Visa and Passport Updates

Need a Document Legalized?
Legalizing a document can be a complicated and confusing task if you don't know how to do it. We have the right tools to help you. Each country has its own requirements and procedures depending on the document being legalized. Our Specialists work with official government agencies and embassies and have the experience needed to ensure your documents are properly legalized. Learn more about our Legalization Services.

Embassy Registration - Travel Responsibly
Feel more secure about your international travels by having CIBT register your trip with the U.S. Department of State. Our Embassy Registration service provides travelers with important information about safety conditions in the country they are visiting and allows the U.S. Embassy to contact them should any unexpected event occur during their stay. Be a responsible traveler and stay informed, connected, and safe with Embassy Registration. 

Columbus Day Closures
Many consulates nationwide will be closed Monday, October 14th, 2019 in observance of Columbus Day. Please plan accordingly if you have any pressing visa application needs. Click here to see all of the consular closings, and visit the CIBT website to get started on your visa application today.

In the interest of serving the totality of our clients we are including the following information from our immigration experts at Newland Chase, a CIBT company. We are pleased to provide the most up to date immigration news that may affect you or the travelers that you support.

Changes to Accredited Employer Framework in New Zealand
The New Zealand government has announced significant changes to the Talent (Accredited Employer) Work Visa effective October 7, 2019. Click here to learn more. 

New Regulation on Job Titles for Foreign Workers in Indonesia
The Ministry of Manpower has issued a regulation specifying more than 2200 permitted job titles in 18 sectors for foreign workers in Indonesia. Click here for more details. 

Alien Employment Permit Applications Required in The Philippines
On October 1, 2019, The Department of Labor and Employment in the National Capital Region began requiring foreign national applicants to personally submit AEP applications. Click here to read more.

Australia – Washington, D.C.
The processing time for business visas to Australia has been reduced to 6 business days. Click here to apply for a business visa to Australia.

Egypt – Houston
The processing times for Lebanese and Turkish passport holders traveling to Egypt has increased significantly from 10 business days to 6 to 8 weeks. Click here to start your visa application to Egypt.  

South Korea
The Embassy of South Korea has a new visa application form. Click here to see the updated form and all of your requirements for a visa to South Korea.

United States
Visit consular closings to see the complete list of U.S. closures.

Travel Frequently? You May be Eligible for a Second U.S. Passport 
Having a second U.S. passport is beneficial if you travel abroad frequently. CIBT can obtain a second U.S. passport on your behalf. The benefit of having a second U.S. passport is that you will be able to keep one passport with you as you travel, while the second remains at your home or office to be processed for your next trip abroad. To obtain a second U.S. passport, you must meet certain requirements. Visit our website to learn more.

CIBT – Group Travel Solutions 
Arranging international group travel is complicated whether it’s for a professional meeting, an incentive program, or even a wedding. CIBT is the industry leader in group travel solutions for travel anywhere in the world. Let our team handle the complexities of ever-changing visa and entry requirements. We have the tools, solutions, and years of experience handling international corporate events, conferences, and groups of all sizes. Relying on our experience with groups means that you can focus on what matters. We offer customized and flexible solutions, dedicated resources, and you’ll benefit from our unparalleled global presence and preferential pricing. Visit our website or contact our Account Managers at acctmgmt@cibt.com today for more information about how we can solve your group travel challenge. 

Travel Visa Widget
Want a free, easy-to-use tool that allows your website visitors to search for visa requirements for an upcoming international trip? Our Visa Widget provides instant results letting you know if a visa is required for your next trip abroad. It includes a complete list of necessary documentation and gives next steps to apply for your visa. Learn more and download your own customized Travel Visa Widget today.

China Holiday Closures
The Chinese Consulates will be closed September 30 – October 1, 2019 for the National Day of the People’s Republic of China. Please take these holiday closures into consideration when applying for your visa to China. Click here to start your visa application today.

In the interest of serving the totality of our clients we are including the following information from our immigration experts at Newland Chase, a CIBT company. We are pleased to provide the most up to date immigration news that may affect you or the travelers that you support.

Invitation Letters in Electronic Format Only for Russia
Effective October 1, 2019, the Internal Affairs Ministry’s Moscow Office will issue all invitation letters in electronic format only. Click here for more details.

Work Permit attestation for Egyptian nationals Suspended in Kuwait
The Egyptian Embassy in Kuwait is currently refusing to attest work permit approvals for Egyptian nationals issued by the Kuwaiti labor authorities. Click here to learn more. 

Update of Residential Address During Pass Issuance in Singapore
The Singapore Ministry of Manpower has reminded employers of foreign national work pass holders of the address registration requirements. Click here to read more. 

Japan
The processing fees for a visa to Japan have increased. Click here to see all of your processing speeds and options for a visa to Japan. 

Russia – New York and Washington, D.C.
Travelers applying for a work or student visa to Russia must include a detailed HIV test. Rapid tests will not be accepted. Click here to see all of your requirements for a visa to Russia. 

Saudi Arabia – Los Angeles
The Consulate of Saudi Arabia in Los Angeles now requires that all applicants have an original signature in black or blue ink for their Authorization letter. Click here to start your visa application to Saudi Arabia. 

United States
Visit consular closings to see the complete list of U.S. closures.

Concierge Service
Don’t put your travel plans at risk. A dedicated Concierge Specialist will manage the entire process from start to finish, providing the expertise necessary to ensure your request is approved as quickly as possible. See more details.  

Weather Extremes and Embassy Registration
Natural disasters can strike anywhere, in any season, and without warning. Our Embassy Registration service provides travelers with important information about safety conditions in the country they are visiting and can help them make informed decisions about their travel plans. This service also allows the local U.S. Embassy to contact you should any unexpected event or natural disaster occur during your trip. Embassy Registration allows you to stay informed, connected, and safe. Don’t let extreme weather take you by surprise; register today.

China Holiday Closures
The Chinese Consulates will be closed September 30 – October 1, 2019 for the National Day of the People’s Republic of China. Please take these holiday closures into consideration when applying for your visa to China. Click here to start your visa application today.

In the interest of serving the totality of our clients we are including the following information from our immigration experts at Newland Chase, a CIBT company. We are pleased to provide the most up to date immigration news that may affect you or the travelers that you support.

Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules in the UK
The Home Office has published the latest Statement of Changes to the Immigration Rules, which includes changes to Tier 2 (General) of the points-based system. Click here to learn more.

Supporting Documents for Alien Employment Permit in the Philippines
The Department of Labor and Employment in the National Capital Region now requires specific supporting documents for Alien Employment Permit (AEP) applications. Visit our website for more details. 
 
Changes to Qualification Evaluation in South Africa
The South African Qualifications Authority (SAQA) will no longer allow third parties (such as immigration agencies, attorneys, or family members) to follow up on evaluation applications. Click here to see more details.

Mozambique - Washington D.C. and New York City
The Consulates of Mozambique in D.C. and New York City are closed every Friday. Please plan accordingly if you have any pressing visa needs. Click here to see your visa requirements for Mozambique.

United States
Visit consular closings to see the complete list of U.S. closures.