Visa: meaning, definitions and examples

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.

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.

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 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.

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.

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.

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.

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.