Latest CIBTvisas
Updates and Stories
Timely Info About Travel And Its Impacts
UNITED STATES – What business travelers and HR teams need to know about electronic device searches at U.S. borders
June 18, 2025
In the world of business travel, preparation is everything. From visa requirements and flight schedules to entry rules and vaccination cards, travelers have learned to navigate a checklist of international travel demands. But one area that continues to fly under the radar—with serious implications—is the inspection of electronic devices at U.S. borders.
Read MoreIRAN | ISRAEL – Impact of conflict on travel, immigration, and visa processing
June 16, 2025
The recent escalation of hostilities between Israel and Iran has triggered major disruptions across air travel networks and immigration services in the region. As the security environment continues to evolve, individuals and employers with cross-border operations should prepare for significant impacts on mobility, particularly relating to travel to and from Israel and visa processing capabilities.
Read MoreProvisional agreement reached on phased implementation of EU Entry/Exit System (EES)
June 13, 2025
This phased implementation plan signals tangible progress toward the long-anticipated launch of the EES, originally scheduled for 2024. The gradual rollout represents a pragmatic approach, aimed at reducing disruption and ensuring that technical and operational issues are addressed effectively during the early stages.
Read MoreNAMIBIA – New online visa application and revamped entry procedures
June 11, 2025
Namibia’s Ministry of Home Affairs, Immigration, Safety and Security has launched a new online visa application system and introduced a redesigned visa-on-arrival form. These developments aim to modernise border control processes, support tourism and investment, and implement a visa regime based on reciprocity and national interest
Read MoreUNITED STATES – Impact of the 2025 U.S. travel ban on individuals and businesses
June 6, 2025
On June 4, 2025, President Donald Trump signed a new travel ban affecting nationals of 19 countries. The proclamation, effective June 9, fully restricts entry into the United States for nationals of Afghanistan, Myanmar (Burma), Chad, the Republic of the Congo, Equatorial Guinea, Eritrea, Haiti, Iran, Libya, Somalia, Sudan, and Yemen. In addition, partial restrictions apply to nationals of Burundi, Cuba, Laos, Sierra Leone, Togo, Turkmenistan, and Venezuela. These may include limitations on certain visa categories or heightened entry eligibility requirements.
Read MoreJAPAN – Electronic Travel Authorization System will launch in 2028.
May 27, 2025
Japan’s Ministry of Justice has announced it will introduce a Japan Electronic System for Travel Authorization (JESTA) in 2028, moving the implementation forward from its previously targeted 2030 rollout. JESTA will serve as a pre-travel screening mechanism, enabling the Japanese government to enhance border security while expediting immigration procedures upon arrival.
Read MoreSAUDI ARABIA – Temporary hold on work visit visas for all nationalities
May 21, 2025
Foreign nationals are currently unable to obtain temporary work visit visas for Saudi Arabia, which is likely to cause delays to assignment start dates and projects. Employers should contact their immigration provider to discuss their requirements and explore alternatives, where possible.
Read MoreCHINA – Visa-free access is granted to select Latin American countries
May 16, 2025
Effective June 1, 2025, Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Peru, and Uruguay will join the growing list of countries whose citizens may enter China visa-free for short stays. Under a new pilot program announced by China’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, eligible travelers may enter for tourism, business, or transit purposes without obtaining a visa in advance. This exemption applies to stays of up to 30 days and is valid until May 31, 2026.
Read MoreCHINA - New Restrictions on Foreigners’ Religious Activities
April 28, 2025
China has updated its regulations on foreign religious activities, requiring prior approval for participation regardless of visa type.
Read MoreWhy a U.S. passport is a practical option for REAL-ID-compliant air travel.
April 24, 2025
While REAL ID will be required for boarding domestic flights, a driver’s license is not the only option. A valid U.S. passport is fully accepted by the Transportation Security Administration (TSA) and offers a flexible, federally issued alternative.
Read MoreDo you need a passport to go on a cruise?
April 17, 2025
Do you need a passport to go to on a cruise? CIBTvisas answers this question along with other details you need to know before taking to the high seas.
Read MoreSAUDI ARABIA - Temporary suspension of short-term visas for 14 countries.
April 10, 2025
As the Hajj season approaches, Saudi Arabia is taking steps to regulate the flow of travelers and ensure safety during this busy time.
Read MoreU.S. Travel Checklist: What to know before you go.
April 3, 2025
Traveling to the US? Understand the latest U.S. visa interview waiver rules, border entry procedures, and consular requirements. Stay informed with expert insights from CIBTvisas and Newland Chase.
Read MoreDo you need a passport to go to The Bahamas?
April 2, 2025
Do you need a passport to go to the Bahamas? CIBTvisas answers this question along with other details you need to know to enter the Bahamas. Read on for more.
Read MoreCIBT relocates Paris office, strengthening support for the French market.
March 31, 2025
CIBT relocates Paris office to the Ternes district to strengthen immigration, visa, and document services for the French market.
Read MoreBRAZIL - eVisa is reinstated for select nationalities.
March 26, 2025
Starting April 10, 2025, Brazil will require an eVisa for citizens of the U.S., Canada, and Australia. Learn who is affected, how to apply, and how CIBTvisas can help simplify the process.
Read MoreSOUTH KOREA - e-Arrival Card replaces paper arrival forms.
March 26, 2025
Starting February 24, 2025, Korea’s new e-Arrival Card allows travelers to submit entry details online before arrival. Learn who must comply, deadlines, and key exemptions.
Read MoreUNITED STATES – Potential travel ban: What you need to know.
March 14, 2025
While no official policy has been announced, indications suggest that a revised travel ban could be forthcoming.
Read MoreUK-bound travelers can now apply for a UK ETA directly with CIBTvisas.
February 12, 2025
With our dedicated UK ETA service now available, travelers can submit their applications quickly and efficiently online with CIBTvisas.
Read MoreSAUDI ARABIA – Update to Business Visit Visa duration for select nationalities.
February 11, 2025
The Ministry of Foreign Affairs has announced a change in the duration of stay for the Business Visit Visa for certain nationalities.
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