India’s e-Tourist Visa becomes more flexible
India’s 30-day e-Tourist Visa now allows multiple entries, instead of the two entries previously permitted.
Latvia adopts new immigration law, with tighter controls from 2027
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.
2026 World Cup: ESTA, eTA, FIFA PASS… WTTC sees a turning point for borders
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 temporarily suspends visas on arrival for air travelers
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.
Visa denied, TV approved: Argentine fans denied visas for the World Cup walk away with free TVs
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.
THIM vs. TDAC: What travelers to Thailand need to know
Thailand is testing the THIM mobile app, presented as a future digital gateway for immigration services. But one question keeps coming up among travelers: does this app replace the TDAC? At this stage, the answer is no. THIM is an optional, complementary channel, while the Thailand Digital Arrival Card remains the mandatory arrival requirement.
Azerbaijan to waive visa requirements for Japanese citizens for one year
Azerbaijan will grant a unilateral visa exemption to Japanese citizens for a period of one year. The measure, announced following a meeting between the two countries’ foreign ministers, is intended to strengthen tourism, economic, humanitarian, and cultural ties between Baku and Tokyo.
EES: Up to 41 million arrivals in Europe at risk from border queues, WTTC says
An analysis commissioned by the WTTC estimates that regular waits of three hours or more at Schengen borders could deter some travelers from the United Kingdom, the United States, Canada and Australia. Up to 41 million arrivals and $45.4 billion in tourism spending could be at risk if such delays became persistent.
Curaçao temporarily suspends some Caribbean visas over Ebola concerns
Curaçao has announced the temporary suspension of Caribbean visa issuance for applicants from several countries considered high-risk areas in connection with the current Ebola outbreak. No cases have been confirmed on the island, but authorities say the measure is a preventive public health step.
U.S.: $750 expedited appointments for some B1/B2 visa applicants
The U.S. Department of State will test a paid service from July 1 to December 31, 2026, allowing some B1/B2 visa applicants to obtain an expedited interview appointment within ten business days. The option, priced at $750 per applicant, will be available only at selected consular posts.
United Arab Emirates: Entry restrictions and visa suspension for three countries over Ebola
The United Arab Emirates has announced new precautionary measures for travelers coming from the Democratic Republic of the Congo, Uganda and South Sudan. Starting June 6, 2026, the issuance of new visas will be suspended for nationals of the three countries, and entry into the UAE will be restricted for travelers arriving from those countries.
Uruguay moves toward visa-free entry for Chinese citizens
The Uruguayan government has announced the start of a process that would allow Chinese citizens to enter Uruguay without a visa. The measure, which has not yet taken effect, comes in response to China’s visa exemption for Uruguayan nationals introduced in 2025.
U.S. ESTA: Why travelers should check their authorization before departure
Just a few days before the kickoff of the 2026 World Cup, visa-exempt travelers heading to the United States are being urged to check their ESTA before departure. In some cases, an authorization that was previously approved can later change status.
UK: ETA portal hit by heavy traffic
The official UK ETA application service has been showing a message since Wednesday indicating that the portal is “currently busy,” with wait times sometimes exceeding one hour. British authorities have not announced any official outage at this stage.
International tourism keeps growing in early 2026, despite a more uncertain outlook
According to UN Tourism, 307 million travelers took an international trip in the first quarter of 2026, up 2% year over year. Growth remains positive, but disruptions linked to the conflict in the Middle East, rising travel costs and geopolitical uncertainty are clouding the outlook for the coming months.
