Will tighter global mobility rules make travel harder?

Technological solutions exist for smoother cross-border trips even as visa procedures are tightened

- ZUBIN KARKARIA

We live in an increasingly multipolar, digital-first world and the future of cross-border travel is undergoing a fundamental shift. According to the latest UN World Tourism Barometer, international tourist arrivals surpassed 300 million in the first quarter of 2025, reflecting a 5% increase over that quarter of 2024 and exceeding pre-pandemic levels by 3%. This growth signals renewed confidence in international travel. However, at the same time, governments are responding to rising geopolitical tensions and national security concerns by tightening border controls and visa procedures. This paradox has placed global mobility at a critical crossroads, where security, transparency, and trust must coexist for smooth travel.

The rise of user-focused and tech-based solutions: India serves as a compelling example of how digital mobility solutions can be scaled effectively. Digital public infrastructure (DPI)—including Aadhaar for identity, DigiLocker for documents, DigiYatra for airport passage, and the Passport Seva Programme 2.0 for e-passports—demonstrates how user-focused technology can improve security and convenience for travelers.

This model offers a potential blueprint for modern cross-border travel. Built on open standards rather than proprietary technologies, India's DPI offers interoperability and adaptability, allowing for easier adoption by other nations.