Malaysia: Visa-Free Entry Extended
Good news for those planning a trip to see the Petronas Towers or explore the beaches of Langkawi. Malaysia has extended its visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens for the entirety of 2026. This allows tourists to stay for up to 30 days without needing
to apply for a visa beforehand. The move is part of the “Visit Malaysia 2026” campaign, aimed at boosting tourism. While you don't need a visa, there is one mandatory step: all travellers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days prior to their arrival. At immigration, you will also need to show a passport with at least six months of validity, a confirmed return flight ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Thailand: Visa-Free Entry Confirmed, But Shorter Stay
Thailand remains a top destination for Indians, but its visa policy has seen some confusion in 2026. After initially proposing an end to the visa-free scheme, the Thai government confirmed on July 14, 2026, that visa-free entry for Indians will continue. However, the permitted stay has been reduced from the previous 60 days to 30 days. This is still more than enough for most holiday itineraries. The change came after a proposed move to a paid Visa on Arrival system was scrapped following concerns from the tourism industry. For now, Indian passport holders can enter Thailand without any visa fee or prior application for a 30-day stay, making it a hassle-free option for a spontaneous trip.
Sri Lanka: Free Tourist ETA Now Official
Our island neighbour, Sri Lanka, has also made it easier for Indian tourists. As of May 25, 2026, the country rolled out a free Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme for citizens of 40 countries, including India. This means that while you still need to get an ETA online before you travel, there is no longer a fee associated with it for tourist visits. The free ETA allows for a 30-day stay and even permits double entry, meaning you can leave and re-enter within that 30-day window. It’s important to note that obtaining the ETA before you fly is mandatory; it is not a visa-on-arrival system, and airlines will check for your ETA approval before boarding. The official application should be made through the government's ETA portal.
Kenya: Visa-Free, But eTA is a Must
For those dreaming of a wildlife safari, Kenya has made a significant change. Starting in January 2024, Kenya declared visa-free entry for all tourists, regardless of nationality. However, this doesn't mean you can just show up. Instead of a traditional visa, all visitors must now obtain an electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) online before their journey. There is a processing fee for the eTA. This new digital system is designed to streamline arrivals and reduce queues at the airport. You should apply for the eTA in advance of your travel dates. The visa-on-arrival facility is no longer available for Indian citizens, so securing your eTA beforehand is essential for entry.
