U.S. plans major reduction in consular services across Africa
The United States is reportedly preparing to sharply reduce the number of embassies and consulates authorized to process visa applications in Africa.
Canada temporarily suspends entry for residents of three Ebola-affected countries
Canada has announced temporary border measures in response to the Ebola disease outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and the rising regional risk in Uganda and South Sudan. Starting May 27, 2026, certain previously approved immigration documents will be suspended for residents of countries considered to be at high or very high risk.
ESTA, social media, visas: the U.S. seeks to clarify its message during a key year for tourism
As several U.S. proposals concerning ESTA have raised concerns among international travelers, CBP is now pointing to a more targeted approach to social media screening. At the same time, Brand USA is launching an initiative designed to correct misconceptions about U.S. entry requirements.
2026 World Cup: U.S. has already received 5.9 million ESTA applications
Less than a month before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, U.S. authorities say they have already received more than 5.9 million ESTA applications since October 2025. CBP is also highlighting its new COMPASS virtual assistant, designed to help travelers prepare for entry into the United States.
U.S. Travel Association welcomes suspension of visa bonds for 2026 World Cup fans
Following the announcement that visa bond requirements will be waived for certain 2026 World Cup ticket holders, the U.S. Travel Association has welcomed a targeted measure designed to make it easier for international fans to travel to the United States.
2026 World Cup: U.S. waives visa bond for some fans
U.S. will exempt some foreign fans from a visa bond of up to $15,000 imposed on travelers from several countries subject to enhanced screening.
The Bahamas launches digital arrival card pilot program
The Bahamas has launched a pilot phase for the Bahamas Digital Arrival Card, a new digital form designed to modernize arrival procedures for international travelers.
Visa-free travel, personal data and ESTA: Where do U.S.-EU talks stand?
The European Union and the United States are discussing a new information-sharing framework tied to preserving U.S. visa-free travel. At the same time, Washington is also considering changes to ESTA, although the timeline initially outlined now appears more uncertain.
U.S.: what is the Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app for?
The Mobile Passport Control (MPC) app is one of the digital tools the United States is promoting to modernize border processing. But what does it actually do, and which travelers can benefit from it?
2026 World Cup in the U.S.: Gianni Infantino seeks to reassure fans on visas
As the 2026 World Cup draws closer, Gianni Infantino says fans from around the world must be able to travel to the United States. The FIFA president pointed to ongoing discussions with the three host countries and highlighted the existence of an expedited process for certain travelers who already have match tickets.
U.S. expands visa restrictions in the Western Hemisphere
Washington on April 16, 2026, announced an expansion of its visa restriction policy in the Americas. The measure targets foreign nationals accused of acting from countries in the region on behalf of U.S. adversaries.
2026 World Cup in the U.S.: major tourism upside, if America is ready
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, a study highlighted by the U.S. Travel Association points to major tourism and economic potential for the United States. But according to the organization, that promise will only materialize if the country can reassure travelers about entry procedures, safety, and overall visitor readiness.
Canada could soon update how travelers apply for an eTA
In Canada, applying for an eTA may soon involve more than simply filling out an online form by hand. Ottawa is now considering a digital passport data capture process that would pre-fill parts of the application, reduce errors, and strengthen checks from the moment a request is submitted.
U.S.: ESTA portal now applies stricter checks to applicant selfies
A subtle change was introduced this week on the official U.S. ESTA application portal. Though technical in appearance, it affects what has now become a central element of the system’s logic: traveler identification.
U.S.: 12 additional countries subject to visa bonds of up to $15,000
The U.S. has expanded the list of nationalities that may be required to post a bond to obtain a B1/B2 visa. Twelve additional countries will be added as of April 2, bringing the total number of countries covered by this pilot program to 50, an initiative Washington is highlighting as a tool to combat visa overstays.
