In a welcome development, Germany has unveiled four new Schengen visa application centres — two in Nigeria (Abuja and Lagos), one in Yaoundé (Cameroon) and another in Nicosia (Cyprus). This expansion, launched under a renewed seven-year agreement with VFS Global, seeks to streamline visa services and reduce bottlenecks affecting applicants. VFS Global is the world’s largest outsourcing and technology services …

The European Commission has confirmed that its long-awaited Entry/Exit System (EES) will begin its phased rollout on 12 October 2025, launching a digital transformation of border management across 29 European countries, including Schengen-associated states. Designed to modernise the cumbersome process of passport stamping, the EES will capture biometric data — fingerprints, facial images along with travel document and entry/exit details …

From 1 October 2025, Emirates passengers will face stricter rules when travelling with powerbanks. The Dubai-based airline says the move is aimed at enhancing onboard safety amid rising incidents involving lithium batteries across the aviation industry. According to the new policy, passengers may still bring powerbanks on board under certain conditions, but using or charging them during the flight is …