In a massive relief for cash-strapped Go First, lenders have approved an interim funding of Rs 400 crore for the carrier, which is grounded for nearly two months now. The Committee of Creditors (CoC), which includes the Central Bank of India, Bank of Baroda, Deutsche Bank, and IDBI Bank, has approved the request for additional funding. The funding has been approved to normalize Go First's business plan and operations.
Vietnam's National Assembly has passed amendments to extend the validity of tourist e-visas from 30 to 90 days and allow multiple entries for visitors. These changes, set to take effect on August 15, aim to enhance the tourism sector and attract more international travelers.
International travellers planning to visit the United States can now rejoice as they gain access to a user-friendly mobile app for applying to the Electronic System for Travel Authorization (ESTA). This innovative solution simplifies the process, allowing travelers to complete their ESTA applications with ease and efficiency.
India is set to embark on the second phase of the Passport Seva Programme (PSP-Version 2.0), featuring upgraded e-passports and improved services. External Affairs Minister S Jaishankar emphasizes the importance of timely and efficient passport delivery, aligning with the government's vision of an "Ease of Living" for citizens.
The Indo-Canada Chamber of Commerce (ICCC) is proposing new measures to protect Indian students in Canada. The ICCC is urging the immigration minister to add an acknowledgement form to admission forms for Indian students. The form would require students and their parents to acknowledge that they have read basic Canadian laws and that they know the consequences of violating them.
Go First has extended the cancellation of its flights till June 28, 2023, due to operational reasons. This is the tenth time that the carrier has extended the cancellation of flights since the first announcement was made on May 2. Passengers who have been affected by the cancellations can seek refunds or reschedule their flights.
Bhutan, the Land of Happiness, is lowering its daily tourist taxes in a bid to boost visitor numbers after the pandemic. The reduced fees apply to tourists staying for more than four nights and aim to increase revenue from the tourism industry. Find out the details of this initiative, including eligibility criteria and the impact on Bhutan's economy and conservation efforts.
VFS Global has launched a streamlined visa application service for Egypt across 12 major cities in India. With walk-in convenience and enhanced value-added services, Indian travelers can now enjoy a hassle-free experience when applying for an Egyptian visa.
Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Saturday that two new American consulates will be opened in India, one in Bengaluru and one in Ahmedabad. He also said that the US government has agreed to allow Indian immigrants to renew their H-1B visas in the US, without having to travel back to India.
The German parliament has approved a new immigration law reform, paving the way for increased job opportunities for non-EU citizens and the integration of refugees. While conservative lawmakers have raised objections, proponents emphasize the positive economic impact and crucial changes introduced by the reform, such as the "opportunity card" and relaxed degree recognition requirements.