Archive · 10 Jun 2025
Visa Market Projects Growth Amidst Policy Changes
Companies that help people get visas think the number of visas issued will grow, even though countries like the US and UK are making it harder to get them.
They believe more people will travel for fun.
This is because people have more money and want to go on exciting trips.
However, some countries are changing the rules for student and work visas.
The US has paused interviews for students and is considering ending a training program.
The UK wants people to wait longer to become permanent residents, which could affect immigrants.
Overall, companies are hopeful about the future of travel visas, especially for tourism, despite some policy challenges..
The growth is driven by the rise in tourism and factors such as rise in disposable incomes as well as visa liberalization.
Visa service providers anticipate over 7% annual growth in fresh visa issuances through 2029 despite policy changes.
Tourist visas are expected to capture 70% of the market by 2029, while other segments like student and work visas may shrink.
The leisure travel momentum, fueled by factors such as rising disposable incomes, is sustaining international travel.
The US has paused new visa interviews for international students and is considering ending the Optional Practical Training program.
The UK plans to extend the waiting period for permanent residency, impacting some immigrants.
- Who
- Visa service providers, the US, and the UK government.
- What
- Visa and consular service providers anticipate 7% growth in visa issuances.
- When
- Anticipated growth through 2029.
- Where
- Across multiple countries globally, with specific examples in the US and UK.
- Why
- Growth is driven by tourist visas and visa-free travel arrangements. Rise in disposable incomes and experiential travel also boost it.
- Projected Growth
- Over 7% annually through 2029
- Tourist Visa Share (2029)
- 70%
- Student Visa Share (2024)
- 15%
- Student Visa Share (2029)
- 13%
- Business/Work Visa Share (2024)
- 19%
- Business/Work Visa Share (2029)
- 16%
- Focus Countries
- US, UK