The New Year is on the horizon and many travellers will be looking at which countries will be ticked off visit list in 2024. However, one thing that can put a slight dampener on our wanderlust is the dreaded paperwork of the entry visa.
But 2023 has been a tremendous year for travellers with countries around the globe removing barriers for many to come and visit. And we have rounded four major visa changes that will come into effect in case they slipped your attention.
THE FINAL FRONTIER
Iran has abolished visa requirements for many of its close neighbours most notably the GCC countries and India as well as 27 other countries. Effective December 13, the new rule change means all that travellers from the included countries have to do is book a flight to Tehran Imam Khomeini International Airport and grab their passport. For those that need a visa, visit E-Visa Islamic Republic of Iran Ministry of Foreign Affairs website and fill out the application form for your chosen visa. You will also need to submit a copy of your passport, travel itinerary, and digital personal and passport photos. You may also be required to submit your education and work history as well as attending an in-person interview at your closest consulate. The price for the visa is Dhs 329.
WHAT TO SEE
Kick off your visit to Tehran with the royal treatment by visiting Golestan Palace. The seat of the Qajar dynasty and a UNESCO World Heritage site, the building showcases Persian art, ornate tile work and the Takht-e Marmar marble throne terrace. But do double check your timings as the palace closes at certain times of the year. Next, make your way to the multi-coloured mosque of Imamzadeh Saleh Mosque with twin minarets and a sparkling dome. Covered in gold and turquoise tiles, the mosque has the Alborz Mountain range as its backdrop meaning the mosque is arguably one of the most picturesque in the world. But for those perfect Instagram shots, it has to be Tabiat Bridge that offers views over the entire capital city.
KING OF THE JUNGLE
Kenya has said goodbye to visas for everyone in the world. Yes, the east African country will welcome all in 2024 without travellers needing to worry about pre-approved paperwork. All you will need to do is complete the electronic authorisation form á la the United States and you are all set.
WHAT TO SEE
The first place to mark on your travel itinerary has to be the wildlife reserve, Masai Mara. Home to the Big Five – lions, leopard, elephant, buffalo and rhino - nature lovers will have the opportunity to do guided tours of the park which sees one of Mother Earth’s greatest scenes; the migration of 1.5 million wildebeests from July to October. When you have had enough hanging out with the animals, try Boho Eatery for some traditional Kenyan bites in central Nairobi. Portions are huge and you guessed it, the decor is very much Bohemian. For something a bit different, take a ride on a matatu, a Kenyan minibus that is decorated with famous people and slogans from around the globe and plays Kenyan beats the whole journey.
THE OLD WORLD
Looking to travel to the likes of Paris, Rome, and Vienna? You will need a Schengen Visa but the good news is that all visa forms are going digital. Head online to Schengen Visa Info and submit your online application form alongside the required documents of a scanned passport image, a recent photo and travel insurance. This means no in-person appearances at embassies and visa centres and no need to send away your passport for a stamp unless it is your first application to the Schengen block or you are applying for the first time on a new passport. Once granted, applicants will receive a 2D barcode that is cryptographically signed.
WHAT TO SEE
The Schengen visa incorporates 27 countries so there will be plenty of planning needed for an epic tour of the continent. We suggest you check out Munich and its famous Marienplatz with the incredible City Hall. Once you are done admiring the architectural marvel, take a five-minute stroll to the world-famous Hofbraühaus München and grab yourself a one-litre stein of beer. If you are in need of fresh air, make your way to the English Gardens, one of the biggest urban parks in the world. And if you time it right, the Japanese gardens will be in full blow, showcasing their vivid cherry blossoms.
NO MORE HOLIDAYS, IT’S TIME FOR WORK
The UAE Silver Visa looks set to overtake the demand of the much-vaunted Golden Visa thanks to it being a fraction of the price. The silver option is offering entrepreneurs a five-year visa and trade licence package. Introduced by UAE business-support specialist Virtuzone, the visa is available for Dhs59,999 and will also include support in opening a bank account and corporate tax registration, and will enable the named visa holder to sponsor their spouse, children and parents.
