VizaFrom ETIAS launching to new bilateral agreements and updated fee structures, 2026 has brought significant visa policy shifts across the globe. Here are the most impactful changes.
Every year brings a fresh wave of visa policy updates — some expansions, some restrictions, and some entirely new systems. 2026 is no different. Here are the ten most significant changes affecting international travelers this year.
1. ETIAS Goes Live for Schengen Travel
The biggest change of 2026. Nationals of 60+ visa-exempt countries must now obtain ETIAS authorisation (€7, valid 3 years) before entering the Schengen Area. Apply at travel.ec.europa.eu — not through third-party sites.
2. UK ETA Expands to More Nationalities
The United Kingdom has extended its Electronic Travel Authorisation requirement to additional nationalities that were previously visa-exempt. Check gov.uk for the updated list of countries now requiring an ETA (£10).
3. Canada eTA Now Required for Additional Countries
Canada has updated its eTA requirements as part of its reciprocity agreements with several new nations. Travelers from affected countries must obtain an eTA (CAD $7) before boarding flights to Canada.
4. Saudi Arabia Further Expands Tourist Visa Program
Saudi Arabia continues its Vision 2030 tourism push, now offering tourist visas to nationals of over 60 countries, up from 49 in 2024. Online applications are available at visa.visitsaudi.com.
5. Japan Returns to Pre-COVID Entry Conditions
Japan has fully normalised its entry procedures, with visa-free access confirmed for 68+ nationalities. Processing of tourist visas for ineligible nationalities has also returned to pre-pandemic timescales of 5–10 business days.
6. New US ESTA Rules for Dual Nationals
The United States has tightened ESTA rules for dual nationals from certain countries. Travelers with dual citizenship including Iran, Iraq, Libya, North Korea, Somalia, Sudan, Syria, or Yemen must apply for a full US visa regardless of their other passport.
7. Australia ETA Now Available as App-Only
Australia has retired the paper-based ETA for eligible nationalities. Applications must now be made through the official AUS Immigration app, with decisions typically in under 30 seconds.
8. Schengen Short-Stay Visa Fee Increase
The EU standard short-stay Schengen visa fee has increased to €90 (up from €80). Children aged 6–12 pay €45. Check with your local Schengen consulate for country-specific variations.
9. India eVisa Expanded to 180+ Countries
India has expanded its eVisa program to over 180 nationalities, with five categories now available: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Conference, e-Medical, and e-Medical Attendant. Multiple-entry 1-year visas are now available for most nationalities.
10. UAE Unified Gulf Transit Visa
UAE and its GCC partners have introduced a unified transit visa for passengers transiting through Gulf airports, valid for multiple GCC airports on a single authorisation.
Always verify current requirements directly with the relevant embassy or consulate before making travel plans.