Namibia welcomes over 70,000 visitors since launch of new visa policy
Since the introduction of its new e-visa and visa-on-arrival system, Namibia has welcomed over 70,000 visitors and generated N$100 million in revenue.
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.
UK: 5.4 million ETAs approved – which countries are the main applicants?
The UK has approved over 5.4 million Electronic Travel Authorizations (ETAs) since the system was launched. Find out which nationalities are among the biggest applicants. Introduced in autumn 2023 as part of the UK’s post-Brexit border modernization strategy, the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is a new entry requirement for travelers
Botswana: Electronic visa application system restored
After being suspended at the end of April 2025, Botswana’s electronic visa application portal (e-Visa) is once again up and running. Suspended without notice at the end of April, Botswana‘s e-Visa portal had halted the registration of new online visa applications, forcing users to go through embassies or local immigration
Saint Kitts and Nevis launches ETA system
Starting May 26, 2025, all foreign travelers will be required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) before entering Saint Kitts and Nevis. As of May 26, 2025, Saint Kitts and Nevis will become the first Caribbean Community (CARICOM) nation to implement an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) system. This new
Lesotho soon to be visa-free for European travelers
Lesotho has approved a visa exemption for all citizens of the European Union. This decision, announced during the annual Lesotho-EU Partnership Dialogue, is expected to come into effect in the near future. Landlocked within South Africa, Lesotho aims to become a more accessible destination—particularly for European visitors—by simplifying its entry
Ghana reduces visa application processing time
Ghana has introduced a new visa policy, cutting the maximum processing time for applications to five business days. This initiative aims to boost the country’s appeal to international investors and tourists. Ghana’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, has announced a major reform regarding the processing of visa applications
U.S. may increase ESTA fee to $40
Congress is currently reviewing a proposal that would nearly double the cost of the ESTA, the essential travel authorization required for visa-exempt visitors to the United States. The measure, assessed by the Congressional Budget Office (CBO), still needs to go through several legislative steps before it can take effect.
UK: ETA application website temporarily unavailable [UPDATE: the portal is back online]
The official website for applying for a UK Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is currently down. However, travelers can still use the mobile app “UK ETA” to submit their travel authorization requests. [UPDATE: After an interruption of several hours, the United Kingdom ETA portal is once again accessible to travelers wishing
Egypt to launch emergency visa-on-arrival system at Cairo airport starting mid-June
Egypt will roll out a pilot phase of its new digital emergency visa-on-arrival system in mid-June, initially testing it at Cairo International Airport. On May 15, 2025, the Minister of Tourism and Antiquities chaired a strategic meeting to finalize the implementation of the new electronic visa-on-arrival system at Egyptian airports.
Mozambique temporarily suspends ETA requirement for visa-exempt travelers
Due to technical difficulties, Mozambique has temporarily suspended the recently implemented Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) requirement for citizens of 29 visa-exempt countries.
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.
Mozambique: ETA now mandatory for travelers from 29 visa-exempt countries
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.
Egypt prepares to issue electronic visas on arrival
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
