When you are searching for a visa to cross the border, two types of visas come into play. One is a visitor visa, and the other is a tourist visa. Now, how to spot the difference between the tourist visa and the visit visa? 

Don’t worry, we have got you. In this article, we have brought to you the key differences between a visit visa tourist visa, along with their requirements and much more. 

What is a Tourist Visa? 

A tourist visa is a document that is issued by the government that allows travellers to enter their country for tourism purposes. Tourist visas are usually valid for single and multiple entries. 

What is a Visit Visa? 

A visit visa or visitor visa is similar to a tourist visa that allows travellers to enter another country for tourism purposes. But, unlike a tourist visa has an expiry period, a visitor visa is usually valid for longer periods. 

Difference Between Visit Visa and Tourist Visa in 2025 

Now that you are familiar with what a tourist and visitor visa is, let us next learn in detail about the key differences between a visit and tourist visa as follows:

Quick Reads: What Are the Different Types of Visas?

Requirements For Obtaining A Visitor Or Tourist Visa

The visa requirements for obtaining a tourist or visitor visa vary depending on the country you are visiting. However, there are some general visit or tourist visa requirements that you will need to meet to be eligible

• A valid passport for at least 6 months beyond the date of your intended arrival in the country you are visiting.
• A completed visa application can be found on the website of the embassy or consulate of the country you are visiting.
• 2 Recent passport-sized photographs
• Provide Proof of financial support during your stay in the country you are visiting. This can be in the form of bank statements, income statements, or other financial documents.
• Proof of a confirmed onward travel ticket out of the country you are visiting.
• A Letter of invitation from the person you are visiting in the country.

Tourist or Visit Visa Application Process: How to Apply?

The application process for a visit visa or tourist visa will vary depending on the country you're visiting. However, there are some general steps that you can follow: 

Step 1: Check the visa requirements for the country you're visiting.

Step 2: Gather the necessary documentation.

Step 3: Complete the visa application form.

Step 4: Pay the visa application fee.

Step 5: Submit your application to the embassy or consulate of the country you're visiting.

Visitor Visa Processing Time

The visitor visa processing time can vary depending on the country you are applying to, the current visa application load, and your circumstances. However, it is typically several weeks or months. Here are some examples of Visitor visa processing times for different countries are mentioned below

Visitor Visa Processing Time to Australia

The visitor visa processing time to Australia for Indian nationals varies depending on the type of visa. Here are some examples:

• A Visitor visa (subclass 600) takes 28 days to process.
• A Transit visa (subclass 771) takes 1-16 days to process.
• A Student visa (subclass 500) takes 49 days to process.
• A Work visa (subclass 482) takes 7-12 months to process.
• A Business visa (subclass 600) takes 21 days to process.

Visitor Visa Processing Time to Canada

• The visitor visa processing time to Canada is 28 – 45 days.
• However, the processing time can be longer if your application is incomplete or if there are any additional steps required, such as medical examinations or security checks.

Tourist Visa Processing Time

The tourist visa processing time varies from country to country. It can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months. Some examples of tourist visa processing times for different countries are mentioned below:

Tourist Visa Processing Time to Australia

The standard processing time for an Australian visitor (tourist) visa is 30 days, but it may vary depending on the individual circumstances of the application.

Tourist Visa Processing Time to Canada

• The Canada tourist visa processing time for a visa application can take anywhere from a few weeks to a few months.
• It is important to apply well in advance of your planned travel dates to avoid any delays.
• As of 2025, the estimated processing time for a Canadian visitor visa is 83 days for Indian applicants. Other sources suggest a range of 10 to 27 days for those already inside Canada and 2 to 8 months for those applying from outside Canada. However, this is just an estimate, and the actual processing time may vary. It is important to apply for your tourist visa well in advance of your travel date to avoid any delays.

Read: How to identify original vs fake Canada visa in 2025?

Visitor Visa Fees/ Tourist Visa Fees

The visitor visa fee, aka tourist visa fee, is the amount of money that you need to pay to apply for a visitor visa/ tourist visa to a particular country. The exact amount of the fee varies from country to country. For example:

• The Canada Visitor Visa fees for an application are CAD$100 per person, with an additional CAD$85 biometrics fee. The total cost of applying for the visa is CAD$185.
• The Australian visitor visa fee is AUD 145. This is the standard visa application charge for most visa applicants. However, there are some exceptions to this fee as well.

Read: Different Canada Visa Types for Indians in 2025

Tips To Choose Between a Visitor and Tourist Visa

The right visa for you will depend on the purpose of your visit and the length of time you plan to stay in the foreign country. Hence, choosing between a visit visa and a tourist visa requires a thorough evaluation of your travel plans and intentions.

Here are a few tips to help you make the right decision between a visitor visa and tourist visa:

• Define Your Purpose: Clearly outline the purpose of your trip, whether it is traveling for business, medical reasons, or simply for leisure and tourism.
• Duration: Determine the expected duration of your stay. If your activities require an extended period, a visit visa might be more suitable.
• Activities: Consider the activities you plan to engage in during your trip. If you intend to participate in business meetings, conferences, or other non-tourism activities, a visit visa might be necessary.
• Documentation: Gather all necessary documentation based on the chosen visa type. This might include business invitations, medical certificates, or accommodation bookings.

Read: List of Top 20 Countries With Visa on Arrival For Indians

Visit visa vs Tourist visa: Choosing the Right Visa with GetGIS

Choose the right visa for your travel needs. Get help from GetGIS if you are unsure of the visa type you need. They will guide you in choosing the appropriate visa and provide the necessary application materials. Our services extend to PR services, Job seeker visa services, and job search assistance, and more.

Making an informed visa decision ensures a seamless travel experience. Who knows, you might create lasting memories during your journey.

Book Your Free Consultation!

Useful Links:

• How To Apply For Germany Job Seeker Visa From India
• Complete Guide on Sweden Visa Types & Requirements
• Australian Visa Types: Popular Visa Options in 2025
• The Ultimate List of 30 Visa-Free Countries for Indians
• What is The Difference Between a Visa and a Passport?