Methodology

Core rule: never invent

If we have no reliable source for a passport and destination, Need a Visa? shows unknown. We do not fill gaps with guesses, averages, or “similar country” heuristics. Maximum stay days appear only when present in the source.

Status categories

Upstream labels (for example visa-free, eTA/ETA, eVisa, visa on arrival, visa required, banned/restricted) are mapped onto a fixed set of answers. The mapping follows fixed rules rather than editorial judgement. See Sources for where the data comes from.

Disputes

When sources disagree for the same passport and destination, we mark it disputed rather than silently picking a winner. The page shows the strictest reading, says that sources disagree, and asks you to check with the embassy.

How often we refresh (weekly)

Each week we check the open data for changes and update only answers that are newly confirmed or improved. Manual corrections are never overwritten automatically. Large changes and new disagreements are reviewed by a person. Each page shows when its data was last updated or checked.

Diplomatic missions

Embassy and consulate listings come from OpenStreetMap. Coverage varies by city. Listings may be incomplete or outdated — always verify before visiting. Attribution and licence details are on Sources.

What we exclude

• Commercial Henley / IATA Timatic feeds unless separately licensed.
• Data with non-commercial or unclear licences.
• Live “guaranteed admission” or forged-document guidance of any kind.