VISA
Seamless visa processes, better infra to help India attract more foreign tourists: Agoda
Agoda CEO Omri Morgenshtern emphasizes that streamlining visa processes and enhancing tourism infrastructure are vital for India to realize its potential as a leading global tourism destination. He noted that simplifying entry procedures and improving infrastructure will significantly boost foreign tourist arrivals.
F‑1 visa refused to student after ‘unexpected technical questions’ at US consulate in Hyderabad
An aspiring student was denied a US F-1 visa at the Hyderabad consulate on May 30, 2025, despite planning to study at Indiana University Bloomington. The denial followed an unexpected shift in the interview process, which included detailed technical questions beyond the typical inquiries.
Residents of Bhopal can now apply for their UK visas close to home
Bhopal residents can now conveniently apply for UK visas. VFS Global has opened a Premium Application Centre at Taj Lakefront. This is the 13th such center in Tier 2 and 3 cities. It offers Comfort Plus and Convenience Plus services. Appointments are booked via the official website. VFS Global aims to provide efficient visa services.
Student visas to the US in 2025: What has shifted and what does it mean for applicants
Thousands of international students face uncertainty as the US suspends student visa interviews. This affects F, M, and J visa categories. Indian students are significantly impacted. The delay jeopardizes fall 2025 academic plans. Students are advised to consider deferrals or alternative destinations. US universities are planning for potential enrollment disruptions. The situation reflects a shift in US immigration policy.
Middle East's Schengen style GCC tourist visa approved, to be rolled out 'soon'
The long-pending unified tourist visa for Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) countries has received official approval and is set for rollout soon, UAE’s Minister of Economy Abdulla bin Touq Al Marri confirmed on Monday. The visa will allow seamless travel across the six GCC nations — UAE, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Qatar, Oman, and Kuwait — under a single permit.
Saudi Arabia gives confirmation on no refunds for cancelled exit and re-entry visas to the country
Saudi Arabia's Jawazat has clarified that exit and re-entry visa fees are non-refundable, even upon cancellation, impacting expatriates planning summer travel. Single entry visas cost 200 riyals for two months, with extensions incurring additional charges. Residents can manage visa processes, including cancellations and renewals, through the Absher digital platform, though fees remain non-refundable.
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Why thousands of Chinese tourists may flock to NZ this summer, but there’s a catch in the visa-free deal
New Zealand is set to launch a one-year visa waiver trial for Chinese passport holders arriving from Australia. Starting November 2025, eligible visitors with Australian visas can enter New Zealand with just an NZeTA. This initiative aims to boost tourism. Immigration New Zealand will simplify processes and offer support in Chinese. This follows China's visa-free access for New Zealanders.
New visa rules in US, UK: How Indian families can still get visa for their kids’ overseas education
The visa disruptions are real, but the dream is still very much alive. With preparation and flexibility, students can continue to pursue their goals. Families who stay informed, build flexibility into their plans, and explore broader global options will continue to thrive no matter how the rules evolve.
Saudi Arabia resumes e-visa, Umrah visa services after Hajj concludes
Saudi Arabia has reactivated its e-visa system for tourists and Umrah pilgrims after the Hajj pilgrimage concluded, starting June 10. Travelers with valid Schengen, UK, or US visas, or residency in those regions, can now obtain visas on arrival.
Trump signals support for Chinese students; will US resume international student visa processing soon?
The Trump administration may soon ease restrictions on international student visas. Donald Trump hinted at a softer stance towards Chinese students. Visa processing remains temporarily paused for social media screening preparations. Marco Rubio directed embassies to pause visa interviews. Tammy Bruce clarified the pause is procedural and temporary. Reopening of visa interviews is expected soon.
Visa stock stumbles 5% in sudden dip, putting the brakes on its strong streak of annual gains
Visa shares faced a sudden decline of 5.23%, closing at $351.98, after Walmart and Amazon revealed plans to launch their own stablecoins. This move could potentially bypass traditional payment networks. Experts suggest this shift might move billions away from banks and card networks.
Foreign students scrub social media as US expands visa vetting
Amidst tightened U.S. immigration policies under the Trump administration, international students face increased scrutiny of their social media. New guidelines pause visa appointments and expand vetting, raising concerns about digital surveillance. Students like Owolabi are deleting online content, fearing visa denials based on misinterpreted posts.
H-1B visa registrations drop 27% due to fee hike and policy changes
USCIS data reveals a significant decline in H-1B visa registrations for FY 2026, falling by 26.9% from the previous year and over 54% compared to FY 2024. The agency attributes this drop to stricter policy enforcement, increased registration fees, and fraud investigations. These changes are prompting some to explore alternative opportunities in countries like Australia and Germany.
UK study visa applications witness a sharp rise despite graduate route cuts
Despite reduced post-study work benefits, UK study visa applications surged by 29% in the first five months of 2025, indicating continued appeal. While dependent visa restrictions impacted overall numbers, a perceived stability compared to other destinations like the US and Australia may contribute to the UK's attractiveness for international students. However, financial pressures on universities remain a concern.
What happens if your flight is diverted to a country where you don’t have a visa?
When flights divert to countries requiring visas, passengers are typically confined to transit areas unless granted temporary permits for overnight stays. Airlines coordinate with authorities to manage accommodations and alternative travel. Air India, on Friday, rerouted sixteen flights due to Iranian airspace closure following Israeli military actions.
What’s changing for international students in the US right now?
A State Department-ordered pause on US student visa interviews enters its third week, impacting international students during peak issuance season. This follows a new travel ban affecting 12 countries and legal battles, including a proclamation targeting Harvard University's foreign students. These actions signal a potential shift in US openness to international students, raising concerns about enrollment numbers.
Trump administration’s visa delays drive surge in UAE university applications
Recent US visa restrictions and delays are driving a surge in international student applications to UAE universities. Institutions in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Ajman are reporting significant increases in interest, particularly from students in Asia, Africa, and the MENA region. The UAE's streamlined visa processes, safety, and academic excellence are attracting students seeking stable alternatives.
Planning a trip to Singapore? Here's how Indians can get a visa easily
Indian citizens planning a Singapore trip need a valid e-visa, obtainable through authorized agents based on their region. While transit passengers might qualify for a 96-hour visa-free stay, final approval rests with immigration officials. Essential documents include a passport copy, photos, Form 14A, a cover letter stating travel purpose, and bank statements.
Schengen visa: Indian working in French Embassy duped up to Rs 45 lakh per Schengen visa applicant; CBI gets first silver notice published by Interpol
An Indian employee at the French Embassy in New Delhi defrauded Schengen visa applicants by charging up to Rs 45 lakh per visa applicant. Uisng this money the accused and his family acquired properties worth crores both in India and abroad. The CBI investigated the fraud, which occurred between January 2021 and May 2022 and interpol assisted in tracing the assets kept abroad. Read below to know more.
Planning to study in the US? Here’s what you need to know about the F-1 visa
The US F-1 visa enables international students to study in America. Eligibility requires admission to a SEVP-approved school, proof of English ability, and financial capacity. The application process involves obtaining Form I-20, paying fees, completing the DS-160 form, and attending interviews. Maintaining visa status requires full-time enrollment and adherence to regulations.
Donald Trump unveils website for $5 million US residency visa
President Trump launched a website for his proposed $5 million "Trump Card" residency visa, allowing interested applicants to join a waiting list. Touted as a premium path to U.S. citizenship for wealthy investors, the initiative aims to attract job creators amid rising immigration raids and legal controversies.
French Embassy Visa Scam: CBI charges law officer, 7 others
The CBI has filed a chargesheet against eight individuals, including a law officer in the Visa Department of the French Embassy in New Delhi, for visa fraud. They targeted applicants from Punjab seeking Schengen visas, extorting large sums of money through a network of visa agents.
French embassy visa fraud: CBI chargesheet filed against eight accused; Interpol silver notice issued to trace assets abroad
The CBI has filed charges against eight individuals, including a French Embassy official, for a visa fraud scheme operating from January 2021 to May 2022. Applicants from Punjab were charged between ₹13 lakh and ₹45 lakh for Schengen visas, with proceeds laundered through various accounts. The CBI coordinated internationally, securing an Interpol Silver Notice to trace assets held abroad.
Which university and degree makes you eligible for UAE’s Golden Visa?
The UAE's Golden Visa program grants a 10-year residency to high-achieving graduates in strategically important fields like science, engineering, and technology. Eligibility requires a high GPA and graduation from a top-ranked global or UAE university. This initiative aims to retain skilled talent and support the nation's development goals by offering long-term residency without a national sponsor.
What is UAE’s Golden Visa and who is eligible to apply: Explained
The United Arab Emirates' Golden Visa is a popular choice. It offers long-term residency to investors and skilled workers. People can live, work, or study without a sponsor. The visa lasts for five or ten years. Family members can also be sponsored. Applications are online. Several categories are eligible. These include investors, entrepreneurs, and talented students.
After going visa-free, Philippines sees 28 pc surge in travel searches from India, says Atlys
Following the Philippines' announcement of visa-free entry for Indian nationals, travel searches surged by 28%, according to Atlys. The country has jumped to the third most searched Southeast Asian destination, driven primarily by couples and solo travelers from major Indian cities. Air India's upcoming non-stop flights between Delhi and Manila in 2025 are expected to further boost accessibility.
New Zealand's new visa policy to allow migrants’ parents to visit for up to 10 years
New Zealand will launch the Parent Boost visa in September, allowing parents of citizens and residents multi-entry stays of up to five years, renewable once for a total of 10 years. Applicants must have health insurance, meet character and income criteria, and be sponsored by a resident. This visa aims to attract skilled migrants and boost economic growth, replacing shorter current visitor visa limits.
Australia's Student Guardian visa explained
Australia offers three main education-related visas: Student, Student Guardian, and Training visas. The Student Guardian visa is temporary, valid for the student’s stay, and costs from AUD 1,600. It allows parents or relatives over 21 to care for students under 18 or in exceptional cases. Applicants must show funds, health insurance, and provide support during their stay.
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