Thailand reminds travelers to be ready to show proof of funds on arrival
Thailand is reminding foreign visitors that they may be asked to show proof of sufficient financial means when passing through immigration.
India lays the groundwork for simpler tourist visa rules
India is exploring ways to simplify its tourist visa system, including the possibility of a visa on arrival for certain travelers. The e-Visa portal could also be streamlined to reduce friction before departure.
Bangladesh prepares new visa policy
Bangladesh is moving toward a new visa policy designed to replace the framework in place since 2006. A ministerial committee has been tasked with refining the draft “Visa Policy 2026,” which includes a reorganization of visa categories and a possible shift toward an e-Visa system.
Armenia extends temporary visa exemption for 111 countries until July 2027
Armenia has renewed for one year its temporary visa exemption for nationals of selected countries who hold a valid residence permit issued by several recognized states or areas. The updated list now covers 111 countries, down from 113 during the first phase of the policy.
India relaunches its travel health declaration with Air Suvidha 2.0
India has relaunched Air Suvidha 2.0, a mandatory online health declaration for international passengers arriving in the country. The system is designed to strengthen health surveillance at points of entry amid the Ebola/Bundibugyo outbreak in the Democratic Republic of the Congo and Uganda.
Vietnam says health declaration is not mandatory for all travelers
Vietnam has clarified the rollout of its border health declaration. The formality may be activated depending on the health situation, but it does not automatically apply to all travelers starting July 1, 2026.
UAE expands visa on arrival to six new countries
The UAE is expanding its visa-on-arrival program to nationals of six countries. The measure applies to travelers from Indonesia, Vietnam, Thailand, the Philippines, Kenya, and South Africa, provided they hold a valid residence permit issued by certain countries recognized by Emirati authorities.
Vietnam expands Pre-Arrival Information system to Cam Ranh airport
Vietnam is continuing to expand its Pre-Arrival Information (PAI) system. After being introduced at several of the country’s major international airports, Cam Ranh Airport, which notably serves Nha Trang, now appears on the official pre-arrival declaration portal.
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.
