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.
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.
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.
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.
The European Data Protection Board raises concerns with Brussels over proposed ESTA reforms
The European Data Protection Board has sent a letter to the European Commission expressing concerns about changes being considered by U.S. authorities to the operation of the ESTA system. The body believes that some of the new data collection requirements could raise important questions regarding the protection of European travelers’ personal data.
U.S.: Hawaii raises concerns over tourism impact of possible ESTA tightening
As U.S. authorities consider expanding the information required from travelers under the ESTA system, a Hawaii representative is warning about the potential consequences for destinations that depend on international tourism.
As the 2026 World Cup approaches, the U.S. celebrates the “tremendous success” of the ESTA system
The prospect of the 2026 World Cup is driving a sharp increase in ESTA applications for visa-free travel to the United States. U.S. authorities report that, between October and December 2025, they approved more than one million authorizations for nationals of countries qualified for the competition.
