Under the proposal , the legal upper limit for fees to change residence status or extend a period of stay would rise to ¥100,000 ($630) from the current ¥10,000 ($63). The cap for permanent residency applications would jump to ¥300,000 ($1,900), thirty times the current ceiling.

The government has not yet set the final fee levels, but officials noted that permanent residency applications could cost around ¥200,000 ($1,250), while other procedures could range from ¥10,000 ($63) to ¥70,000 ($440), depending on the length of stay.

Japan last raised the statutory cap in 1982. While individual fees have been adjusted within that limit over the years, the ceiling itself has remained unchanged until now.

Immigration authorities said the revision reflects rising costs associated with managing a rapidly growing foreign population and expanding immigration systems.

Japan had a record 4.13 million foreign residents at the end of 2025, according to the Immigration Services Agency.

This higher cap will help cover administrative costs tied to residence examinations as well as broader spending on immigration management, including digitalisation, My Number-linked data systems and services aimed at supporting foreign residents.

Justice Minister Hiroshi Hiraguchi said the changes are intended to ensure foreign nationals “bear an appropriate amount of the costs” related to their entry and residence in Japan.

The bill also introduces plans for Japan’s version of an electronic travel authorisation system, known as JESTA, aimed at screening visa-exempt visitors before they depart for Japan.

Under the system, travellers from the 74 countries and regions that currently enjoy visa-free access would be required to submit travel information online several days before departure. Airlines and cruise operators would be required to deny boarding if authorities determine the traveller should not be permitted entry.

Japan received about 38 million short-term foreign arrivals in 2025, roughly 80% of whom were visa-exempt travellers.

If approved by parliament, the government aims to implement the new fee framework by the end of the next fiscal year in March 2027, while the JESTA system is targeted for introduction by fiscal 2028.

President John Dramani Mahama has called on African leaders to prioritise funding for gender equality , warning that without sustained investment, the continent’s development will remain incomplete. Speaking at a high-level meeting in Addis Ababa, he said achieving Agenda 2063 and the Sustainable Development Goals depends on unlocking the full potential of women, whom he described as Africa’s most underutilised resource. He added that despite longstanding commitments, gender initiatives remain chronically underfunded and are often the first to face cuts during periods of fiscal constraint.

Ghana to expand visa waivers as passport strength rises

Foreign Affairs Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa has announced plans to s ign more visa waiver agreements in the coming months to strengthen the global standing of the Ghanaian passport. Speaking after bilateral meetings at the 39th African Union Summit in Addis Ababa, he described visa waivers as a key priority and signalled major announcements from March through May. Ablakwa said Ghana is positioning its passport among the most valuable in Africa, citing upgraded chip-embedded technology, enhanced security features and expanded travel access.

Three major hospitals accused of defying GHS directive in hit-and-run death

A 29-year-old engineer, Charles Amissah, died after being turned away by three major hospitals in Accra despite a Ghana Health Service directive banning the denial of emergency care over bed shortages. According to reports, he remained in an ambulance outside the Greater Accra Regional Hospital, the Police Hospital and Korle-Bu Teaching Hospital for nearly three hours before dying, in what has been described as another case of ‘no-bed syndrome’. In 2018, the GHS ordered that no emergency patient should be refused treatment due to a lack of beds, following a similar incident involving a 70-year-old man who was reportedly rejected by several hospitals before his death.

Outrage over alleged Russian luring Ghanaian women into filmed encounters

Between 12 and 13 February 2026, Ghanaian social media, particularly X, was dominated by controversy surrounding a man claiming to be Russian and identifying himself as Yaytseslav. Videos circulating online show him approaching women, mainly at Accra Mall, striking up conversations and recording the interactions . Posts allege that some encounters extend beyond first contact, with the footage later edited into content for his TikTok and YouTube pages. Users claim dozens of such videos involving Ghanaian women are publicly available, while additional material is reportedly shared via a private Telegram channel said to charge a monthly subscription of about $5.

Two siblings found dead in unsecured manhole

A family at Abokobi near Somanya is in mourning after two young brothers drowned in an uncovered manhole at their home. The boys, Jason Teye Mensah, 8, and Nathaniel Ayernor Kofi, 9, went missing after returning from school and were later found dead in the manhole around 6 p.m. on Thursday, February 12. Fire Service personnel helped retrieve the bodies, which have been taken to the Yilo Krobo District Hospital for autopsy. Police have confirmed the incident and begun investigations.

Authorities in Ouagadougou framed the decision as a step towards strengthening economic, cultural and people -to-people ties across the continent. The move aligns with Pan-African integration goals championed by the African Union, including the long-term objective of freer movement of people within Africa, even as practical and security-related restrictions remain in place.

Burkina Faso’s policy mirrors similar approaches adopted by other African states seeking to encourage regional tourism and business travel. Countries such as Rwanda, Ghana and Kenya have taken comparable steps in recent years, reducing visa barriers for African travellers in an effort to boost trade and connectivity within the continent.

The visa fee waiver also carries symbolic weight at a time when Burkina Faso is redefining its regional and diplomatic relationships. Despite ongoing security challenges and its withdrawal from ECOWAS, the government has presented the measure as a signal of continued engagement with Africa at large, prioritising continental links over traditional regional blocs.

According to the Henley Passport Index 2026 , which ranks passports based on the number of destinations holders can access without a prior visa, a small group of countries now dominate global mobility, each leading their respective continents.

Asia

Singapore holds the title of the strongest passport globally in 2026. Singaporean passport holders can travel visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access to 192 destinations, the highest number recorded in the index.

This position reflects Singapore’s long-standing diplomatic reach, stable governance, and strong bilateral agreements. Henley & Partners notes that Asian countries have consistently expanded travel access over the past decade through targeted diplomacy and economic openness.

Europe

Europe continues to dominate the top tier. Five European countries: Denmark, Luxembourg, Spain, Sweden, and Switzerland share the title of Europe’s strongest passports, each offering visa-free access to 186 destinations.

The strength of European passports is closely linked to the Schengen Area, strong regional cooperation, and extensive reciprocal agreements with countries across the Americas, Asia, and Africa. According to Henley Passport Index data, Europe remains the continent with the largest concentration of high-ranking passports.

North America

In North America, Canada holds the strongest passport, with access to 181 countries without a prior visa.

Canada’s passport strength reflects its stable international relationships, low overstay risk, and strong standing in global diplomacy. While the United States remains highly ranked, Canada edges ahead in 2026 in terms of total visa-free destinations.

Oceania

New Zealand leads Oceania with a passport that allows visa-free travel to 183 destinations.

New Zealand’s strong ranking is driven by its reputation for political stability, low migration risk, and trusted border management. Henley data shows that New Zealand has steadily climbed the rankings over the last decade, often outperforming larger economies.

South America

In South America, Chile holds the strongest passport, granting access to 175 destinations.

Chile stands out for its extensive travel agreements with Europe, Asia, and North America, as well as its participation in regional blocs. It remains one of only a few South American countries with visa-free access to the United States’ ESTA system and parts of Asia.

Africa

On the African continent, Seychelles ranks highest, with visa-free access to 154 destinations.

Despite its small population, Seychelles benefits from an outward-looking foreign policy and strong tourism-driven diplomacy. Henley Passport Index data shows that Seychelles consistently outperforms much larger African economies in travel freedom.

The decision, outlined in a recent policy update, has immediate implications for families, workers, and migrants across Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, the Middle East, and parts of Latin America .

The suspension primarily affects immigrant visas, meaning individuals seeking permanent residence in the United States are the most impacted. This includes family-sponsored visas, diversity visas, and certain employment-based pathways.

Non-immigrant visas such as tourist, student, and short-term work visas may still be issued in some cases, but the overall message is clear that permanent migration routes into the US are being sharply narrowed.

According to the Trump administration, the move is part of a broader effort to tighten immigration controls, strengthen national security, and protect domestic employment.

The 75 countries span multiple continents, including Somalia, Iran, Russia, Afghanistan, Nigeria, Ghana, Rwanda, Yemen, Colombia, Cuba, Thailand, and Brazil.

“The State Department will use its long-standing authority to deem ineligible potential immigrants who would become a public charge on the United States and exploit the generosity of the American people. Immigrant visa processing from these 75 countries will be paused. At the same time, the State Department reassesses immigration processing procedures to prevent the entry of foreign nationals who would take welfare and public benefits,” said Tommy Pigott, Principal Deputy Spokesperson at the State Department.

This latest suspension does not exist in isolation. It follows months of restrictive measures , including travel bans, asylum limitations, and tighter vetting procedures, since Donald Trump returned to office.

Whether the policy will face successful legal opposition or be revised under political pressure remains uncertain. For now, millions of people across 75 countries are left waiting, watching, and recalculating their futures.

Full list of affected countries:

Afghanistan , Albania , Algeria , Antigua and Barbuda , Armenia , Azerbaijan , Bahamas , Bangladesh , Barbados , Belarus , Belize , Bhutan , Bosnia , Brazil , Cambodia , Cameroon , Cape Verde , Colombia , Democratic Republic of the Congo , Cuba , Dominica , Egypt , Eritrea , Ethiopia , Fiji , The Gambia , Georgia , Ghana , Grenada , Guatemala , Guinea , Haiti , Iran , Iraq , Ivory Coast , Jamaica , Jordan , Kazakhstan , Kosovo , Kuwait , Kyrgyzstan , Laos , Lebanon , Liberia , Libya , North Macedonia , Moldova , Mongolia , Montenegro , Morocco , Myanmar , Nepal , Nicaragua , Nigeria , Pakistan , Republic of the Congo , Russia , Rwanda , Saint Kitts and Nevis , Saint Lucia , Saint Vincent and the Grenadines , Senegal , Sierra Leone , Somalia , South Sudan , Sudan , Syria , Tanzania , Thailand , Togo , Tunisia , Uganda , Uruguay , Uzbekistan and Yemen .

The reclassification was attributed to what officials described as “emerging integrity risks.” 

While Australia has not publicly cited a specific trigger, Indian media said the move followed international reporting on “fake degree busts” in India that raised red flags about the authenticity of academic credentials used in overseas applications.

India is one of Australia’s most important international education markets, accounting for about 140,000 of the country’s roughly 650,000 foreign students. Together, the four countries now in the highest risk tier represent nearly a third of enrolments in 2025.

The assessment level change is expected to subject Indian applicants to closer checks, including stricter requirements for financial proof, English proficiency and evidence of genuine study intentions, according to Australian education analysts.

Fake diploma racket

The decision comes as police in India’s Kerala state dismantled a sprawling fake university certificate racket last month. Investigators said forged degrees from multiple universities were produced and distributed nationwide, with tens of thousands of counterfeit documents seized.

Australia’s Minister for International Education, Julian Hill, has previously warned that Australia is becoming the “least worst” option among major study destinations as countries such as the United States , Britain and Canada tighten their own student visa rules.

Education officials say that shift has increased pressure on Australia’s visa system, prompting tougher risk filtering and a renewed focus on documentary evidence to protect the integrity of the programme.

Under the new rule, Cape Verdean passport holders applying for B1/B2 visas used for tourism and business travel may be asked to pay a deposit. The exact amount will be decided on a case-by-case basis by a consular officer during the visa interview and will not apply uniformly to all applicants.

US officials say the money will be fully refunded if the traveller complies with visa conditions and departs the United States on time. The embassy has stressed that applicants should not make any payments unless formally instructed by a consular officer after their interview, warning against potential scams.

The embassy also clarified that B1/B2 visas issued before the policy takes effect will remain valid and will not be affected by the new requirement.

The Visa Bond Program is used by the United States to discourage visa overstays and strengthen compliance with immigration rules. While the embassy did not explain why Cape Verde was added, such measures are typically introduced when US authorities believe additional guarantees are needed to ensure temporary visitors return home.

Cape Verde ranked among the countries with the highest levels of irregular immigration to the United States in 2023, according to a report by the Centre for Immigration Studies citing data from U.S. Customs and Border Protection. The report found that 12.8% of Cape Verdeans who entered the US on tourist or business visas overstayed, while the overstay rate for student and exchange visa holders was even higher, at 25.7%.

The "pass," which stands for "prioritized appointments scheduling system,” allows foreigners who have purchased World Cup tickets through FIFA to receive expedited visa interview appointments. 

Under the new priority system, ticket holders who purchased through FIFA will use a dedicated "FIFA portal." This portal prioritizes visa application processing and interview scheduling within the State Department's system. 

This measure is intended to ensure timely entry for hundreds of thousands of fans.

FIFA President Gianni Infantino touted Trump’s efforts to ensure the success of the World Cup.

“You said it the very first time we met, Mr. President, America welcomes the world,” Infantino said.

Over 400 additional consular officers will be deployed globally to manage the demand, according to Secretary of State Marco Rubio.

He made it clear, however, that security vetting would not be compromised.

“We’re going to do the same vetting as anybody else would get,” Rubio said. “The only difference here is, we’re moving them up in the queue.” 

The 104 games next year will be hosted across Canada, Mexico , and the US.

While there will be laxer processes, Trump issued a stern warning concerning host cities. 

Citing the election of progressive activist Katie Wilson as mayor of Seattle, Trump floated the idea of moving games if he deemed the city unsafe.

“If we think there’s gonna be a sign of any trouble, I would ask Gianni to move that to a different city,” he said.

He confirmed the measure would take immediate effect but stressed that single-entry visas would not be affected. 

"What I'm saying today is about a multiple-entry visa. That means a single-entry visa remains possible. There's stronger scrutiny, but I'm not going to speculate about any future actions," he added.

The move marks a tightening of EU travel restrictions on Russian citizens amid continuing tensions over the war in Ukraine . 

On Thursday, the Commission said it could not prevent Russians from obtaining single-entry visas, as decisions on those applications rest with individual member states.

Multiple-entry Schengen visas allow holders to travel freely between countries in the Schengen zone, while single-entry visas limit travellers to one entry.

Moscow had not issued an official response at the time of publication.

This visa aims to cater to remote workers, freelancers and even tourists traveling to Thailand for training. It can also be used by outsiders visiting for music festivals, seminars or to acquire medical treatment.

Approvals weigh significantly on the applicant being employed by a non-Thai firm. 

Thailand defines a digital nomad as “a traveler who earns their living online or from passive sources of income, and does not work for companies in the countries they travel to,” according to the Thai Embassy website.

To be eligible for the digital nomad visa, an applicant must be at least 20 years old with at least $14,197 in savings to last them three months in Thailand. Professional portfolios are required, too. 

Visa fee is $284 or 10,000 in the Thai local currency, baht.

The special visa is aimed at bolstering tourism in Thailand, one of the most popular tourist destinations in Southeast Asia , having drawn 9.55 million arrivals in the first three months of 2025. 

It was the top destination several times before being overtaken by Malaysia in Q1.

The new fee, officially called the Integrity Visa Payment, is intended as a guarantee that travellers will return to their home country, according to U.S. officials. 

“They call it Integrity Visa, which is a payment that has to be made as a kind of guarantee that you are going to return to your country,” explained Roberto Ortigoza, an immigration attorney at Anderson Immigration Law Group. He further told Viory, “What is the misuse [the U.S. is targeting]? People staying beyond their allowed time or working without authorisation. This is a measure to stop that from happening.”

However, Ortigoza warned that the combined cost, now $435 total ($185 for the regular B1/B2 visa plus $250 for the new fee), will inevitably reduce the number of people able to afford travel to the U.S. 

“It is high, and yes, it will affect many. But the need is a priority, people will look for ways and means to obtain this resource and process the visa,” he said.

Meanwhile, the U.S. embassy in Mexico has not commented on whether the fee could be refunded if travellers comply with their visa terms.

Here are the key reasons behind the move:

1. Concerns over immigration abuse

UAE officials say the decision is aimed at curbing the number of Ugandans and other nationalities who overstay their visas after entering the country. Overstaying has become a persistent problem, leading to undocumented workers and pressure on immigration systems.

2. Rising criminal activities

Authorities also cited concerns about unlawful activities linked to a small number of Ugandan travellers. While details were not made public, the UAE has increasingly flagged risks around fraud, illegal employment, and organised networks using lax visa policies to their advantage.

3. Targeting high-risk categories

Rather than banning all Ugandans, the restrictions focus on “high-risk” categories of individuals considered most likely to violate visa terms. This means some travellers will still be able to visit, but under tighter scrutiny and mostly on short-term visas.

4. Not a blanket ban

Uganda ’s foreign ministry stressed that the new policy does not amount to a total prohibition. “Some people will still go, but it will be based on the risk of a person overstaying their visa or failing to respect the laws and culture of the UAE,” Oryem clarified.

5. Policy shift in the UAE

The UAE’s 2026 visa ban applies to several African and European countries. Officials say the restrictions are part of a regional immigration strategy to protect the labour market and maintain social order as inbound migration grows.

"From now on, any citizen from an African country wishing to go to Burkina Faso will not pay any amount to cover visa fees," Security Minister Mahamadou Sana explained after the meeting.

He added that African visitors would still be required to submit an online visa application, which will be reviewed for approval.

According to a statement released by the government’s information service, "This free visa system for African nationals will also help promote tourism and Burkinabe culture, and improve Burkina Faso's visibility abroad." The announcement stressed that the policy reflects Burkina Faso’s “attachment to Pan-Africanist ideals and promotes regional integration”.

The West African country joins Ghana, Rwanda and Kenya, which have also recently eased travel requirements for African visitors. Earlier this year, Ghana said all African passport holders could visit without a visa, while Kenya introduced a visa-free policy in 2023 requiring only online authorisation. Rwanda has also long waived visa requirements for African travellers.

Citizens of West African countries have already been able to travel to Burkina Faso without visas under the ECOWAS framework. But Burkina Faso, alongside Mali and Niger, withdrew from ECOWAS earlier this year, raising uncertainty over whether such arrangements will remain in the long term.

Capt. Traoré, who seized power in a 2022 coup, has promoted himself as a Pan-African leader opposed to Western influence and colonial legacies. His popularity has surged across the continent, particularly on social media .

Passport Power Rankings:

Passport strength is not just a reflection of diplomatic agreements; it also reflects economic stability, political trust, and global partnerships . A powerful passport can significantly improve access to global opportunities for education, employment, business, and personal freedom.

Experts at Henley & Partners note that mobility inequality remains high, even as the number of countries offering digital visas and visa waivers continues to grow. The gap between the top and bottom-ranked passports is now the widest it’s been in 20 years, highlighting continued global travel inequality.

Under the new policy, all student and exchange visitor applicants must disclose their social media handles and make their profiles public. Failure to comply could lead to visa denial.

A US State Department official explained that consular officers are conducting more extensive checks across all student and exchange visa categories, including F, M, and J classifications. The aim, according to the embassy, is to screen out individuals who may pose security threats or hold anti-American views. It emphasised that entry into the US is a privilege, not a right.

Critics, including Ireland’s national student union, have condemned the updated vetting process as an excessive invasion of privacy . They argue it infringes on freedom of expression and could deter students from speaking out on important global issues.

After meeting with US Ambassador to Ireland Ed Walsh, Harris said they had “a really good conversation” about the visa situation. He reiterated his belief that peaceful protest and free expression should not jeopardise a student’s opportunity to participate in cultural exchange programs like the J1.

The announcement was made during President Prabowo Subianto’s visit to Brussels, where he met with top EU leaders.

Europe an Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said the change was part of efforts to deepen ties between Europe and Indonesia.

“It means that from now on, Indonesian nationals visiting the European Union for a second time will be eligible for a multi-entry Schengen visa,” President von der Leyen was quoted by local reports as saying.

The Schengen visa allows people to travel freely between most countries in the EU.

A multi-entry visa lets travellers enter and leave the region several times within a given period, making it more convenient for business people, students, and frequent visitors.

Von der Leyen said the move would help Indonesians expand their personal and professional connections across Europe.

She also said the EU wanted the benefits of closer cooperation to reach ordinary people on both sides.

President Prabowo welcomed the visa change and called for more European involvement in Indonesia’s economic plans.

He said Europe played an important role in the country’s development and expressed hope for stronger partnerships going forward.

He also highlighted the recent conclusion of the long-delayed Indonesia-EU–EU trade deal, saying it marked a breakthrough after ten years of talks.

He praised both sides for resolving key issues and said the agreement would benefit everyone involved.

The image used for this article was AI-generated.

Under the new directive, student(F-1.J-1), tourist(B-1), and business visas(B-2) from these countries have been downgraded to single-entry visas with a validity of three months , a significant reduction from the previously granted terms.

But is reciprocity really the reason?

Nigeria was quick to respond. The presidential spokesperson dismissed online claims that the country gives U.S. citizens only short-term visas, calling it “misinformation and fake news ” . He clarified that Nigeria still issues five-year, multiple-entry visas to U.S. passport holders. However, Bashir Ahmad, a former presidential aide, suggested that the U.S. policy might have more to do with Nigeria’s growing BRICS alignment than any visa imbalance.

In Ghana, Foreign Minister Okudzeto Ablakwa expressed concern and highlighted that Ghana offers multiple-entry visas to Americans, ranging from 3 months to 5 years .

Ethiopia and Cameroon have yet to comment on the issue. However, like Ghana and Nigeria, both countries reportedly offer multiple-entry visas to U.S. nationals, raising further doubts about whether reciprocity is indeed the true motivation behind these restrictions.

What could truly be behind these restrictions?

Eligible travelers can stay up to 30 days per visit, with a cumulative maximum of 90 days within a 180-day period, Global Times reports.

The policy is seen as a major step forward in strengthening bilateral ties and boosting people-to-people exchanges. It comes amid growing travel demand between the two nations and is expected to significantly ease short-term mobility for individuals engaged in leisure, family, and commercial activities.

Travel platform Qunar.com reported that Malaysia is among the top three overseas destinations for Chinese tourists this summer, with a 43% year-on-year increase in hotel bookings. Popular Malaysian cities include Kuala Lumpur, Tawau, and Langkawi. In terms of outbound international air travel from China, Kuala Lumpur ranked as the most popular destination on the platform.

These changes mark a major departure from the previous system where many Ghanaians and Nigerians could receive multiple-entry visas that lasted up to five years.

According to the update, only a few visa types will remain unaffected.

Diplomats and government officials from Ghana and Nigeria will still be eligible for longer-term visas ranging from two to five years.

Certain family-related visas like the K3 and K4, which cover spouses and children of U.S. citizens, will also retain multiple-entry status.

However, most others, including students on F-1 visas, will now receive only one-entry permits that expire after 90 days.

The U.S. government says these changes are part of its global reciprocity programme, where visa conditions for foreign nationals are matched to those their countries offer American travellers.

Nigerian nationals saw a similar shift earlier this year. In that case, a spokesperson for the U.S. Mission said it was part of “a routine adjustment based on visa reciprocity principles and security cooperation.”

So far, no official public statement has been issued specifically for Ghana, but analysts say such revisions usually reflect a combination of diplomatic considerations, security concerns, and immigration enforcement policies.

The move could have wide-reaching implications for Ghanaians and Nigerians hoping to travel to the U.S. for education , family visits or regular business.

Travellers will now need to reapply and pay the full visa fees for each new trip they make, significantly raising the cost and administrative burden.

In Ghana, many applicants are still trying to understand how the changes affect already-issued visas. U.S. consular officers say existing valid visas will remain in force until expiry, but all new applications will fall under the new system.

People from 55 other countries, such as the United States and Indonesia, can get a short-term visa when they arrive.

The change marks a big shift from China’s usual strict visa rules, which often required visitors to apply in person before travelling.

The move comes after years of low visitor numbers during the pandemic and is part of China’s plan to support its economy and change global views of the country.

In 2024, China welcomed 130 million international visitors and earned over $94 billion from tourism. In the first half of 2025, international visits to Shanghai rose by 40% compared to the same time last year.

More than 840,000 people entered Beijing without a visa, double the number from early 2024.

In a recent online panel hosted by Dialogues on Asian Universities, Tony Chan, former president of King Abdullah University of Science and Technology and the Hong Kong University of Science and Technology, described this shift as historic. “The flow of talent is instead going more one way; now it’s going both ways. It’s more multi-polar,” Chan said during the discussion titled “Tectonic Shift in the Global Talent Chain.”

Professor Rangan Banerjee, director of the Indian Institute of Technology, Delhi, said technology disruption and geopolitics are the two major forces driving this change. “The geopolitics are such that this is the right time for Asian universities to play a leading role in nurturing the talent pool and finding solutions to the world’s problems,” Banerjee is further quoted by University World News .

Banerjee explained that while a decade ago most IIT students left India to study abroad, today only about 10% do so. “Most of the people graduating are taking up jobs in India, some of them international jobs, and we are seeing a trend for innovation and startups, there is a booming startup ecosystem,” he said.

In China, Yaqin Zhang, chair professor at Tsinghua University and founding dean of the Tsinghua Institute for AI Industry Research, described a similar pattern. “Twenty-five years ago, the best [Chinese] students went to the US and Europe, but mainly the US, to get their PhDs and to find jobs,” he said. “In the last five years, especially, most of the best students have chosen to stay in China.”

Zhang pointed to visa hurdles as one reason for the change. “It’s harder for Chinese top students to get a visa,” he said, adding that around 90% of Tsinghua’s top computer science students now remain in China.

Under the new directive, travellers from these African countries will now be obligated to obtain a Visa de Transeúnte (Transit Visa) to pass through Ecuadorian airports, even if they remain within the international zone. Previously, these travellers were exempt from visa requirements so long as they did not clear immigration or customs.

African nations are disproportionately impacted by the new directive, with affected countries including Nigeria, Ghana, Ethiopia, Egypt, Morocco, Sudan, and Rwanda, among others.

With 34 out of the 45 countries affected being African, the continent bears the brunt of the policy shift.

African countries have long been subjected to restrictive immigration policies. In 2024 alone, the continent lost tens of millions of euros in non-refundable visa application fees due to widespread European Union (EU) visa rejections. These high rejection rates, coupled with strict migration rules, continue to place a disproportionate burden on African travellers and further limit mobility, opportunities, and international engagement.

According to Ecuadorian authorities, the move is designed to “strengthen transit controls” and address growing security and migration-related challenges.

Ecuador has increasingly become a transit point for travellers from many from Africa and the Global South, en route to North America and Europe, with the country recently mandating that Cuban travellers obtain a transit visa when passing through the country, following intensified operations against criminal networks.

The policy is expected to disrupt travel itineraries and increase costs for many African travellers using Ecuador as a stopover. It also aligns with a global trend of tighter migration policies in response to rising international migration flows and border security concerns.

The full list of affected African countries includes:

  What they said

The State Department explained the move as a national security measure, stating , “This will ensure we are properly screening every single person attempting to visit our country.”. Jameel Jaffer of the Knight First Amendment Institute criticised the policy, likening it to cold war-era ideological vetting. “It will inevitably chill legitimate political speech both inside and outside the United States,” he said.

What they said

Former presidential candidate, Ricardo Lombana, stated that, “the unilateral decision to cancel visas is a sovereign power of each state. Today I was informed of the revocation of my US visa, as they have done with other political leaders.”

Ghana and Morocco have signed a visa waiver agreement allowing Ghanaian citizens to travel to Morocco without traditional visas, effective immediately. This arrangement replaces the previous visa process with an online travel authorisation that can be approved within 24 hours, facilitating trade and tourism. The agreement was reached during a two-day visit by Ghana's Foreign Affairs Minister, Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa, highlighting a trend in intra-African mobility.

Increase in scorpion and snake bites raises alarm in Morocco

Morocco experiences a sharp rise in scorpion and snake bites with the onset of summer, recording over 25,000 cases annually, particularly endangering children and women. Reports from the Moroccan Poison Control Centre indicate fatalities due to delayed medical intervention. In response, local authorities and civil associations are launching awareness campaigns to educate rural populations on recognising symptoms and the importance of immediate medical care.

Exploitation of Moroccan women in Spain's strawberry fields

Moroccan women working in Spain’s strawberry industry face exploitation, exemplified by the recent deportation of a pregnant woman and another diagnosed with cervical cancer. Unions allege violations of labour rights, with employers denying responsibility, Morocco World News reports. The incidents have prompted calls for better protection and support for migrant workers under Spain's GECCO programme, which is designed for seasonal labour contracts.

Morocco launches surprise hotel inspections

Morocco has instituted unannounced 'mystery visits' to hotels as part of a new government strategy aimed at enhancing service quality in the tourism sector. Effective from May 27, these inspections evaluate hotels on mandatory safety and comfort criteria while promoting creativity in service. According to Morocco World News , the initiative also extends to short-term rentals to ensure consistent quality across all lodging options.

Morocco's Ministry of Interior announces July 2025 by-elections

The Ministry of Interior has scheduled by-elections for July 1, 2025, to fill over 80 vacant seats in local councils across 69 municipalities. Candidates are to submit declarations between June 12 and 17, with the election campaign commencing on June 18. This initiative aims to bolster democratic representation and citizen participation at the local governance level.

According to the statement, Ecuador “will request transit visas from those nationals in transit from countries that currently require visas to enter the country and from those determined by the human mobility authority.”

Although the effective date and application process have not been detailed, the ministry clarified that the requirement is part of broader efforts to combat transnational organised crime, particularly human trafficking and migrant smuggling.

Ecuador currently requires entry visas from citizens of 45 countries, including Cuba, Venezuela, Haiti, China, Afghanistan, Iran, and several African and Asian states.

Under the new policy , citizens of these nations will also need a transit visa, even if they are not staying in Ecuador.

The announcement comes in the context of the "internal armed conflict" declared by President Daniel Noboa on January 9, 2024.

This declaration has enabled the government to intensify operations against criminal groups, officially classified as terrorist organisations.

Ghana has achieved a visa-free entry agreement with Morocco, allowing its nationals to apply for online travel authorisation in just 24 hours. This arrangement was finalised during Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa's two-day visit to Morocco, aiming to enhance trade, tourism, and regional integration.

Bank of Ghana's new digital lending regulations

The Bank of Ghana is set to implement comprehensive guidelines for digital lending by August 2025, targeting the exploitation of users by online lending platforms. Governor Dr Johnson Asiama detailed measures focusing on licensing, interest transparency, and ethical debt recovery, intending to safeguard borrowers, particularly vulnerable groups.

Ghana faces Monkeypox outbreak

Ghana has recorded 45 cases of monkeypox in the past month, marking its worst outbreak since 2022, as reported by the Ghana Health Service. The government has initiated a response plan involving patient isolation, vaccination of at-risk healthcare workers, and public awareness campaigns, with expectations of rising case numbers.

Surge in excavator imports into Ghana

Transportation Minister Joseph Nikpe Bukari has raised concerns over the import of over 200 excavators daily into Ghana, labelling it an 'invasion'. This surge has prompted a temporary halt in clearances at Tema Port, with intentions to enforce a ban on unregulated excavator imports to combat illegal mining and ensure compliance among licensed firms.

Interpol issues Red Notice for former Ghanaian finance minister

Interpol has issued a red notice for former Ghanaian finance minister Ken Ofori-Atta over corruption allegations, following his failure to appear before investigators. According to local reports , his lawyers have contested the designation of 'fugitive', while he faces accusations of misusing public funds related to a failed project.

Chad says its move is in response to the US restrictions.

The visa standoff highlights growing tensions over how African countries are treated in global immigration policies .

Trump said the travel ban was meant to protect the US from terrorist threats and security risks. But critics argue the decision unfairly targets African nations and is not based on clear or current security intelligence.

The African Union Commission warned that such bans could damage long-standing diplomatic and economic relationships between the US and the continent.

“The African Union Commission respectfully calls upon the U.S.  Administration to consider adopting a more consultative approach and to engage in constructive dialogue with the countries concerned,” it said in a statement on X.

The case has drawn public criticism and raised concerns about the UK's visa policies toward Nigerian nationals.

Samuel Onyekachi Ibeawuchi, the head of Bkay Security Ltd, along with his wife and 18-month-old child, were denied a UK visitor visa. The company has reportedly provided security services for former Nigerian President Goodluck Jonathan, international political figures, and footballer Alex Iwobi.

What happened?

The family planned to travel to the UK for a three-week visit to see relatives. Despite presenting extensive documentation, including business credentials and assurances of financial and logistical support from family members in the UK, their visa application was rejected.

The family intended to stay with Ibeawuchi’s sister, Hope Ibeawuchi-Beales, and her husband, Nick Beales.

Ibeawuchi, his wife, and their 18-month-old child planned to visit his sister, Hope Ibeawuchi-Beales, and her husband, Nick Beales, this summer. The Beales family had pledged financial and logistical support for the trip.

Why was the visa denied?

The Home Office stated that the provided sponsorship did not prove the applicant’s intention to return to Nigeria after the visit. It also raised doubts about the legitimacy of Ibeawuchi’s self-employed income, even though he had submitted official business documentation.

Nick Beales, head of campaigning at the migrant rights group Ramfel, condemned the decision, claiming, “There’s no doubt that the UK government refused these visa applications as part of their overtly racist crackdown on Nigerians.”

Ibeawuchi responded with disappointment, stating: “I feel very bad that the Home Office refused us. We do not want to stay in the UK, just to come here to visit our family for three weeks.”

The incident surfaces at a time of heightened immigration controls, with the UK recording net migration figures of 906,000 in 2023 and 782,000 in 2024. Prime Minister Keir Starmer recently pledged tighter immigration measures, further intensifying visa scrutiny. In a speech delivered in May, he vowed to "take back control" with new rules that make it harder to obtain a visa to the United Kingdom.

African nations experience some of the highest rates of visa rejection globally. In 2024, the continent collectively incurred losses amounting to tens of millions of euros in non-refundable application fees due to denials of EU visas. Nigeria topped this list, facing a loss of €4.3 million to EU visa rejections.

Though slightly improved from 2023’s rejection rate of 24.35%, Tunisia continues to face one of the highest rejection rates on the African continent. The cost of applying also rose in June 2024, from €80 to €90 per application. With 38,055 applications denied, the financial loss for Tunisian applicants this year exceeded €3.4 million in non-refundable fees. Overall, Tunisians spent more than €16 million on visa fees in 2024.

France was the top destination, receiving 106,617 applications, which is about 60% of the national total, but it also rejected nearly 20% of them. Greece posted the highest refusal rate at 53.78%. In contrast, Germany showed a high approval rate, accepting over 84% of 85,476 applications.

Countries such as Romania and Slovakia received only a few hundred applications, highlighting the concentration of demand around Tunisia’s historical and linguistic ties in Europe .

Though there has been no official public announcement from the Indian government , a new visa module titled “New AFGHAN Visa” appeared on India’s visa website in late April, signalling the shift.

The decision marks a significant step in restoring India’s ties with Afghanistan under the Taliban regime.

It also comes as India continues quiet diplomatic talks with Taliban officials, focusing on humanitarian access and travel for students and patients.

The updated visa platform confirms that artists, cultural workers, and academics invited by Indian institutions can now apply for entry visas.

Afghan nationals with Indian spouses or children from earlier marriages are also eligible. Parents of students under 18 and property-owning Afghans in India can also apply.

Business visas have been widened to include sportspersons on paid contracts, investors, and Afghans setting up commercial ventures or taking part in long-term trade activities.

India stopped giving visas to Afghans in August 2021 after the Taliban takeover led to the closure of Indian missions in Afghanistan.

During that time, only limited emergency e-visas were granted, mostly to members of minority communities such as Sikhs and Hindus.

India has since maintained careful contact with the Taliban, including talks earlier this year between a senior Indian official and Afghanistan’s acting foreign minister in Kabul.

The meeting focused on easing travel for Afghan students and patients, as well as broader security concerns.

On May 19, 2025, Venezuela banned flights from neighbouring Colombia following the arrest of over 30 individuals accused of plotting to destabilise the country ahead of the May 25 elections. The announcement came as an OAS-backed independent panel released a report highlighting serious human rights abuses in Venezuela, citing increased repression since the July 28 presidential election. Interior Minister Diosdado Cabello stated the flight ban would take immediate effect and extend beyond the election day, when voters are set to choose Governors and National Assembly members. However, Colombia’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs noted that Venezuela had indicated flights would resume the day after the election.

Release of veteran wrongfully detained in Venezuela

The family of Joseph St. Clair, a U.S. Air Force veteran wrongfully detained in Venezuela since November 2024, announced his release on Tuesday. St. Clair, a four-tour Afghanistan War veteran from Hansville, Washington, had gone missing while receiving PTSD treatment in Colombia. His parents expressed overwhelming joy and gratitude, though details of his release were not disclosed. They credited former President Donald Trump and his team—including Ambassador Ric Grenell, Adam Boehler, and Special Presidential Envoy for Hostage Affairs Sebastian Gorka—for securing his freedom, but declined further comment to Fox News Digital.

Venezuela-India partnership

On Monday, Venezuelan Foreign Affairs Minister Yvan Gil met with Indian Ambassador Ashok Babu in Caracas to reaffirm the longstanding cooperative relationship between Venezuela and India, which spans 65 years of diplomatic ties. Gil described the meeting as productive, focusing on strengthening collaboration in political, energy, and trade sectors, and emphasised both nations’ shared commitment to dialogue and understanding in multilateral forums. The discussion also aimed to further solidify their alliance and expand strategic cooperation based on converging international perspectives.

Parliamentary and regional elections

Ten months after his contested reelection, Venezuela’s authoritarian President Nicolas Maduro is seeking to consolidate his grip on power in Sunday’s parliamentary and regional elections, which the opposition is boycotting. Voters are set to elect 24 state governors and 285 national assembly members, though turnout is expected to be low. Disillusionment among opposition supporters has deepened since the disputed July presidential election, where Maduro claimed a third term despite opposition tallies indicating a clear victory for their candidate, Edmundo Gonzalez Urrutia.

Visa exemption

The visa exemption agreement for holders of diplomatic and service passports between Kyrgyzstan and Venezuela has officially come into effect, according to Kyrgyzstan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs. Signed on September 27, 2024, in New York, the agreement allows diplomatic and service passport holders from both countries to enter and stay in the other’s territory without a visa for up to 90 days. This follows Kyrgyzstan’s January 2025 parliamentary approval of similar agreements with several countries, including Albania, Montenegro, Cyprus, Venezuela, and Thailand.

The EFF issued a scathing statement condemning the delay, accusing the UK authorities of leveraging bureaucratic procedures for political ends.

“The United Kingdom is not only suppressing academic freedom by essentially banning the president of the EFF from travelling to the country but is engaged in an open declaration of war against those who dare to stand up to warmongers such as the British Monarchy,” the party said, referencing Britain’s colonial atrocities, particularly during the Mau Mau rebellion in Kenya .

According to the EFF, Malema’s consistent criticism of Britain’s colonial past and modern-day foreign policy , especially his condemnations of former Prime Minister Tony Blair and the monarchy, may have led to the visa obstruction.

In remarks reported by SABC News , the EFF emphasised that this act not only silences political opposition but also undermines global academic exchange and free speech.

Apology

Meanwhile, the British High Commission in South Africa has issued an apology to Economic Freedom Fighters (EFF) leader Julius Malema after his UK visa application was not processed in time for his scheduled visit. According to the commission, the delay was due to the unfortunate timing of recent public holidays in the United Kingdom. In a letter made public by the EFF, British High Commissioner Antony Phillipson expressed regret over the failure of the UK Home Office to act promptly, acknowledging the inconvenience caused by the missed engagement.

Officials hope the move will strengthen Vietnam’s position as a top destination in Southeast Asia for both travel and business.

The country is also aiming to deepen cultural and economic ties with countries like India .

As part of the wider changes, Vietnam has made its visa process more digital-friendly, removing the need to visit an embassy for short stays and business trips.

Authorities say the updated system is quicker and easier for travellers.

A growing opioid crisis is gripping Ghana, with increasing numbers of young people abusing the drug known locally as "Red." Disturbing social media videos reveal youth in severe distress after taking opioids, often seeking an energy boost for physically demanding jobs or influenced by peer pressure. In an interview, users such as 20-year-old Ekow Annan from the Western Region and Charles Manu from Koforidua described how they became dependent on opioids to cope with labour or enhance sexual performance, RFI reports. Health experts are raising the alarm over the dangerous side effects, which include seizures, depression, and cognitive impairment. Dr. Kwabena Ofori of the Presbyterian Hospital in Dormaa Ahenkro highlighted that the drugs are illegally entering the country through ports and unapproved routes, with weak regulation exacerbating the crisis. "There is an abnormal electrical activity in the brain, potentially leading to seizures. There are also mood disorders, anxiety, and depression. There are also difficulties concentrating, memory problems, and decision-making issues," he said.

Gold reserves surge

Ghana’s official gold reserves have quadrupled in less than two years, reaching 31.37 tonnes by April 2025, up from 8.78 tonnes in May 2023, according to the Bank of Ghana. This rise has been attributed to a strategic decision to diversify foreign reserves and reduce dependence on traditional currencies, local news portal Citinewsroom reports. The GoldBod initiative, introduced under President John Dramani Mahama, has played a crucial role by securing commitments from major mining firms to supply 20% of their output to the local market. As Africa’s leading gold producer, Ghana is reinforcing its economic stability through this bold reserve expansion strategy.

Banking sector staff fraud

The Bank of Ghana's latest fraud report reveals a worrying trend: 155 banking employees were dismissed for fraud in 2024, with a total of 365 implicated. Fraud incidents in banks and Special Deposit-Taking Institutions (SDIs) rose to 16,733 cases, a 5% increase from 2023, with associated financial risks reaching nearly GH¢99 million. The central bank noted in its report, "The lengthy nature of court cases often discourages institutions from pursuing them, resulting in fewer successful recoveries." The report further observed that "this is an indication that other staff implicated in fraudulent activities are either exonerated or given lesser punishments," Business Insider Africa quotes. The central bank criticised the sluggish legal system for deterring the recovery of stolen funds, calling for stronger punitive measures and a culture of zero tolerance.

Ghana and Algeria visa-free travel agreement

Ghana and Algeria have signed a visa-free travel pact aimed at boosting cooperation and reviving long-standing bilateral ties. The deal was sealed during Foreign Minister Samuel Okudzeto Ablakwa’s official visit to Algiers, where leaders also discussed initiatives in education, security, and trade, Business Insider Africa reports. The announcement followed high-level meetings with Algeria’s President Abdelmadjid Tebboune and Foreign Minister Ahmed Attaf. The leaders also tabled plans for direct flights between Accra and Algiers, expanded scholarships in tech-related fields, and revived Joint Economic Cooperation talks.

Non-traditional exports to hit $10 Billion

In a bold economic move, President Mahama inaugurated the Accelerated Export Development Committee (AEDC), aiming to triple Ghana’s non-traditional export revenues from $3.5 billion to $10 billion annually by 2030. The AEDC will spearhead efforts to shift Ghana away from raw material dependency toward value-added exports. “Ghana’s current exports remain dominated by low-complexity raw materials such as gold, cocoa, cashew, and timber, mostly in their raw state. We must change this narrative,” President Mahama noted. Key priorities include modernising port infrastructure and fostering strategic coordination under the National Export Development Strategy, Citinewsroom reports.

The Ministry of Higher Education and the Immigration Bureau have introduced five new steps that schools must follow if they want to offer non-degree programs to international students.

First, every school must now clearly explain what each program is about.

That includes the name of the course, who is running it, what will be taught, and whether it will be online or in person.

They must also say how long the course will last and how many students can join.

Second, schools must keep an eye on students and make sure they attend classes and follow the rules. If students don’t show up or don’t take part properly, the school must report it.

Every month, schools will have to send updates to the government . These updates must show who is still in the program and who has dropped out.

Students found to be breaking the rules could have their visas cancelled.

Schools found to be in violation of the rules could also lose permission to run their programs. It could also make it harder for them to offer new programs in the future.

Also, the Immigration Bureau will work more closely with the education ministry and will pass on data for further checks if they discover something strange in a school’s data.

Immigration Commissioner Panumas Boonyaluck said the new rules are meant to protect the education system and ensure student visas are only used for education purposes.

These changes come as Thailand tries to stop visa abuse and keep its education programs honest and safe.

According to Business Standard , the new visa programme started on April 24, after President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. signed it into law.

With this move, the Philippines joins other Southeast Asian countries like Thailand , Indonesia and Malaysia that already offer similar visas.

The government hopes the new scheme will attract long-stay visitors who can boost the economy by spending money locally.

To apply, people must be 18 or older, show they work remotely, and prove they earn enough money outside the Philippines.

They must also have health insurance and no criminal record. The visa does not allow people to work for companies inside the country.

If accepted, digital nomads can stay in the Philippines for up to one year but can renew their visa for another year and enter the country multiple times during the visa’s validity.

However, the visa will be cancelled if a person breaks the rules, lies in their application, or gets a job locally.

The Department of Foreign Affairs has assured that it will work with other government agencies to make sure the visa is given fairly and managed well. A system will also be created to track all digital nomad visa holders.

The Philippines has also started an online visa system for Indian travellers.

This lets them apply for and pay for their visa through the internet and receive it by email. Officials hope this change will make visiting the Philippines easier and faster for Indian tourists.

This is part of Nigeria’s new visa policy, which the government says is meant to stop people from abusing the visa system.

The Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, said that although the fines are already in place, no one will be charged until August next year.

This gives visitors time to understand the new rules and leave the country if their visas have expired.

Anyone who overstays their visa by three months could be banned from entering Nigeria again for five year and persons who stay for a year or more could be banned for ten years, local reports say.

Mr Tunji-Ojo said the penalty is not meant to scare travellers but to make the system fair and protect the country.

“If you don’t obey the rules in another country, you face the consequences. We want people to treat Nigeria the same way,” he said during a meeting in Lagos.

The Nigeria Immigration Service will be in charge of collecting the fines and making sure people follow the new rules.

The government has also made changes to make it easier for people to apply for Nigerian visas. You can now do the whole process online—from applying to tracking your visa and even getting the approval.

The new visa policy was discussed during a meeting attended by immigration officers, embassy officials, and people working in the travel and visa business.

“I am pleased to announce the waiver of tourist visa requirements for Angolan citizens wishing to visit Tanzania,” President Hassan said.

President Hassan also paid tribute to the historical friendship between the two nations, forged by Tanzania’s founding father Mwalimu Julius Nyerere and Angola’s first president, António Agostinho Neto.

As part of her official visit, President Hassan is set to address the Angolan Parliament, becoming the first female African Head of State to do so.

The visa waiver is expected to boost tourism, trade , and cultural exchange between the two nations, which established formal diplomatic relations on August 25, 1981. Both Tanzania and Angola are active members of the African Union and (Southern African Development Community (SADC).

The ban includes business visit visas, e-tourist visas, and family visit visas. People from the listed countries who already have valid visas can still travel to Saudi Arabia before April 13, but they must leave by April 29.

The 14 countries affected are India, Egypt, Pakistan, Yemen, Tunisia, Morocco, Jordan, Nigeria, Algeria, Indonesia, Iraq, Sudan, Bangladesh, and Libya.

Saudi officials say that many people entered the country last year using the wrong type of visa during Hajj, which led to overcrowding and serious problems.

The new rule is meant to avoid similar issues this year, according to local news reports .

This move follows earlier changes made in February 2025, when Saudi Arabia stopped giving one-year multiple-entry visas to people from the same 14 countries.

At the time, they were only allowed to get single-entry visas for up to 30 days.

Saudi Arabia has also released new dates for Umrah visas. These will be given out from the 14th of Dhu Al Hijjah until the 1st of Shawwal every year.

The announcement was made by US Secretary of State Marco Rubio who said the action takes effect immediately.

It is the first time the US has blocked visas for all passport holders from one country since Donald Trump returned as President in January.

Rubio said the visa ban will stay in place until South Sudan fully cooperates and starts accepting the return of its citizens on time.

He however indicated the U.S. preparedness to review this decision when South Sudan fully shows commitment to working with them.

The move is part of tougher immigration steps being taken under the Trump administration.

Historic homes in Saudi Arabia are undergoing renovations to serve as cafes and restaurants, thereby offering a dining experience steeped in cultural heritage. Establishments such as Tagmera in Madinah exemplify this trend. Managed by Saleh Shahini and his mother, this venue has repurposed an 80-year-old family residence while preserving its original stone architecture and intimate ambience. Similarly, Into Sushi, managed by Leen Kurdi, presents a fusion of Japanese cuisine and Madini hospitality, respecting the essence of the home. Abdulrahman Al-Hejaili’s Kaboun aims to create a welcoming dining affair with simple yet delightful dishes, where patrons find charm in these transformed establishments that resonate with historical significance.

Daylight saving time in schools

Saudi Arabia is set to introduce daylight saving time for all public and private educational institutions beginning Sunday, April 6, 2025. According to Gulf News , this policy aims to improve operational efficiency and synchronise educational schedules with seasonal variations. In Riyadh, the schedule will see morning assemblies starting at 6:15 am, followed by classes commencing at 6:30 am. In regions such as Asir and Al Baha, the class start times will be slightly later. Educational authorities have underscored the significance of punctuality and advised families to provide the necessary support to students adapting to these changes.

Visa entry limitations

Recent regulations in Saudi Arabia now impose restrictions on multiple-entry visas for nationals from 14 countries, including Pakistan. This adjustment impacts frequent travellers and families, potentially extending visa processing durations and prompting experts to recommend early application submissions. The hospitality and aviation sectors may witness variations in ticket sales and a potential drop in hotel occupancy, Pakistan Today reports. Relevant authorities have called for travellers to inquire about mahram exemptions when applicable and urged pilgrims to remain attuned to updates concerning Hajj bookings, as further changes in visa processing are anticipated.

Real estate investments

The Saudi Ministry of Investment has initiated openings in the real estate market for foreign investors, allowing them to engage in property transactions for investment objectives. There are critical stipulations, including that properties must be situated outside Makkah and Madinah, transactions are prohibited from being for commercial speculation and foreign entities must secure approvals for specific applications such as personal residency and industrial projects. Gulf Business reports that the approval process is streamlined through the ministry's e-services portal and is completed within five business days, pending the submission of requisite documentation including a building permit, property deed, and engineering reports for sizeable development projects, which should have a minimum cost of SR30 million and be further utilitarian within a five-year window, outside of Makkah and Madinah.

Forbes’ rankings for Arab billionaires

According to Forbes' rankings for Arab billionaires in 2025, Saudi Arabia leads the list with a total of 15 billionaires, prominently featuring Prince Alwaleed bin Talal at the helm with a net worth of $16.5 billion. Circuit News reports that other significant figures include Sulaiman Al-Habib, valued at $10.9 billion, and Emad Al-Muhaidib, with $3.8 billion. In contrast, both the UAE and Egypt account for five billionaires each, with the UAE’s collective wealth amounting to $24.3 billion, whereas Egypt’s total reaches $9.6 billion, with top earners being real estate magnate Hussain Sajwani and industrialist Nassef Sawiris, respectively.

The country’s new e-visa-on-arrival system, which started on March 3, 2025 , has already handled 10,016 applications.

Namibia’s Cabinet has decided to let diplomats from Germany, France, and Switzerland enter the country without visas. This move is meant to strengthen relations with these countries.

The government has also set new fees for tourists arriving at Walvis Bay and Lüderitz harbours. Cruise passengers will now pay N$300 ($16) for a day visit.

New fees have also been set for holiday visas, short-term work permits, and visas on arrival.

Adults from African Union (AU) countries will pay N$1,200 ($64), while those from other countries will pay N$1,600 ($85).

Children aged six to 11 will pay N$600 ($32) if from AU countries and N$800 ($43) if from other countries. Also, children under six years old will not have to pay any visa fees.

Namibia hopes these changes will attract more tourists and boost the economy .

People with diplomatic and service passports had to pay visa fees, and the waiting time for visas increased from 15 working days to 45.

According to the EU Ambassador to Ethiopia, Sophie Frommsberger, the relationship between Ethiopia and the EU is improving.

“Trust has been built to bring the Ethiopian government and the European Union, which have been strained by the war in northern Ethiopia, back on track through constructive dialogue.”

The EU imposed the visa restrictions because Ethiopia was not taking back its citizens whose asylum applications in Europe were rejected however, Ethiopian embassies in Europe are now working with the EU to fix the issue.

“It is on our agenda. The Ethiopian government, together with Ethiopian embassies in Europe, has shown great progress in accordance with international law,” the ambassador was quoted by the Ethiopian Reporter .

The EU is also discussing whether to restart financial aid to Ethiopia, which was stopped during the war in the north. The ambassador said there is interest in supporting Ethiopia again, but no final decision has been made.

Another major concern for the EU is the ongoing conflict in Ethiopia’s Amhara region.

The ambassador said the EU is pushing for an end to the fighting and wants all sides to come to the negotiating table.

The EU also raised concerns about human rights in Ethiopia at a recent UN meeting.

The ambassador said the EU alone cannot replace the aid Ethiopia lost when former US President Donald Trump cut American support.

She has therefore called for the international community to come together to help.

China led the list of visitors, with 955,000 arrivals between January and February, followed by South Korea (885,000) and Taiwan (218,000). India also featured among the top 10 source markets, ranking ninth with 92,000 visitors.

Vietnam's growing appeal as a travel destination is drawing global attention. The country's diverse landscapes, cultural heritage, and thriving food scene continue to attract travellers. The affordability of accommodation, transport, and dining has also positioned Vietnam as a budget-friendly destination.

Adventure tourism has become a major draw, with activities such as trekking, diving, and water sports gaining popularity.

With further tourism development plans underway, industry experts expect international arrivals to continue rising throughout the year.

Grace Towobola knew she wanted to be a football coach at 12, but in Africa—where fewer than one in 11 coaches are women—her path was challenging. With support from the IOC’s Young Leaders Programme, she’s now breaking barriers through her Women’s Football Development Initiative (WFDI), empowering Nigerian women to become football coaches. Inspired by her struggles, Towobola aims to create opportunities for others to pursue their coaching dreams and promote sport among girls and children, according to The News Market .

US embassy to reschedule visa interviews for Nigeria due to system glitches

The U.S. Department of State has said Nigerians affected by recent visa application glitches will have their interviews rescheduled. The delays were due to a partial system outage that disrupted consular operations, Premium Times reported. A spokesperson confirmed that the consulate would contact affected applicants. The glitches mainly impacted the new visa appointment system.

Nigerian conglomerate plans $2.4bn cement plant in Kebbi State

Kebbi State has signed a $2.4bn deal with Nigerian conglomerate MSM to build a cement plant producing 3 million tonnes annually—about 5% of Nigeria’s output. The factory, set to create up to 45,000 jobs, will be located in the northwest. According to Global Construction Review , Governor Nasir Idris called it a major economic boost, while MSM’s founder, Alhaji Mu’azzam Mairawani, said the plant would feature cutting-edge technology. Finance Minister Olawale Edun noted the project aligns with President Tinubu’s drive for private-sector-led industrialisation. Rising demand is opening space for new players in Nigeria’s cement industry, long dominated by Dangote, BUA, and Lafarge.

Nigerian manufacturers kick against FRCN’s new annual charges on private companies

The Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN) has opposed new financial charges introduced by the Financial Reporting Council of Nigeria (FRCN) under the amended FRCN Act. MAN's Director General, Segun Ajayi-Kabir, called the charges "astronomical," warning they threaten business survival and contradict the government's ease of doing business agenda. Non-listed firms, now classified as Public Interest Entities (PIEs), face annual fees up to 0.05% of turnover, with no cap. MAN criticised harsh penalties, including a 10% monthly fine and potential jail time for CEOs. The group urged FRCN to suspend the charges and review their impact on the industry, TV360 reported.

Minister says Nigeria’s N54.99trn budget supports economic expansion

Nigeria’s 2025 budget is bold, ambitious, and vital for economic growth, said Budget and Economic Planning Minister Abubakar Atiku Bagudu. Speaking after KPMG’s Budget 2025 Day in Lagos, he noted the economy is on the right track. Dubbed the “Budget of Restoration,” the proposed budget—double 2024’s N27.5 trillion—aims to secure Nigeria’s future. GDP grew 3.84% in Q4 2024, the fastest since 2021, driven by services and food security initiatives, according to the NBS .

In 2024, Vietnam ranked 10th globally and 4th in Southeast Asia for visitors to Japan, drawing in 621,100 Vietnamese tourists—an increase of 8.2% from 2023. In January 2025, Japan welcomed 50,400 Vietnamese travellers, a substantial year-on-year rise of 13%. Notably, Vietnamese tourists were ranked 13th in spending, contributing ¥136.4 billion ($923 million) to Japan's economy. Vietnam attracted 711,464 Japanese visitors in 2024, with half choosing to explore Ho Chi Minh City. 

Deployment of 5G for the first time overseas

Viettel High Tech Industries Corporation, a key player within Viettel Group, has forged a partnership with Emirates Integrated Telecommunications (DU) and High Cloud Technologies for the deployment of 5G solutions in the Middle East. This is Vietnam's first international deployment of 5G equipment. Announced at Mobile World Congress 2025, the collaboration is focused on rigorous testing of advanced 5G OpenRAN and private networks within DU’s infrastructure. The objective is to enhance network capacity and support the development of innovations such as smart cities and the Internet of Things (IoT). 

Extension of visa exemptions for 12 countries to 2028

The Vietnamese government has announced an extension of visa exemptions for citizens from 12 specific countries—namely Germany, France, Italy, Spain, the UK, Russia, Japan, South Korea, Denmark, Sweden, Norway, and Finland—until March 14, 2028. This policy allows a visa-free stay of 45 days for eligible travellers, irrespective of their passport type or purpose of entry, subject to meeting entry criteria. The revised policy is set to take effect from March 15, 2025, replacing former provisions that allowed only a 15-day visa-free stay, aimed at boosting tourism and enhancing bilateral relationships.

$1.17 billion social housing loan package 

The Vietnamese government is introducing a VND30-trillion (US$1.17 billion) loan package designed to assist buyers, renters, and homeowners in need of construction or repair. Launched under the directive of Deputy Prime Minister Tran Hong Ha, this initiative aims to resolve the disbursement difficulties that have hampered the existing VND120-trillion ($4.69 billion) credit programme, which has thus far disbursed only VND2.85 trillion ($111.5 million) due to a reliance on commercial banks and fluctuating interest rates. The new package, financed by the state budget and managed via the Vietnam Bank for Social Policies, seeks to improve access to affordable financing and stimulate the development of social housing projects. 

Establishment of committee for private economic  development

Vietnam Prime Minister Phạm Minh Chính has established a national steering committee to develop a private economic development project. He leads the committee, with Deputy Prime Minister Nguyễn Chí Dũng and Minister of Finance Nguyễn Văn Thắng serving as deputy heads. Members include representatives from various ministries, city chairpersons, and other important political bodies. The committee will focus on creating an initiative for submission to the Politburo, emphasising centralism, democracy, and unified direction. The Ministry of Finance will act as the committee's permanent agency, responsible for forming teams to support project development.

The change was announced after a meeting in Rabat between Morocco’s Foreign Minister and Albania’s Foreign Minister, Igli Hasani. Moroccan authorities say they are now working on the final steps to put the new rule into action.

This move aims to encourage more people-to-people connections and improve relations between the two countries.

Albanians can travel freely to Morocco , but Moroccans still need a visa to visit Albania. The decision only applies to Albanian citizens travelling to Morocco.

During the meeting, Morocco praised Albania’s efforts to maintain stability in the Western Balkans and welcomed its role in promoting good relations with its neighbours. The two countries also discussed ways to work together in the future.

Morocco has made similar visa-free agreements with other nations. Unlike the Albanian decision, some of these agreements allow both sides to travel freely. For example, Morocco and Türkiye, as well as Morocco and Azerbaijan, have mutual visa-free travel. From March 2025, Kazakhstan and Morocco will also allow travel without visas.

Morocco’s passport currently allows its holders to travel visa-free to 48 countries, while Albania’s passport allows access to 94 countries. The new visa-free rule for Albanians could bring more visitors to Morocco and strengthen its global connections.

Every year, millions of Muslims travel to Mecca for Hajj, and the large crowds sometimes pose danger, especially for young children.

The Saudi Ministry of Hajj and Umrah also said that people going for Hajj for the first time will be given priority this year.

Registration for Hajj 2025 has started, and Saudi citizens and residents can apply through the Nusuk app or an official website by confirming their details and listing any companions. Pilgrims can now also pay for their Hajj packages in three instalments.

Saudi Arabia has also made a big change to its visa rules, local reports say. From February 1, people from 14 countries, including India, will only be able to apply for single-entry visas.

Before this, many people entered Saudi Arabia on multiple-entry visas and performed Hajj without official permission, leading to overcrowding at holy sites.

The new rule affects travellers from several countries including Algeria, Bangladesh, Egypt, Ethiopia, India, Indonesia, Iraq, Jordan, Morocco, Nigeria, Pakistan, Sudan, Tunisia, and Yemen.

Saudi Arabia has stopped issuing one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business, and family visits for people from these countries.

Now, they can only get a visa that allows them to stay for 30 days.

The e-visas are available for 30, 60, or 90 days.

Applicants need to provide personal details, including their name, date of birth, nationality, and passport information. A passport-style photo and a copy of a passport valid for at least six months are also required.

Once approved, the e-visa will include a QR code. Travellers must print the document and show it to security officers on arrival. Visa fees are paid at the airport in Mauritania.

Before this, South African travellers and others could get a visa on arrival in Mauritania but this new system replaces that process.