New control before boarding: news from different airports
Since 2026, international travel for many begins before arriving at the airport.
More than 30 countries, including BritainSouth Korea, Canada. AustraliaThe U.S., New Zealand, Sri Lanka, and Kenya require mandatory digital forms or an electronic entry permit before departure. It's part of an effort to improve border security and speed up the arrival procedure - and airlines can now deny boarding to an unchecked passenger.
For travelers from Malaysia This change is especially noticeable: the usual visa-free regime does not always exempt from the requirements of preliminary online registration. The absence of a completed form or authorization confirmation may result in you simply not being put on a flight.
Specific examples of existing systems:
- BritainUK Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) is required, even for those who do not formally need a visa.
European Union: The ETIAS system is scheduled for introduction at the end of 2026 and will be mandatory for entry into the Schengen area.
K-ETA is now mandatory for visa-free visitors.
- MalaysiaMalaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) for international visitors
- Singapore: SG Arrival Card.
- ThailandTM6 has been replaced with a fully digital system.
- JapanVisit Japan Web speeds up immigration.
Philippines: eTravel QR code is required for arrival and departure.
- Vietnam: Since April 2026, the Pre-Arrival Declaration has been in force to enter Ho Chi Minh City with plans to expand the system nationwide.
Europe is also implementing the Entry/Exit System (EES) – when some guests arrive, fingerprint and face scans will be required on digital kiosks.
Some states have linked digital registration to mandatory fees: for example, Bali requires an online travel fee before arrival; similar online fees are already in place in a number of Caribbean countries.
What is important to consider if you are planning an independent trip:
Check the requirements in advance - on the websites of embassies and on the website of the airline.
Keep electronic confirmations and QR codes – they are often asked to show before landing.
Fill out forms well in advance: during peak periods, processing may take longer.
A local guide or a meeting representative will not only make the tour more interesting, but also prompt the nuances of entry, tell you where to pay fees or how to go through the local registration system - this saves nerves in the first hours of stay.
The era of passport + visa is giving way to the era of passport + digital registration. Plan ahead – and guard electronic confirmations to avoid being at the airport without a boarding pass.
Source of information and photo: personalguide
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