VISA ON ARRIVAL
Agents exploiting 'Visa-on-arrival' facility to enter US; 11 agents arrested in 2024
Authorities uncover exploitation of visa-on-arrival services by agents to facilitate illegal immigration to the US and Canada. Delhi Police arrests 11 individuals involved in smuggling operations. Public urged to report any suspicious activity to help prevent such incidents.
IGI Airport Police arrests 108 fraudulent agents in incidents of visa, passport fraud facilitating illegal immigration
IGI Airport Police have arrested 108 agents in five states for visa and passport fraud, focusing on agents rather than passengers. Look Out Circulars were issued. Public awareness is crucial. Old cases have led to new prosecutions. Schemes include fake visas, donkey routes, and passport stamping. Long-standing cases are being resolved.
Jaishankar raises safety of Indian nationals in meeting with Russian counterpart Sergey Lavrov
External Affairs Minister S. Jaishankar met with Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov in Astana during the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit. They discussed bilateral relations, noting progress since their last meeting. Jaishankar raised concerns about Indian nationals in conflict zones, urging their safe return. The meeting precedes Prime Minister Narendra Modi's upcoming visit to Moscow.
Thailand's tourism thrives with $22.4 bn revenue: India key driver along with China, Malaysia
Thailand's tourism ministry reported a significant increase in foreign tourists during the first half of 2024, recording 17.5 million arrivals, marking a 35% rise from the same period last year. These visitors contributed 825 billion baht ($22.42 billion) in revenue, with China, Malaysia, and India as the leading source markets. Tourism remains a crucial economic driver for Thailand amidst challenges like slowing exports and high household debt.
Inclusion of Taiwan in Laos Govt's visa-waiver program for Chinese tourists gives false impression: Taiwan's Foreign Ministry
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) criticised Laos' visa-waiver program for Chinese tourists, stating it falsely implies Taiwan is part of China. The program, valid from July 1 - December 31, allows Chinese nationals to visit Laos visa-free for up to 15 days as part of a group tour. MoFA expressed concerns that Laos' collaboration with China undermines Taiwan's sovereignty and international standing, emphasising that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other.
Telugu speaking population jumps 4-fold in US, touches 12.3 lakh this year
Telugu students heading to the US this fall will find a growing community and familiar environment. The Telugu-speaking population in America has surged from 320,000 in 2016 to 1.23 million in 2024, according to a report by the Statistical Atlas of the US based on US Census Bureau data, as reported by TOI. California hosts the largest Telugu-speaking population, nearing 200,000, followed closely by Texas (150,000) and New Jersey (110,000). States like Illinois (83,000), Virginia (78,000), and Georgia (52,000) have also seen significant increases. Telugu associations confirm these trends align with their estimates.
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Comprehensive guide to the L-2 visa for dependents of L-1 visa holders
The L-2 visa allows spouses and unmarried children under 21 of L-1 visa holders to accompany them to the US, providing work and study benefits. It requires specific documents for application and can be extended with the L-1 visa. Dependents can work with an EAD and pursue education in the US.
Australian state invites tourists with surprise job offers. Are you ready?
Tasmania's Off Season offers 10 distinct experiences for those seeking a break from routine. From conducting music in caves to exploring paranormal activities at historical sites, these odd jobs promise adventure and creativity. Essential information for travelers includes visa requirements, biosecurity measures, time zone details, and communication options. Enjoy a winter adventure with these diverse experiences!
College clampdown on track to halve international student arrivals to Canada
Canada's foreign student program overhaul is set to halve approved study permits this year, with a 48% drop from last year, as per ApplyBoard analysis citing Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada data.
Travel ease on horizon? Taiwan mulls visa-on-arrival for Indians
Taiwan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chung Kwang Tien, announced on Tuesday that the Taiwanese government is contemplating offering visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens.
UAE visa pre-approval simplified: Options for Indian travelers explained
Indian travellers can obtain a 14-day entry visa upon arrival in the UAE by holding a US green card or a residence visa from the UK or any EU country. The General Directorate of Residency and Foreigners Affairs Dubai (GDRFAD) offers a pre-approval service to streamline immigration procedures. To apply, individuals can visit the GDRFAD website, log in with their UAE Pass or online account details, and complete the application form under "Port services."
Indians can now visit 62 countries visa-free; Check the full list to know more
India's passport has advanced to the 80th global position, per the Henley Passport Index. This newfound status allows Indian citizens visa-free travel to 62 countries, simplifying their exploration. Notable countries topping the index are France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain, granting their citizens access to 194 destinations without visa hassles. The United States holds the seventh spot with entry to 188 countries.
Portugal to tighten visa rules in response to record immigration
Portugal's government plans to tighten immigration rules by requiring a work visa for most foreigners, along with increased border controls and the creation of a task force to address visa application backlogs and help migrants living under difficult conditions.
Biden prepares a tough executive order that would shut down asylum after 2,500 migrants arrive a day
The White House is discussing plans for President Biden to issue an executive order closing asylum requests at the U.S.-Mexico border if daily encounters hit 2,500 between ports of entry, reopening when the number falls to 1,500. This move aims to control border numbers and is expected to be announced on Tuesday.
Planning to study in Canada? Zero in on which school is best suited for you
Canadian universities, colleges, and specialty programs each offer unique benefits for international students, tailored to their career goals. Specialty programs focus on specific skills like trades, while bridging programs help immigrants align their international experience with Canadian requirements. Only designated learning institutions (DLIs) can accept international students.
Got your Canada Student Visa? Here's what you need to do next
After submitting a Canada student visa application, receiving approval is followed by obtaining a letter of introduction for entry, travel authorization, and presenting necessary documents at the border for a smooth entry.
Canada Student Visa: Eligibility criteria, application process and the documents you need
Indian students are attracted to Canadian universities for higher education. Admission to top universities requires excellent academic records. A study permit from the Canadian High Commission is essential for studying in Canada.
UK tightens student visa rules but keeps Indian students' favourite graduate route intact for now
The UK's Graduate Route scheme, popular with Indian students for post-study work, remains safe for now, though it will be "kept under review," as the government announced new proposals to tighten student visa regulations to prevent misuse for immigration. The measures follow a 10% fall in net migration, welcomed by Prime Minister Rishi Sunak. The Home Office highlighted a 25% drop in visa applications due to stricter rules on family dependents and plans to regulate international student recruitment to crack down on rogue agents.
China to allow visa-free entry for foreign tour groups arriving by cruise ships
China is set to allow visa-free entry for foreign tour groups arriving via cruise ships, aiming to boost inbound tourism. Effective from May 15, groups can stay up to 15 days without a visa, entering from 13 ports. The move supports the cruise industry and enhances people-to-people exchanges.
Thailand extends visa exemption program for Indian tourists
Thailand has extended visa exemption for Indian and Taiwanese tourists until November 11, 2024, to boost tourism and economy. The country aims to attract 80 million tourists by 2027, emphasizing the sector's vital role in the economy.
Sri Lanka extends visa-free access for Indian tourists
Sri Lanka has renewed visa-free entry for tourists from India and six other countries to boost tourism industry recovery post-pandemic and economic crises. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for international travelers, signaling the government's commitment to promoting tourism and creating seamless travel experiences. Online visa application process introduced for security checks.
No Indian firms involved in providing 'Visa on Arrival' at Colombo airport: High Commission
The High Commission of India in Sri Lanka refuted claims blaming an "Indian company" for visa issuance problems at the Bandaranaike International Airport. They clarified that the companies involved are not India-based, dismissing any association with India. Sri Lankan immigration authorities regained control of the 'Visa on Arrival' counters at the Colombo International Airport after the Indian firm allegedly failed to operate smoothly.
Indian footfalls to Australia surge; India becomes 5th largest inbound market for Tourism Australia
Tourism Australia reported a 6% increase in Indian tourist arrivals to Australia in January 2024, with 26,200 visitors. India rose to become the fifth largest inbound market, up from seventh in 2019. Joint efforts with airlines and distribution partners, increased flight connections, and easier visa processes contributed to this growth.
Singapore bullish on potential tourist arrivals from India, expands hospitality infrastructure
Singapore aims to boost tourism from India, emphasizing hospitality infrastructure expansion with 9,000 new hotel rooms. STB promotes aggressively in India, eyeing both tourist and business traveler influx, citing growing bilateral trade opportunities in sectors like pharma and IT. APAC edition of NRF Retail Big Show scheduled, expecting 5-10% Indian delegates.
Singapore bullish on potential tourist arrivals from India, expands hospitality infrastructure
Singapore is optimistic about welcoming more tourists from India, focusing on expanding its hospitality infrastructure with 9,000 new hotel rooms. The Singapore Tourism Board is actively promoting the country as a holiday destination, targeting both leisure travelers and business visitors. The upcoming APAC edition of the NRF Retail Big Show in June highlights Singapore's efforts to attract international delegates and boost bilateral trade opportunities with India.
India issues advisory for nationals visiting Hong Kong urging for Pre-Arrival Registration
The Consulate General of India in Hong Kong has issued an advisory for Indian nationals planning short visits, less than 14 days, to the region. They are required to apply for online Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR), which is valid for six months and multiple visits. The PAR details must match the passport exactly, and a printout must be carried during travel.
UAE updates visa-on-arrival for 87 countries; is India included?
The UAE Ministry of Foreign Affairs updated its visa exemption policy, allowing citizens from 87 countries to enter without a pre-entry visa. However, nationals from 110 countries still need a visa before arriving in the UAE. GCC citizens can enter with just a passport or identity card. Those interested can find the list of exempt nationalities on the provided link.
Visa-free travel becoming more popular, surge in On-arrival options: UN
According to the latest UN Tourism report, visa-free travel has increased globally, with 21% of the world population not requiring any form of visa, up from 17% in 2008 and 20% in 2018. Additionally, 14% of the world population can now apply for visas on arrival, compared to 6% in 2008 and 15% in 2018. The report suggests that international travel openness has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels after COVID-19-related restrictions were lifted.
'Visa-on-arrival' Fiji is trying to attract more Indian tourists
Fiji aims to increase tourist footfalls from India by 5-7% through targeted marketing and digital platforms, focusing on segments like honeymoon, sustainable tourism, wellness travel, and multi-generational families. Indian arrivals reached pre-Covid levels in 2023, with December seeing a 300% increase.
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