Delhi’s Schengen visa hub moves: VFS Global shifts 18-country processing to KG Marg
Saudia and Air India sign codeshare to widen business-travel options
India climbs five places to 80th in 2026 Henley Passport Index
Latest News
Indian card giants tweak airport-lounge perks amid travel boom
SBI Card, HDFC Bank and ICICI Bank have tightened or restructured airport-lounge access programmes and associated fees, effective 10–15 January 2026. Companies relying on complimentary lounge perks must review employee card portfolios and adjust travel budgets accordingly.
Germany Drops Airport-Transit Visa for Indian Passport Holders, Unlocking Faster UK Connections
Effective 12 January 2026, Germany no longer requires Indian passport holders to obtain an airport-transit visa when connecting through German hubs. The decision removes cost and paperwork, revives India–UK itineraries routed via Frankfurt or Munich, and is expected to boost passenger numbers for Lufthansa, Air India and partner carriers.
Republic Day Rehearsals to Shut Delhi Airspace Six Days, 600 Flights Face Ripple-Effect Delays
A NOTAM released on 13 January 2026 will close Delhi’s airspace daily from 21–26 January for Republic Day rehearsals, disrupting an estimated 600 flights. Airlines must reschedule operations during peak fog season, and travellers are urged to build extra slack into itineraries.
Australia Reclassifies India as Highest-Risk Student-Visa Market, Tougher Evidence Rules Kick In
Australia has moved India into its highest-risk category for student visas, requiring stricter financial proof and higher English scores. Processing will slow and rejection rates may rise, complicating July 2026 enrolment plans for Indian students and employers sponsoring study-linked assignments.
USCIS Hikes Premium-Processing Fee to $2,965, Indian IT Firms Face Higher Mobility Costs
From 1 March 2026 USCIS will raise premium-processing charges to US$2,965. Indian firms that rely on fast-tracked H-1B and L-1 petitions must adjust budgets, prioritise filings and assess alternative talent-deployment strategies.