Japan to quintuple visa fees starting July 1, 2026
Japan will sharply increase its visa issuance fees starting July 1, 2026. The single-entry visa fee will rise from 3,000 to 15,000 yen, while multiple-entry visas will now cost 30,000 yen.
Taiwan: TWAC arrival card can now be completed up to 7 days before travel
Taiwan has eased the process for its Taiwan Arrival Card (TWAC). Travelers can now complete the digital arrival card within seven days before entering the territory.
Abu Dhabi and Etihad to offer medical insurance to international visitors
From July through December 2026, international travelers flying to or transiting through Abu Dhabi on an Etihad-operated flight will be eligible for complimentary medical insurance. A similar move could also be in the works in Dubai, where Emirates is reportedly considering its own passenger insurance initiative.
For Saudi Arabia’s 2034 World Cup, visas are already part of the game plan
Saudi Arabia wants the 2034 World Cup to be affordable, safe and accessible for international fans. According to the kingdom’s sports minister, Riyadh will work with FIFA on those goals, while e-Visas are already emerging as a key part of its fan-access strategy.
Vietnam expands “Pre-Arrival Information” service to Hanoi and Da Nang arrivals
Vietnam is continuing the rollout of its “Pre-Arrival Information” (PAI) service. After Ho Chi Minh City and Phu Quoc, the pre-arrival declaration portal can now be used for flights arriving in Hanoi and Da Nang.
India’s e-Tourist Visa becomes more flexible
India’s 30-day e-Tourist Visa now allows multiple entries, instead of the two entries previously permitted.
THIM vs. TDAC: What travelers to Thailand need to know
Thailand is testing the THIM mobile app, presented as a future digital gateway for immigration services. But one question keeps coming up among travelers: does this app replace the TDAC? At this stage, the answer is no. THIM is an optional, complementary channel, while the Thailand Digital Arrival Card remains the mandatory arrival requirement.
United Arab Emirates: Entry restrictions and visa suspension for three countries over Ebola
The United Arab Emirates has announced new precautionary measures for travelers coming from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Starting June 6, 2026, the issuance of new visas will be suspended for nationals of the three countries, and entry into the UAE will be restricted for travelers arriving from those countries.
Philippines: Proposed 480-peso traveler fee still under review, immigration authorities say
The Philippine Bureau of Immigration says its CAISS border modernization project has not yet been signed or finalized. The agency confirms that a passenger fee was included in the proposal, but says no decision has been made at this stage.
Vietnam: Pre-arrival declaration becomes mandatory for Phu Quoc
Vietnam’s pre-arrival declaration is now required for international passengers arriving at Phu Quoc Airport.
Thailand: THIM, the new immigration app designed to simplify the arrival card
Thailand is testing a new official immigration mobile app called THIM. The app is designed to allow international travelers to prepare their arrival formalities on their smartphones, in line with the already mandatory TDAC digital arrival card.
Japan’s Parliament passes law paving the way for JESTA
Japan’s Parliament has passed a reform creating the legal basis for the future JESTA system. The electronic authorization will eventually apply to visa-exempt travelers visiting Japan for short stays.
Thailand tightens border health controls over Ebola risk
As of May 27, 2026, Thailand is applying Ebola-related measures to travelers arriving from the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda, or those who have transited through either country.
Vietnam to introduce health declaration for travelers in July 2026
Vietnam will strengthen its health screening procedures at border checkpoints starting July 1, 2026. Travelers entering, leaving or transiting through the country may be required to complete a health declaration, either electronically or on paper.
Sri Lanka makes tourist ETA free for 40 nationalities from May 25
Sri Lanka has set May 25, 2026, as the start date for its new free tourist visa scheme for citizens of 40 countries. Eligible travelers will still be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before arrival.
