US Sanctions Cuba Tourism Ministry and State-Owned Firms, Wind-Down by August 12
The US Treasury sanctioned Cuba’s Ministry of Tourism, GEMAR, and GECOMEX on July 13, 2026. Contract wind-down with these entities is required by August 12, 2026.
Thailand Overhauls Visa Rules for 65 Countries Starting July 14, 2026
Thailand will withdraw 60-day visa exemptions for 93 countries effective July 14, 2026, adjusting visa privileges for 65 countries. New rules include visa-free stays of up to 30 days for 59 countries and enhanced security screenings.
Australia Raises Visa Fees by Up to 200% from July 2026
Australia raised most visa fees on July 1, 2026, by an average of 25%, with some costs tripling, affecting residents, students, and skilled workers. Critics say hikes harm Australia's global attractiveness and burden permanent residents and international students.
Thailand Targets THB 2.9 Trillion Tourism Revenue in 2027 Plan
The Tourism Authority of Thailand set a 2027 tourism revenue target of up to THB 2.9 trillion, with a goal of attracting 33 million foreign visitors. Plans include boosting high-value travel and launching a co-payment program to support domestic tourism.
Greece, Italy, Malta Drive 5% Growth in European Tourism in First Half 2026
International tourist arrivals in Europe rose 5% in the first half of 2026, led by Greece, Italy, and Malta. Despite economic and geopolitical challenges, these countries promoted off-peak and sustainable tourism, boosting visitor expenditure and managing resource strain.
Australia Increases Visa Fees Sharply on July 1, 2026, Impacting Residents and Students
On July 1, 2026, Australia increased most visa fees by up to 200%, including tripling the resident return visa fee. The hikes sparked criticism from students, advocacy groups, and businesses.
Thailand Reduces Visa-Free Stay for Indian Visitors to 30 Days from July 2026
Thailand will retain visa-free entry for Indian nationals but reduce the maximum stay from 60 to 30 days starting July 2026. The cabinet approved the change to align policy with tourist behavior and reinforce oversight against visa misuse.
European Tourism Grows 5% in Q2 2026 Amid Geopolitical Challenges
International tourist arrivals to Europe rose 5.0% in early 2026 despite geopolitical challenges. Greece, Italy, and Malta led growth, while Cyprus and Türkiye saw declines.
Australia Sets 295,000 International Student Target for 2027 Amid Falling Visas
The Australian government has frozen the National Planning Level for new international students at 295,000 for 2026 and 2027. Visa applications and commencements are declining, with 2026 commencements 8% below 2025 and 13% below 2019.
Australia Sets 295,000 International Student Target for 2027; Visa Applications Decline
Australia has set the National Planning Level at 295,000 for international students in 2027, maintaining last year's cap. Visa applications have declined sharply amid higher fees and stricter processing.
Latest article
Aeromexico Plans Milan-Mexico City Nonstop Flights Starting March 2027
Aeromexico plans to start direct flights from Milan Malpensa to Mexico City in March 2027 using Boeing 787 Dreamliners. The new service will make Milan Aeromexico's second Italian destination, strengthening air connectivity between Italy and Mexico.
United Airlines to Expand JFK Hub and International Routes
United Airlines plans to expand its operations and international network at JFK Airport. CEO Scott Kirby highlighted the airline's leading role in U.S. international flight volume.
Aeromexico to Start Milan-Mexico City Nonstop Flights in 2027
Aeromexico plans to launch direct flights between Milan Malpensa and Mexico City in March 2027 using Boeing 787 Dreamliners, pending approval. The route adds northern Italy to Mexico City's direct connections, complementing existing Rome services.