When planning international travel with family, friends, or colleagues, one of the best ways to save on costs is to take advantage of group discounts for visit visas. Many countries recognize the convenience and benefits of group travel, offering special visa packages, simplified procedures, or reduced fees for groups applying together.
This article explains how group visit visa discounts work, which countries offer them, eligibility requirements, and how to apply.
What Are Group Visit Visas?
A group visit visa is a type of visa issued to a set of travelers (typically 5 or more) who are visiting a country for the same purpose, route, and time frame. Group visas are commonly used for:
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Tour groups
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Corporate travel
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Educational or cultural exchanges
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Family or religious pilgrimages
Group discounts can come in the form of:
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Lower visa fees per person
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Waived service charges
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Faster or simplified processing
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Package deals through approved travel agencies
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Countries That Offer Group Visit Visa Discounts
Here are some popular countries that offer discounted or special group visit visa options:
1. China
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Visa type: Group Tourist Visa (Type L)
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Group size: Minimum 5 people
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Application: Through licensed Chinese travel agencies
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Benefits: One visa for the group, lower individual fees, simpler paperwork
2. India
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Visa type: Group Tourist Visa
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Group size: Minimum 4–6 people (depends on embassy rules)
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Application: Through authorized Indian tour operators
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Benefits: Coordinated entry and exit, possible discounts via agents
3. Saudi Arabia (Umrah Groups)
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Visa type: Umrah Visa (for religious travel)
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Group size: Varies (commonly 10+)
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Application: Via licensed Umrah operators
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Benefits: Group processing, accommodation bundles, lower costs
4. Malaysia
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Visa type: Group Tourist Visa
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Group size: Minimum 10 people
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Application: Via travel agencies registered with the Malaysian Tourism Board
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Benefits: Lower per-person visa fees and expedited application process
5. Vietnam
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Visa type: Group Tourist Visa
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Group size: Minimum 5 people
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Application: Through registered travel companies
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Benefits: Shared visa, reduced cost, airport facilitation
6. Indonesia
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Visa type: Group Tourist Visa
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Group size: Typically 5 or more
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Application: Travel agent-based processing
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Benefits: Waived or reduced visa fees, flexible itinerary
7. Russia (via E-visa or Tour Agencies)
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Visa type: Tourist group visa
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Group size: At least 5 people
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Application: Through certified Russian tour operators
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Benefits: Lower paperwork requirements, single visa document for group
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Eligibility Requirements
Though requirements vary by country, most group visit visa programs share these common conditions:
| Requirement | Description |
|---|---|
| Group Size | Usually a minimum of 5–10 travelers |
| Same Itinerary | All members must travel together on the same dates and routes |
| Licensed Travel Agency | Applications must be submitted through an approved or licensed agent or tour operator |
| Proof of Accommodation | Confirmed hotel bookings for the group |
| Purpose of Visit | Tourism, religious pilgrimage, or educational purposes (business may require different visa) |
Required Documents for Group Applications
Here are the typical documents you’ll need to apply for a group visit visa:
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Group application form (signed by leader or agent)
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Passports of all group members (valid for at least 6 months)
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Passport photos
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Travel itinerary
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Proof of return tickets
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Accommodation details
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Travel insurance (in some cases)
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Group invitation letter (if applicable)
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Agent or tour operator’s authorization
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
How to Apply for a Group Visit Visa
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Choose your destination and confirm eligibility
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Gather a group (minimum number varies)
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Select a licensed travel agency experienced in visa handling
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Prepare and submit all documents together
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Pay the group fee (discounted rate per person)
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Attend group biometrics/interview (if required)
Cost and Discounts
| Country | Individual Visa Fee | Group Discounted Fee (Approx.) |
|---|---|---|
| China | $60–$100 | $30–$50 per person |
| Vietnam | $25–$50 | $15–$30 per person |
| India | $40–$100 | Often negotiated via agent |
| Saudi Arabia | $120–$200 | Reduced in Umrah/Hajj groups |
| Malaysia | $30–$60 | Lowered to $15–$25 |
Discounts vary based on group size, nationality, season, and travel agency.
Pros and Cons of Group Visit Visas
Pros:
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Lower visa fees per person
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Faster processing through bulk handling
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Shared documentation and support
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Ideal for students, tourists, and religious pilgrims
Cons:
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All members must enter and exit together
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Less flexibility in travel dates or routes
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Dependent on group leader or agent’s coordination
If you need an explanation on writing your CV, Cover Letter and Email Template or help applying speak to Happy Face
Group discounts for visit visas are a smart way to reduce travel costs, especially for tourism, religious trips, or educational exchanges. By applying as a group, travelers can benefit from simplified processing, reduced fees, and coordinated travel arrangements.
However, it’s important to read the fine print. These visas come with specific conditions—such as the requirement that all members travel together. Be sure to work with a reputable, licensed travel agent familiar with group visa procedures in your destination country.
