Asia Pacific Snapshot:
Weekly Travel Dashboard

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The Americas:

USA

Canada

  • Canada has decided to end the Student Direct Stream (SDS) and Nigeria Student Express (NSE). Study permit applications submitted on or after November 8, 2024 will be processed under the regular study permit stream.

    Source: Government of Canada Nov 8, 2024

    Canada has amended its tourist visa policy, ending the practice of routinely granting 10-year multiple-entry visas.

    Source: Business Standard Nov 8, 2024

Destination Headlines:

Canadian travel agencies broke sales records in 2023: StatCan.

Source: Pax News Nov 3, 2024

Grey Cup Festival to bring big boost to Vancouver’s economy.

Source: CityNews Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

Canada tightens visa rules to end 10-year multiple-entry visa.

Source: Travel + Leisure Nov 9, 2024

Air Canada adds seasonal nonstop Nashvillle-Vancouver flight.

Source: Biz Journals Nov 6, 2024

Mexico

  • Mexico to require visas for Peru nationals after migration spike.

    Source: Gobierno de Mexico Apr 6, 2024

Destination Headlines:

Mexico’s tourism revenue rises 4.5% in September.

Source: Mexico News Daily Nov 11, 2024

Puerto Vallarta anticipates surge in Canadian tourists this winter.

Source: PVDN Nov 6, 2024

Travel Updates:

Tulum is positioned as the second trending destination for Spanish tourists.

Source: The Yucatan Times Oct 30, 2024

Puerto Vallarta reaches consensus on new tax targeting foreign tourists.

Source: PVDN Nov 14, 2024

USA

  • 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:

India now 2nd largest source of foreign visitors to the US, with a 27% yearly increase.

Source: Hindustan Times Nov 17, 2024

Florida tourism hits record high with more than 34M visitors despite hurricanes.

Source: Fox News Nov 13, 2024

Travel Updates:

US to add 1M visa slots in 2025, may reduce wait for Indian travellers.

Source: Business Standard Nov 1, 2024

Record 80 million Americans expected to travel for Thanksgiving holiday, industry group says.

Source: Reuters Nov 18, 2024

China

  • 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

Seven villages made it to UN Tourism's 'Best Tourism Village' list.

Source: China Daily Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

China & Solomon Islands reach mutual visa-free travel agreement.

Source: Visa Guide Nov 7, 2024

Air travel receipts going digital as of December.

Source: China Daily Nov 11, 2024

Chinese Taipei

  • Chinese Taipei extends planned digital nomad visa from 6 months to 1 year.

    Source: Rti; TaiwanNews Oct 30, 2024

    MOFA 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:

Overseas visitor arrivals surpass 2023 numbers, 6.49 million visitors recorded: Tourism Administration.

Source: Focus Taiwan Nov 13, 2024

Number of Japanese visitors to Chinese Taipei grows nearly 50%: Agency.

Source: Focus Taiwan Nov 13, 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

China Airlines reports big jump in Q3 profits.

Source: Travel Mole Nov 11, 2024

Hong Kong SAR

  • 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

Arrivals jump 37% in the first 10 months of this year to 36.7 million.

Source: SCMP Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

‘World class’ Hong Kong racing can boost tourism across GBA, Jockey Club chief says.

Source: SCMP Nov 14 2024

Cathay Pacific resumes direct flights from Hong Kong SAR to Hyderabad.

Source: Travel + Leisure Nov 11, 2024

Japan

Destination Headlines:

Japan remains preferred destination for New Year holiday.

Source: Bangkok Post Nov 6, 2024

Japan hotel rates hit September record on tourism boom.

Source: Nikkei Asia Nov 8, 2024

  • 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:

Japan weighs end to duty-free shopping cap for foreign tourists.

Source: Nikkei Asia Nov 18, 2024

Universal Studios Japan to open Donkey Kong-themed area on Dec. 11.

Source: Kyodo News Nov 12, 2024

Korea (ROK)

  • 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:

More than 20 million passengers travel on Korea (ROK)-Japan routes in January-October period.

Source: Korea JooAng Daily Nov 17, 2024

Korean Air reports 10% revenue increase in Q3 2024.

Source: Travel Daily News Nov 8, 2024

Travel Updates:

Gangwon State expands youth and sports tourism exchanges with East Asian countries.

Source: Business Korea Nov 14, 2024

Jeju Island to attract digital nomads via 'workcation' visa.

Source: Korea.net Nov 15, 2024

Macao, China

  • 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 hotel booking rate exceeds 90% during Grand Prix: MGTO.

Source: AGB Nov 13, 2024

Non-gaming visitor spending has climbed 8% year-on-year.

Source: The Macao News Nov 13, 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 Grand Prix Museum x MGM co-launch brand-new interactive VR installation.

Source: MGTO Nov 13, 2024

Mongolia

  • 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

E-Visa issuance to visit Mongolia increases threefold.

Source: Mongolian National News Agency Nov 8, 2024

Travel Updates:

Winter Horse Festival of Mongolia taking place Nov 21-24.

Source: Mongolian National News Agency Nov 13, 2024

Mongolia introduces electronic visas for all categories.

Source: Social News XYZ Sep 19, 2024

Bangladesh

Destination Headlines:

Bangladesh Travel and Tourism Council launched.

Source: TBS News Nov 3, 2024

Tourism restrictions lifted in 4 Bandarban upazilas; hotels announce 35% discounts.

Source: UNB; TBS News Nov 7, 2024

Travel Updates:

Bangladesh Rural Advancement Committee launches community-based tourism 'Otithi'.

Source: TBS News Nov 8 2024

Cox’s Bazar Airport extends flight schedule.

Source: Bangladesh Post Oct 28, 2024

  • 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

  • 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

Bhutan making tourism easier to spur economy.

Source: Bangkok Post Nov 14, 2024

Travel Updates:

New immigration check post inaugurated at Assam-Bhutan border.

Source: Morung Express Nov 7, 2024

Bhutan Airlines partners with FinMont for payments.

Source: TravelBiz Monitor Nov 13, 2024

India

  • 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, 2024

    The 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:

India outbound tourism to reach 50 million trips by 2030.

Source: Travel and Tour World Nov 9, 2024

“Our goal is to 10X our number of inbound tourists – from 9.3 million to 100 million!” Tourism DG.

Source: Hotelier India Nov 13, 2024

Travel Updates:

Thiruvananthapuram is India's first city to win Global Sustainability Award: Key success factors.

Source: Times of India Nov 5, 2024

Singapore fund brings back travel brand Cox & King.

Source: Times of India Nov 13, 2024

Maldives

  • 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:

Maldives aims for 2.2 million tourist arrivals in 2025.

Source: The Edition Nov 6, 2024

Over 74,000 tourists welcomed in first two weeks of November; sees 8.3% surge from last year.

Source: Raajje; Raajje Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

Maldives to implement TGST on offshore booking platforms.

Source: Avas Nov 13, 2024

Maldives to introduce digital currency.

Source: The Edition Oct 31, 2024

Nepal

  • 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:

Over 124,000 tourists arrive in October; Annapurna region welcomes over 33,000 tourists in October.

Source: The Rising Nepal; The Himalayan Times Nov 18, 2024

Top priority is to operate two international airports: Tourism Minister.

Source: The Rising Nepal Nov 9, 2024

Travel Updates:

Nepal enables tourists to make QR payments with their local e-wallets.

Source: Fintech News Nov 11, 2024

Pokhara embraces new role as tourism hub with extended hours.

Source: Nepal Monitor Nov 6 2024

Pakistan

  • 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

    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

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:

Syrian Airline commences Damascus-Lahore flights.

Source: WeNews Nov 18, 2024

New vehicle import rules for foreign tourists introduced.

Source: Daily Ausaf Oct 29, 2024

Sri Lanka

  • 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.

    Source: Department of Immigration and Emigration

Destination Headlines:

Sri Lanka nears 1.7M tourist arrivals with surge in November.

Source: Daily FT Nov 13, 2024

Sri Lanka projected to emerge as one of world’s fastest-growing travel destinations in 2025.

Source: Daily Mirror Nov 12, 2024

Travel Updates:

Sri Lanka Tourism to launch unified national brand from January.

Source: Daily FT Nov 19 2024

Sri Lanka crowned ‘Most Desirable Island in the World’ by the Wanderlust Reader Travel Awards 2024.

Source: Adaderana Nov 7, 2024

Cambodia

  • 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, 2024

    From 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:

Over 7.8M tourists flock to Cambodia during Water Festival Holiday.

Source: EAC News Nov 18, 2024

Chinese tourist arrivals to Cambodia up almost 50% in January-September; expects to receive more Singaporean tourists by 2025.

Source: Khmer Times; Khmer Times Nov 19, 2024

Travel Updates:

ADB backs Cambodia’s tourism recovery.

Source: Khmer Times Nov 12, 2024

Cambodia eyes tourism boost with new direct flights from Hanoi.

Source: The Phnom Penh Post Oct 28, 2024

Indonesia

  • 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, 2024

    Foreign 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

Destination Headlines:

Over 10 million foreign tourists visit Indonesia per September 2024: BPS.

Source: Tempo.co Nov 4, 2024

Ministry of Tourism, Indonesia issues guidance over volcanic eruption impacting Bali travel.

Source: The Bali Sun Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

Marriott opens The Sira, a luxe resort in Indonesia.

Source: Travel Weekly Nov 7, 2024

Les Village in Bali named Best Tourism Village in Indonesia ADWI 2024.

Source: Tempo.co Nov 7, 2024

Lao PDR

  • 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

Destination Headlines:

Tourist arrivals to northern Lao PDR's Luang Prabang surpass 1.5M in 9 months.

Source: Xinhua Oct 30, 2024

Lao PDR-China Railway hits three million passengers in first 10 months of 2024.

Source: The Star Nov 9, 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

  • 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

Destination Headlines:

Strong international interest in Sabah tourism campaign.

Source: The Star Nov 12, 2024

Malaysia named 'Destination Of the Year' at Tripzilla Excellence Awards 2024.

Source: The Star Nov 18, 2024

Travel Updates:

Malaysia launches MyTourist Pass to encourage public transport use.

Source: Vietnam Plus Nov 11, 2024

Tiong calls for tax incentives to boost local tourism ahead of Malaysia Tourism Year 2026.

Source: The Borneo Post Nov 9, 2024

Myanmar

  • Myanmar extends visa exemption for Russian tourists for one year.

    Source: The Global New Light of Myanmar; Myanmar Oct 28, 2024

    Myanmar has announced a visa-on-arrival policy for holders of the Macau SAR Passport, allowing them to apply for a Tourist Visa upon arrival at international airports for a maximum stay of 30 days. This measure is put into use on a trial basis for one year starting from 21st October 2024.

    Source: GOV.MO; Macaudailytimes Oct 28, 2024

Destination Headlines:

Ngwetaung Beach sees 17,566 visitors in September this year.

Source: The Global Newlight of Myanmar Nov 4, 2024

Weekend visitor numbers rise at Yangon’s nearby camps and resorts.

Source: The Global Newlight of Myanmar Oct 14, 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

  • 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:

PHL tourist arrivals to hit 9.7 million by 2028.

Source: Business World Nov 13, 2024

AirAsia Philippines surpasses 2023 passenger count with 6.6M travellers.

Source: Travel Daily News Nov 14, 2024

Travel Updates:

Bohol's Panglao island among top 10 trending destinations for 2025.

Source: The Manila Times Nov 3, 2024

Cebu Pacific sees share in air travel market rising to 60%.

Source: PhilStar Nov 15, 2024

Singapore

  • 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

Destination Headlines:

India surpasses Australia as Singapore's 3rd largest source of tourists.

Source: VnExpress Nov 3, 2024

Singapore recorded 1.31M visitors in October, up 16.7%.

Source: Business Today Nov 13, 2024

Travel Updates:

Changi Airport to implement fee hikes for passengers and airlines ahead of upgrade.

Source: Lifestyle Asia Nov 17, 2024

Singapore Tourism Board partners Skyscanner to boost visitor numbers.

Source: TTG Asia Nov 8, 2024

Thailand

  • 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:

Thailand nears 2024 tourism target with almost 30M arrivals; targets 8M European tourists in 2025.

Source: The Nation; Bangkok Post Nov 13, 2024

Thailand’s marriage equality law to boost tourism by 4 million visitors.

Source: Travel Daily News Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

Thailand named Travel + Leisure’s 2025 Destination of the Year.

Source: TAT Newsroom Nov 8, 2024

Thailand announces new holidays in bid to stoke tourism growth.

Source: The Diplomat Nov 14, 2024

Timor-Leste

  • 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

Destination Headlines:

Vietnam welcomes over 14.1 million foreign visitors in 10 months.

Source: Vietnam Net Nov 7, 2024

Vietnam launches new e-visa portal to facilitate foreigners' entry.

Source: VnExpress Nov 8, 2024

Travel Updates:

UN Tourism to host First Global Conference on Tourism for Rural Development in Vietnam.

Source: UN Tourism Nov 12, 2024

IHG targets 40 hotels in Vietnam with ambitious expansion plan.

Source: Travel and Tour World Nov 18, 2024

Azerbaijan

Destination Headlines:

Azerbaijan sees 30.5% increase in air travel.

Source: Azer News Nov 8, 2024

UN Tourism and Azerbaijan lead initiative to include tourism in Global Climate Agenda at COP29.

Source: Travel and Tour World Nov 11, 2024

  • 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, Türkiye sign agreement to boost tourism cooperation.

Source: News.Az Nov 16, 2024

Azerbaijan introduces free ‘COP29 special visa’ for conference participants.

Source: News.Az Nov 4, 2024

Saudi Arabia

  • 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 Tourism Development Fund inks MSME finance deals.

Source: Zawya Nov 11, 2024

Saudi Arabia launches company to transform Asir into global tourism hub.

Source: Arab News Nov 19, 2024

Travel Updates:

Ambitious regenerative tourism project taking shape on Saudi’s western coastline.

Source: Euro News Nov 8, 2024

Saudi Arabia launches first AI digital human travel companion ‘SARA’.

Source: The Siasat Daily Nov 12, 2024

The United Arab Emirates

  • 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:

Dubai's economy grows 3.3% in second quarter on tourism and technology sectors boost.

Source: The National Nov 10, 2024

Dubai International welcomes 68.6M guests in 9 months.

Source: ZAWYA Nov 19, 2024

Travel Updates:

Ras Al Khaimah unveils Golden Visa Programme for educators.

Source: Travel + Leisure Nov 15, 2024

UAE joins U.S. Global Entry programme to facilitate travel for Emiratis.

Source: Economy Middle East Nov 1, 2024

Australia

  • 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

    If travellers hold or apply for an Australian visa, and have a new passport, they must update their passport details by accessing ImmiAccount or fill out a form online before entering or leaving Australia. This excludes holders of the Electronic Travel Authority (ETA) 601.

    Source: Australian Government; Immigration and citizenship Nov 8, 2024

Destination Headlines:

Australians hold $1.04 billion in unspent travel currency, study finds.

Source: Travel Daily News Nov 11, 2024

Tourism Australia and Air India ink MoU.

Source: TTR Weekly Nov 18, 2024

Travel Updates:

Etihad Airways concludes unilateral codeshare with Virgin Australia.

Source: Times Aerospace Nov 18, 2024

Princess Cruises reveals new 2026-27 Australian programme.

Source: Travel Weekly Nov 18, 2024

Federated States of Micronesia

  • 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

  • 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

AdventureNEXT Fiji 2024 set to showcase the best of Fiji’s adventure tourism.

Source: Travel and Tour World Nov 18, 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

  • 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

  • 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

    Entry 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 Visitors Bureau President and CEO resigns.

Source: eTurboNews Nov 15, 2024

Travel Updates:

Guam Tourism boosting transportation through Bus Driver Boot Camp.

Source: eTurboNews Sep 11, 2024

United Airlines announces new direct nonstop service between Taipei and Guam.

Source: KUAM News Nov 19, 2024

Hawaii

  • 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:

Hawaiʻi Tourism Authority partners with LPGA to enhance global marketing and destination stewardship.

Source: Maui Now Nov 12, 2024

Hawaii flights surge with increased US and international connections.

Source: Beat of Hawaii Nov 18, 2024

Travel Updates:

Hawaiian Airlines to offer locals-only discounts.

Source: Hawaii Tribune-Herald Nov 19, 2024

Hawai‘i Tourism Authority partners with Japan tour operators to promote responsible tourism.

Source: Maui Now Oct 11, 2024

Kiribati

  • 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

  • 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

Destination Headlines:

NZ gives more than $6 million to support 'resilient and prosperous Marshall Islands'.

Source: RNZ Aug 12, 2024

Marshall Islands to host 2025 Micronesian Islands Forum.

Source: Kuam News Jun 4, 2024

Travel Updates:

No updates

Northern Marianas

  • 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:

Jeju Air’s Busan service set to bring 3,000 tourists to Saipan this winter.

Source: Marianas Variety Nov 19, 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

  • 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

Qantas ‘Palau Paradise Express’ prepares for its December launch.

Source: Aviation Source News Nov 8, 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

  • 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

  • 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

  • The Solomon Islands and the People’s Republic of China celebrated the signing of the Agreement on Mutual Visa Exemption for Ordinary Passports holders.

    Source: Solomon Islands Government Nov 8, 2024

    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:

World’s largest coral found in the Pacific Ocean, near the Solomon Islands.

Source: AP News Nov 16, 2024

Tourism Solomons flies the flag ‘Beyond Borders’ .

Source: Solomon Star Nov 5, 2024

Travel Updates:

China & Solomon Islands reach mutual visa-free travel agreement.

Source: Visa Guide Nov 7, 2024

Bilikiki Cruises and Emperor Divers partner to boost Solomon Islands dive tourism.

Source: Solomon Islands Government Nov 8, 2024

Tonga

  • 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

  • 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:

Over 205K tourists visited BiH in September.

Source: Sarajevo Times Nov 8, 2024

Bosnia and Herzegovina reintroduces departure tax across all airports.

Source: Rus Tourism News Nov 13, 2024

Travel Updates:

Sarajevo Canton selects 7 airlines for 2024-2026 flight subsidies.

Source: SeeNews Nov 6, 2024

Sarajevo announces eight new air routes to major European cities.

Source: N1 Info Nov 6, 2024

Germany

  • 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:

Berlin launches bid to host future NFL International Games.

Source: Sports Travel Nov 12, 2024

GNTB launches ‘Emma’, its first AI-generated influencer.

Source: BW Hotelier Oct 16, 2024

Travel Updates:

Germany marks 1989 Berlin Wall fall with ‘Preserve Freedom’ party.

Source: Arab News Nov 9, 2024

Royal Jordanian Airlines resumes direct flights between Berlin and Amman.

Source: Aviation24 Oct 2, 2024

Kenya

  • 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, 2024

    Following 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 eyes more tourists from Asia as AirAsia X makes inaugural flight.

Source: Capital FM Nov 16, 2024

Kenya's coastal ports see surge in cruise tourism.

Source: ATTA Nov 4, 2024

Travel Updates:

Kenya announces launch of transit ETA and Digital Nomad Work Permits to boost tourism.

Source: ATTA Oct 3, 2024

Kenya exempts tourists from declaring IMEI numbers upon arrival.

Source: Gataway Nov 11, 2024

Spain

  • 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:

Spain issues urgent travel warnings for holidaymakers amid extreme rainfall and flooding.

Source: Belfast Live Nov 13, 2024

Costa Blanca airport smashes annual passenger record with two months remaining of 2024.

Source: The Olive Press Nov 12, 2024

Travel Updates:

Spain’s first luxury Grand Hotel set to reopen in Tenerife Spring 2025.

Source: Travel Daily News Nov 7, 2024

Airbnb requests that Barcelona review the restrictions on tourist apartments.

Source: La Vanguardia Nov 18, 2024

Türkiye

Destination Headlines:

Türkiye's Black Sea region gains popularity as cave tourism destination.

Source: Xinhua Nov 11 2024

Turkish Airlines achieves 1.3 billion Q3 profit amid industry challenges.

Source: Travel Radar Nov 11, 2024

  • 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

UN names Antalya’s Ormana among best tourism villages.

Source: Hurriyet Daily News Nov 18, 2024