US triples visa bond list, 38 nations face up to $15K fee
The US State Department has nearly tripled the number of countries whose citizens must pay a visa bond of up to $15,000. The new rules, effective 21 January 2026, target 38 nations.
The US State Department has nearly tripled the number of countries whose citizens must pay a visa bond of up to $15,000. The new rules, effective 21 January 2026, target 38 nations.
The Trump administration has expanded its visa bond scheme to 38 countries, requiring travellers to post bonds of up to $15,000. The move makes US visas unaffordable for many.
The Trump administration expands its visa bond programme to 38 countries, requiring payments of up to $15,000. The move makes US visas unaffordable for many. Read the full list of affected nations.
The Trump administration adds Bhutan, Botswana and five other nations to a list requiring passport holders to post bonds up to $15,000 for US visa applications. Learn the full details.
Bulgaria has officially launched its inaugural digital nomad visa, offering a new route for remote professionals. Learn the eligibility criteria, income requirements, and application process.
Valencia Women's B team coach Fernando Martín and his three young children are missing and feared dead after a tourist boat sank off Indonesia. Rescue efforts continue. Read the full story.
The Trump administration replaces the H-1B visa lottery with a wage-based selection system, prioritising higher-paid foreign workers. The new rules take effect in February 2026.
British adult content creator Bonnie Blue, real name Tia Billinger, has been deported from Bali and barred from Indonesia for a decade. Authorities cited visa violations and cultural sensitivities. Read the full story.
Iran will boycott the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington DC after the US granted visas to only four delegation members, excluding the football federation president. FIFA is investigating.
The Trump administration orders embassies to expedite visas for 2026 World Cup and 2028 Olympics attendees while imposing new restrictions on H-1B applicants linked to online censorship. Read the latest.
Iran's football federation reverses boycott decision for the 2026 World Cup draw in Washington. Head coach attends, but president's visa was denied. Read the full diplomatic and sporting clash.
Indonesia agrees to repatriate two Dutch nationals convicted on drug charges, including a man on death row, following a royal request. Read the full details of the prisoner transfer agreement.
Australia's Administrative Review Tribunal faces a backlog of nearly 50,000 student visa appeals, driven by tougher rules and a focus on permanent residency over study. Read the full analysis.
Two young gymnasts have filed lawsuits against USA Gymnastics and the U.S. Center for SafeSport, alleging the bodies failed to protect them from a coach now facing federal charges. Read the full investigation.
Rescuers in Indonesia search for hundreds missing after devastating floods and landslides across Southeast Asia. Death toll reaches 900 as survivors face desperate conditions.
Rescue teams intensify search for victims after devastating floods and landslides kill dozens in Sumatra. Authorities confirm rising death toll as emergency response continues.
An Australian holidaymaker's dream trip to Vietnam turned into a £378 nightmare after a simple typo on her e-Visa. Discover how to avoid this costly travel mistake.
At least ten people have died and six are missing after flash floods and landslides hit Indonesia's Sumatra island. Rescue efforts continue in difficult conditions. Read the full report.
Team GB gymnastics legend Max Whitlock announces his comeback, targeting Olympic gold at Los Angeles 2028 after his Paris disappointment. Discover his mission to rewrite his career ending.
Britain secures a £4 billion maritime agreement with Indonesia, creating 1,000 UK jobs in Rosyth, Bristol, and Plymouth. The deal boosts British shipbuilding and strengthens global defence ties.
A veteran migration agent reveals shocking partner visa scams exploiting vulnerable Australian women, with organised networks flooding the system while authorities fail to act.
The death toll from devastating landslides on Indonesia's Java island has climbed to 23, with 28 people still missing. Rescue teams are working against the clock. Read the latest updates.
Indonesia rolls out a new digital payment pack for tourists in Bali, offering instant SIM and e-wallet access. A major step towards a cashless society for over 1.5 million Australian visitors.
An emergency medicine doctor who worked through Covid fears deportation under Reform UK's proposed visa rules. Discover how skilled migrants face uncertainty over their UK futures.
A British woman facing execution in Indonesia for drug offences has been freed and flown home to the UK on compassionate grounds, ending her harrowing ordeal on Bali's death row.
Lindsay Sandiford, the British pensioner sentenced to death in Bali for drug trafficking, makes desperate final appeal as Indonesian authorities prepare executions.
Aspiring medic from Kent faces devastating US visa rejection after being accepted to prestigious Chicago medical school, leaving her future in limbo despite significant financial commitment.
Florida Governor Ron DeSantis mandates state universities to cease H-1B visa sponsorship for international students, sparking concerns about academic freedom and economic impact on Florida's tech sector.
Escape to Bawah Reserve, an exclusive eco-luxury retreat in Indonesia's pristine Anambas Islands offering sustainable luxury amidst breathtaking natural beauty.
In an extraordinary comeback story, American gymnast Brody Malone secures the world all-around title in Liverpool, defying career-threatening injury and cementing his status as an Olympic contender.