European Union citizens face widely varying entry costs for international travel, with some African nations charging over €200 for visas. While countries like Ghana and Bhutan sit at the top of the expense list, Canada offers the world’s most affordable entry for EU passport holders at just €4.31.
The High Cost of Entry in Africa and Asia
For European Union citizens, the cost of visiting certain countries has become a significant travel consideration. According to Euronews, African nations dominate the list of the most expensive destinations, with Ghana leading at €227.48 for an e-visa. Nigeria also presents a substantial cost, with Euronews reporting that single or multiple entry visas range between €175 and €297 depending on processing speed and visa type.
The Kingdom of Bhutan utilizes a different model, charging a €35 entry fee alongside a mandatory Sustainable Development Fee of €87 per night. This fee is earmarked for healthcare, education, and welfare initiatives within the country. Elsewhere, Cameroon charges €157, while Algeria’s entry fees fluctuate between €75 and €110 based on the duration of the visit and the specific visa requirements.
Japan’s Five-Fold Fee Increase
Japan has recently emerged as one of the most expensive non-African destinations for EU travelers. As of 2026, the country increased its entry fees five-fold. The cost rose from ¥3,000 (€16.16) to ¥15,000 (€81.28), marking the first adjustment to these fees in decades. This change places Japan alongside nations like Saudi Arabia, which charges €92.07, and Namibia, which sets its fee at €85.96.
Global Comparison of Entry Charges
While some nations impose high barriers to entry, others maintain minimal costs for EU passport holders. At the lower end of the spectrum, Canada currently holds the record for the lowest fee at €4.31, followed closely by New Zealand at €8.61. India also provides a cost-effective option, with fees typically ranging from €8.75 to €21.88.
| Destination | Approximate Fee (EUR) |
|---|---|
| Ghana | €227.48 |
| Nigeria | €175 – €297 |
| Cameroon | €157 |
| Saudi Arabia | €92.07 |
| Japan | €81.28 |
| India | €8.75 – €21.88 |
| New Zealand | €8.61 |
| Canada | €4.31 |
Future Changes to EU Border Security
The landscape of travel is also shifting for those entering the European Union. The bloc is currently implementing the Entry / Exit System (EES) to collect biometric data from non-EU arrivals. Additionally, the European Travel Information and Authorisation System (ETIAS) is scheduled for launch on an unconfirmed date during or after Q4 2026. This system will require visa-exempt travelers—including those from the UK, US, and Australia—to pay a €20 fee for authorization valid for three years.
Travelers looking to bypass high visa costs through citizenship by investment schemes should note the significant capital requirements involved. Programs in Jordan require an outlay of €1.29 million, while Caribbean options like Saint Kitts and Nevis demand investments starting at €231,000. As entry requirements continue to evolve, officials recommend checking official immigration websites immediately prior to departure, as fees remain subject to change.
Find more reporting in our World section.
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