Saturday, November 4, 2023
The availability of visa-on-arrival for Indian travellers is on the rise.
This has made travelling to international destinations more accessible for Indian passport holders in 2023.
According to a report, the Indian passport has climbed up to the 80th position from 87th in 2022. It is giving its holders visa-free access to 57 countries, making globe-trotting more convenient than ever.
There are even many countries allowing you to forego the complexities of visa applications and complete essential paperwork upon arrival.
According to the Passport Index, here are the countries that offer visa on arrival for Indians:
List of countries eligible for visa free travel
Sri Lanka
The Sri Lankan cabinet approved a proposal. It is to grant free visas to travellers from seven countries. The approval spans a period of five months. These countries are India, China, Russia, Thailand, Malaysia, Japan and Indonesia.
The free visa travel has begun with immediate effect as a pilot project till March 31, 2024.
Thailand
Thailand will allow visa-free entry for tourists from India and Taiwan for six months from November 10 to May 10, 2024. Those arriving from India and Taiwan can enter Thailand for 30 days, according to Thai government spokesperson Chai Wacharonke.
Dominica
This small Caribbean Island nation allows Indian citizens to visit visa-free for up to 6 months. Dominica is a popular destination for eco-tourism.
Svalbard
A remote archipelago located in the Arctic Ocean, Svalbard allows Indian passport holders to visit visa-free.
Popular for its stunning natural beauty and polar bear sightings, it is a popular destination for adventure tourism.
Micronesia
Located in the western Pacific Ocean, Micronesia is a group of islands that offer visa-free entry to Indian citizens for a stay of up to 30 days.
The islands are famous for their pristine beaches, crystal-clear waters, and abundant marine life This collectively makes it a great destination for snorkelling and diving.
Seychelles
Located in the Indian Ocean, Seychelles is an archipelago of 115 islands that offer visa-free entry to Indian citizens for a stay of up to 90 days. Known for its stunning beaches, lush forests, and unique flora and fauna, Seychelles is a popular honeymoon and vacation destination.
Haiti
Haiti offers visa-free entry to Indian passport holders for up to 90 days. The country is famous for its vibrant culture and history and its famous Vodou religion.
Nepal
Nepal is a neighbouring country of India and offers visa-free entry to Indian citizens. Home to the mighty Himalayas, Nepal is a popular destination for adventure enthusiasts, trekkers, and spiritual seekers.
Bhutan
Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan. Instead they need to obtain a Bhutan Entry Permit, which is issued upon arrival at the border entry points.
Therefore, Bhutan is a visa-free country for Indians as they need no visa.
Maldives
Tourists do not need a pre-arrival visa. It is just that one should have all the valid travel documents.
A tourist’s passport must be valid for 6 months beyond the date of arrival to the Maldives.
Indians will receive a tourist visa-on-arrival at Male Airport and it comes with the 30 days limit.
Monday, January 1, 2024