Visa and Passport Updates

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.

Digital Photo Service – Your Photo Could Influence Your Visa Approval
Consulates have very strict rules when it comes to photo specifications and requirements, and will deny a visa application if their guidelines are not met. Specific requirements can range from head angle, expression, background, lighting, accessories, and size, and can vary based on destination and jurisdiction. With CIBT’s Digital Photo Service, simply upload your photo to our website and we take care of the rest to ensure your photo meets government and consular requirements. Click here to learn more.

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.

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.

Broader Visa Policies to Attract Foreign Talent in China
The National Immigration Administration in China has implemented new immigration and entry-exit policies that went into effect nationwide August 1, 2019. Click here to learn more.

New Reporting Obligations via Online System in Colombia
Migration Colombia has changed its interpretation of the reporting obligations for sponsoring companies via the online system SIRE in certain cases. Click here to see more details. 

New Entry Requirements for Venezuelan Nationals in Ecuador
Effective August 25, 2019, a visa will be required for all Venezuelan nationals entering Ecuador. See what’s changed. 

Egypt – Washington, D.C.
The Consulate of Egypt is closed from August 12 – 14, 2019. As a result, processing speeds have increased from 11 to 12 business days. Click here to start your visa application to Egypt. 

India – Chicago
The visa processing time has been reduced to up to 7 business days. Start your visa application to India today. 

Kenya – Los Angeles
The Consulate of Kenya in Los Angeles has added a 4 day rush processing speed for an additional charge. Click here to see all of your requirements and processing options for a visa to Kenya. 

Saudi Arabia
With Hajj taking place August 9-14, the Consulate of Saudi Arabia is experiencing an influx in the volume of visa applications. Priority is given to those participating in the pilgrimage, which may result in delays to those traveling for other purposes. Click here to start your visa application to Saudi Arabia.

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

Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) 2019 - Booth #3417
CIBT will be exhibiting at GBTA’s annual convention in Chicago, IL this year from August 3rd - 7th. Stop by booth #3417 to talk to our experts and learn more about our innovative global visa, passport, and immigration solutions. We are excited to announce that we will be presenting two educational seminars this year. Join us Tuesday, August 6th, at 9:00am for our session on Unites States & Canada Cross-Border Challenges for Business Travelers and at 10:30am for our session on International Immigration and Tax Compliance for Business Travelers. Click here to learn more.

Embassy Registration for the Summer
If you are traveling abroad this summer, it's not too late to sign up for Embassy Registration. Our Embassy Registration service provides travelers with important information about safety conditions in the countries 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 occur during your trip. Embassy Registration allows you to stay informed, connected, and safe. Learn more and register here.

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. 

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.

Increased Labor Checks in Greece
There will be an increased number of employment law compliance checks in the coming months throughout Greece, especially in tourist areas such as the Greek islands. Click here to learn more.

Delays to Residence Permit Processing in Spain
Applicants for Spanish residence permits are experiencing significant delays in the application approval process. Click here for more details.

Kenya – Houston
The visa processing time is now up to 12 business days. Please plan according if you have any pressing visa needs. Click here to start your visa application to Kenya. 

Saudi Arabia
With Hajj taking place August 9-14, the Consulate of Saudi Arabia is experiencing an influx in the volume of visa applications. Priority is given to those participating in the pilgrimage, which may result in delays to those traveling for other purposes. Click here to start your visa application to Saudi Arabia.

Uganda – New York
Travelers are required to include an original Yellow Fever Certificate instead of a copy. Click here to see all of your requirements for a visa to Uganda.

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

Global Business Travel Association (GBTA) 2019 - Booth #3417
CIBT will be exhibiting at GBTA’s annual convention in Chicago, IL this year from August 3rd - 7th. Stop by booth #3417 to talk to our experts and learn more about our innovative global visa, passport, and immigration solutions. We are excited to announce that we will be presenting two educational seminars this year. Join us Tuesday, August 6th, at 9:00am for our session on Unites States & Canada Cross-Border Challenges for Business Travelers and at 10:30am for our session on International Immigration and Tax Compliance for Business Travelers. Click here to learn more.

Live Webinar – U.S. Employers of Foreign Talent: Options If You’re Not Selected for an H-1B
The H-1B visa cap of 65,000 visas (and an additional 20,000 visas reserved for advanced U.S. degree holders) for fiscal year 2020 was met in just five days in early April this year. As the primary visa route for companies needing to employ highly skilled foreign workers in the U.S., this leaves many employers with an unfilled demand for foreign talent. With heavy demand and a limited supply of visas, the odds of success next year are just as long if not longer. Join us Wednesday, July 31, 2019 at 10am ET/3pm BST for a live webinar about your options after an unsuccessful H-1B process. In this webinar we will discuss the latest H-1B process information, alternative visa options, and strategies for utilizing visa options in other countries. Can’t make the time? Don’t worry; a recording will be sent to all registrants after the webinar. Learn more and register today.

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.

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.

Registration of Resident Foreign Nationals Announced in Nigeria
All foreign nationals who intend to reside in Nigeria for at least 90 days must present themselves within six months to the Nigeria Immigration Service to be registered. Click here to learn more. 

I-KAD Issuance Suspended Until Further Notice in Malaysia
The immigration authorities have announced that from July 16, 2019, the issuance of i-KAD identification cards to foreign nationals is suspended. See more details. 

New Dependent Sponsorship Policy in the UAE
On 14 July 2019, the Federal Authority for Identity and Citizenship (ICA) announced that, effective 1 July 2019, both male and female foreign residents working under the sponsorship of entities in any Free Zone or Emirate can sponsor their family members (spouse, children under the age of 18 and unmarried daughters) if they earn a monthly salary of AED 4000, or AED 3000 plus accommodation provided by the employer. Click here to see the updated information.

Belarus – Washington, D.C.
The Consulate of Belarus in Washington D.C. has increased its rush fees. Click here to see the updated fees and apply for your visa to Belarus. 

Bolivia – Washington, D.C.
The invitation letter from family or friends must now include a location map and three past utility bills. Start you visa application to Bolivia today. 

Israel – San Francisco
Indonesian nationals applying for a visa to Israel are now required to fill out an additional form. See the most up to date forms and requirements by visiting the CIBT website.

Nepal – New York City
The Consulate of Nepal in New York City now requires two photos instead of one when applying for a visa. Click here to start your visa application to Nepal. 

Nepal – Washington, D.C.
Consular fees for a visa to Nepal have increased. Click here to see all your fees and requirements for a visa to Nepal.

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