If you’re planning to travel to certain countries, particularly in the Middle East, you may have heard about the requirement of “Ok to Board” (OTB) before boarding your flight. Ok to Board is a mandatory authorization issued by the airline to validate your electronic visa (e-visa) or visa-on-arrival (VOA) before you are allowed to board the flight. In this blog, we’ll delve into what Ok to Board is, why it’s required, and for whom it’s mandatory.
What is Ok to Board (OTB)?
Ok to Board is a process wherein the airline verifies the authenticity of your visa documentation before allowing you to board the flight. It serves as an additional layer of security to ensure that travelers have valid visas and meet the entry requirements of their destination country.
Why is Ok to Board Required?
The Ok to Board requirement was introduced by certain countries, particularly in the Middle East, to prevent the entry of travelers with counterfeit or invalid visas. By mandating Ok to Board, airlines can verify the authenticity of visa documents and prevent travelers from being denied entry upon arrival at their destination.
Who Needs Ok to Board?
While Ok to Board requirements vary depending on the destination country and the airline, it is typically mandatory for travelers from certain countries or those holding specific types of visas. Some common scenarios where Ok to Board may be required include:
Travelers with Visa-on-Arrival (VOA): If you are traveling to a country that offers visa-on-arrival, such as the UAE, Saudi Arabia, or Kuwait, you may need Ok to Board authorization before boarding your flight. Airlines in these countries require Ok to Board to verify the validity of your visa before allowing you to board the flight.
Travelers with Electronic Visas (e-Visas): Similarly, travelers holding electronic visas (e-visas) for certain countries may need Ok to Board authorization. Countries like Oman, Qatar, and Bahrain may require Ok to Board for travelers with e-visas to validate their visa documentation before departure.
Specific Nationalities: Ok to Board requirements may also apply to travelers from certain nationalities as determined by the destination country or the airline. For example, airlines flying to the UAE often require Ok to Board for passengers from countries like India, Pakistan, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka.
How to Obtain Ok to Board?
Obtaining Ok to Board authorization is a straightforward process that typically involves submitting your visa details to the airline.
Here’s how it works:
Apply for Visa: First, you need to apply for the appropriate visa for your destination country. Whether it’s a visa-on-arrival or an electronic visa, make sure you fulfill all the requirements and submit the necessary documentation.
Contact Airline: Once your visa is approved, contact your airline to inquire about the Ok to Board requirement. Provide them with your visa details, including the visa number, issuance date, and expiry date.
Submit Documents: Depending on the airline’s procedures, you may need to submit your visa documents for verification. This can typically be done by emailing scanned copies of your visa to the airline’s customer service or Ok to Board department.
Receive Authorization: After verifying your visa documents, the airline will issue Ok to Board authorization, which will be updated in your flight booking. Make sure to check your flight status to ensure that Ok to Board has been successfully applied before your departure.
In conclusion, Ok to Board is a mandatory requirement for travelers to certain countries, particularly in the Middle East, holding visa-on-arrival or electronic visas. By ensuring that travelers have valid visa documentation before boarding the flight, Ok to Board helps prevent entry issues and ensures a smooth travel experience. If you’re planning to travel to a country that requires Ok to Board, make sure to fulfill the requirement well in advance to avoid any last-minute hassles.
