Malaysia: Visa-Free Entry Extended Through 2026
Good news for those dreaming of exploring Kuala Lumpur's cityscapes or Langkawi's beaches. The Malaysian government has officially extended its visa-free facility for Indian nationals until December 31, 2026. This policy allows Indian passport holders
to enter Malaysia for tourism or business and stay for up to 30 days without needing to apply for a visa beforehand. The move is part of Malaysia's broader strategy to boost tourism, coinciding with its "Visit Malaysia 2026" campaign. While the visa itself is waived, travellers must still complete the mandatory Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days prior to arrival. You will also be expected to have a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed return ticket, and proof of accommodation.
Thailand: Navigating the New 30-Day Visa Exemption
Thailand's visa policy for Indians has seen some confusion in 2026, but the latest update brings clarity. After a brief period of uncertainty where a shift to a paid Visa on Arrival was considered, the Thai Cabinet has confirmed a 30-day visa exemption for Indian tourists. While this is a reduction from the temporary 60-day exemption that was previously in place, it importantly keeps Thailand in the visa-free category, meaning no fees or queuing for a visa on arrival. The decision to maintain visa-free access aims to preserve Thailand's status as a top destination for Indian travellers, who constitute one of its largest tourism markets. As with other visa-waiver programmes, Indian citizens will still need to complete a digital arrival card and should be prepared to show proof of onward travel and sufficient funds at immigration.
Japan: E-Visas Now Available for Indian Tourists
Japan has taken a significant step towards modernising its visa process for Indian travellers. Since early 2024, Indian citizens residing in India can apply for a single-entry e-visa for short-term tourism, valid for a stay of up to 90 days. This new system eliminates the need for a traditional visa sticker in the passport. Instead, applicants submit their documents through designated VFS Global centres and, upon approval, receive a digital 'visa issuance notice'. Travellers must present this notice on a mobile device at the airport upon departure and arrival; screenshots or printed copies are not accepted. The application process itself still requires submitting forms and supporting documents like flight and hotel bookings, but the move to an electronic visa streamlines the final step and digitises the travel authorisation. Japan does not offer a visa-on-arrival facility for Indian citizens, making this e-visa the standard route for tourist travel.
Kenya: Visa-Free Travel Replaced with an eTA
In a major policy shift, Kenya has declared itself a visa-free country for all global visitors, including Indians. However, this doesn't mean you can simply show up with your passport. The traditional visa has been replaced by a mandatory Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) system. All travellers, including children, must apply for and receive an approved eTA online before starting their journey. The process involves submitting your details and paying a processing fee. This digital clearance is designed to streamline security and health screenings upon arrival, reducing queues at the airport. The standard tourist eTA allows a single entry and is valid for a stay of up to 90 days. So, while the term is 'visa-free', the practical reality is a required pre-travel digital authorisation that has replaced the old visa application.
