Russia expands e-Visa program: More entry points for global travelers

Russia has broadened its electronic visa (e-Visa) program, allowing international travelers to enter through more checkpoints than ever before. The recent addition of the Tashanta checkpoint in the Altai Republic brings the total number of e-Visa entry points to 105, making it easier for tourists and business travelers to visit the country.

 

 Tashanta checkpoint joins e-Visa network A new directive signed by Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin has expanded the list of border checkpoints where travelers can use Russia's unified e-Visa. The order numbered 285-R, issued on February 11, 2025, officially includes the Tashanta checkpoint, a major road border crossing between Russia and Mongolia. Located in the Altai Republic, Tashanta is a small village that serves as an important hub for cross-border trade and tourism, making it a strategic addition to the e-Visa system. Key Features of Russia’s e-Visa Program Launched in mid-2023, Russia’s electronic visa system streamlines the entry process for visitors traveling for tourism, business, humanitarian or private purposes. 

 Application portal: evisa.kdmid.ru Processing time: 4 days Validity: Up to 16 days Fee: €50 (US$53); Free for children under 6 years old Russian officials highlighted that the expansion of the e-Visa system aims to boost tourism, attract regional investment, and support economic growth. Eligible Countries for Russia e-Visa Europe: Austria, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Sweden, Switzerland, U.K. Asia: China, India, Indonesia, Japan, Malaysia, Singapore, Vietnam Middle East: Bahrain, Iran, Saudi Arabia, U.A.E. Other Regions: Australia, Mexico, Turkey, Zimbabwe This broader eligibility makes Russia a more accessible destination for travelers from around the world. Entry points for e-Visa holders With the latest expansion, 105 checkpoints now accept e-Visas, including international airports, seaports, railway stations, and land border crossings. Major airports accepting e-Visas Travellers arriving by air can enter Russia using e-Visas through major international airports, 

such as: Moscow: Sheremetyevo, Domodedovo, Vnukovo, Zhukovsky St. Petersburg: Pulkovo Other cities: Kazan, Vladivostok, Sochi, Yekaterinburg, Novosibirsk, Krasnodar These airports offer seamless entry for international visitors.

 Ports accepting e-Visas Visitors arriving by sea can enter through designated ports, including: St. Petersburg: Passenger Port, Fort Konstantin Vladivostok: Primorye Region Other ports: Kaliningrad, Sochi, Petropavlovsk-Kamchatsky Land border crossings Russia's land border crossings now allow e-Visa entry, including major points such as: China: Blagoveshchensk, Pogranichny, Khasan Mongolia: Naushki, Kiakhta, Tashanta (newly added) Finland: Svetogorsk, Torfyanovka, Suopera Estonia: Ivangorod, Shumilkino Poland, Lithuania, Latvia: Multiple entry points This extensive network of entry points makes land travel to Russia more convenient for international travelers. By expanding its e-Visa program, Russia is expanding its appeal as a global destination, providing greater access and convenience for visitors from around the world.

 

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UAE Visa-on-Arrival: New Rules for Indian Travelers

 

The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has expanded the scope of its Visa-on-Arrival initiative for Indian passport holders, which now includes six additional countries. The move is designed to boost tourism, attract skilled workers and strengthen the UAE's position as a leading destination for international visitors and expatriates. Understanding UAE's Visa-on-Arrival The Visa-on-Arrival service in the UAE enables eligible individuals to enter the country without the need for a pre-arranged visa. The initiative streamlines the entry process for tourists and professionals, enhancing travel convenience. Earlier, Indian citizens could avail Visa-on-Arrival only if they had a valid visa, residence permit or green card from the United States or a residence permit from the United Kingdom or European Union countries. Recent Update: More Countries Included As per the official announcement, from February 13, 2025, Indian nationals with standard passports and valid visas, residence permits or green cards from the following additional countries will qualify for visa-on-arrival at all UAE entry ports. It is important to confirm whether this applies to tourist visas or only residence permits.

• Singapore
• Japan
• South Korea
• Australia
• New Zealand
• Canada

This policy is effective at all UAE entry points, such as primary airports in Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Sharjah and others. This enhancement greatly enhances access for Indian visitors and professionals, making entry into the UAE easier. Criteria for UAE Visa-on-Arrival Indian nationals applying for visa-on-arrival in the UAE must fulfil the following conditions: Must hold a standard passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival. Must hold a valid visa, residence permit or green card from one of the eligible countries. Pay the required visa fee as per UAE law. New 60-day UAE visa option In addition to the extended visa-on-arrival, the UAE has introduced a 60-day visa for eligible Indian nationals. Priced at 250 dirhams, this visa offers tourists and business visitors the opportunity to stay longer with greater flexibility.

 

 

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Pattaya's tourism boom: Record number of visitors and emerging challenges

 

Pattaya, Thailand - Pattaya is one of Thailand's most popular tourist destinations, attracting millions of visitors each year. In 2024, the city welcomed 28.1 million international tourists, making it the second most visited destination in Thailand after Bangkok. This boom reflects Pattaya's growing appeal, driven by improved tourism infrastructure, exciting events and improved beach standards. Top countries visiting Pattaya in 2024 Tourists from five major countries played a major role in Pattaya's growing popularity: China - Chinese tourists lead the list, driven by increased flights and targeted marketing. Malaysia - Convenient travel and proximity keep Malaysians coming back. Russia - Many Russians escape the cold by choosing Pattaya as their tropical getaway. South Korea - Pattaya's beaches, nightlife and cultural experiences attract Korean visitors. India - Indian travellers contribute significantly, especially in nightlife, weddings and family holidays. Challenges from growing Indian tourism While Indian tourists boost Pattaya's economy, reports of visitors sleeping on beaches have raised concerns. Many locals and tourists are concerned about cleanliness, overcrowding and proper beach management. Some visitors use public spaces to stay overnight, which can disrupt the peaceful atmosphere. To combat this, Pattaya authorities are working on better beach management, public awareness campaigns and designated resting areas. The goal is to balance tourism growth with sustainable practices, ensuring a clean and enjoyable experience for all. Thailand's tourism growth in 2025 From January 1-31, 2025, Thailand welcomed 3.7 million foreign tourists, representing a 19.46% increase over the previous year. This growth led to a 31.96% increase in tourism revenue, generating 1.82 trillion baht for the economy. The Future of Pattaya's Tourism Pattaya's tourism success is driven by diverse attractions, world-class events, and continued investment in hospitality. As visitor numbers grow, maintaining sustainability and effective beach management will be key to maintaining Pattaya's attractiveness as a top tourist destination.

 

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Hassle-Free Visa Applications with Atlys: Travel Made Simple

Planning an international trip is exciting, but visa applications can be complicated. Atlys simplifies the process, making it faster and more convenient. Whether you're traveling to Dubai, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Oman, Indonesia, or Vietnam, Atlys ensures a smooth visa application experience. Here’s how Atlys can help you get your visa effortlessly.

1. Dubai Visa

Why Visit? Dubai is a city of luxury and adventure, featuring the iconic Burj Khalifa, vast shopping malls, and thrilling desert safaris.
Visa Options: Choose from tourist or transit visas based on your travel plans.
Requirements: A valid passport, travel itinerary, and accommodation details are commonly needed.
Application Process: Atlys lets you upload documents, fill out forms, and track your visa status online for a hassle-free process.

2. Egypt Visa

Why Visit? Explore the ancient wonders of Egypt, from the Pyramids of Giza to the Nile River cruises.
Visa Options: Egypt offers convenient e-visas for short-term travelers.
Requirements: A valid passport, passport-sized photos, and travel details are required.
Application Process: Apply online with Atlys, submit documents digitally, and receive your e-visa via email.

3. Azerbaijan Visa

Why Visit? Discover Azerbaijan, where Europe meets Asia, with historic sites in Baku and stunning mountain views.
Visa Options: Azerbaijan offers e-visas for up to 30 days.
Requirements: A valid passport with at least six months' validity and essential travel documents.
Application Process: Use Atlys to apply easily and get a quick, stress-free visa approval.

4. Oman Visa

Why Visit? Oman boasts a beautiful coastline, vast deserts, and a rich cultural heritage.
Visa Options: Choose from tourist e-visas and multiple-entry options.
Requirements: A valid passport, return ticket, and accommodation details.
Application Process: Atlys ensures a smooth application by allowing digital document submissions and real-time status updates.

5. Indonesia Visa

Why Visit? Indonesia, especially Bali, is famous for its tropical beaches, ancient temples, and vibrant nightlife.
Visa Options: Indonesia provides tourist visas and visa-on-arrival for eligible travelers.
Requirements: A valid passport and travel itinerary are required.
Application Process: Apply quickly through Atlys for a seamless experience.

6. Vietnam Visa

Why Visit? Vietnam offers breathtaking landscapes, historic cities, and mouth-watering cuisine.
Visa Options: Options include e-visas and visa-on-arrival for select nationalities.
Requirements: A valid passport, passport-sized photos, and travel details are typically needed.
Application Process: Atlys makes the application process smooth, allowing online submissions and quick approvals.

Conclusion

No more visa hassles! Atlys makes applying for visas to destinations like Dubai, Egypt, Azerbaijan, Oman, Indonesia, and Vietnam quick and stress-free. Start your visa application today with Atlys and turn your travel plans into reality!

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Air Astana Launches Direct Flights Between Almaty and Mumbai

 

Air Astana, Kazakhstan’s national airline, is celebrating 20 years of connecting India and Kazakhstan with a new direct flight between Almaty and Mumbai. Starting April 20, 2025, travelers can enjoy a hassle-free journey between these two major cities.

Flight Schedule – Three Weekly Flights

Air Astana will operate three flights per week on this route, flying on Sundays, Wednesdays, and Thursdays. The airline will use its modern Airbus A320 aircraft to ensure a smooth and comfortable experience for passengers.

Here’s the flight schedule:

• Flight KC 291: Departs Almaty at 04:35 and arrives in Mumbai at 09:55
• Flight KC 292: Departs Mumbai at 11:00 and arrives in Almaty at 14:45

Affordable Ticket Prices for All Travelers

Air Astana offers competitive fares for passengers:

• Economy class round-trip tickets start at $406 (including taxes)
• Business class round-trip tickets start at $1,136

Boosting Business and Tourism

Mumbai, India’s financial capital, is now more accessible for travelers from Kazakhstan. This new route will enhance trade, business, and tourism opportunities, strengthening ties between the two countries. It also complements Air Astana’s existing New Delhi-Almaty route, offering more travel options.

A Convenient and Comfortable Journey

With top-class in-flight services, well-planned schedules, and affordable fares, this new connection is perfect for both business and leisure travelers. Air Astana continues to expand its international network, making global travel easier.

Book Your Flight Now

Plan your journey today and experience Air Astana’s world-class service. Whether you're traveling for business, tourism, or adventure, this new Almaty-Mumbai route offers a smooth, comfortable, and affordable travel experience.

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Azerbaijan E-Visa Guide for Indian Travelers- Apply through Atlys

Azerbaijan Visa Information for Indian Citizens:

• Visa Type: E-Visa
• Length of Stay: Up to 30 days
• Validity: 90 days from the date of issue
• Entry: Single-entry

Requirements:

• Passport: Valid for at least 3 months beyond the intended stay
• Photo: Recent passport-sized photograph

Application Process:

1. Apply Online: Submit your application through the official e-visa portal or a trusted service provider.
2. Document Verification: Ensure all documents are accurate and complete.
3. Processing: Standard processing time is approximately 3 business days.
4. Approval: Once approved, the e-visa will be sent to your email.
5. Apply your visa here: Azerbaijan Visa
   

Common Reasons for Visa Rejection:

• Expired or soon-to-expire passport
• Incomplete or inaccurate documentation
• Previous visa violations

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Saudi Arabia Limits Visas for 14 Countries: India in the list

Saudi Arabia has announced major changes to its visa policy, which will affect travelers from 14 countries. From February 1, 2025, visitors from these countries will only be eligible for single-entry visas, marking a significant change to the kingdom's travel rules. The decision is aimed at preventing unauthorized Hajj pilgrimages and enhancing the security of official pilgrims. Who will be affected? The new visa rule applies to visitors from the following countries: Algeria Bangladesh Egypt Ethiopia India Indonesia Iraq Jordan Morocco Nigeria Pakistan Sudan Tunisia Yemen Previously, travelers from these countries could apply for one-year multiple-entry visas for tourism, business or family visits. However, this option has now been suspended indefinitely. New visa rules explained Under the updated rules: ✅ Only single-entry visas will be issued. ✅ Visas will be valid for 30 days, with a maximum stay of 30 days. ✅ Hajj, Umrah, diplomatic and residence visas will remain unchanged. Why did Saudi Arabia change its visa policy? Authorities have cited the misuse of multiple-entry visas as a major concern. Some visitors use long-term visas to stay illegally for work or perform the Hajj without permission. Saudi Arabia strictly regulates Hajj pilgrims by allocating specific quotas to each country. However, many unauthorized pilgrims have entered the country using visit visas, leading to overcrowding. In 2024, more than 1,200 people died due to extreme heat and overcrowding during the Hajj. Officials believe unregistered pilgrims played a significant role in the crisis, prompting the government to tighten visa rules to improve security. Is this a permanent change? The suspension of multiple-entry visas is being described as temporary, but Saudi officials have not given a timeline for a review. The government will evaluate the impact of these new rules before making any further decisions. Important travel tips for affected visitors If you are planning to visit Saudi Arabia, keep these key points in mind: 🔹 Apply early – Submit your single-entry visa application well in advance. 🔹 Follow the rules – Make sure you follow Saudi Arabia’s new visa rules to avoid travel problems. 🔹 Stay updated – Keep an eye on official announcements from the Saudi Ministry of Foreign Affairs for any policy updates. These changes highlight Saudi Arabia's commitment to improved pilgrimage management and immigration control. Travelers from affected countries should plan their trips carefully and follow the latest regulations.

 

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Egypt E-Visa Guide: How to Apply, Requirements- Apply through Atlys

Egypt E-Visa: Everything You Need to Know

If you're planning a trip to Egypt, you may need an e-visa to enter the country. Here's a complete guide on the application process, requirements, and common visa rejection reasons.

Egypt E-Visa Details

    Visa Type: Electronic Visa (E-Visa)
    Stay Period: Maximum 30 days of stay duration
    Validity: 90 days of validity from the date of visa issuance
    Entry Type: Single entry

How to Apply for an Egypt E-Visa

Applying for an Egypt e-visa is simple. Follow these steps:

1.     Online Application: Use the Atlys platform to submit your application and pay the official visa fee.
2.     Document Review: Atlys checks your documents to ensure accuracy before submitting them to Egyptian immigration authorities.
3.     Processing: Atlys works with immigration to process your application efficiently.
4.     Approval & Delivery: Once approved, you’ll receive your e-visa via email.
5. Apply Here your Egypt visa through Atlys: Egypt Visa
   

Common Reasons for Egypt Visa Rejection

Visa applications can be scrapped by the embassy for various reasons, including:

1.     Your passport is expired or has less than six months' validity.
2.     Having a criminal record.
3.     Previous visa violations, such as overstaying a past visa.
4.     Incomplete or inaccurate documentation.
5.     Failure to provide proof of strong ties to your home country.
6.     Not able to provide sufficient proof of funds

Frequently Asked Questions

4. Why was my Egypt visa rejected?
Common reasons include incorrect or missing documents, lack of proof of financial stability, or previous visa violations.

5. Can I reapply if my Egypt visa is denied?
Yes, you can reapply after addressing the issues that led to the rejection.

6. Is my personal data secure with Atlys?
Yes, Atlys uses advanced encryption to secure your documents. Your personal data is not shared or sold to third parties.

Apply your Egypt visa here:

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