Revamping Visas in 4 Countries

Visa policies are being revised in Turkey, Australia, Bhutan and Nepal, with the most significant change in Turkey, which for the first time is requiring Americans planning short-term trips to obtain visas.

Beginning Oct. 1, travelers to Turkey will have to plunk down $20 when they arrive at the airport or cruise port to get a visa that will be good for up to three months.

A spokesman at the Turkish Embassy in Washington, D.C., said every effort is being made to streamline the process. “All that travelers need is a passport and the $20 fee. It will all be handled at a special desk and will only take minutes. We’ve been doing the same for British citizens for a couple of years and it’s worked perfectly.

Turkey instituted the fees for administrative reasons. Travelers needing long-term and student visas should contact the consulate.

In Bhutan, tourists will not be allowed to obtain individual visas as of Jan. 1, but must travel in groups of at least four. “Bhutan does not have the infrastructure to handle large numbers of individual tourists,” said Brent Olson of InnerAsia Expeditions.

Olson said tour operators usually make visa arrangements because Bhutan does not have a visa office in the U.S.

Nepal has done away with its single visa fee and replaced it with a tiered system. A 15-day, single-entry visa is now $15 and a 30-day single-entry is $25. Rates climb to $40 for a 30-day double-entry visa and $60 for a 60-day multiple entry visa.

Australia no longer requires photos on visa applications. New forms are available at the Australian Consulate General, 611 N. Larchmont Blvd., Los Angeles 90004; tel. (213) 469-4300.