Worldwide tourism visa restrictions easing: UNWTO

In 2015, 39 per cent of the world population could travel for tourism without obtaining a traditional visa prior to departure as compared to only 23 per cent in 2008, according to the World Tourism Organization (UNWTO).

On average, 18 per cent of the world’s population was able to travel to a destination without a visa in 2015, while another 15 per cent could receive a visa on arrival and six per cent was able to obtain eVisas.

Overall, emerging economies continue to be more open than advanced economies. At the regional level, South-East Asia, East Africa, the Caribbean and Oceania remain the most open areas while Central Africa, North Africa and North America were in 2015 the most restrictive subregions.

Although much has been done, several areas of opportunity remain for destinations worldwide to promote a safer and more seamless travel experience. UNWTO recommends destinations to focus in particular in a stronger segmentation of travellers, in improving visa application processes and entry procedures, in making use of regional integration opportunities, and last but not least, on providing precise and accessible information for tourist.

Countries are further encouraged not to depend on reciprocal improvements, but rather revise their unilateral measures, a tendency which is proving to be stronger than ever.