America Visa and Travel News
Just over four months before kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, U.S. authorities, in coordination with FIFA, are today launching an unprecedented priority appointment system for visa applications. Known as FIFA PASS, the program is designed to facilitate entry into the United States for international ticket-holding fans, while fully maintaining standard screening and security procedures.
The Dominican Republic has announced another one-year extension of its streamlined policy allowing visitors from several countries to travel without complying with the usual six-month passport validity rule.
The Haitian government officially unveiled last week its new digital embarkation and disembarkation system, called “iKat.” Presented as a pilot project, the system aims to gradually replace the traditional physical card with a digital version, with the goal of modernizing and securing the country’s migration flows.
The U.S. administration has unveiled a new immigration program that offers a fast-tracked path to permanent residency in the United States in exchange for a $1 million contribution. Presented as a preferred route for attracting investors, the “Gold Card” marks a new chapter in Donald Trump’s immigration policy.
In an official notice, U.S. Customs and Border Protection is proposing a sweeping overhaul of the ESTA application process, including mandatory new personal data, exclusive use of a mobile app, and expanded biometric checks. These measures, now open for public comment, could significantly reshape the procedure for travelers eligible for visa-free entry.
Bolivia has announced a major diplomatic opening by gradually eliminating visa requirements for eight countries. The decision, part of a broader strategy to strengthen the country’s appeal, aims to boost international exchanges and support economic growth.
Canada has announced the launch of a digital visa trial, marking the beginning of a technological shift aimed at simplifying and securing entry procedures into the country.
Canada announces the removal of the visa requirement for Qatari citizens, a measure that has taken effect immediately. This decision, accompanied by the mandatory eTA requirement for Qatari travelers, marks a new step in the strengthening of bilateral ties between Ottawa and Doha and aims to facilitate travel between the two countries.
After nearly doubling a few weeks ago, the ESTA fee will soon undergo another adjustment. This change, scheduled every year, remains very modest and is simply the result of applying the inflation-indexing mechanism.
Announced jointly by Donald Trump and Gianni Infantino, the “FIFA PASS” promises expedited visa interview appointments at U.S. consulates for holders of 2026 World Cup tickets.
After several years of restrictions on Hungarian travelers, the United States is restoring standard ESTA validity for Hungary. Starting September 30, 2025, Hungarian citizens will once again be eligible for two-year authorizations valid for multiple entries into the U.S.
As of September 6, 2025, the U.S. Department of State has implemented a new rule: nonimmigrant visa applications must now be filed in the applicant’s country of residence or nationality. This measure comes as part of a broader series of recent reforms tightening entry requirements to the United States.
The American dream will cost a little more: authorities have just confirmed that the price of ESTA will increase from $21 to $40 starting September 30, 2025. This is a significant increase that all travelers wishing to visit the US without a visa should anticipate.
Since September 1, 2025, Ecuador has required a temporary visitor visa for transit passengers from 45 countries.
Brazil will issue free electronic visas (e-Visas) to accredited participants at COP 30, which will be held in Belém from November 10 to 21, 2025.
