Whether it’s a visa, travel authorization, or entry card, your approved travel document is your key to traveling the world. At HandyVisas, we simplify the application process for international travel documents, helping millions of people to travel hassle-free.
By examining data on travel document applications made through our site from around the world, we’ve gained valuable insights into how and where we traveled in 2024.
Our records not only highlight the most popular destinations but also uncover emerging travel hotspots and key patterns and predictions for 2025.
Using in-house data, we’ve compiled this report to provide insights into how our global travel habits shifted in 2024, and what’s to come for international travel in 2025.
Top 10 Most Popular Destinations for 2024
This graph shows our top 10 most requested visas and travel permits for 2024 with HandyVisas. We’ve also added data from 2023 to show shifts in the top destinations for travelers.
All data is compiled from travel document applications made through HandyVisas, comparing January to October 2023, with the same period in 2024.
2024’s Rising Stars: Travel Documents for Hot Destinations
Popular destinations like the Philippines, Indonesia, and the United States continue to hold top spots in 2024, joined by some emerging hotspots for international travel.
Here’s a breakdown of the newcomers to the travel document top 10 for 2024.
Down Under delivers
With the 2024 calendar brimming with world-class sports events, it’s easy to see why Australia has climbed up into the top rankings for international travelers this year.
This year’s Grand Prix in Melbourne saw record-breaking attendance, as did the 2024 Australian Open, with more than 1 million live spectators catching the action in person.
Sydney’s newly minted World Major Marathon also drew huge crowds from across the globe. Pair that with iconic beaches and Australia’s famous sunshine, and it’s no surprise the country became a top choice for travelers in 2024.
What's more, Australia’s eTA application process is refreshingly hassle-free. With no in-person interviews or heavy paperwork requirements, it’s quick and easy to get your travel authorization for Australia if you’re eligible. If not, the eVisa is another convenient option.
Stay longer and see more in Vietnam
Vietnam’s updated E-visa, which launched in late 2023, has caused a major shift in international travelers making the trip to see what the country has to offer.
Vietnam now boasts arguably the best conditions of any visit visa—it’s available to travelers of all nationalities for stays of up to 90 days, with multiple entries permitted. This is a significant upgrade from the previous 30-day limit for only select nationalities.
By opening its visa to visitors from all over the world, Vietnam has become a must-visit destination for so many more travelers. Longer stays mean extra adventures, making the trip even more appealing, even if it involves a long-haul flight from your home country.
From the bustling streets of Hanoi to the picturesque views at Ha Long Bay, visitors can now explore Vietnam’s diverse landscapes and unique culture to the fullest.
Smooth landings in Jamaica
Jamaica’s iconic beaches and non-stop sunshine are no doubt the driving forces behind its rise into the top 10 most requested travel documents for 2024.
But it’s not just beachside fun on offer. Events like Reggae Sumfest, with past performers including Beenie Man and Damian Marley, draw visitors from across the globe in a trend known as gig-tripping—basing your vacation around a concert abroad.
Jamaica’s recent push to modernize immigration processes has further boosted its appeal to visitors worldwide, making travel to the island nation smoother than ever.
The mandatory C5 form, introduced in September 2023, streamlines arrivals checks. This was accompanied by the installation of eGates at key airports, like Sangster International Airport, voted 2024’s leading airport in the Caribbean.
With visa exemptions in place for many countries and improved entry procedures, it’s easier than ever to reach Jamaica for fun times in the sunshine.
2024 Shake-Up: Who’s Out of the Top 10?
Though most of 2023’s top travel hotspots managed to hold their place, some slipped down the table due to changes in entry requirements for international visitors.
Find out which destinations didn’t make the cut for this year’s top 10 most requested travel documents.
South Korea — K-ETA
Due to a temporary exemption on K-ETA requirements for travelers from 67 countries, the South Korean travel authorization has dropped out of the most requested documents for 2024.
Previously ranking in 7th place, the K-ETA became recommended but not mandatory for citizens from a number of countries. Though many international visitors still opted in to smooth the arrivals process, the number of applications naturally lowered.
Despite changes to entry rules, visitor numbers were on the up in 2024. More than 7.7 million foreign travelers arrived in South Korea in the first half of the year, representing a 74% increase from the same period in 2023.
As the exemption expires on December 31, 2024, the demand for the K-ETA is expected to see a resurgence in top travel documents in 2025, as visitors continue to be drawn by South Korea’s charm.
Canada — eTA
Previously ranked 8th in 2023, the Canada eTA has seen a slight drop in demand due to a key policy change issued by the Canadian government. As of February 29, 2024, some Mexican citizens who previously qualified for the eTA must now obtain a visitor visa instead.
Mexican nationals can now only use the eTA for air travel if they’ve held a Canadian visitor visa in the past 10 years or currently hold a valid U.S. non-immigrant visa.
Despite these updates, all other eligible travelers can apply for the eTA as usual. It’s open to citizens from many countries, including the United Kingdom, Hong Kong, and New Zealand.
Turkey — eVisa
Thanks to the launch of new visa exemptions, the Turkey eVisa has seen a notable decline in demand in 2024.
Having previously ranked 9th in our top requested travel documents for 2023, Turkey’s eVisa is no longer required for Canadian and U.S. citizens. Turkish officials announced this visa exemption on January 1, 2024.
Citizens of several other countries, including the United Kingdom, New Zealand, and all EU member states, already enjoyed visa-free travel for up to 90 days for tourism and business purposes.
However, travelers from certain countries, including Australia and South Africa, still need the eVisa.
Though its visa rules have changed, Turkey remains a hugely popular destination for travelers from all over the world, with two of its cities—Istanbul and Antalya—appearing in the top 100 most visited cities in the world.
2024 Travel Trends and Insights
Our internal data shows that the nations that requested the most travel documents through HandyVisas in 2024 were the United States, Australia, Canada, and the United Kingdom.
In the next section, we’ll break down the top travel document requests by nation.
Top 5 Destinations for U.S. Travelers in 2024
South America calling
Top South American destinations remained popular amongst U.S. travelers from 2023 to 2024. In fact, requests for travel documents for U.S. citizens visiting the Dominican Republic rose by 10%.
With direct flights available from across the United States, it’s no wonder that the Dominican Republic remains a favorite destination among Americans. It also helps that Las Américas International Airport (SDQ) is less than a 4-hour flight from New York’s John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK).
More adventures in Australia
Many more U.S. citizens are requesting travel documents for Australia in 2024, bringing Oz to second place.
No doubt thanks in part to the fast and easy application process for the eTA, more U.S. travelers are exploring Down Under. Americans were the 3rd most common visitor to Australia in the 12 months preceding June 2024.
Top 5 Destinations for Australian Travelers in 2024
From Bali to Marina Bay
Much like U.S. travelers, Aussies choose to travel close to home. Top destinations Indonesia and Singapore remain in 1st and 2nd place from 2023 to 2024.
The Australian Bureau of Statistics found that Indonesia replaced New Zealand as the top destination for short-term trips overseas in 2023, for the first time since their records began.
India’s color and culture beckons
Australian travelers are increasingly applying for travel documents to visit India, with request rates up 3% from 2023 to 2024.
Responding to the popular demand, Air India has increased weekly flights from Australia to India by 113% over the past 2 years. Qantas also plans to launch scheduled daily services from Sydney to Bengaluru between mid-December 2024 and late March 2025, adding over 12,000 available seats between the two cities in this period.
Top 5 Destinations for Canadian Travelers in 2024
Open door to adventure in the Dominican Republic
Thanks to the Open Skies agreement signed between Canada and the Dominican Republic in early 2023, airlines from both countries can now operate without restrictions on routes and frequencies.
Canadian fliers are now taking advantage, with requests for travel documents for the Dominican Republic up almost 27% from 2023 to 2024.
Amongst the boosted flight schedules, Air Canada has recently launched routes from Toronto and Ottawa to Punta Cana during the winter season to help Canadians escape from the frosty temperatures.
From Manila to Boracay
The Philippines remains a firm favorite amongst Canadian travelers, with travel document requests rising by almost 5% from 2023 to 2024.
Thanks to relaxed visa rules for Canadian passport holders, it’s the perfect easy-to-arrange tropical escape.
Top 5 Destinations for UK Travelers in 2024
Singapore: Gateway to the world
Requests for travel documents for UK visitors to Singapore remain steady from 2023 to 2024.
With direct flights and no visa requirements for Brits visiting for less than 90 days, it’s easy to see why so many flock to Singapore.
Its strategic location also makes Singapore a hugely popular stopover destination for UK travelers heading to other parts of Asia or Australia, particularly as a cruise ship hub.
In 2023, Singapore welcomed 2 million passengers from over 340 ship calls—the highest since the opening of the Marina Bay Cruise Centre.
Indonesia and its islands await
Indonesia has shown to be an increasingly popular choice for UK citizens, with travel document requests up almost 6% from 2023 to 2024.
Whether you’re seeking some quiet me-time in Bali’s wellness retreats or want to chase thrills with adventurous pursuits, Indonesia has it all.
Named Asia’s Leading Adventure Tourism Destination for 2024 by the World Travel Awards, Indonesia is proving popular with Brits of all tastes.
Top Travel Predictions for 2025
Ready to pack your bags for your next travel adventure? Here are our predictions on the top trends that will influence travelers in the year to come and the hottest destinations for 2025.
Sustainable travel is on the rise
Eco-conscious choices are shaping travel decisions, with visitors driving demand for sustainable accommodation and responsible tourism practices. 53% of global travelers say they search for accommodation that stands out for sustainability.
The global market for ecotourism is expected to have increased by 13.5% to $249.16 billion by the end of 2024 and is predicted to reach $428.97 billion in 2028.
Scenic rail journeys are becoming a hallmark of sustainable travel in 2025, offering eco-conscious travelers the chance to experience spectacular landscapes with a lower carbon footprint.
Rail routes like Australia’s Ghan Railway, Peru’s Andean Explorer, or Japan’s Seven Stars Kyushu are no longer just modes of transport but destinations in their own right.
Authenticity takes center stage
Travelers are seeking immersive cultural experiences that go beyond sightseeing, with a focus on exploring off-the-beaten-path destinations.
In combination with a desire for more eco-friendly trips, avoiding tourist traps and busy hotspots allows travelers to get to know foreign cultures up close and personal. 47% of travelers say that traveling off-piste is worthwhile as you get to better connect with locals.
Food tourism will play an even bigger role in shaping authentic travel experiences in 2025. From bowls of street-side pho in Vietnam, to tasting tours of traditional tacos in Mexico, following your appetite opens the door to new adventures.
By aiming to check items off your culinary bucket list, like India’s iconic Hyderabadi biryani, travelers are discovering that food can be the perfect gateway to new and unexpected adventures.
Emerging destinations gain popularity
In line with a drive for more eco-friendly and culturally authentic experiences, secondary cities are attracting more attention. Previously overlooked destinations, like Sharjah in the UAE and Chiang Rai in Thailand, often bypassed for Dubai or Bangkok, are trending.
Travelers are increasingly looking to avoid over-tourism and explore fresh destinations. Data on the fastest emerging tourism destinations worldwide shows that Namibia, Montenegro, and Cambodia are the top runners in pulling in new visitors from 2014 to 2024.
In 2025, lesser-known national parks are also predicted to attract eco-conscious travelers looking for a unique experience out of doors. From lion-spotting in Tanzania’s less-visited Ruaha Reserve to skiing eco-friendly trails in Finland’s Pyhä-Luosto National Park, these fresh destinations promise one-of-a-kind adventures.
Event-driven adventures are trending
Major events like Trinidad and Tobago’s renowned Carnival celebrations are fueling the gig-tripping trend, which sees fans traveling to experience culture and entertainment on an international stage.
Worldwide concert tours are also a big draw. 44% of US travelers say they’d fly short haul to see their favorite artists in a live performance, and 18% would even fly long haul for the right show.
In addition to music and sports events, food-focused festivals and cultural celebrations are predicted to draw travelers in 2025.
Top trending events, like Scotland’s iconic end-of-year Hogmanay celebrations and Japan’s Sapporo Snow Festival, offer a delicious bite to eat and unique experiences, making them a pull for new visitors in 2025.
Get the Right Travel Document for Your Next Adventure
Once you’ve decided on your next trip, get all the help you need to secure your travel documents with HandyVisas. Getting your visa or entry permit has never been easier.
Here’s a quick look at our application process:
- Check the HandyVisas travel guides: Get the latest details on what’s required for international travel to top destinations right here.
- Start your application: You’ll find the application form you need in just a few clicks. You can get started right away.
- Expert review: Our visa experts will review your application to ensure it’s complete and ready to go.
- Get your approved travel document: Your confirmed travel document is delivered straight to your email, ready for travel!
We’re here to make your travel preparations simple and fast, so you can focus on enjoying the trip of a lifetime.
