Author: Charlie

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

Israelis Can Now Apply for ESTA Under the Visa Waiver Program

The US Department of Homeland Security (DHS) announced that Israeli passport holders will be able to apply for the Electronic System for Travel Authorisation (ESTA) starting October 19, 2023. On September 27, 2023, the United States welcomed Israel to its Visa Waiver Programme. The original effective date for Israelis’ eligibility for ESTA was November 30,…
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New Timeline For Rollout of EES and ETIAS

A new timeline for the EU’s post-Brexit Entry/Exit System (EES) has officially been confirmed by EU ministers. EU home affairs ministers endorsed the revised dates for the new EU border systems’ implementation, which will affect many non-EU citizens entering the Schengen area in the future. The decision concerns the Entry/Exit System (EES), which will record…
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EU Proposes Tougher Visa Suspension Rules To Address Security Concerns

The European Commission has proposed sharpening its visa suspension rules to address the “abuse” of visa-free travel in Europe. The revised rules would give the EU more flexibility to temporarily suspend its visa-free travel schemes, including when it considers that third countries’ policies could lead to increased migrant arrivals to the EU. Speaking on Wednesday,…
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BLS International Wins Schengen Global Visa Outsourcing Contract For Slovakia

BLS International Services has signed a global visa outsourcing contract for Slovakia in 18 countries with over 54 offices. According to reports, 2.64 million tourists visited Slovakia in 2021, and the number is expected to increase in line with travel trends. With this new contract, BLS International now handles tourist, business, and national visas, aiming…
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Heathrow Airport Introduces Convenient Pre-Booked Security Slots

Making your way through security at one of the world’s largest and busiest airports has just become a breeze. Heathrow Airport in London developed a system called “Heathrow Timeslot” that will allow travellers to pre-book a timeslot at the security screening checkpoint in order to avoid excessive lines at airport security. The program is currently…
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