New Visa Rules Take Effect in US, Australia, Japan and Vietnam from July 1

Several countries have introduced new visa and travel regulations from July 1, affecting tourists, foreign workers and international travelers.

In the United States, authorities have launched a pilot program allowing applicants for B1 and B2 visitor visas to pay an additional $750 for expedited processing. Under the initiative, eligible applicants can secure visa interview appointments within 10 business days. The program, running from July through December, does not guarantee visa approval and is intended primarily for travelers with urgent business or personal needs.

Australia has increased the minimum salary thresholds for employer-sponsored skilled migrants. The Core Skills Income Threshold and Temporary Skilled Migration Income Threshold have risen from AUD 76,515 to AUD 79,499, while the Specialist Skills Income Threshold has increased from AUD 141,210 to AUD 146,717. The revised requirements apply only to new visa nominations submitted on or after July 1.

In Japan, visa fees have been raised significantly for the first time since 1978. The fee for a single-entry visa has increased from ¥3,000 to ¥15,000, while multi-entry visa fees have jumped from ¥6,000 to ¥30,000. However, citizens of several countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom and Australia, remain exempt from the higher charges. Reports indicate that Indian nationals are also unlikely to be affected by the increase.

Meanwhile, Vietnam has introduced a mandatory health declaration requirement for all travelers entering, leaving or transiting through the country. Travelers must complete the declaration within seven days before their journey.

The new measures reflect a broader trend among countries to tighten immigration procedures, manage visitor flows and address administrative and public health considerations while facilitating international travel and workforce mobility.