Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov has revived plans for a single tourist visa covering Central Asia. According to the president, the initiative now has the backing of Kazakhstan and Uzbekistan, although no agreement or launch timeline has yet been announced.
Chad will lift visa requirements for citizens of every African country beginning January 1, 2027.
Starting November 1, 2026, Montenegro will require visas for nationals of Belarus, China, Russia, Saudi Arabia and Turkey.
Russia has added Yakutsk International Airport and the Kani-Kurgan road border crossing to the list of entry points available to travelers holding an electronic visa (e-Visa).
South Africa’s Department of Home Affairs is proposing a 500-rand fee, or about $30, to process ETA applications and other visa and permit requests submitted online. The measure is scheduled to take effect on August 17, 2026, but must first complete the public consultation process.
The United States has made its visa bond program permanent for certain B-1/B-2 visas. Nationals of 50 countries may now be required to post a bond of up to $20,000 before their visa is issued.
Kenya is continuing preparations for mandatory travel health insurance for foreign visitors. A newly published government notice sets minimum coverage at $50,000, although officials have not yet announced when the requirement will be implemented in practice.
Nepal plans to fully roll out its e-Visa system on August 17, 2026. Travelers will be able to receive their visa by email before departure, although authorities have not announced a broad phaseout of visas on arrival.
Egypt has officially launched its new digital visa-on-arrival system at Cairo International Airport. Eligible travelers can now pay their visa fee electronically and receive a QR code to present at passport control.
Following a successful trial involving more than 450,000 passengers, Australia will roll out its digital arrival card across all international airports and seaports. The transition will take place gradually over the next 12 to 18 months.
The launch of ETIAS, the electronic travel authorization expected for visa-exempt travelers heading to the Schengen Area, could ultimately be pushed back to 2027.
Thailand is reminding foreign visitors that they may be asked to show proof of sufficient financial means when passing through immigration.
India is exploring ways to simplify its tourist visa system, including the possibility of a visa on arrival for certain travelers. The e-Visa portal could also be streamlined to reduce friction before departure.
Henley’s ranking of the world’s most “powerful” passports has been updated for June 2026. The latest edition confirms the main trends seen in recent months, while bringing a few changes near the top of the global table.
Australia increased the fees for its Working Holiday Maker visas on July 1, 2026. A first Working Holiday visa application now costs AU$840, while a second or third application costs AU$1,000.
