Travel has always been a dynamic experience, but in today’s world, it’s become more complex than ever. It’s no longer a matter of simply checking a few documents before booking the next flight. Nowadays, entry requirements change almost daily for various reasons, including efforts to strengthen international relations and boost tourism. Other factors include government shifts, countries joining or withdrawing from intergovernmental organisations, as well as changes in security or public health concerns.
Here are some of the latest developments that could affect upcoming trips:
US:
- United States: US visa policies remain strict, with ongoing Trump-era influences leading to tighter screening and visa appointment cancellations, as seen with Colombian nationals. LGBTQ-friendly travel policies may also be reversed. For example, the US has suspended issuing passports with non-binary (X) gender markers.
EMEA:
- Egypt: Egyptian authorities have reinstated the visa-on-arrival (VoA) and e-visa schemes for Canadian passport holders. This reverses a previous suspension that required travellers to obtain a visa from an Egyptian embassy or consulate before departure.
- Saudi Arabia: From 10 February this year, most visitors to Saudi Arabia must provide proof of meningitis vaccination, with the certificate issued at least 10 days before travel. For years, the country has required certain nationals to present vaccine certificates for yellow fever and poliovirus. The list of nationals to whom the requirement may apply can change every year. Airlines may deny boarding if requirements aren’t met.
- Schengen: Bulgaria and Romania became full members of the Schengen Area in January 2025, removing all internal land border controls. This milestone completes their accession process, which began in 2011. It follows the removal of air and sea border checks in March 2024.
- Zambia: Since the start of the year, the country has granted visa-free entry to nationals from 53 more countries, including Argentina and Türkiye, bringing the total to 141.
- Mauritania: As of 5 January, Mauritania no longer issues visas on arrival. Foreign nationals must now obtain an electronic visa before departure.
- Israel: Since the beginning of this year, all foreign nationals eligible for visa-free entry to Israel – including those from around 100 countries, such as the United States and Germany – must obtain a valid Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA-IL) before departure.
APAC:
- Thailand: While we notice various restrictions in other worldwide regions, Thai authorities have extended the visa-free entry period for tourists from several countries, including China and India, allowing stays of up to 60 days. The policy aims to boost tourism and economic recovery.
- China: Foreign nationals from approximately 54 countries can now transit visa-free at Chinese ports—including airports, seaports, land ports and railway stations—for up to 10 days (240 hours). Before December 2024, this privilege was limited to three or six days. To qualify, travellers must have a confirmed onward ticket to a third country.
The growing complexity of global travel regulations
Traditional sources, such as embassy websites or government pages, often lag behind and may rely on outdated data. This is a huge issue for travellers, as outdated information can lead to missed deadlines, denied entry or last-minute changes that could ruin travel plans. Instead, travellers need access to data that is comprehensive, timely and accurate.
Technology: The key to simplifying travel regulations
In a world where information is scattered across a dozen different websites and some sources are outdated or incomplete, having everything in one place is essential. Real-time digital tools are transforming travel by providing instant access to essential information such as visa requirements, mandatory vaccinations, health documentation, travel advisories and entry restrictions.
AI-powered platforms and API-based solutions offer up-to-date data, reducing the need to navigate multiple sources. A survey conducted by American Express reveals that 82% of US companies used AI to manage business travel in 2024, presenting a 69% increase compared to 2023. For example, automated alerts ensure travellers are notified of changes in requirements, helping them stay informed and compliant with the latest regulations.
As rules keep changing, staying flexible has become more important than ever for both travellers and businesses. Governments are continuously adjusting policies in response to security, health and migration concerns, so navigating international travel is more challenging. While technology is already helping streamline the process, there’s even more potential for innovation in the future – such as blockchain for secure, digital travel documents or smart systems that predict regulatory changes. The key will be embracing these advancements, so travellers can not only keep up with the changes but also make their journeys smoother.
