UK: 25.1 million ETAs issued in one year, with Europeans at the forefront
The United Kingdom issued 25.1 million Electronic Travel Authorizations, or ETAs, in the year ending March 2026, according to new statistics released by the UK Home Office.
U.S.: Air France flight diverted after Ebola-related restrictions take effect
An Air France flight from Paris to Detroit was diverted to Montreal after a passenger who had recently been in the Democratic Republic of the Congo was allowed to board as new U.S. health restrictions linked to Ebola were being implemented.
Cambodia could consider visa-free travel for Europeans
As Cambodia prepares to temporarily waive visa requirements for Chinese travelers, tourism officials are already raising the possibility of extending the measure to other markets, including Europe.
Namibia: Online visa applications disrupted after official portal maintenance
Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security e-services portal, which is used in particular for online visa applications, remains disrupted after a maintenance operation announced by the authorities.
China extends visa-free entry for Russian travelers through the end of 2027
China is extending until December 31, 2027, its visa-free entry policy for Russian nationals holding ordinary passports.
ESTA, social media, visas: the U.S. seeks to clarify its message during a key year for tourism
As several U.S. proposals concerning ESTA have raised concerns among international travelers, CBP is now pointing to a more targeted approach to social media screening. At the same time, Brand USA is launching an initiative designed to correct misconceptions about U.S. entry requirements.
Thailand’s 60-day visa-free is ending. Here’s what could replace it
Thailand is preparing to overhaul its visa exemption and visa-on-arrival programs. Following the announced end of the 60-day visa-free scheme for 93 countries and territories, the future policy would introduce several permitted lengths of stay, distinguishing between general exemptions, bilateral agreements and visas on arrival.
Thailand: Cabinet approves end of 60-day visa-free entry for 93 countries
Thailand’s Cabinet has approved the end of the 60-day visa exemption introduced in 2024 for travelers from 93 countries and territories. The measure still needs to be formally implemented by the relevant authorities, but it is expected to bring back the previous entry rules, generally around 30 days of visa-free stay for many nationalities.
Togo drops visa requirement for African travelers
Starting May 18, 2026, Togo is granting visa-free entry to nationals of all African countries who hold a valid national passport. The measure applies to stays of up to 30 days, but it does not eliminate pre-travel formalities.
2026 World Cup: U.S. has already received 5.9 million ESTA applications
Less than a month before the 2026 World Cup kicks off, U.S. authorities say they have already received more than 5.9 million ESTA applications since October 2025. CBP is also highlighting its new COMPASS virtual assistant, designed to help travelers prepare for entry into the United States.
EU eases Schengen visa rules for Thai travelers
Thai nationals residing in Thailand will now be able to obtain longer-validity multiple-entry Schengen visas more easily. The new system, however, does not amount to a visa exemption.
Schengen: EES gains momentum ahead of ETIAS launch in late 2026
The 2026 State of Schengen report confirms the growing role of new digital tools at Europe’s borders. Following the full rollout of EES in April, the European Union is now preparing for the launch of ETIAS, expected in the final quarter of 2026.
Ghana unveils new e-Visa portal
Ghana has brought online the official portal that will be used for electronic visa applications starting May 25, 2026. Spotted by VisasNews, the platform reveals several visa categories, relatively high fees for international travelers, and a free electronic travel authorization (ETA) for African nationals.
Maldives and Seychelles introduce 30-day visa waiver
Citizens of the Maldives and Seychelles can now travel visa-free between the two archipelagos for short-term stays of up to 30 days. The agreement entered into force on May 15, 2026, as part of efforts to strengthen bilateral relations between the two Indian Ocean island nations.
U.S. Travel Association welcomes suspension of visa bonds for 2026 World Cup fans
Following the announcement that visa bond requirements will be waived for certain 2026 World Cup ticket holders, the U.S. Travel Association has welcomed a targeted measure designed to make it easier for international fans to travel to the United States.
