country

  • Use public funds or claim benefits

Always abide by the visa-appropriate activities. It's a bet that isn't worth it - the loss of one's legal status in return for activities that fall beyond what is otherwise permitted on the visa!

Financial Requirements and Implications Differences For Tourist and Visitor Visa

When it comes to visas, money matters! Both visit and tourist visas have obligatory financials and some distinctions, although these may not be the only ones. Here are the financial requirements for these visas:

1. Tourist Visa Financial Requirements

  • Proof of sufficient funds for your stay

  • Return ticket or onward journey booking

  • Travel health insurance (required by some countries)

For example, if you are to travel to the Schengen area, you must possess at least €50 for each day of your stay.

2. Visit Visa Financial Requirements

  • Proof of sufficient funds for your stay

  • Evidence of financial ties to your home country

  • Sponsor's financial documents (if applicable)

  • Potentially higher funds requirement due to longer stay

A business visit visa might require you to show your company's financial statements or a letter detailing who will cover your expenses.

Application Fees Differences for Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa

Visa fees may fluctuate greatly depending on the country and visa type. In some situations, visit visas may actually be more expensive because of the largeness of their scope as well as their longer validity.

For example:

  • US Tourist Visa (B2): $160

  • US Business Visit Visa (B1): $160

  • UK Standard Visitor Visa: £100 (6 months), £376 (2 years), £670 (5 years)

Always inquire about the latest fee on the official embassy site of the destination country.

Renewal, Extension, and Residency Options for Tourist Visa and Visitor Visa

Flexibility is where tourist and visit visas differ to a great extent. In the next section, we will look at the differences between renewals, extensions, and potential pathways to residency that are offered by each visa type.

1. Tourist Visa

  • It typically cannot be extended

  • You may have to exit and return to the country to get a new visa

  • It is seldom the case that tourists are given residency rights

For example, if you had a tourist visa for 30 days in Thailand and wanted to stay longer, the most common way would be to leave the country and then apply for a new visa.

2. Visit Visa

  • Extensions can often be done

  • There might also be a renewal possibility directly in the country

  • In the worst scenario, it can function as a way to other visa types

Assume for a moment that you are utilizing a Standard Visitor visa for your trip to the UK. The extension of your stay up to 6 month period, which would be beneficial for you to manage your business properly or have your family enjoy a longer time with you, maybe a possible situation.

In some cases, a visit visa may imply a route to other visas. Let's say you're travelling to a country for business and then decide to stay for work. It's quite possible, but you have to transfer to a skilled worker visa, which you can only do by being inside the country. Don't forget that visa rules might be different depending on the country you are going to. Always refer to official sources when updating visa information. Make sure you are looking at the newest information available from the countries' governmental websites before making travel plans or considering long-term options.

Processing Time and Visa Fees for Tourist and Visitor Visa

There is no time like the present. Make up your mind? 

1. Processing Time

  • Tourist Visa: Points of Difference- Is there anything different?

  • Visit Visa: You might have to wait longer, normally 2-4 weeks

For example, a Schengen tourist visa is usually required for 15 days. However, a UK Standard Visitor visa could be processed in up to 3 weeks.

2. Visa Fees

Fees depend on the specific country and visa category, so the variation is vast. Here's a brief summary:

  • Tourist Visa: Less expensive in many cases

  • Visit Visa: The charge can be higher because of a longer duration and wider scope

For instance.

  • US Tourist Visa: $160

  • US Business Visit Visa: $160

  • Australia Tourist Visa: AUD 145

  • Australia Business Visit Visa: AUD 365

Please note the examples are indicative. Visit the country's embassy website for the most recent info on processing times and fees if you want.

Insider Advice: A few states differ in their procedures-this could save your life if you are short on time!

Country-Specific Visa Information

Even though visa regulations are quite different from one country to another, they are administered in a common way. Let's give some examples to illustrate the differences between tourist and visit visa policies around the world.

1. United Kingdom

  • Standard Visitor Visa: This option is for both tourism and short-term business visits

  • Duration: Up to 6 months

  • It can only be used for tourism and business or to visit family and friends

Schengen Area

  • Schengen Visa: This visa is meant for tourism and short stays mainly

  • Duration: A maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period

  • Comprises 26 European countries

2. United States

  • B1 Visa: For business visits

  • B2 Visa: For tourism and medical treatment

  • Duration: Usually, it's for a period of up to 6 months. Nevertheless, if the need arises, it can be extended.

3. China

  • L Visa: For tourism

  • M Visa: For business and trade activities

  • Duration: Different, usually from 30 to 90 days

Keep in mind that visa policies can shift. So, always make sure to find the most recent data from the embassy or the consulate of the country where you are going.

Pro tip: Visa-free agreements are offered to people from some countries. First, make sure that you are not among the exempted nationals before getting a visa!

Entry Visa vs Exit Visa

So, the limelight is really on entry visas for most international travel. However, not so many of us know what an exit visa means, not to mention the one "some" countries require. Let's take a closer look at it.

1. Entry Visa

  • Required by many countries

  • Lets you step into a foreign country

  • For instance: Tourist visas, business visit visas

Just see it as a key that enables you to reach your target place.

2. Exit Visa

  • Area fewer countries require

  • Its obligation is to get off the country of your stay

  • Often, for those who are long-term legal residents or in a special situation

  • It is more like a checkout process. You entered with permission; now you leave with permission.

For instance:

  • The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia is in the habit of issuing exit visas to employees from abroad

  • Cuba is the one that imposes exit visas on their residents

Most tourists have no worries and often come and go on tourist visas. They are more concerned with immigrants and long-term residents and in countries where travel is strictly controlled.

Remember that you always need to search for both entry and exit requirements.

How to Choose the Right Visa for Your Travel Goals?

How to Choose the Right Visa for Your Needs?

Choosing a visa is just like choosing the best attire for the event. The final look that you want to present has to be exactly what you need!

When is the Best Time to Get a Tourist Visa?

  • Doing a holiday trip or a city tour.

  • Have a short time to see your friends or relatives.

  • Joining a significant cultural event or a personalized festival.

For example, person A is visualizing himself spending a 2-week beach vacation in Bali, which is why he would need a tourist visa.

When is a Visitor Visa the Most Logical Choice?

  • Take care of business and have fun during the visit.

  • Visiting family for longer periods

  • Getting short-term medical treatment

  • Conducting business meetings or attending conferences

Assume you are going to a business project in London for a month and you will also do some sightseeing. A visitor visa will be your best option in this case.

However, the main difference is in the duration and flexibility of your trip. Choose the right visa that fits your travelling aims and plans.

Another hint: If you are not confident, you may want to seek advice from the embassy or a visa specialist. It is better to know now instead of encountering problems at customs later on!

Common Misconceptions About Visit and Tourist Visas

Let's bust some myths! There are several misconceptions floating around about tourist visas and visit visas.

Myth 1: Tourist and Visit Visas are the Same

Reality: Although they are largely analogous, they vastly differ in function and are regulated by diverse policies.

Myth 2: You Can Work on a Tourist Visa

Reality: No, you cannot. Employment on such a visa constitutes an offence, and the offender can bring a lot of trouble upon himself or herself.

Myth 3: Visa Decisions are Politically Driven

Reality: Even if politics have an effect on certain visa policies, it is the individual applications that are assessed.

Myth 4: You Can Easily Switch from a Tourist to a Work Visa

Reality: This is not always the case. Normally, most countries want applicants to apply for a work visa in their home country.

Myth 5: Longer Visa Processing Time Means Higher Chance of Rejection

Reality: Time taken for the visa processing doesn't mean approval or rejection. It's more of the embassy workload.

Keep in mind that visa rules are not set by politics but by the immigration laws of a country and also by security concerns.

Make sure you only use the proper authorities whenever you are seeking accurate information on visas. Do not allow wrong ideas to mess up your travel plans!

Tips for a Successful Visa Application

Are you ready to beat the visa application odds this coming year? Here you go with our immigration experts' tried and true suggestions that will help you ace your goal!

1. Begin Early: Do your registration far ahead of your departure date.

2. Be Truthful: Whether it is your personal background or any other details you provide, always be honest with the information you give. Deception badly affects the result, which can either be a no visa or complexity of travelling issues in the future.

3. Beware of Mistakes: Be sure to enter all check-boxes and provide all needed details besides.

4. Establish a Strong Relationship: You can strengthen your situation by showing a work profile and connections to your home country.

5. Financial Evidence: Present evidence that you have funds to support you during your trip.

6. Define the Purpose: In a clear and concise manner, state the objective of your stay, whether it is for enjoyment or business.

7. Reservations: Show your planned activities on the trip.

8. Image is Everything: Give all the required documentation in a format that is clear and unblurred.

9. Be Ready: In addition to the documents you sent, be ready to talk about your travelling./Heading for other countries, it might be a mandatory interview./Going through an Immigration Officer is inevitable at times, so you need to master the skill of talking about your trip as if there was one.

10. Check Status: Follow your application after submitting it to get your application status.

Point to note, either way, whether you are an entrepreneur or planning some quality family time out there, a well-organized application is the secret to a swift visa procedure.

Please note that it would be advantageous if you could have a copy of all the submitted papers. It might be of help to you later if you need to reapply.

Read More: A Guide to Canada Visitor Visa from India

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, the tourist and visitor visa allows travellers to enter the country for a limited time. There are various key difference between tourist visa and visitor visa, such as their purpose, stay time, cost and flexibility. By understanding the individual needs and requirements, you can apply for a tourist or visitor visa for the destination country. The application process for both visas differs slightly and is easy. These visas don't require much documentation and get approved faster than other professional visas.

If you’re looking to apply for a tourist or visitor visa to any country of your choice, then TerraTern is here to help you guide the whole thing.

Get all the details on Australia PR with this visa checklist

Alisha Azeem

Content Marketing Specialist

Pursuing a dual major in Psychology and English Literature from Bangalore, Karnataka, I bring 6 years of professional content writing experience in Immigration and Education. My freelance work covers a diverse array of topics. As a published author, I actively engage in creative endeavors such as poetry, spoken word, and storytelling.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between a tourist visa and a visitor visa?

The primary difference between a tourist visa and a visitor visa lies in their purpose and the range of activities they allow. A tourist visa is generally issued for leisure and recreational purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting tourist attractions, and experiencing the culture of a country. It is usually granted for a shorter duration, typically ranging from a few weeks to a few months, depending on the country. On the other hand, a visitor visa has a broader scope. It is issued not only for tourism but also for visiting family and friends, attending business meetings, or other short-term purposes. Visitor visas often allow for longer stays compared to tourist visas, and they may permit certain business-related activities under specific conditions. However, both types of visas do not typically allow long-term residency, work, or academic study.

Can I work on a tourist or visitor visa?

Working on a tourist visa is strictly prohibited in most countries. These visas are issued solely for leisure and travel purposes, and engaging in any form of employment, whether paid or unpaid, is a violation of visa conditions and could result in penalties, deportation, or future travel bans. Similarly, while a visitor visa may allow for certain business activities, such as attending meetings or conferences, it does not typically permit formal employment. Countries have strict regulations to prevent misuse of these visas for work, and those found violating these rules may face legal consequences. If you plan to work during your stay, you will need to apply for a work visa that aligns with the employment laws of the destination country.

How long can I stay on a tourist visa?

The duration of stay on a tourist visa varies depending on the country issuing the visa. Typically, tourist visas allow for stays ranging from a few weeks to a few months. For example, some countries may issue visas valid for 30, 60, or 90 days, with the possibility of a single or multiple entries. Some countries also allow visa extensions, but these are usually granted under specific circumstances, such as medical emergencies or other justifiable reasons. It is important to check the specific rules and duration limits for each country before traveling to ensure compliance with visa conditions. Overstaying a tourist visa can lead to fines, deportation, and difficulties in obtaining visas in the future.

What documents are needed for a visitor visa application?

The documentation required for a visitor visa application can vary by country, but some common documents include: 1. Valid Passport: Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your planned stay and have sufficient blank pages for visa stamps. 2. Visa Application Form: Completed and signed, often available online or at the consulate. 3. Passport-sized Photographs: Recent photographs that meet the specific requirements set by the visa office. 4. Proof of Funds: Bank statements, salary slips, or other financial documents demonstrating that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay. 5. Letter of Invitation: If visiting family or friends, a letter from the host may be required, stating the purpose and duration of the visit. 6. Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel plans, including flight reservations and accommodation bookings. 7. Proof of Ties to Home Country: Documents such as employment letters, property ownership, or family ties to show your intention to return home. 8. Travel Insurance: Some countries require proof of travel insurance covering medical emergencies and repatriation. It's important to check the specific requirements of the country you are applying to, as additional documents may be needed.

Are there any countries that do not require a tourist or visitor visa?

Yes, there are countries that offer visa-free travel or visa-on-arrival options for certain nationalities, depending on bilateral or multilateral agreements. For example, citizens of the European Union (EU) countries can travel freely within the Schengen Area without requiring a visa. Similarly, many countries have agreements that allow citizens of specific nations to enter for short-term stays without needing a visa. However, visa exemption often depends on the traveler’s nationality, the purpose of the visit, and the length of stay. Always check the entry requirements of the destination country before traveling, as rules and agreements can change. Additionally, while some countries may not require a visa, they might still need an electronic travel authorization (e.g., ESTA for the USA) or other travel permissions.