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
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
Mozambique now requires travelers from 29 visa-exempt countries to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This online process must be completed at least 48 hours prior to departure. Mozambique announces a new measure for nationals of 29 visa-exempt countries: presentation of an approved ETA on arrival becomes mandatory. On April
As part of its goal to welcome 30 million annual visitors by 2028, Egypt is streamlining airport entry procedures with the gradual rollout of a new emergency electronic visa system available upon arrival. A national strategy to boost tourism in Egypt On May 5, 2025, Egyptian Prime Minister Mostafa Madbouly
On May 1, 2025, Nigeria officially launched its e-Visa and Landing & Exit Cards services. A new era for immigration in Nigeria With the official rollout of the e-Visa system, Nigeria is taking a significant leap in upgrading its border control procedures. This initiative, effective as of May 1, 2025,
Egypt has announced the extension of its 96-hour free transit visa program through the end of April 2026, an initiative that allows layover passengers to explore the country without fees or complicated paperwork. The Egyptian government has announced the extension, until the end of April 2026, of its 96-hour free
As the Schengen Area marks its 40th anniversary, the European Commission has unveiled a bold roadmap to modernize border management. With a focus on digitizing visas, rolling out the EES and ETIAS systems, and strengthening cybersecurity, the EU is shaping a more seamless, secure, and digitally-driven Schengen zone. As the
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. On April 23, Japanese Justice Minister Keisuke
Members of the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee have given the green light to the phased implementation of the Entry/Exit System (EES) at the European Union’s external borders. On April 23, On April 23, the European Parliament’s Civil Liberties Committee approved the step-by-step deployment of the Entry/Exit System (EES), continuing
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.
As of July 1, 2025, Cuba will put a definitive end to the use of tourist cards. All international travelers will be required to obtain an electronic visa (e-Visa) prior to departure. A few months after launching its official eVisaCuba portal, the largest island in the Caribbean is confirming the
Malaysian low-cost carrier AirAsia revolutionizes online check-in with a groundbreaking automated visa verification technology. An intelligent response to the challenges of fluidity and compliance in a context of dynamic air traffic recovery. In today’s post-pandemic travel environment, where efficiency, health safety, and seamless procedures are top priorities, AirAsia is taking
In a major move toward modernization, Antigua and Barbuda has introduced a fully digital arrival and departure card. With the launch of the ArriveAntigua.com platform, the country joins a growing Caribbean trend toward smarter, more connected tourism management. Say goodbye to paper forms hastily filled out on the plane—Antigua and
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,
As electronic visas (e-Visas) and online travel authorizations (ETA, ESTA, etc.) become more common, online scams are on the rise. Fraudulent websites, misleading sponsored ads, and fake government branding are increasingly fooling travelers. Here’s how to tell the difference between online scams and legitimate travel assistance agencies. Since the UK
