Asia Pacific Snapshot:
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Canada
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Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) has extended a temporary public policy that exempts certain low-risk, in-Canada foreign nationals from needing an additional immigration medical examination (IME) as part of their application. This exemption applies to foreign nationals with conditions listed in the announcement.
Source: Government of Canada Oct 4, 2024
Effective Feb 29, Mexican citizens travelling to Canada will need to meet new visa requirements. Existing eTA will automatically be cancelled unless with a work permit or study visa, eTA in progress will need to be re-applied. All travellers from Mexico will need to apply for eTA or visitor visa before entering.Source: Government of Canada Feb 29, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Canadian travel agencies broke sales records in 2023: StatCan.
Source: Pax News Nov 3, 2024
Canadian hotel development reaches historic heights.
Source: Travel Daily News Nov 1, 2024
Travel Updates:
Canada drops pandemic restrictions on China flights – Air Canada ramps up.
Source: Travel Pulse Oct 31, 2024
Destination BC launches beta test of New HelloBC AI Concierge to support digital visitor servicing.
Source: Destination BC Nov 4, 2024
Mexico
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Mexico to require visas for Peru nationals after migration spike.
Source: Gobierno de Mexico Apr 6, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Domestic spending buoyed strong growth in the tourism sector this summer.
Source: Mexico News Daily Nov 4, 2024
Day of the Dead holiday brings in tourism to Mexico.
Source: CGTN Nov 1, 2024
Travel Updates:
Tulum is positioned as the second trending destination for Spanish tourists.
Source: The Yucatan Times Oct 30, 2024
Aeromexico and Delta strengthen US-Mexico network with New Mexico City to Phoenix flight.
Source: Travel and Tour World Oct 24, 2024
USA
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The Consul will be in Tongatapu from November 19 – 21, 2024, to provide consular services for U.S. citizens in Tonga.
Source: U.S. Embassy Oct 3, 2024
The U.S. Mission to India opened an additional 250,000 visa appointments for Indian travelers, including tourists, skilled workers, and students.
Source: U.S. Embassy&Consulates in India Sep 30, 2024
Destination Headlines:
US projects 90 million visitors by 2026.
Source: Skift Oct 29, 2024
Las Vegas tourist volume ‘almost back’ to pre-COVID levels, despite convention and overseas lags.
Source: Nevada Current Oct 23, 2024
Travel Updates:
US to add 1M visa slots in 2025, may reduce wait for Indian travellers.
Source: Business Standard Nov 1, 2024
LaGuardia wins Best US Airport in latest Forbes Travel Guide release.
Source: Time Out Oct 17, 2024
China
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China extends the visa-free policy to ordinary passport holders from Slovakia, Norway, Finland, Denmark, Iceland, Andorra, Monaco, Liechtenstein, and Korea (ROK) on a trial basis. From November 8, 2024 to December 31, 2025, ordinary passport holders from 9 countries can be exempted from visa to enter China and stay for no more than 15 days for business, tourism, family visit and transit purposes.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs The People's Republic of China; Embassy of The People's Republic of China in the Kingdom of Norway Nov 1, 2024
Mainland authorities on Wednesday further relaxed visa rules for non-Chinese Hong Kong SAR residents, allowing for more people to apply for multiple-entry visas that allow individual visits of up to six months.
Source: RTHK Oct 16, 2024
Destination Headlines:
China sees 49.09B inter-regional trips in first three quarters.
Source: Xinhua Oct 31, 2024
Air Charter Service Greater China achieves record growth in 2024.
Source: Travel Daily News Oct 31, 2024
Chinese Taipei
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Chinese Taipei extends planned digital nomad visa from 6 months to 1 year.
Source: Rti; TaiwanNews Oct 30, 2024MOFA announces one-year extension of trial visa-free entry for nationals of New Southbound Policy partner countries Thailand, Brunei, and the Philippines from August 1, 2024, to July 31, 2025.
Source: Bureau of Consular Affairs Jun 4, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Chinese Taipei’s Tourism reaches new heights with 80% rise in Southeast Asian visitors.
Source: Travel and Tour World Nov 4, 2024
Chinese Taipei expects reChinese Taipei to top 8M visitors by year end, still aiming for 10M visitors.
Source: Taipei Times Nov 5, 2024
Travel Updates:
Chinese Taipei clarifies new permanent residency rules for foreigners, attracting skilled professionals to Taipei and beyond.
Source: Travel and Tour World Nov 4, 2024
Subsidies for Hualien travel increased, extended to Dec. 20.
Source: Focus Taiwan Nov 4, 2024
Hong Kong SAR
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All residents and visitors are not required to complete and furnish arrival or departure cards when passing through immigration clearance points.
Automated immigration clearance service through designated e-Channels is available after successful enrolment with the Immigration Department, and then visitors can use the automated gates to enter.
Source: GovHK Oct 16, 2024
The Government relaxes the criteria for nationals of Cambodia, Lao PDR and Myanmar applying for multiple‑entry visas for travel and business, and extend the validity period of multiple‑entry visas for these countries from two years to three years. The arrangement also applies to Vietnamese, who have benefitted from the relaxation of the visa policy since last year.
Source: GovHK Oct 16, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Hong Kong SAR sees 40% rise in visitor arrivals in first nine months.
Source: China Daily Nov 1, 2024
HKSAR's Wine & Dine festival sees over 155,000 visitors, 10% increase from last year.
Source: Marketing Interactive Oct 28, 2024
Japan
Destination Headlines:
JAL net profit falls 19.1% to ¥49.9B in fiscal 1st half.
Source: Japan Today Nov 2, 2024
Transactions on Visa cards by Korean travellers in Japan increase from 39% to 48% of all their spendings.
Source: Travel Voice Japan Nov 1, 2024
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Japan Visa Application Centre (VAC) in Dhaka, Bangladesh, will start operations on November 3, 2024. The Embassy of Japan will entrust VFS Global with the facilitation of the Japan visa application process. The Embassy of Japan will no longer accept visa applications directly from the visa applicants.
Source: Embassy of Japan in Bangladesh; VFS.Global Oct 24, 2024
Foreign nationals/people who wish to travel to Japan for tourism for a short-term period can apply for a visa online and receive an electronic visa (eVISA) through the JAPAN eVISA system as of August 1, 2024.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan Aug 1, 2024
Travel Updates:
Planned Mt. Fuji light rail line to transport 3 million hikers per year.
Source: Japan Today Nov 3, 2024
‘Tourism Resilience Summit’ will be held in Sendai to discuss preparation for crisis and business continuity, joined by tourism ministers from APAC.
Source: Travel Voice Japan Oct 28, 2024
Korea (ROK)
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KTO revises its personal information processing policy for comply with the Personal Information Protection Act and related laws, regulations, and guidelines. In particularly, change of personal information items; and contact information of personal information protection manager or person in charge. The revised Privacy Policy is effective from October 23, 2024.
Source: Korean Tourism Organisation; Personal Information Processing Policy Revision Notice Oct 16, 2024
The Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Philippines announces the extension of simplification of visa application requirements to: 1. elected politicians, 2. government officials, 3. professional license holders and, 4. credit card holders. Extension Period: from January 1, 2025 to December 31, 2025 (1 year).
Source: Embassy of the Republic of Korea in the Republic of the Philippines Oct 24, 2024
Destination Headlines:
No. of int'l tourists in September exceeds pre-COVID-19 figure.
Source: Korea.net Nov 2, 2024
Korea (ROK) foresees surge in travel to China following visa waiver programme.
Source: The Korea Times Nov 4, 2024
Travel Updates:
Seoul's Bukchon Hanok Village to restrict visits to resolve overtourism.
Source: The Korea Times Oct 31, 2024
Korean Air increases PH-Korea flights to 4 per day.
Source: Inquirer.net Nov 2, 2024
Macao, China
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Macao passport holders will be allowed to enter Kazakhstan without a visa and remain in the Central Asian country for up to 14 days per visit. The exemption from the visa requirements for both countries’ nationals will start applying from October 24, 2024.
Source: Macau Daily Times Oct 24, 2024
All visitors must hold a passport or a valid travel document for travel to Macao. Visas and entry permits are required by all visitors except the national passport holders of the following countries/territories in the list.
When a non-resident enters Macao, the Public Security Police Force not only inspects his or her identity document but also verifies his or her identity by collecting biometric data. The biometric data includes fingerprints or palm prints, iris or retina patterns, facial features.
Source: Macao Tourism; Immigration Clearance of Non-residents of Macao Jul 26, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Macao package visit tally doubles in year to Sep 30.
Source: GGR Asia Oct 29, 2024
MGM China reports strong recovery and growth in Macao tourism.
Source: Travel Daily News Nov 1, 2024
Travel Updates:
Macao airport sees 57% Y-o-Y rise in passenger numbers, set to increase routes in winter season.
Source: Macau Business Nov 4, 2024
Macao’s international travel fair to return next April.
Source: TTG Asia Oct 25, 2024
Mongolia
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The Immigration Agency of Mongolia has begun issuing invitation-based visas of all 54 categories electronically.
Source: Mongolian National News Agency Sep 20, 2024
Citizens from 99 countries can now apply for e-visas for 30 days of tourism purposes, and citizens from 34 countries have been exempted from visa requirements, in total of citizens from 65 countries can travel visa-free to Mongolia during this period.
Source: Immigration Agency of Mongolia
Destination Headlines:
Direct flights between Mongolia and Singapore to begin next year.
Source: Asia News Network Oct 28, 2024
Mongolia’s Chinggis Khaan National Museum secures global exhibition rights at leading museums.
Source: Asia News Network Oct 8, 2024
Travel Updates:
Mongolia to expand aviation relations with the Netherlands and Saudi Arabia.
Source: Mongolian National News Agency Oct 23, 2024
Mongolia introduces electronic visas for all categories.
Source: Social News XYZ Sep 19, 2024
Bangladesh
Travel Updates:
Eight special trains to run on Dhaka-Cox's Bazar route Oct 23-27.
Source: Prothom Alo Oct 19, 2024
Cox’s Bazar Airport extends flight schedule.
Source: Bangladesh Post Oct 28, 2024
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Foreign citizens (except SAARC countries) of Bangladeshi origin along with their spouse and children are eligible for the endorsement of “NVR (No Visa Required) to Travel to Bangladesh" in their foreign passports.
Citizens other than those of the USA must submit proof of residence in the USA (Resident Permit /Work-Permit /Valid Visa, etc.). Foreign citizens having investment in Bangladesh worth USD 5 (five) million is also eligible to receive NVR. Applicants must fill-out online application form (mandatory) at https://www.visa.gov.bd/
Source: Bangladesh National Portal
Bhutan
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The mandatory requirement of travel insurances for visitors to Bhutan since COVID - 19 has been lifted with immediate effect on the process of visa application.
Source: Bhutan Travel (Department of Tourism) Apr 23, 2024
The new tour operation clearance and license can be processed online through the new Integrated Business Licensing System (IBLS) https://ibls.moea.gov.bt. The other services like ownership/name/location change and license renewal procedures will remain the same till further notice.Source: Tourism Council of Bhutan Jul 23, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Bhutan’s Laya plans to boost tourism with better horse trails.
Source: Vietnam News Nov 2, 2024
Drukair expands fleet with Airbus order for A320neo and A321XLR aircraft.
Source: Aerotime Oct 16, 2024
Travel Updates:
Bhutan’s Drukair expands international network with Dubai operations.
Source: The Economic Times Nov 4, 2024
New IHCL SeleQtions Hotel launches in Thimphu, Bhutan.
Source: Hotel News Resource Oct 28, 2024
India
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Indian travellers will soon be able to enjoy visa-free travel to Russia, potentially as early as spring 2025.
Source: Times of India; Business Standard Oct 28, 2024The Indian Visa Application Center in Bangladesh is currently only processing visa applications related to emergencies and humanitarian issues
Source: VisaGuide Oct 4, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Major domestic routes see up to 32% drop in spot airfares for Diwali travel.
Source: Business Standard Oct 30, 2024
Inbound tourism to India to surpass 2019 levels by 2025: Booking.
Source: Media India Group Oct 21, 2024
Travel Updates:
Thiruvananthapuram is India's first city to win Global Sustainability Award: Key success factors.
Source: Times of India Nov 5, 2024
Star Air launches direct Kolhapur–Ahmedabad flights, boosting regional connectivity.
Source: Travel Daily News Nov 1, 2024
Maldives
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Effective from August 15, 2024, all outbound travellers from the Maldives will no longer be required to complete the ‘Traveller Declaration’ form.
Tourist visa was last updated on August 15, 2024.
Source: Maldives Immigration Aug 15, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Parliament Committee approves bills to raise tourism taxes.
Source: The Edition Oct 30, 2024
Over 155,000 arrivals recorded as October ends.
Source: Raajje Oct 30, 2024
Travel Updates:
Maldives strengthens whale shark conservation with new national regulation.
Source: TTG Asia Nov 1, 2024
Maldives to introduce digital currency.
Source: The Edition Oct 31, 2024
Nepal
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Nepali citizens travelling through tour package and the members/employees of legal entities/organizations travelling to the golf countries and Malaysia have to take approval from department of immigration prior their visit.
Source: DFA Oct 3, 2024
Destination Headlines:
2.1 million passengers travel by air in Nepal in Q3.
Source: myRepublica Oct 28, 2024
Annapurna Base Camp sees record-breaking tourist surge.
Source: The Mooknayak Nov 2, 2024
Travel Updates:
Thai Airways International resumes Kathmandu-Bangkok flights.
Source: myRepublica Oct 30, 2024
Department of Tourism bans plastic bottles in star rated hotels to boost sustainability.
Source: myRepublica Oct 23, 2024
Pakistan
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Pakistan's Interior Minister Mohsin Naqvi has said that Sikh pilgrims from the US, UK and Canada will receive free online visas processed within 30 minutes upon arrival in the country to pay respect to their religious sites.
Source: Business Standard Nov 2, 2024
Khalil Hashmi, Pakistan’s ambassador to China, has revealed that Pakistan is set to grant visa-free access to Hong Kong residents.
Source: South China Morning Post Sep 12, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Pakistan announces free online visas for Sikh pilgrims from UK, US, Canada within 30 mins on arrival.
Source: The New Indian Express Oct 30, 2024
Pakistan earns US $111M from travel services’ export in Jul-Aug.
Source: Pakistan Today Oct 23, 2024
Travel Updates:
Pakistan offers free online visas for Turkish nationals starting August 14.
Source: Visa Guide Aug 12, 2024
New vehicle import rules for foreign tourists introduced.
Source: Daily Ausaf Oct 29, 2024
Sri Lanka
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No free visas for tourists from 35 countries for the time being, and travellers wishing to visit Sri Lanka must still comply with the requirement to obtain, and pay for, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) prior to arrival.
Source: VisaNews Oct 1, 2024
With effect from 27th September 2024, all Tourist or Business travelers to Sri Lanka can have ETA for entering in to Sri Lanka.
The particular visa-free regime applies to seven nominated countries (China, India, Indonesia, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, and Japan) and the rest of the countries may follow the general rules and regulations applicable to Sri Lanka ETA.
Destination Headlines:
Sri Lanka surpasses 1.6 million tourist arrivals by October-end.
Source: Adaderana Oct 30, 2024
Sri Lanka Tourism warmly welcomes travellers for the upcoming season.
Source: The Island Online Oct 23, 2024
Travel Updates:
Enter Air commences flight services between Poland and Sri Lanka.
Source: Adaderana Oct 31, 2024
Sri Lanka to get 68,000 tourists from Russia on Red Wings flights: Udayanga.
Source: EconomyNext Oct 28, 2024
Southeast Asia:
Cambodia
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From July 1, 2024, tourists must submit the declarations via the Cambodia e-Arrival card 7 days before the date of arrival in the country.
Source: Cambodia E-Arrival Card Oct 10, 2024From 1 September 2024, Cambodia will implement an electronic Arrival Card, travelers heading to Cambodia will be able to pay their visa-on-arrival fees online before their departure.
Source: TuktukRental; VisaNews Aug 27, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Cambodia's tourism star Angkor makes more than US $36M revenue in first 10 months.
Source: The Star Nov 2, 2024
Kingdom records 22% rise in air travel.
Source: Khmer Times Oct 30, 2024
Travel Updates:
Siem Reap emerges as the top trending travel spot for Australians in 2025.
Source: Khmer Times Nov 4, 2024
Cambodia eyes tourism boost with new direct flights from Hanoi.
Source: The Phnom Penh Post Oct 28, 2024
Indonesia
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The Indonesia Directorate General of Immigration has partnered with VFS Global to launch a new e-Visa on Arrival (e-VoA) service for 97 eligible nationalities, starting in December 2024.
Source: TTG Asia Nov 4, 2024Foreign nationals holding Permanent Stay Permits (ITAP) and Limited Stay Permits (ITAS) can now use the immigration autogate at Soekarno-Hatta and Ngurah Rai airports.
Source: Ministry of Immigration and Corrections Nov 2, 2024
Travel Updates:
Indonesia, VFS Global to introduce e-Visa on Arrival for 97 nationalities.
Source: TTG Asia Nov 4, 2024
New Tourism Minister targets high-quality tourists by promoting five super priority destinations.
Source: Jakarta Globe Oct 31, 2024
Lao PDR
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Lao PDR has also recently introduced visa exemptions for citizens from 36 countries, including key markets such as China, Japan, Indonesia, and Vietnam.
Source: Laotian Times Oct 8, 2024
Travel Updates:
Lao PDR on Lonely Planet's Best to Travel 2025 list.
Source: CNN Oct 25, 2024
Radisson RED Vientiane set to open in early 2025, topped off.
Source: Travel Daily News Sep 26, 2024
Malaysia
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All foreign citizens traveling to Malaysia must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC). Effective 1 January 2024, completion of this MDAC will be mandatory, except for some conditions mentioned in the list.
Source: Immigration Department of Malaysia Jan 1, 2024
Travel Updates:
Batik Air to launch direct KL flights to Bintulu, Miri.
Source: Borneo Post Oct 29, 2024
Sarawak can issue tourism licence for S-MM2H agents.
Source: New Straits Times Oct 31, 2024
Myanmar
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Myanmar extends visa exemption for Russian tourists for one year.
Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar; Myanmar Oct 28, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Ngwetaung Beach sees 17,566 visitors in September this year.
Source: The Global Newlight of Myanmar Nov 4, 2024
Myanmar Air joins AirAsia Move family.
Source: Business Today Oct 17, 2024
Travel Updates:
Myanmar extends visa exemption for Russian tourists for one year.
Source: Global Newlight of Myanmar Oct 28, 2024
Myanmar launches new training centre and programmes to boost hospitality sector.
Source: The Star Nov 4, 2024
Philippines
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Visa-required nationals onboard cruise ship vessels arriving in the Philippines will now be able to secure entry visas faster and more conveniently.
Source: Department of Tourism Jun 16, 2024
In an advisory dated Nov. 30, the DFA said the operations of its Philippine e-Visa System in China will be temporarily suspended “until further notice”.
Source: Philippine News Agency Dec 3, 2023
Destination Headlines:
Tourist arrivals hit 4.8 million in 10 months.
Source: Phil Star Nov 3, 2024
Palawan named one of the world’s best islands to visit.
Source: Inquirer.net Oct 23, 2024
Travel Updates:
Bohol's Panglao island among top 10 trending destinations for 2025.
Source: The Manila Times Nov 3, 2024
Cebu Pacific inaugurates additional flights from Davao.
Source: Sunstar Oct 28, 2024
Singapore
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Singapore has exempted visa requirements for all Omani citizens.
Source: Foreign Ministry of Oman Jul 15, 2024
Singapore and Timor Leste reached a mutual agreement on visa waiver: Holders of Diplomatic, Official, and Ordinary passports issued by Singapore can stay of up to 30 days in Timor-Leste, while holders of Diplomatic, Official, Service and Ordinary passports issued by Timor-Leste will enjoy up to 30 days visa-free stay in Singapore.
Source: Ministry of Foreign Affairs Jun 27, 2024
Travel Updates:
Singapore's Changi Airport launches passport-less immigration services.
Source: CNBC TV18 Oct 25, 2024
Singapore signs new Air Services Agreements with 5 countries grow air connectivity.
Source: Travel Daily News Oct 30, 2024
Thailand
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The suspension of the TM6 immigration form for foreigners entering Thailand via 16 land and sea checkpoints has been extended until April 30 next year.
Source: Thailand Business News Oct 16, 2024
Thailand introduces digital nomads visa - the Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) - that permits up to 180 days per visit.Thailand will allow tourists and short - term business travellers from 93 countries/regions to stay in Thailand for up to 60 days (instead of 30 days as before).
Source: The Government Public Relation Department May 31, 2024
Destination Headlines:
“WOW! Amazing Thailand Passport Privileges” campaign officially launched.
Source: Thailand Business News Nov 2, 2024
TAT and Visa sign MOU to elevate Thai tourism with financial innovation.
Source: TAT Newsroom Oct 31, 2024
Travel Updates:
TAT launches e-guidebook for Gen S, promoting sustainable rail travel in Thailand.
Source: The Nation Nov 2, 2024
Thailand offers 10,000 subsidies worth up to 400 baht each for travellers visiting 17 Northern provinces.
Source: Pattaya Mail Nov 2, 2024
Timor-Leste
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The Government of Timor-Leste and Lao People's Democratic Republic (LPDR), have signed a visa-free agreement for holders of official and diplomatic passports between Timor-Leste and Lao DPR.
Source: Timor-Leste Customs Authority Oct 9, 2024
Thailand and Timor-Leste mutually agreed to waive visas for their citizens to promote tourism in both countries. The visa exemption is good for visits of up to 30 days.
Source: The Government Public Relations Department, Thailand Jun 25, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Singapore passport holders to enjoy short-term, visa-free travel to Timor-Leste under new agreement.
Source: The Straits Times Jun 27, 2024
Batik Air to fly to Timor-Leste by first quarter of 2025.
Source: The Malaysian Reserve Oct 17, 2024
Travel Updates:
ASEAN Secretariat conducts capacity building programme for Timor Leste officials.
Source: ASEAN Jan 12, 2024
Vietnam
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Foreigners and Vietnamese people holding foreign passports who enter or reside on Phú Quốc Island are exempt from visas for a temporary stay of up to 30 days.
Source: Viet Nam News Sep 17, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Vietnam's tourism set to boom with 'Six Countries, One Destination' visa plan.
Source: The Nation Oct 26, 2024
HCM City welcomes over 4.6 million foreign visitors in 10 months.
Source: Vietnam Plus Oct 31, 2024
Travel Updates:
Vietnam Airlines launches Hanoi-Phnom Penh direct flight.
Source: VnExpress Oct 27, 2024
Accor to open Sofitel Sapa Hotel & Residences in Vietnam by 2030.
Source: Hotel News Resource Oct 31, 2024
Azerbaijan
Destination Headlines:
Azerbaijan launches efforts on inscribing its Ateshgah temple on UNESCO Heritage List.
Source: Trends News Agency Nov 2, 2024
Azerbaijan observes sharp increase on tourists from Iraq and India.
Source: ABC.az Oct 30, 2024
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Azerbaijan and Indonesia signed a visa-free agreement for holders of diplomatic passports.
Source: TURAN Sep 28, 2024
All COP29 participants traveling from outside Azerbaijan will require a visa. The Azerbaijan Government has authorized an electronic, free of charge “COP29 Special Visa," for all COP29 Azerbaijan registered participants. The COP29 Special Visa allows the holder a single-entry visit.
Source: COP29 Azerbaijan
Travel Updates:
Azerbaijan introduces free ‘COP29 special visa’ for conference participants.
Source: News.Az Nov 4, 2024
Azerbaijan Railways Prepares for COP29 with Major Upgrades Across its network.
Source: Railway Supply Nov 2, 2024
Saudi Arabia
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The Saudi Ministry of Human Resources and Social Development announced updates to the regulations governing temporary work visas for Hajj and Umrah services.
Source: Arab News Oct 1, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Saudi Arabia’s Red Sea Global likely to spend another $27B by 2030: Report.
Source: Arabian Business Nov 4, 2024
Saudi Arabia ranks 12th in global tourism receipts: UN Report.
Source: We News Nov 1, 2024
Travel Updates:
Air Arabia resumes flights from Sharjah to Yanbu in Saudi Arabia.
Source: Travel Trends Today Nov 5, 2024
Saudi Tourism Ministry announces 99% growth in tourism hospitality licenses.
Source: Asharq-Al-Awsat Nov 3, 2024
The United Arab Emirates
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The Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs and Ports Security announced on Thursday the extension of the UAE visa amnesty programme for two months, with the new deadline ending on December 31, 2024.
Source: Khaleejtimes Nov 4, 2024
Indian nationals who hold tourist visas to the UK and EU countries will be able to get a visa-on-arrival in the UAE.
Source: Khaleejtimes Oct 17, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Abu Dhabi Airports welcomes 21.7 million passengers as of September 30, 2024.
Source: Economy Middle East Oct 30, 2024
Travel bookings soar 35% for UAE National Day.
Source: ZAWYA Oct 28, 2024
Travel Updates:
UAE among top 10 dream destinations for travel, migration: Numbeo.
Source: Khaleej Times Nov 3, 2024
UAE joins U.S. Global Entry programme to facilitate travel for Emiratis.
Source: Economy Middle East Nov 1, 2024
Australia
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Australia has launched its Working Holiday Maker Visa for up to 1,000 young Indians aged 18 to 30, allowing them to work or study in the country for a year. The application period for the Work and Holiday visa is open from October 1 to October 31, 2024.
Source: Times of India Oct 15, 2024
On October 1, 2024, a pre-application process (visa ballot) commenced under the Working Holiday Maker (WHM) programme. Visa ballot registrations opened for high-demand Work and Holiday (subclass 462) countries: China, India, Vietnam.
Source: Australian Government Oct 2, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Sydney ranks in world's top 10 sustainable cities.
Source: Travel Weekly Oct 25, 2024
Gold Coast hosts over 600 tourism leaders at ATEC Meeting Place 2024.
Source: Travel Daily News Oct 30, 2024
Travel Updates:
Perth Airport partners with Accor for first airport hotel.
Source: The Economic Times Oct 30, 2024
Sydney Airport and Melbourne Airport joined forces to launch campaign for fighting human trafficking.
Source: Travel Weekly Nov 4, 2024
Federated States of Micronesia
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No visas are required for entry into the Federated States of Micronesia (FSM), although visitors should have valid passports and a round-trip ticket.
Non-U.S. citizens are automatically permitted to remain as tourists for 30 days, and can extend their stay up to 90 days. Those wishing to visit the FSM for a period exceeding 30 days must also complete an entry permit. Citizens and nationals of Palau, the Marshall Islands and the USA may be issued an entry permit for the duration of the visit which shall not exceed one year.
Source: Federated States of Micronesia Oct 8, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Yap doubles visitor arrivals in 2024.
Source: Saipan Tribune Sep 27, 2024
Yap to be showcased at the 2024 DEMA Dive Show in Las Vegas.
Source: Marianas Variety Oct 14, 2024
Travel Updates:
No updates
Fiji
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Fijian nationals no longer need transit visa when they travel through New Zealand.
Source: New Zealand Immigration Jun 6, 2024
Fijian passport holders do not need a visa to enter Fiji. And also have the list of nationalities that are visa exempted and issued with a visitors permit on arrival: Visa extempted countries
Visitors need to lodge for their visa or relevant permit prior to purchasing their ticket and boarding the flight to Fiji, they also need a Transit Visa if they are passing through Fiji to their final destination. In addition, visitors need to show travel documents or passport when entering Fiji.
The visa applications can be directly lodged at any Fijian Immigration Department office or through the nearest Fiji High Commission and Embassy offices stationed abroad. This visa is valid for 3 months and can be used for a single journey to Fiji only. It takes 14 working days to process visa applications from the date of receipt by the Visa Officer.
Source: Fiji Immigration
Destination Headlines:
Fiji recognised as top island in Australia and the South Pacific by Condé Nast.
Source: FBC News Oct 7, 2024
Fiji Airways plans to connect Pacific Islands with Laila VTOL.
Source: Ain Online Sep 20, 2024
Travel Updates:
Fiji Airways ventures into cruise ship opporFiji Airways expands Adelaide-Nadi service starting April 2025.
Source: Glam Adelaide Oct 3, 2024
More Fijians travel for holidays, leisure.
Source: Fiji Sun Sep 13, 2024
French Polynesia
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In all cases, visitors must hold a valid passport. Applicants should contact their nearest embassy or consulate of their place of residence regarding necessary travel documents for international travel before arriving in French Polynesia.
All travelers are responsible for obtaining all necessary documents, visas, special permits for entry, and check the date of validity of these travel documents and to renew them as necessary.
Tourists also need to comply with all legalities as mandated by nationality, country of origin, final destination and transit conditions, as well as regulations of the Carrier providing transportation.
Source: French Polynesia Visa & Passport Entries
Destination Headlines:
French Polynesia aims to set an annual cap of one foreign tourist per local resident.
Source: Express Aug 9, 2023
Air Tahiti Nui and Air Rarotonga enhance Pacific travel with new codeshare partnership.
Source: Aviation24 Oct 26, 2023
Travel Updates:
Bookings now open for 2026 Paul Gauguin Cruises in French Polynesia.
Source: TravelAge West Apr 12, 2024
Guam
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Travellers to Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (G–CNMI VWP) need to submit Form I–736 electronically in advance of travel and receive an electronic travel authorization prior to embarking on a carrier for travel to Guam or the CNMI starting from September 30, 2024 - November 28, 2024.
Source: US Customs and Border Protection Oct 18, 2024Entry requirements for Guam are the same as for any U.S. destination. Entry requirements are dictated by The United States Customs and Border Protection Agency (USCBP).
International passengers from eligible countries are encouraged to use the ESTA program (Electronic System for Travel Authorization) for entry.
Source: Airport Guam
Destination Headlines:
Guam arrivals reach 753K in fiscal 2024, GVB targets up to 1M in 2025.
Source: Pacific Daily News Oct 28, 2024
Guam visitor industry seeks public input in tourism recovery plan.
Source: Marianas Variety Nov 3, 2024
Travel Updates:
Guam Tourism boosting transportation through Bus Driver Boot Camp.
Source: eTurboNews Sep 11, 2024
Hawaii
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Attendees of the 2025 ISMRM & ISMRT Annual Meeting & Exhibition in Honolulu, Hawai’i are encouraged to use 2025 ISMRM & ISMRT Annual Meeting invitation letter form to assist with attaining a visa to travel to Honolulu, Hawai’i.
Source: ISMRM Oct 11, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Hawai'i arrivals near pre-pandemic levels, Canadian visitation up.
Source: Pax News Nov 3, 2024
Hawai‘i Tourism partners with JTB to attract high-value business events from Japan.
Source: Big Island Now Oct 20, 2024
Travel Updates:
Hawaiian Airlines presents ‘Moana 2’ themed flight.
Source: Travel Radar Oct 30, 2024
Hawai‘i Tourism Authority partners with Japan tour operators to promote responsible tourism.
Source: Maui Now Oct 11, 2024
Kiribati
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Citizens of 64 countries and territories are currently exempt from obtaining a visa before arrival into Kiribati: mfa.gov.ki/immigration/
Travel documents tourists need to prepare when travelling to Kiribati include: return ticket, valid passport (minimum 6 months validity), COVID-19 Vaccination Certificate, visa (if required) and work Permit (if required)
Travellers must ensure they are fully healthy and vaccinated from COVID-19 before travelling to Kiribati and must present a proof of COVID-19 Vaccination certificate upon arrival. Travellers are also required to declare upon arrival, all plants, fruits, vegetables, seeds, animal meats and poultry. A permit is required for the importation of live animals and meats / poultry.
Source: Visit Kiribati
Destination Headlines:
Kiribati tourism sustainable policy shapes eco-tourism future.
Source: Travel and Tour World Feb 4, 2023
TAK welcomes Miss Kiribati 2024 as a new ambassador for promoting Kiribati tourism.
Source: Travel and Tour World Sep 9, 2024
Travel Updates:
No updates
Marshall Islands
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All visitors traveling to the Marshall Islands must have a valid passport at least 6 months, must have sufficient funds for stay, and have an onward/return air or sea ticket.
Source: Office of Commerce, Investments, and Tourism August 15, 2023
Travel Updates:
No updates
Northern Marianas
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Travellers to Guam or the Northern Mariana Islands (CNMI) under the Guam-CNMI Visa Waiver Program (G–CNMI VWP) need to submit Form I–736 electronically in advance of travel and receive an electronic travel authorization prior to embarking on a carrier for travel to Guam or the CNMI starting from September 30, 2024 - November 28, 2024.
Source: US Customs and Border Protection Oct 18, 2024
Travelers need a valid passport from an eligible country and must complete the online ETA application once they book their travel or at least seven days before they depart for Guam or the CNMI.
A new eTA must be obtained if the traveler is issued a new passport, changes their name, gender, or country of citizenship, or if their previous responses to the eligibility questions on Form I-736 change.
The G-CNMI VWP allows eligible citizens from 12 countries to travel to Guam and/or the CNMI without the need for a physical visa. Travelers must present a round-trip ticket and aconfirmed departure date not exceeding 45 days from the date of admission to be considered eligible. But if passports that expire in six months or less will not receive an approved eTA.
Source: The Marianas
Destination Headlines:
MACS interested in CNMI/Guam inter-island service.
Source: Saipan Tribune Oct 21, 2024
Crowne Plaza Resort Saipan named Micronesia's leading resort for 2nd consecutive year.
Source: Saipan Tribune Oct 29, 2024
Travel Updates:
No updates
Palau
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Palau has replaced the Health Declaration Form with Palau Entry Form. Palau Entry Form submissions must be within 72 hours or less prior to arrival time. Only ONE form is required per family or single traveller.
Source: Palau Visitors Authority Jun 21, 2023
Destination Headlines:
Qantas gets Palau route as Australia strengthens Pacific ties.
Source: Nikkei Asia Oct 16, 2024
Chinese Taipei, Palau agree to promote Palauan tourism.
Source: Taiwan News Sep 29, 2024
Travel Updates:
United Airlines to launch direct flights from Japan to Palau in May 2025.
Source: Post-Courier Oct 17, 2024
Papua New Guinea
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The Papua New Guinea Immigration & Citizenship Service Authority (PNGICSA) has launched the online sponsor portal that merges work permit and working resident visa into a single application.
Source: ICSA; Public Notice Aug 14, 2024
Destination Headlines:
PTO and PNG Tourism Promotion Authority announce results of Papua New Guinea’s first Community Attitudes survey.
Source: Travel and Tour World Oct 23, 2024
About 24,000 tourists visited PNG on crusie ship.
Source: The National Sep 24, 2024
Travel Updates:
Sheraton to debut in Papua New Guinea next year following Port Moresby conversion.
Source: Hotel Management Jul 17, 2024
International visitors travel to PNG to attend World Coconut Day celebrations.
Source: Post-Courier Sep 19, 2024
Samoa
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A new Visa Application Centre will open in Apia, Samoa on Monday 4 November 2024, offering visa application services through Immigration New Zealand’s partnership with VFS Global. From Monday 4 November 2024, customers wanting to submit paper visa applications in person can do this through the Apia VAC
Source: New Zealand Immigration Oct 21, 2024
1. All travel restrictions for COVID-19 are now lifted.
2. All passengers and crew are no longer required to present vaccination cards/certificates or undergo pre-departure testing for COVID-19 before boarding.
3. Upon arrival into Samoa: All passengers are strongly advised to wear face masks at all times and continue to take precautionary and preventative measures within the first few days of arrival. Inform any healthcare provider if you feel ill if you have recently arrived into Samoa.
All passengers must truthfully complete the arrival Health declaration form in-flight and provide a valid local phone number and email/facebook address."
Source: Samoa Tourism Authority Sep 22, 2022
Destination Headlines:
$25M regional terminal at the Faleolo International Airport now in operation.
Source: Samoa Observer Oct 17, 2024
Samoa releases plan to fully protect 30% and sustainably manage 100% of ocean by 2030.
Source: Conservation International Oct 23, 2024
Travel Updates:
No Updates
Solomon Islands
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To get a permit, tourists need to hold a valid passport, with six months validity beyond their departure date and with blank pages to accommodate stamps; have either a return or an onward ticket; show evidence of sufficient funds to support yourself while in the Solomons; have a valid visa to enter other countries from the Solomon Islands, if required.
Source: Solomon Islands Visa
Saudi Foreign Minister, Prime Minister of Solomon Islands sign "Mutual Visa Exemption Agreement" for diplomatic, private and official passports on October 06, 2024 in Riyadh.
Source: Solomon Island Government Oct 6, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Travellers return to Solomon Islands with H1 numbers the highest since 2019.
Source: Travel Weekly Sep 23, 2024
Tourism Solomons flies the flag ‘Beyond Borders’ .
Source: Solomon Star Nov 5, 2024
Tonga
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Travellers are required to hold passports with a validity of a minimum of 6 months and must proceed immediately to a Customs Officer at Passport Control booths provided for the necessary immigration clearances when entering Tonga. In addition, citizens of all other countries need visas to enter Tonga (prior to arrival) and ensure that their visas remain valid for any period for which they are in the Kingdom.
Some countries are offered a 30-day tourist visa on arrival in Tonga (listed in announcement). Visiting Tonga for a period of not less than 30 days is required to obtain an entry permit issued by the Immigration Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs prior to arriving in Tonga.
Source: Immigration and General Services
Destination Headlines:
Tonga keeps whale watching in check amid global concerns.
Source: Islands Business Oct 7, 2024
Tonga visitor survey finds “People and culture” most appealing aspect.
Source: Matangi Online Nov 4, 2024
Travel Updates:
No updates
Bosnia and Herzegovina
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Starting January 1, 2025, Kosovo will unilaterally allow free movement for holders of identification cards from Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Source: Prishtina Insight Oct 14, 2024
Citizens of the following countries may enter to Bosnia and Herzegovina up to 90 days over a period of six months starting from the date of first entry, unless they hold the passport or a valid identification card proving identity and citizenship of:1) Member States of the European Union,
2) States Parties to the Schengen Agreement and
3) Andorra, Montenegro, Croatia, Liechtenstein, Monaco, San Marino, Serbia, the Holy See (Vatican) and Switzerland.
Source: Ministry of Security of Bosnia and Herzegovina Apr 28, 2023
Destination Headlines:
Sarajevo airport passenger traffic up 24% Y-o-Y in Oct.
Source: SeeNews Nov 5, 2024
National Geographic Travel Readers’ Choice: Sarajevo is the best World Destination for 2025.
Source: Sarajevo Times Oct 23, 2024
Travel Updates:
Bosnia and Herzegovina to reintroduce aviation tax.
Source: Ex-Yu Aviation Oct 23, 2024
AWizz Air launches Sarajevo-Rome flights.
Source: SeeNews Oct 29, 2024
Germany
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Third-country nationals require a visa to enter Germany. The short-stay Schengen visa allows its holders to enter and reside in Germany for a maximum period of 90 days within a 180-day period.
For stays of up to 90 days, visitors apply for a Schengen visa, and for longer stays, visitors apply for a national visa. Visitors may apply for a Schengen visa from between six months and generally no later than 15 days before their planned trip
*Starting from May 2025, visitors will be required to apply for ETIAS to enter Germany.
Source: German Federal Foreign Office; Germany Visa Information Apr 28, 2024
Destination Headlines:
Lufthansa Group reports $1.4 billion profit in Q3 after strong summer travel.
Source: Simple Flying Oct 29, 2024
GNTB launches ‘Emma’, its first AI-generated influencer.
Source: Travel Week Oct 18, 2024
Travel Updates:
Scandic to open new hotel in Stuttgart, Germany.
Source: Hotel Management Network Oct 3, 2024
Royal Jordanian Airlines resumes direct flights between Berlin and Amman.
Source: Aviation24 Oct 2, 2024
Kenya
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The TLScontact visa application centre in Mombasa and Nairobi will close on 14 November 2024 and all visa application processing for the UK will be transferred to VFS Global.
Source: VFS.GLOBAL; TLSContact Oct 21, 2024Following the launch of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for transit travellers with long connections, transit passengers with a long connection in Nairobi will be able to leave Jomo Kenyatta International Airport and visit the city.
Source: VisaNews Oct 2, 2023
Destination Headlines:
Kenya shilling steady on tourism, tea exports.
Source: CNBC Africa Nov 4, 2024
Kenya's coastal ports see surge in cruise tourism.
Source: ATTA Nov 4, 2024
Spain
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The European Commission will increase short stay Schengen visa (visa type C) fees worldwide by 12%. The increase will apply worldwide as of 11 June 2024.
New Schengen visa fees will be 90 euros for adults and 45 euros for children aged 6 to below 12 years of age."
Source: Republic of Slovenia ; European Commission May 20, 2024
Destination Headlines:
International tourists spend more than €99 billion up to September, 16.9% more than in the first nine months of 2023.
Source: La Moncloa Oct 31, 2024
Madrid received 6.2% more foreign tourists in September.
Source: Tourism Review News Nov 3, 2024
Travel Updates:
Iberia resumes flights to Japan with Madrid-Tokyo route.
Source: BTN Europe Oct 29, 2024
Spain flight cancellations: Ryanair, British Airways, easyJet cancel flights as storms hit Barcelona airport.
Source: National World Nov 4, 2024
Türkiye
Destination Headlines:
Istanbul Airport serves over 317M passengers in 6 years.
Source: Hurriyet Daily News Oct 30, 2024
Türkiye ups year-end tourism target as 9-month arrivals hit 49M.
Source: Daily Sabah Oct 31, 2024
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Türkiye to extend work permit exemption to 3 years for foreign workers who are able to provide economic, sociocultural, and technological contributions.
Source: VisaGuide Oct 17, 2024
Türkiye launched the Tech Visa Program, aiming to attract talent with critical technological skills and innovative business models. The Türkiye Tech Visa Program provides participants with a three-year work permit, allowing them to live and work in Türkiye.
Source: Presidency of The Republic of Turkiye Sep 24, 2024
Travel Updates:
Türkiye unveils Tech Visa Program to attract foreign entrepreneurs.
Source: Travelbiz Monitor Sep 23, 2024
Türkey’s hotel scene ripe for international investment.
Source: Hospitality Investor Nov 4, 2024