Destinations

The United States will cap international student and journalist visas at four years starting September 15, 2026. Several nonprofits have filed a lawsuit challenging the policy, citing economic and academic harm.

The US government announced a new visa policy capping international student and journalist visa durations, effective September 15, 2026. Lawsuits filed in Boston argue the policy will harm education and the Massachusetts economy.

Costa Rica achieved historic record levels of international tourist arrivals by air in H1 2026, led by growth at SJO and LIR airports. This growth is driven by key markets in North America and Europe and supported by a sustainable tourism strategy.

Jordan’s tourism revenue rose 24.9% in July 2026 to $926.2 million, narrowing the year-to-date decline to 0.2%. Regional conflicts disrupted Middle East tourism, but Oman and Egypt reported growth.

Nonprofits and unions filed a lawsuit in Boston challenging new US visa rules that cap international student and media visa durations at four years. The changes, effective September 2026, aim to curb visa system abuse but are projected to reduce Massachusetts’ international student enrollment and economic contributions significantly.

Europe’s leisure travel spending reached $2 trillion in 2025, capturing one-third of the global market. Italy, Spain, France, and Türkiye are forecasted to lead growth in 2026 despite capacity and climate challenges.

The Australian Federal Government has paused Working Holiday Maker visa processing from 24 countries starting August 2026, threatening seasonal labor for agriculture and regional industries. Industry groups warn this pause risks harvest and tourism workforce shortages.

Europe reached $2 trillion in leisure travel spending in 2025, capturing a third of the global market. Italy leads forecasted leisure spending growth in Southern Europe for 2026.

The Australian Government paused Working Holiday Maker visa processing from 24 countries on 18 August 2026, slowing applications from 19 others. Industry and political leaders warn this threatens regional agriculture and tourism reliant on seasonal labor.

Australia has paused processing working holiday visa applications from 24 countries starting 24 August 2026, slowing seasonal labor supply for regional agriculture and tourism. Officials warn this will cause workforce shortages during peak harvest and tourism seasons.