SCHENGEN VISA WAIVER
Marco Rubio unveils all-new “Flight of the Eagle” U.S. passport; slated for rollout in 2028
A redesigned US passport, called 'Flight of the Eagle', will be introduced in 2028. This new passport will feature enhanced security measures and a fresh artistic design. The application process will be simplified, allowing citizens to complete it entirely from home. Existing valid passports will remain accepted until their expiry dates without needing early renewal.
Five Gulf nations pursue Schengen visa waiver: What travellers should know
Millions of Indians live and work in the Gulf, but a Gulf residence permit does not open Europe's doors visa-free. That distinction is central to a proposal in which Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar seek easier access to the Schengen area for their citizens. With the EU-GCC summit scheduled in Riyadh on October 24, 2026, the initiative could reshape short-term travel between the regions. But who would actually benefit, why is the UAE already ahead, and would Indian expatriates see any change in their own visa requirements?
War and travel insurance in times of Iran-Israel conflict: What is covered and what is excluded
Thousands of Indians in the UAE are stranded due to regional conflict and disrupted air travel. While airlines offer rescheduling, travel insurance typically excludes war-related losses, leaving travellers to cover extended stays and evacuations. Insurers are exploring policy adjustments for conflict-linked disruptions.
Where Indian passport holders can visit with a valid US visa
For Indian passport holders, obtaining a US visa unlocks travel to 42 countries across Asia, Europe, and beyond, simplifying international mobility. In 2024, 2.2 million Indians visited the US, marking a significant increase from pre-pandemic levels. The US visa serves as a gateway to numerous destinations, offering convenient access to diverse regions without additional visa requirements.
EU’s Entry/Exit System starts October 12 - What it means for travellers
The European Union's Entry/Exit System (EES) will commence on October 12, 2025, recording biometric and travel data for non-EU nationals entering the Schengen Area. This phased rollout, impacting Indian passport holders and others, aims to enhance border security and track short-term visits. While no new visas are required, travelers should anticipate longer wait times and biometric registration.
Europe’s Schengen border security system vulnerable to hacks. Audit warns of catastrophic beach risk
A confidential audit of the EU’s Schengen Information System II (SIS II) revealed thousands of severe cybersecurity flaws, including excessive admin access and slow patching by contractor Sopra Steria. Though no breach occurred, experts warn a leak could be catastrophic. Oversight failures by EU-Lisa and reliance on external consultants further weakened system integrity, raising concerns about future smart border projects.
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What happens if your flight is diverted to a country where you don’t have a visa?
When flights divert to countries requiring visas, passengers are typically confined to transit areas unless granted temporary permits for overnight stays. Airlines coordinate with authorities to manage accommodations and alternative travel. Air India, on Friday, rerouted sixteen flights due to Iranian airspace closure following Israeli military actions.
Decoding 2024: An Indian's guide to moving abroad as the world looks for 'better' immigrants
Global immigration policies have shifted in 2024, creating new opportunities for skilled Indian professionals. Countries like US, UK, Canada, and others are streamlining visa processes and expanding pathways for work and residency. These changes reflect a growing global demand for talent in sectors such as IT, healthcare, and green energy.
Delays in Schengen visa appointment prompt Indians to change course to Georgia, Japan
For the third consecutive year, delays in Schengen visa appointments have led Indian travelers preparing for their summer vacations to explore alternative destinations. Industry executives note a growing trend of Indian holidaymakers turning to countries like Georgia, Australia, and Japan, which offer simplified visa procedures. Particularly noteworthy is Georgia's e-visa system. According to Rajeev Kale, President of Holidays at Thomas Cook (India), demand for Georgia has skyrocketed by an impressive 600% year-on-year.
Thailand bats for a Schengen-like visa for South East Asia to lure rich tourists
Thailand's pursuit of a joint-visa program to attract long-haul tourists involves discussions with neighboring countries and strategic initiatives. The proposal includes visa extensions, reciprocal deals, and plans for casinos and event-based tourism to boost revenue and tourism.
France becomes first European country to issue digital Schengen visas
Athletes and officials holding a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa won't need to apply for a separate French Schengen visa. Instead, they can use their existing visa, emphasizing the necessity of obtaining accreditation for the games.
Good news for travellers to Europe! The Schengen visa is going digital
The change is expected to come into effect following technical work on the visa platform, which is anticipated to take several months, and subsequent publication in the EU's administrative gazette.
American passport holder travelling to Europe? Here are new requirements and approvals you require from 2024 under ETIAS
ETIAS is a new travel authorization system for visa-exempt nationals visiting European countries in the Schengen Area. Travellers pay a €7 fee and apply online before arrival. The system conducts risk screening to enhance security, prevent illegal immigration and protect public health. ETIAS is not a visa but an electronic visa waiver, valid for up to three years or until passport expiry.
Travelling abroad? Recent visa rule changes you need to know
Indians are seeing visa norms being relaxed in several countries. Indonesia has made visa-free travel ban official, though Indians can still travel with a visa on arrival. The US has raised its visa fees for business, tourism, and other categories; clearance-received and department-authorized travelers can now avail of interview waivers for new visas.
Wealthy Indians will find it difficult to get European golden visas from now
Golden visas offer the opportunity for wealthy people to essentially ‘buy’ the right to residency - sometimes even without having to live in that country. However, this practice has been seen as posing risks in terms of security, money laundering and tax evasion as well as inflating real estate prices.
Here’s what you need to know about the Schengen Visa
The Schengen area consists of 26 European countries. If you plan to travel to one or more of these countries, you need a Schengen Visa. Find out what the Visa is all about.
Greece clearing Schengen visa backlog on fast track
Besides tourists, others planning visits to certain EU countries such as Germany, Italy and Denmark including parents of students studying in those countries and families planning to attend weddings too had been hit by delays in getting Schengen visas.
NRI Helpdesk: Can IR-5 immigrant visa holders travel to US despite travel ban?
We have started an immigration helpdesk. You can write to us at nri.economictimes@gmail.com and our team of experts will address the most pressing issues.
Spain, Slovakia agree to issue 'Gratis Visa' to Indians in view of COVID-19
A tour operators' body on Thursday said that embassies of Spain and Slovakia have agreed to issue 'Gratis Visa' to all Indians who were issued a visa earlier this year but could not undertake travel in the last few months because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Tourism industry bets big on expansion in outbound travel
Besides the metros, visa and other travel services providers like VFS Global, BLS International and Cox & Kings Global Services are expanding their reach to other cities across the country.
Visa waiver scheme: Indians can stay for up to 60 days in Qatar
A multi-entry waiver will be issued free-of-charge at the port of entry, upon presentation of a valid passport with a minimum validity of six months. Synopsis:
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