The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a travel document issued to businesspeople who travel often to the Asia-Pacific region. The ABTC was designed to simplify travel for members of the Asia-Pacific Economic Cooperation (APEC) economies. It enables holders to enter participating economies quickly and easily, without having to obtain a visa in advance.
The ABTC is valid for three years, and is renewable for another three-year period. It is issued by the government of an APEC member economy and allows businesspeople from that economy easy access to other APEC member economies. To be eligible for an ABTC, applicants must be nationals of an APEC economy, be engaged in international business activities, and have a record of international business travel.
The ABTC provides holders with multiple entry visas into participating economies. This means that they can enter the country multiple times during the validity period without having to apply for a new visa each time.
The card also reduces waiting times at immigration checkpoints in participating countries. Holders can use automated immigration kiosks in some airports to quickly pass through border formalities.
Benefits of Having an APEC Business Travel Card
- It simplifies travel between APEC countries by providing holders with multiple entry visas.
- It reduces waiting times at immigration checkpoints in participating countries.
- It eliminates red tape associated with obtaining visas in advance.
What Is the Cost of an APEC Business Travel Card?
The cost of an ABTC depends on the issuing country and varies from one economy to another. Generally, it costs around US$80–US$100 per person per year or part thereof.
How Do I Apply for an APEC Business Travel Card?
Each issuing economy has its own requirements and application processes for obtaining an ABTC. Usually, applicants need to submit their passport and other documents such as proof of employment or invitation letter from host country. Applicants may also need to pay a fee or provide biometric information.
Conclusion:
The APEC Business Travel Card (ABTC) is a travel document issued by governments of participating economies that enables eligible businesspeople from those countries easy access to other member countries through multiple entry visas and reduced waiting times at immigration checkpoints. It simplifies international business travel by eliminating red tape associated with obtaining visas in advance, thus making it more convenient and cost effective for frequent travelers within the region.