Traveling to new places is like uncovering a treasure box of mysteries and adventures. You get the chance to explore and experience. The Indian Passport might be your golden ticket to visit the world and its beautiful people. Join us as we tell you which doors your Indian Passport can unlock!
India’s Passport Potential
The Indian passport can give you visa-free access to 37 countries. The Indian passport ranks at 82 according to the Henley Passport Index Report. But that has not stopped Indians from seeking out new destinations.
Different Types of Visas Available
A visa is an official document issued by a country’s government, granting permission to a foreigner to enter and remain within its territory for a specified period. Depending upon the type and purpose, visas are classified as:
- Visa On Arrival (VoA): A Visa on Arrival (VoA) allows travelers to obtain a visa upon arrival at their destination country. It usually involves filling out forms and paying fees at the airport or other entry points rather than applying in advance.
- e-Visa: An electronic visa issued online by a government. Applicants typically fill out an online application, pay a fee, and receive the visa electronically. It’s often faster and more convenient than traditional visa applications.
- Tourist Visa: Issued for individuals visiting a country for leisure, sightseeing, or visiting friends or relatives. It typically has restrictions on employment and business activities.
- Work Visa: A Work Visa allows an individual to enter and work in a foreign country for a specified period. An employer typically sponsors it.
- Business Visa: Issued for individuals traveling to a country for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or negotiating contracts.
- Student Visa: A Student Visa is issued to individuals who wish to study at an educational institution in a foreign country. It usually allows the holder to stay for the duration of their course or program.
- Transit Visa: A Transit Visa allows a traveler to pass through a country on their way to another destination. It is typically valid for a short period and does not permit extended stays.
- Single-entry Visa: A Single-entry Visa allows the holder to enter the host country only once. After exiting, they would need a new visa to re-enter.
- Multiple-entry Visa: A Multiple-entry Visa permits the holder to enter and exit the host country multiple times within the visa’s validity period. This is useful for travelers who need to make several trips to the country.
Visa Requirements
Visa requirements vary significantly from country to country. It is crucial to check the specific requirements for your intended destination.
Common Visa Requirements
Typically, visa applications require the following:
- Valid passport: With sufficient validity beyond your intended travel dates.
- Visa application form: Completed accurately and truthfully.
- Passport-sized photographs: Meeting specific guidelines which vary from country to country.
- Proof of financial means: To support your stay (bank statements, credit card details).
- Custom Declaration Forms: In the case of carrying valuables such as jewelry, cash, etc. as per the country’s policies.
- Travel itinerary: Including flight bookings, especially return tickets and accommodation details.
- Travel insurance: In some cases. However, it is advisable to always ensure travel insurance in case an unfortunate scenario arises.
- Letter of invitation: If visiting friends or family. Ensure the proof is legitimate and have the updated contact details of the host.
- Proof of purpose of visit: Documents such as Business letter, student enrollment, medical documents, etc.
- Visa fee: Payable according to the country’s regulations.
Additional Considerations
- Visa type: Depends on the purpose of your visit (tourist, business, student, etc.).
- Visa validity: The duration for which the visa is valid.
- Duration of stay: The maximum allowed period within the country.
- Entry restrictions: Some countries have specific entry requirements, such as health certificates or criminal records checks.
Visa-free countries for Indian Passport
A growing number of countries recognize the potential of Indian travelers and have implemented visa-on-arrival or visa-free policies. This opens up a world of possibilities for those eager to explore.
| Countries | Duration of Stay | Continent |
| Uzbekistan | 5 Days | Asia |
| Kazakhstan | 14 Days | Asia |
| Bhutan | 14 Days | Asia |
| Oman | 14 Days | Asia |
| Iran | 15 Days | Asia |
| Reunion Island | 15 Days | Africa |
| Macao | 30 Days | Asia |
| Indonesia | 30 Days | Asia |
| Malaysia | 30 Days (upto December 31, 2024) | Asia |
| Thailand | 30 Days (upto November 11, 2024) | Asia |
| Qatar | 30 Days | Asia |
| Jamaica | 30 Days | North America |
| British Virgin Islands | 30 Days | North America |
| Vanuatu | 30 Days | Oceania |
| Niyue | 30 Days | Oceania |
| Micronesia | 30 Days | Oceania |
| Cook Islands | 31 Days | Oceania |
| Angola | 30 Days | Africa |
| Seychelles | 30 Days | Africa |
| Senegal | 90 Days | Africa |
| Kenya | 90 Days | Africa |
| Barbados | 90 Days | Africa |
| Tunisia | 90 Days | Africa |
| Mauritius | 90 Days | Africa |
| Ecuador | 90 Days | South America |
| El Salvador | 90 Days | South America |
| Trinidad and Tobago | 90 Days | South America |
| Saint Kitts and Nevis | 90 Days | North America |
| Haiti | 90 Days | North America |
| Montserrat | 90 Days | North America |
| Grenada | 90 Days | North America |
| Palestinian Territories | 90 Days (it is advisable not to travel here currently due to the ongoing conflict) | Asia |
| Kiribati | 90 Days | Oceania |
| Dominica | 180 Days | North America |
| Montserrat | 180 Days | Montserrat |
| Nepal | Indefinite (As of 2024, visa is not required to visit) | Asia |
Suggested Read: 10 Best International Airlines in India For Travelers
Visa on Arrival Countries For Indian Passport
Visa on arrival (VOA) is a convenient option where travelers can obtain a visa upon reaching their destination. These countries often require filling out an application form, paying a visa fee, and presenting necessary documentation upon arrival. It is a flexible option for travelers visiting a country on short notice​.
Asia
| Visa Requirements for | Number of Days |
| Sri Lanka | 30 Days |
| Maldives | 30 Days |
| Vietnam | 30 Days |
| Cambodia | 30 Days |
| Laos | 30 Days |
| Timor Leste | 30 Days |
| Mongolia | 30 Days |
| Tajikistan | 60 Days |
Africa
| Countries | Number of Days |
| Togo | 7 Days |
| Zimbabwe | 30 Days |
| Mauritania | 30 Days |
| Sierra Leone | 30 Days |
| South Sudan | 30 Days |
| Rwanda | 30 Days |
| Gambia | 30 Days |
| Cabo Verde | 30 Days |
| Mozambique | 30 Days |
| Madagascar | 30 Days |
| Somalia | 30 Days (it is essential to exercise extreme caution while visiting due to security concerns.) |
| Comoros Islands | 45 Days |
| Tanzania | 90 Days |
| Guinea-Bissau | 90 Days |
| Gabon | 90 Days |
| Guinea | 90 Days |
America
| Countries | Number of Days |
| Bolivia | 30 Days |
| Guyana | 30 Days |
| Saint Lucia | 42 Days |
| Suriname | 90 Days |
Europe
Unfortunately, no European countries provide Visa On Arrival (VOA) facilities for holders of Indian Passports. However, Indian passport holders can apply for a Schengen visa online to visit most European countries. Most European countries are part of the Schengen area, which allows visa-free travel between member countries once you have a Schengen visa.
Middle East
| Countries | Number of Days |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 14 Days |
| Jordan | 30 Days |
| Qatar | 30 Days |
| Oman | 30 Days |
Oceania
| Countries | Number of Days |
| Republic of Marshall Islands | 30 Days |
| Palau | 30 Days |
| Tuvalu | 30 Days |
| Papua New Guinea | 30 Days |
Countries which Provide E-Visa for Indian Passport (Division by Continents)
An e-visa is an electronic visa that allows you to enter a country without having to visit an embassy or consulate to apply for a traditional visa. It’s a convenient and time-saving option for many travellers. Many countries now offer e-visas, making travel planning more efficient and easier for Indian passport holders.
Asia
| Countries | Length of Stay |
| Bahrain | 14 Days |
| Armenia | 21 Day |
| Myanmar | 28 Days |
| Sri Lanka | 30 Days |
| Malaysia | 30 Days |
| Singapore | 30 Days |
| Cambodia | 30 Days |
| Laos | 30 Days |
| Turkey | 30 Days |
| Uzbekistan | 30 Days |
| Georgia | 30 Days |
| Oman | 30 Days |
| United Arab Emirates (UAE) | 60 Days |
| Thailand | 60 Days |
| Kyrgyzstan | 60 Days |
| Iran | 90 Days |
| Vietnam | 90 Days |
| Japan | 90 Days |
| Taiwan | 90 Days |
| Tajikistan | 90 Days |
Africa
| Countries | Length of Stay |
| Rwanda | 30 Days |
| Zimbabwe | 30 Days |
| Madagascar | 30 Days |
| Gabon | 30 Days |
| Benin | 30 Days |
| Malawi | 30 Days |
| Sao Tome and Principe | 30 Days |
| Sierra Leone | 30 Days |
| Ethiopia | 30 or 90 Days (depending on the type of visa) |
| Uganda | 90 Days |
| Djibouti | 90 Days |
| Zambia | 90 Days |
| Ivory Coast | 90 Days |
| Tanzania | 90 Days |
| Botswana | 90 Days |
| Democratic Republic of Congo | 30 or 90 Days (depending on the type of visa) |
| Guinea-Bissau | 30 or 90 Days (depending on the type of visa) |
| Egypt | 90 Days |
| Guinea | 90 Days |
| Lesotho | 90 Days |
| South Africa | 90 Days |
| South Sudan | 90 Days |
| Kenya | 90 Days |
America
| Countries | Length of Stay |
| Columbia | 90 Days |
| Antigua and Barbuda | 90 Days |
| Argentina | 90 Days |
Europe
| Countries | Length of Stay |
| Armenia | 21 or 120 Days (depending on the type of visa) |
| Georgia | 30 Days |
| Albania | 90 Days |
| Moldova | 90 Days |
Oceania
| Countries | Length of Stay |
| Papua New Guinea | 30 Days (short-term) and 60 Days (long-term) |
| New Zealand | 90 Days |
| Australia | 90 Days |
Tips for Smooth Travel With Indian Passport
- Research is Key: Understanding visa requirements, travel advisories, and local customs is essential for a hassle-free trip.
- Prepare Necessary Documents: Ensure you have all required documents, such as a valid passport, proof of accommodation, return flight tickets, and sufficient funds.
- Understand Visa Fees: Be aware of any visa fees that may apply and whether they need to be paid online or upon arrival.
- Passport Validity: Ensure your passport has sufficient validity for your intended travel dates.
- Travel Insurance: Protect yourself from unexpected events with comprehensive travel insurance.
- Security: Keep yourself updated with the political landscape of the destination country. Unless an absolute emergency, it is advisable to avoid traveling in the event of an ongoing conflict.
- Flexibility: Be open to alternative destinations and travel dates to maximize your chances of exploring the world. Explore the lesser-known countries to discover hidden gems.
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In this article, we have covered the types of visas, which counties permit which types of visas for Indian passport holders, and the validity period of each type of visa.
Remember: The travel regulations are constantly changing. Visa policies can be updated, so checking the latest information is always a must before planning your trip. For more detailed and up-to-date information, always contact the embassy of the destination country before planning your trip. Wishing you happy and safe travels!
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
The period of validity is mentioned on the visa. After the period is over, the person loses his eligibility to stay in the country. Over-staying can result in fines and in some cases even jail time. However, an application for an extension of the visa can be done.
There is always a chance of Visa on Arrival (VoA) to be rejected. Hence, it is always advisable to keep yourself updated with the latest information and travel policies of the destination country.
Unfortunately, the United Kingdom (UK) Doesn’t permit visa-free travel for Indian passport holders.
No, visa-free entry is subject to a specific number of days. This varies from country to country and is always changing. Hence, it is necessary to keep yourself updated.
No, visa-free entry is usually allowed only for tourism or short-term travel purposes. To work or study, an appropriate work or student visa is required.
