Visa: meaning, definitions and examples

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visa

[ˈviːzə ]

Definitions

^{Context #1 | Noun}

travel

An endorsement on a passport indicating that the holder is allowed to enter, leave, or stay for a specified period of time in a country.

Synonyms

authorization, entry document, permit.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
visa	A visa is an official document that allows someone to enter or stay in a foreign country for a specific purpose, such as tourism, work, or study. It is usually issued by the country you want to visit. She applied for a tourist visa to visit France. His work visa expires next month.
permit	A permit is an official document that allows someone to do something, such as stay longer in a country, work, or drive. It is often specific to certain activities or purposes. He has a permit to work in Australia for two years. You need a permit to park in this area.
entry document	An entry document is any form of documentation that grants someone the right to enter a country. This term is more general and can include visas, permits, and other types of travel permissions. Make sure you carry your entry document when you travel abroad. The customs officer asked to see his entry document.
authorization	Authorization refers to the general permission granted by an authority to take a specific action. It is a broader term and can be used in various contexts, such as security, access, or permissions beyond just travel. You need authorization from the manager to access this area. She received authorization to use the company's resources.

Examples of usage

I need to renew my visa before my trip to France.
Make sure you have a valid visa before boarding the plane.

^{Context #2 | Noun}

credit card

A small plastic card issued by a bank, business, etc., allowing the holder to purchase goods or services on credit.

Synonyms

credit card, payment card, plastic card.

Which Synonym Should You Choose?

Word	Description / Examples
visa	Refers to a specific brand of credit card issued by the Visa Inc. company, widely accepted internationally for transactions. My Visa card was declined at the restaurant. He prefers to use his Visa for online shopping.
credit card	Used in financial contexts when referring to a small plastic card issued by a bank, business, etc., allowing the holder to purchase goods or services on credit. She paid for her new phone using her credit card. He maxed out his credit card during the holiday season.
plastic card	An informal term that can refer to any card made of plastic, including credit, debit, ID, or membership cards. She always carries multiple plastic cards in her wallet. I need to get a new plastic card for accessing the gym.
payment card	A more generic term used for any card that can be used for transactions, including credit, debit, or prepaid cards. Many stores now accept multiple types of payment cards. He inserted his payment card into the ATM to withdraw cash.

Examples of usage

I paid for the hotel room using my visa.
Do you accept visa or cash for payment?

Interesting Facts

Etymology

The term 'visa' comes from the Latin word 'charta visa', meaning 'the paper that has been seen'.
In French, 'visa' translates to 'seen', referring to the approval of traveling documents.

History

Visas have been around since ancient times when travelers needed to prove their identity and purpose of travel.
The modern visa system began to take shape in the early 20th century as global travel increased post-World War I.

Cultural Impact

Different countries have unique visa requirements, reflecting their attitudes towards immigration and tourism.
Popular films often depict characters facing visa challenges, highlighting the frustrations of international travel.

Geopolitical Context

Visa policies can change rapidly based on political relationships, impacting travel opportunities.
Some countries offer visa-free travel for citizens of certain nations as part of diplomatic agreements.

Regulations

Visas can be temporary or permanent, allowing for various lengths of stay depending on the country’s laws.
Many countries require a visa application process, which may include interviews and background checks.

Translations

Translations of the word "visa" in other languages:

🇵🇹 visto

🇮🇳 वीजा

🇩🇪 Visum

🇮🇩 visa

🇺🇦 віза

🇵🇱 wiza

🇯🇵 ビザ

🇫🇷 visa

🇪🇸 visa

🇹🇷 vize

🇰🇷 비자

🇸🇦 تأشيرة

🇨🇿 vízum

🇸🇰 vízum

🇨🇳 签证

🇸🇮 viza

🇮🇸 vegabréfsáritun

🇰🇿 виза

🇬🇪 ვიზა

🇦🇿 viza

🇲🇽 visa

Word Frequency Rank

Ranked #11,397, this word falls into high-advanced vocabulary. It appears less frequently but is valuable for expressing precise meanings in specific contexts.

...
11394 mates
11395 bolted
11396 vile
11397 visa
11398 ably
11399 volatility
11400 raced
...