VISA APPLICATION
South Africa simplifies visa procedures for Indians; introduces digital Entry Travel Agreement system
South Africa introduces a digital Entry Travel Agreement (ETA) system and simplifies visa processes to strengthen tourism ties with India. The Trusted Tourist Tour Operator System Scheme targets Indian and Chinese markets. Efforts are underway to re-establish direct flights between Mumbai and Johannesburg, enhancing connectivity and economic cooperation.
South Africa eases visa procedures & entry arrangement to boost tourism from India
South Africa has unveiled a new digital Entry Travel Agreement (ETA) system to enhance tourism ties with India, simplifying visa processes and introducing a Trusted Tourist Tour Operator System Scheme. Direct flight routes between Mumbai and Johannesburg are being explored, aiming to boost bilateral relations and economic cooperation in various sectors including renewable energy, pharmaceuticals, and mining.
Millions of immigrants might have to leave Canada next year
As nearly five million temporary permits expire by 2025, Canadian immigration officials expect most holders to leave voluntarily, with the CBSA enforcing laws against overstays. Immigration Minister Marc Miller also addressed a reduction in immigration targets, including a 21% decrease in permanent residents and cuts to temporary workers and international students, aimed at easing pressures on housing and social services.
Dubai's new visa rules complicate travel for Indians staying with relatives
Indian tourists planning to stay with relatives in Dubai now need to provide extra documents due to new visa rules. Requirements include the host's rental agreement, Emirates ID, and residence visa copy. These changes may affect travel plans, especially during events like the Dubai Shopping Festival, due to the inconvenience and added costs.
Visa scam: How an MBA graduate, a diploma holder and a clinic owner duped over 100 seeking foreign jobs
Delhi Police cracked a major foreign jobs scam. Three people were arrested. The scammers used fake VFS Global profiles. They tricked over 100 job seekers. Victims lost money on fake visas. The gang operated for two years. Police found fake accounts and SIM cards. VFS Global praised the police work. Police are asking other victims to contact them.
Australia's cap on foreign students pushes Indians to explore alternatives
Australia's proposed bill to cap foreign student intake is causing uncertainty among Indian students, leading many to explore alternatives like the US, Germany, and Ireland. Concerns include rising housing costs, stricter visa processes, and a possible decline in Indian student numbers, particularly in high-demand fields.
Dubai makes hotel booking and return ticket mandatory for tourist visas
Dubai has tightened tourist visa requirements, now mandating travelers to submit hotel bookings with QR codes and return tickets during the application process. This change, applicable to both tourist and visit visas, aims to streamline the process and ensure compliance. While offering convenience, the new rules have led to processing delays for some applicants.
Canada to hike application fees for temporary residents on December 1
Canada is increasing application and processing fees for temporary resident applications like visitor visas, work permits, and study permits starting December 1. Applications submitted before the deadline with the old fees will be processed accordingly. However, the exact updated fee structure is yet to be released by IRCC.
UK to introduce ¡®digital by default¡¯ immigration system by 2025, launch eVisas
The UK is transitioning to a digital immigration system by 2025, introducing eVisas for enhanced security and convenience. India remains a top recipient of UK visas, with streamlined processing and biometric enrolment at visa application centres. The UK aims to maintain a balance between service quality and cost-effectiveness in its visa system.
Beware! Indians biggest winners, but UK sounds warning on visa fraud
The UK Visas and Immigration department issued an advisory urging Indian nationals to be wary of visa scams. The UK also announced streamlined visa services for Indians, including upgraded application centers and faster processing times, with plans for a fully digital system by 2025.
Why applying for a Schengen visa is 'humiliating' for Indians
Getting a US tourist visa is generally simpler than obtaining a Schengen visa for Europe. The US process involves less paperwork, thanks to technology-driven background checks, and allows for a 10-year multiple-entry visa. In contrast, the Schengen visa requires extensive documentation, including proof of financial stability and intent to return, and can feel burdensome to many travellers.
US visa wait times skyrocket again. This city will make you wait 500 days for an appointment
Visa wait times for U.S. consulates in India remain high, with Kolkata facing the longest delay of 499 days for B1/B2 visas, followed by Chennai at 486 days. Other consulates have slightly shorter waits: Mumbai (427 days), Delhi (432 days), and Hyderabad (435 days). However, Interview Waiver Visitor visa wait times are much shorter, ranging from 13 days in Kolkata to 14 days in Delhi.
Canada may no longer give tourists long-term visas; instead switch to Schengen-like short term visas
In a significant policy change, Canada has moved away from its long-standing practice of issuing long-term multiple-entry visas, similar to the US system, and will now follow a more subjective approach akin to the Schengen visa system. This means Canadian visas will be granted based on the discretion of consular officers, with no guaranteed multiple-entry option or fixed long-term validity.
South Africa launches Trusted Tour Operator scheme to boost tourism from India
South Africa has introduced the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme to boost tourism from India and China. The program aims to eliminate visa inefficiency and red tape. Tour operators from both countries are invited to participate. This scheme is expected to increase job creation and economic growth by attracting more tourists.
How to apply for a UK visa?
If you're considering travelling to the UK for study, work, a visit, or to join family, it's crucial to understand the relevant visa requirements. The type of visa you need depends on your country of origin, purpose of visit, duration of stay, and personal circumstances. For short visits, a Standard Visitor visa is suitable for trips lasting up to six months, while specific visas apply for studying or working, such as the Student visa or various work visas based on qualifications and sponsorship.
All you need to know about UK's long-term Standard Visitor visas
Frequent visitors to the UK can apply for a long-term Standard Visitor visa, valid for 2, 5, or 10 years. The visa allows stays of up to six months per visit. Applicants must meet specific requirements and provide necessary documentation, including a valid passport and travel details, to complete their application.
UK Standard Visitor visa: How to apply, fees & required documents
To apply for a UK Standard Visitor visa, you must submit an online application up to 3 months before travel and attend an appointment at a visa application centre. Required documents include a valid passport, travel plans, and financial information. Fees vary by visa type and duration.
Sri Lanka's online visa application system is back to woo tourists
Sri Lanka has reinstated its online visa application platform to boost tourism following the suspension of a controversial multimillion-dollar outsourcing deal for visa processing. Newly elected President Anura Kumara Dissanayake announced this change late Thursday, aiming to revitalize the tourism sector as the economy recovers from a financial crisis in 2022.
Why was my Schengen visa rejected?
European vacations are increasingly popular among Indians, but obtaining a Schengen visa remains challenging. Common reasons for rejection include incomplete applications, insufficient travel health insurance, lack of financial proof, unclear travel purpose, and prior visa violations. Understanding these factors can help applicants improve their chances of approval.
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