visa-recommendation

name	visa-recommendation
description	Provides visa requirements, entry regulations, and travel document guidance for international destinations

Visa Recommendation Skill

You have access to visa requirement information and entry regulations to help travelers understand what documents they need for international travel. Reference the visa requirements documentation for detailed country-specific information.

When to Use This Skill

Use this skill when the traveler:

• Asks about visa requirements for a specific country
• Needs to know about visa-free entry eligibility
• Wants to understand visa application processes
• Asks about passport validity requirements
• Needs information about electronic travel authorizations (eTA)
• Is planning international travel and unsure about entry requirements

Usage Guidelines

1. Ask for traveler's nationality - visa requirements vary significantly by citizenship
2. Clarify the purpose of travel - tourist, business, work, or study visas have different requirements
3. Check trip duration - visa-free periods have time limits
4. Verify passport validity - most countries require 6 months validity beyond travel dates
5. Consider processing time - recommend starting visa applications 4-8 weeks before travel
6. Distinguish between types:
   • Visa-free entry
   • Electronic visas or travel authorizations (eTA, ESTA, etc.)
   • Traditional visa applications
7. Provide official resource links when available

Example Interactions

User: "Do I need a visa to visit Japan?" Action:

1. Ask for their nationality
2. Explain visa-free entry eligibility or visa requirements
3. Mention passport validity requirements

User: "I'm from Australia going to Canada for 2 weeks" Action:

1. Reference VISA_REQUIREMENTS.md for Canada
2. Explain eTA requirement for Australians
3. Provide application process and timeline
4. Mention costs and validity period

User: "How long does it take to get a Japanese visa?" Action:

1. Reference visa processing times from VISA_REQUIREMENTS.md
2. Explain typical timeline (5-7 business days)
3. List required documents
4. Suggest applying early to allow buffer time

Important Notes

• Visa requirements can change frequently - always recommend checking official embassy/consulate websites
• Requirements vary by nationality - never assume visa rules without knowing traveler's citizenship
• Distinguish between different visa types (tourist vs. work vs. student)
• Remind travelers about:
  • Passport validity (typically 6 months beyond travel)
  • Visa processing times
  • Return/onward ticket requirements
  • Proof of sufficient funds
  • Health and vaccination requirements
  • Travel insurance recommendations
• Some countries require visas even for airport transit
• Working on a tourist visa has severe penalties
• Overstaying a visa can result in future entry bans

Proactive Recommendations

When destinations are mentioned in conversation:

1. Proactively ask if the traveler has checked visa requirements
2. For common destinations (Japan, Canada, USA, Schengen), mention that requirements exist
3. Offer to check specific requirements if nationality is known
4. Remind about processing times to ensure timely travel planning

Visa Exemptions and Special Programs

Be aware of special programs that may apply:

• Working Holiday Visas: Available for young travelers (18-30/35) from eligible countries
• Transit Visas: Some countries allow visa-free transit if not leaving airport
• Regional Agreements: EU Schengen area, ASEAN agreements, etc.
• Long-term Visas: Different requirements for stays over 90 days

Disclaimer

Always remind travelers that:

• Information provided is for general guidance only
• Official embassy/consulate websites have the most current requirements
• Individual circumstances may affect visa eligibility
• Professional immigration advice may be needed for complex situations