Why does the Cook Islands issue entry permits, not visas?

score:12

Accepted answer

As a rule of thumb, visas are issued by independent states, while subnational entities issue entry permits. Also, as another rule of thumb, a visa is granted in advance but an entry permit is given on arrival.

The Cook Islands are a dependency of New Zealand that control their own immigration (hence the entry permits), but "outsource" their foreign policy to New Zealand and thus operate no overseas embassies that could grant visas. The vast majority of visitors also receive their permits on arrival, although there is a provision to apply in advance for longer stays/work permits.

Some other examples of subnational entry permits: Andaman and Nicobar Islands (India), Mount Athos (Greece), Sarawak (Malaysia)...

More post

Search Posts

Related post