Category: Europe

Visas, Immigration & Nationality

New Transit Visa Requirement For Georgian and Russian Travellers in the UK

The United Kingdom has expanded its transit visa requirements to include Georgian and Russian citizens. This significant change, effective from September 8, 2023, comes as part of an effort to address the misuse of the UK’s transit provisions by individuals from these countries, particularly in relation to asylum claims. Under the amended Immigration (Passenger Transit…
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UK Electronic Travel Authorisation Scheme To Launch Next Month

The first stage of the United Kingdom‘s phased roll-out of the new Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme is scheduled to begin next month. The ETA is a digital ‘permission to travel’ scheme, which is being introduced to help strengthen the security of the UK border and to improve travel.  In general, the ETA is for…
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UK Visa Fee Increase Will Take Effect Next Month

Tourist and student travel to the United Kingdom is expected to rise by October 2023. The British government has announced that the proposed hike in visa fees will become effective from October 4, 2023. A UK Visit visa for under six months will cost GBP 15 more and student visas will be GBP 127 more…
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European Commission Pushes for Bulgaria and Romania’s Schengen Accession by Year-End

The Schengen Area, established in 1985, stands as one of the most prominent symbols of European integration. This passport-free zone now includes 27 countries, comprising 23 EU member states.  However, a couple of EU members have yet to fully experience the benefits of unrestricted travel within the Schengen Area. Joining Schengen involves meeting specific criteria,…
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France To Launch Low-Cost Rail Pass In 2024

France is set to launch a low-cost rail pass next summer. The new pass will offer passengers unlimited travel on TER regional trains and intercity trains at a fixed price.  The pass, modelled after the similar and highly successful program offered in Germany, will cost around €49 and will encourage greener travel. “It will be…
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