Philippines supports ASEAN unified visa project
The Philippines has confirmed its support for the creation of a unified visa for visiting ASEAN member countries, a project that could facilitate regional cooperation and boost tourism.
Taiwan: arrival card to become 100% digital from October 2025
Starting October 1, 2025, Taiwan will eliminate paper arrival cards and require a digital declaration called “TWAC” for most foreign travelers.
Visa-free travel to China: eligible countries and conditions
Dreaming of visiting China without a visa? Thanks to a strengthened open-door policy, China now allows citizens of many countries to travel without a visa. Unilateral exemption, bilateral agreements, or transit: here’s everything you need to know for a hassle-free trip. In a context of strategic reopening after the pandemic,
Yemen introduces electronic visa system
Yemen is modernizing its immigration system by introducing an electronic visa (e-Visa) for foreign visitors. In recent years, Yemen has faced ongoing instability due to internal conflicts, humanitarian crises, and diplomatic restrictions. The country remains under international scrutiny, with consular services sometimes suspended or limited, particularly in certain foreign embassies.
Traveling to Oman: visa-free or e-Visa? What you need to know before you go
Visiting Oman has never been easier. With a visa-free policy for many nationalities and a convenient online e-Visa system, the Sultanate is opening its doors to more travelers than ever before. Once considered a hidden gem tucked between desert and sea, the Sultanate of Oman is now gaining popularity among
India adds 32nd airport for e-Visa holders
A new international airport has just been added to the list of entry points to India available to travelers holding an electronic visa (e-Visa). India regularly updates its list of authorized entry points for e-Visa holders, whether international airports or seaports, to streamline access to the country and support the
Indonesia: Stay Permit extensions now require in-person visit to Immigration office
Starting May 29, 2025, foreign nationals in Indonesia will be required to appear in person at an immigration office to renew their stay permits. This new regulation also applies to travelers holding a Visa on Arrival (VoA).
China expands visa-free policy to four Gulf countries
China has announced the expansion of its visa-free policy to four member states of the Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC), continuing its strategy of openness and strengthening international exchanges. Beijing is moving forward with its diplomatic opening by easing entry requirements for travelers from key regions. Following similar moves for Europe,
Japan officializes “JESTA”, its electronic travel authorization system
Japan has officially adopted the name “JESTA” (Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for its upcoming electronic travel authorization system, which will apply to nationals from visa-exempt countries. Modeled after the U.S. “ESTA” system, JESTA is set to be launched by 2028.
Thailand: financial evidence once again required for tourist visas
After dropping this requirement in 2023, Thailand has reinstated the need to show proof of financial means for tourist visa applicants. As of May 2025, individuals applying for a tourist visa to Thailand must once again provide evidence of sufficient financial resources. This requirement was originally removed in November 2023
China grants visa-free entry to five Latin American countries
Starting June 1, 2025, citizens from five South American countries will be able to enter China without a visa for short stays. China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs announced on May 15, 2025, that nationals of Argentina, Brazil, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay will be eligible for visa-free entry. This policy, effective
Japan brings forward the introduction of its electronic travel authorization
Originally slated for 2030, Japan’s electronic travel authorization system, temporarily named “JESTA”, is now expected to launch by fiscal year 2028. The program will apply to travelers who currently enjoy visa-free entry and is aimed at improving the management of incoming travel flows.
Myanmar resumes issuance of tourist visas
After several days of suspension following the devastating March 28 earthquake, Myanmar has announced that it will resume issuing tourist visas starting April 22, 2025. On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude earthquake struck Myanmar, resulting in over 3,000 deaths, more than 5,000 injuries, and widespread disruption to essential services.
Turkmenistan considers creation of electronic visa system
Turkmenistan’s Parliament is currently reviewing a draft bill aimed at introducing an electronic visa system—a move that could signal a significant shift for a country known for having one of the most restrictive visa policies in the region. During the eighth session of the Mejlis‘ (the national Parliament) seventh convocation,
Myanmar earthquake: tourist visas suspended
The Burmese government has announced the temporary suspension of tourist visa applications following the violent earthquake that struck the country on March 28. While humanitarian aid is struggling to reach the affected areas, the country is putting its fragile tourism recovery on hold. On March 28, 2025, a powerful 7.7-magnitude
