If you’re planning to travel, study, or work abroad, it’s worth taking note of several immigration and visa rule changes that came into effect from July 1. The latest updates in the United States, Japan, Vietnam, and Australia impact everything from visa fees and interview appointments to health declarations and skilled migration requirements.
Vietnam has introduced a mandatory health declaration for everyone entering, exiting, or transiting through the country. The declaration must be completed within seven days of travel and applies to tourists, business travellers, international students, expatriates, and even transit passengers. Authorities have issued the form in both Vietnamese and English, and the requirements may be revised depending on the global public health situation. Travellers are advised to check with their airline and Vietnamese authorities before departure to understand the submission process.
In the United States, the State Department has launched a six-month pilot programme allowing eligible B-1 and B-2 visa applicants to pay an additional $750 for an interview appointment within 10 business days at select embassies and consulates. This premium fee is in addition to the standard $185 application fee, taking the total cost to $935. The extra payment only guarantees a faster interview slot and does not improve the chances of visa approval or speed up background checks and administrative processing. The pilot programme will continue until December 31, after which the government will decide whether to make it permanent.
Japan has also revised its visa charges from July 1. A single-entry visa now costs around ¥15,000, up from ¥3,000, while the fee for a multiple-entry visa has increased from ¥6,000 to approximately ¥30,000. These revised charges will directly affect Indian travellers, who generally require a visa to visit Japan. Visa fees may vary depending on nationality and the purpose of travel, and applicants whose visas are refused will not be charged the issuance fee.
Australia’s changes are aimed at skilled migration rather than tourism. The government has increased the minimum salary thresholds for employer-sponsored visas. The Core Skills Income Threshold has been raised 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 salary requirements apply to employer nominations submitted on or after July 1. Employers must now offer either the updated threshold or the applicable market salary, whichever is higher. Applications lodged before July 1 will generally continue to be processed under the previous rules.
Across all four countries, the date on which an application or nomination is submitted is crucial. In most cases, applications filed before July 1 will be assessed under the earlier regulations, while those submitted from July 1 onwards must comply with the new rules. Travellers, students, and professionals planning overseas trips or employment are advised to review the latest requirements carefully before applying to avoid unexpected costs, delays, or eligibility issues.
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