Azerbaijan has announced plans to introduce a visa exemption for South Korean citizens. Unveiled during a diplomatic meeting between Baku and Seoul, the measure is expected to support tourism, business exchanges and people-to-people ties between the two countries.
In its Annual Risk Analysis 2026/2027, Frontex is not looking only at the number of arrivals at the European Union’s external borders. The EU agency is focusing on a shift in the nature of the pressure, driven by the rollout of the EES, the upcoming launch of ETIAS, fake documents, misuse of airport transit, secondary movements and criminal networks that are adapting more quickly.
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.
Kanye West, Hasan Piker and Valentina Gomez are among the recent examples of people barred from entering the UK under the country’s discretionary immigration powers. A new House of Commons Library briefing highlights how British authorities can refuse or cancel a visa, entry permission or ETA when a foreign national’s presence is considered contrary to the “public good.”
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.
Russia issued more than 821,000 unified electronic visas to foreign nationals in 2025, according to the Russian Foreign Ministry. Chinese citizens accounted for the largest share by far, ahead of travelers from Saudi Arabia, Germany, Turkey and India.
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.
Starting June 15, 2026, Cambodia is rolling out its pilot visa-waiver program for Chinese nationals. Valid through October 15, 2026, the measure allows multiple entries and stays of up to 14 days, but travelers must still complete the “Cambodia e-Arrival” card.
As of June 15, 2026, citizens of Nicaragua, St. Kitts and Nevis, and St. Lucia must obtain a visa before traveling to Ireland. The new requirement also applies to holders of diplomatic and service passports, as well as travelers transiting through Ireland on their way to another destination. Limited transitional arrangements will remain in place until July 14, 2026, for certain trips that were already booked.
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 30-day e-Tourist Visa now allows multiple entries, instead of the two entries previously permitted.
Latvia’s Parliament has passed a new immigration law in its final reading, with its main provisions set to take effect on January 1, 2027. The legislation strengthens border controls, clarifies rules for issuing visas and residence permits, tightens oversight of work and study by third-country nationals, and forms part of Latvia’s implementation of the European Union’s new migration and asylum framework.
In a new research looking back at 20 years of World Cups, the WTTC says the 2026 edition marks a new stage in the management of international travel. From ESTA and eTA to Trusted Traveler programs, FIFA PASS and digital information tools, the tournament hosted by the United States, Canada and Mexico reflects a major shift: borders are becoming more advanced and connected, but travel formalities remain essential.
Libya has temporarily suspended the system allowing visas to be issued on arrival at airports and air entry points. The measure, announced by the Government of National Unity, is intended to allow authorities to review visa issuance procedures and strengthen controls on entry into the country.
In Argentina, Noblex has turned visa denials into a marketing campaign. On the eve of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, the first applicants rejected by a U.S. or Canadian consulate could walk away with a television to watch the matches from home.
