Southeast Asia's Warm Welcome
Popular destinations in Southeast Asia are leading the charge. Malaysia has extended its visa-free policy for Indian nationals through December 31, 2026, allowing for a 30-day stay for tourism and business. This means you can explore the vibrant streets
of Kuala Lumpur or the beaches of Langkawi without the hassle of a pre-approved visa. The only requirement is to fill out the free Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days before your arrival. Similarly, Thailand's cabinet recently approved a 30-day visa exemption for Indian tourists, upgrading India from its previous Visa on Arrival status. This move, pending official publication, aims to simplify entry procedures and reflects India's growing importance to Thai tourism.
Island Hopping in Sri Lanka
Our southern neighbour, Sri Lanka, has also made travel significantly more accessible. In a bid to boost tourism, the island nation has rolled out a free Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) scheme for citizens of several countries, including India. While you still need to apply for the ETA online before you go, the fee has been completely waived as of May 2026. This free ETA allows for a 30-day stay with a double-entry facility, making it perfect for a quick getaway to explore ancient ruins, lush tea plantations, and stunning coastlines.
An African Safari Adventure
Dreaming of the Maasai Mara? Kenya has made that dream easier to achieve by removing visa requirements for all international visitors. Instead of a traditional visa, travellers, including those from India, now only need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before their journey. This policy shift is designed to open up the country's world-famous national parks and vibrant culture to a wider global audience. While it's not completely free of paperwork, the eTA system is a more streamlined and straightforward process than a full visa application.
A Note on Iran's Policy
While many countries are opening up, it is also important to note when policies change. In early 2024, Iran introduced a visa-waiver program for Indian tourists. However, due to reported misuse of the facility, this visa-free arrangement was suspended as of late November 2025. Indian nationals wishing to travel to Iran must now obtain a visa before their departure, for both entry and transit purposes. This highlights the importance of always checking the very latest rules before making travel plans.
Easier Paths to Europe
For those looking to explore Europe, there's good news on the Schengen visa front. The EU has adopted a new "cascade" regime for Indian nationals, which creates a clearer path to obtaining long-term, multiple-entry visas. Frequent travellers with a clean visa history can benefit significantly. Under these rules, after lawfully using two Schengen visas within a three-year period, an applicant can be issued a visa valid for two years. Following that, they may become eligible for a five-year multiple-entry visa, provided their passport has sufficient validity. This reduces the administrative burden for regular visitors to the 29-country Schengen Area.
