VisasNews

Global tourism: Moderate but solid growth in 2025, driven by demand and improved accessibility

Global tourism: Moderate but solid growth in 2025, driven by demand and improved accessibility

With 1.52 billion international tourist arrivals recorded in 2025, global tourism has confirmed its return to a growth trajectory close to pre-pandemic levels. According to the latest data released by UN Tourism, the 4% year-on-year increase in arrivals is being driven by strong demand, the gradual recovery of the Asia-Pacific region, and a more favorable operating environment for international travel.

2026 World Cup: The US launches the FIFA PASS priority visa appointment system for fans

2026 World Cup: The US launches the FIFA PASS priority visa appointment system for fans

Just over four months before kickoff of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, U.S. authorities, in coordination with FIFA, are today launching an unprecedented priority appointment system for visa applications. Known as FIFA PASS, the program is designed to facilitate entry into the United States for international ticket-holding fans, while fully maintaining standard screening and security procedures.

Kazakhstan launches ETA for visa-exempt travelers via the “QazETA” mobile app

Kazakhstan launches ETA for visa-exempt travelers via the “QazETA” mobile app

Launched in July 2025, the “QazETA” mobile application is now at the heart of Kazakhstan’s strategy to digitize migration services and improve the reception of foreign visitors. The app brings together, within a single digital gateway, electronic visa (e-Visa) procedures, the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for visa-exempt travelers, and electronic residency (e-Residency) services.

Which passports are the world’s “most powerful” in 2026?

Which passports are the world’s “most powerful” in 2026?

Henley & Partners has released its 2026 Henley Passport Index, confirming Singapore’s dominance at the top of the ranking of the world’s “most powerful” passports and highlighting a growing divide between citizens with high mobility and those increasingly confined within their borders.

Jordan: Foreign travelers can now stay in the country for up to three months

Jordan: Foreign travelers can now stay in the country for up to three months

Jordan has announced a major relaxation of its entry rules. Foreign visitors who are not traveling on a work visa will now automatically receive a three-month residence permit, up from the previous one-month limit, whether they enter the country with an electronic visa (e-Visa) or a visa obtained on arrival.

Zambia updates its visa fees

Zambia updates its visa fees

Since January 1, 2026, Zambia has implemented new visa fees, adjusting several categories intended for international travelers.

Pakistan suspends its free “VPA” visa for 126 nationalities

Pakistan suspends its free “VPA” visa for 126 nationalities

Launched in the summer of 2024 to facilitate travel to Pakistan, the “Visa Prior to Arrival” (VPA) program, which allowed citizens of 126 countries to quickly obtain a free visa, has been unavailable since January 1, 2026. In the absence of any official announcement regarding this suspension, affected travelers must now apply for a “standard” paid e-Visa, which involves higher fees and more extensive administrative requirements.

India expands entry points available to e-Visa holders

India expands entry points available to e-Visa holders

As part of its policy to facilitate international travel, India continues to adapt its electronic visa system. In recent days, a new airport, a land border crossing, and several seaports have been opened to travelers holding an e-Visa, further strengthening the country’s connectivity and streamlining arrivals.

Kyrgyzstan shortens visa-free stay for citizens of 55 countries

Kyrgyzstan shortens visa-free stay for citizens of 55 countries

Kyrgyzstan has revised its visa-free entry and stay rules for nationals of several countries. A government decision that came into force on December 31, 2025 now limits the length of stay permitted without formalities, with the stated aim of streamlining and increasing the transparency of the country’s migration policy.

Malawi tightens its visa exemption policy

Malawi tightens its visa exemption policy

After significantly easing its entry requirements in 2024, Malawi has now changed course. Under new regulations in effect since January 3, 2026, countries that were previously exempt, such as France, Belgium, Canada, the United States, and the United Kingdom, are once again subject to visa requirements, while only limited, reciprocity-based exemptions remain in place.

Cape Verde: Visa on arrival suspended for citizens of 96 countries

Cape Verde: Visa on arrival suspended for citizens of 96 countries

As of January 1, 2026, Cape Verde has ended the issuance of visas on arrival for nationals of 96 countries. Travelers affected by this measure must now obtain a visa before departure from a Cape Verdean embassy or consulate, as the EASE portal no longer allows online payment of visa-on-arrival fees.

Visa, ETA, arrival card,...: What new travel requirements are coming in 2026?

Visa, ETA, arrival card,…: What new travel requirements are coming in 2026?

Electronic travel authorization here, extended visa-free access there, increasingly widespread digital arrival cards… In 2026, many destinations will update their travel entry requirements. Nothing insurmountable, but several new elements to factor in before packing your bags. Here’s an overview of the main changes ahead.

Mongolia extends visa exemption policy for 34 countries by one year

Mongolia extends visa exemption policy for 34 countries by one year

Good news for international travelers: Mongolia has officially announced the extension of its visa-free entry policy for citizens of 34 countries through January 1, 2027. Originally introduced as a temporary measure in 2023 and set to expire on December 31, 2025, the program has now been renewed, reaffirming the Mongolian government’s commitment to maintaining an open and tourism-friendly policy.

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