November Visa Updates!

6 Months Ago

Nov,04,2024

UK Opens ETA Applications for Non-European Travellers

Starting November 27, 2024, non-European travelers can begin applying for the UK’s Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). This new requirement, mandatory from January 8, 2025, aims to streamline travel and strengthen border security.

Canada to Increase Fees for Visitor, Worker, and Student Visas

Immigration, Refugees, and Citizenship Canada (IRCC) have announced fee increases for various visitor, worker, and student visa categories. Effective December 1, 2024, these changes will impact applications for restoring temporary resident status, authorization to return to Canada, criminal rehabilitation, and temporary resident permits.

UAE Updates

UAE National Day

Recent delays in UAE visa processing have occurred due to a high volume of applications.
Additionally, UAE Immigration will be closed on Monday, December 2, 2024, and Tuesday, December 3, 2024, in observance of UAE National Day celebrations. The closure, combined with the long weekend from Saturday, November 30, to Tuesday, December 3, is anticipated to affect visa processing timelines further. To ensure smooth travel arrangements for your clients, we strongly recommend planning and submitting visa applications well in advance to accommodate these potential delays.

UAE Visa Process

According to the latest visa regulations issued by the GDRFA (Dubai Immigration Office), the return air ticket and hotel confirmation page must now be included when submitting visa applications.

The dates on the air ticket (arrival and departure) must align with the hotel reservation dates. Additionally, guests must carry sufficient funds (equivalent to AED 3000) in cash or on a credit card to support them during their stay in the UAE.

Russia to Launch Biometric Data Collection for Border Crossings

The Russian government has approved a pilot program requiring foreign nationals and stateless individuals to provide biometric data for border crossings, starting December 1, 2024.

The initiative will be implemented in two phases:

First Phase (December 1, 2024 – June 30, 2026): Biometric data collection will be conducted at select entry points, including Moscow's international airports (Domodedovo, Sheremetyevo, Vnukovo), Zhukovsky Airport in the Moscow region, and the Mastakovo automobile checkpoint in the Orenburg region.

Second Phase (June 30, 2025 – June 30, 2026): The program will expand to all border checkpoints nationwide. Foreign nationals eligible for visa-free entry will also have the option to submit their biometric data and related information in advance through a designated mobile app.

Vietnam Launches New e-Visa Portal

Vietnam is set to launch a new e-Visa portal, going live on November 11, 2024.

New Link: evisa.gov.vn / thithucdientu.gov.vn (Alt URL)

Canada closes its fast-track Student Direct Stream

Canada has closed its Student Direct Stream, effective immediately. A program that previously expedited visa processing for many Indian students. The SDS was known for its higher approval rates for Indian applicants. Going forward, all students must apply through the standard visa process, impacting those who wish to pursue studies in Canada.

US Wait Times Skyrocket Again

Visa wait times at U.S. consulates in India remain lengthy. Kolkata experiences the longest delay of 499 days for B1/B2 visas, followed by Chennai at 486 days. Other consulates have somewhat shorter wait times: Mumbai (427 days), Delhi (432 days), and Hyderabad (435 days).

Tanzania Confirms Visa-On-Arrival

Tanzania’s Immigration Department has confirmed that the Visa-On-Arrival option is still available, despite recent uncertainties. While travellers can continue to use this entry option, officials recommend applying for an e-Visa in advance to save time. Additionally, mandatory travel insurance for Zanzibar also introduces an extra step for visitors.

Canada Tightens Tourist Visa Policy

The Canadian government has revised its visa policy, moving away from standard 10-year multiple-entry visas. Immigration officers now have increased discretion to determine visa types and their validity.

Spain Visa Application Update

Starting 4th November 2024, handwritten visa application forms will no longer be accepted at any Visa Centre. Applicants are requested to fill in all required details online and print the completed form for submission. Please note that incomplete or incorrect forms will not be processed.

VFS Belgium Visa Application centre in Mumbai is relocating to a new address

As of 04 November 2024, the VFS Belgium Visa Application Centre in Mumbai will permanently relocate to the following address:

Trade Centre, First Floor, 'G' Block, Bandra Kurla Complex, Bandra (East), Mumbai - 400 051.

VFS Poland Visa Application Center in Mumbai is relocating to a new address

Starting 04 November 2024, the VFS Poland Visa Application Center in Mumbai will permanently relocate to the following address:

Urmi Axis Building, Second Floor, Behind Famous Studio, Opp. E Moses Road, Mahalaxmi (West), Mumbai 400011, India.

Thailand Extends 60-Days Visa-Free Entry With No End Date

Thailand has indefinitely extended its visa-free entry policy for Indian tourists, allowing stays of up to 60 days without a visa. This extension offers Indian travelers easier access to Thailand's beautiful beaches, lively cities, and rich cultural experiences.

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November Visa Updates!

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