Serbia: From Visa-Free to Visa-Required
For years, Serbia was a hassle-free European destination for Indians, offering visa-free entry for up to 30 days. This made it a popular choice for spontaneous trips. However, this policy was officially terminated. As of early 2023, all Indian passport
holders must obtain a visa before travelling to Serbia. Arriving without one is no longer an option and could result in being denied entry. The main options are a Short-Stay Visa (Type C) for tourism, valid for up to 90 days, or a Long-Stay Visa (Type D). An important requirement for the application is an invitation letter from a Serbian citizen or a company based in Serbia. Alternatively, holding a valid multiple-entry visa for the US, UK, or Schengen zone may still grant you entry for up to 90 days, but relying on this exception requires careful verification. The standard application process now requires a valid passport, proof of funds, accommodation details, and travel insurance.
Kenya: The New Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA)
Kenya, a dream destination for wildlife and safari enthusiasts, has overhauled its entry system. Previously, Indian citizens could obtain a visa on arrival. Now, this has been completely replaced by a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system. This change affects all foreign visitors, not just Indians. Every traveller must apply for and receive an approved eTA online before their journey begins. While it's not a formal visa, it is a compulsory travel permit. The application requires your passport, accommodation booking confirmations, and return flight details. For those visiting friends or family, an invitation letter and host's ID might also be needed. The eTA is typically valid for a single entry and a stay of up to 90 days. The key takeaway is that you can no longer simply show up and get a visa; pre-travel online authorisation is now essential.
Thailand: A Shift in Visa-Free Stay Duration
Thailand’s visa policy for Indians has seen some confusion, but the situation has now clarified. For a period, Thailand offered a generous 60-day visa-free stay to boost tourism. However, after internal review, the Thai Cabinet has revised this policy. While there was a proposal to move India to a paid Visa on Arrival (VOA) category, this was ultimately dropped after it caused a decline in bookings. The confirmed policy is that Indian travellers will continue to enjoy visa-free entry, but the maximum permitted stay has been reduced from 60 days to 30 days. As of mid-August 2026, the 60-day rule was still in effect pending official publication of the change in the Royal Gazette. Once published, the 30-day rule will take effect. This change primarily affects those planning longer stays, but for the average tourist, the entry process remains seamless and free of charge. The mandatory Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) must still be completed online before arrival.
Malaysia: Visa-Free, But With Conditions
Malaysia has offered great news for Indian travellers by extending its visa-free entry policy until the end of 2026. This allows for a stay of up to 30 days for tourism purposes. However, 'visa-free' does not mean 'requirement-free'. Indian travellers must ensure they meet several conditions to avoid issues at immigration. Firstly, completing the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days before arrival is mandatory. Secondly, you must be prepared to show a confirmed return flight ticket, proof of accommodation, and evidence of sufficient funds for your stay. Your passport must also have at least six months of validity from your date of entry. While you no longer need to apply for an e-visa, these supporting documents are crucial for a smooth entry. The change is the formalisation of these checks and the mandatory nature of the MDAC.
How to Stay Updated on Visa Rules
Visa policies are fluid and can change with little warning due to diplomatic relations, security concerns, or economic strategies. Relying on outdated blogs or anecdotal advice can lead to travel disasters. The most reliable way to verify visa requirements is to check the official sources. This includes the embassy or consulate website of the country you plan to visit. These sites provide the most current and authoritative information on entry requirements, fees, and application procedures. Additionally, many countries have official immigration portals or e-visa websites that outline the exact steps for travellers from different nations. For added assurance, consulting the travel advisories issued by India's Ministry of External Affairs can also provide valuable and verified information. Before booking non-refundable flights or accommodation, a quick check of these official channels is the most crucial step in your travel planning.
