Malaysia: Visa-Free Through 2026
Southeast Asia continues to be a favourite for Indian tourists, and Malaysia has rolled out the welcome mat by extending its visa-free policy for Indian passport holders until December 31, 2026. This allows for a stay of up to 30 days for tourism purposes,
completely eliminating the need for a pre-approved visa and its associated fees. To take advantage of this, travellers simply need a passport with at least six months of validity, proof of a return ticket and accommodation, and must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days before arriving. This policy makes exploring the bustling streets of Kuala Lumpur, the historic charm of Penang, or the pristine beaches of Langkawi easier and more affordable than ever.
Thailand: A New 30-Day Visa Exemption
Thailand has revised its visa rules for Indian citizens, creating a new, streamlined process. In a recent update confirmed in July 2026, the Thai Cabinet approved a 30-day visa exemption for Indian tourists. This move upgrades India from the previous Visa on Arrival (VoA) category. While the popular 60-day visa-free scheme from 2024 has been replaced, this new policy ensures that visiting the Land of Smiles remains straightforward and fee-free for a month-long holiday. The Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT) clarified that this measure reflects India's importance as a key travel market. Until the new rule is officially published in the Royal Gazette, the existing VoA process remains in place, so travellers should confirm the active policy just before their trip.
Kenya: Visa-Free, But With an eTA
For those dreaming of an African safari, Kenya has made a significant change by abolishing traditional visa requirements for all foreign visitors. However, this doesn't mean you can just show up. Instead, Indian travellers must now obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) before their journey. The eTA is a mandatory online pre-screening that determines your eligibility to travel. The application costs around $32.50 USD and it is recommended to apply at least a few days before your travel date. You'll need to provide your passport details, travel itinerary, and accommodation confirmation. This new system replaces the previous e-Visa process, aiming to streamline entry while maintaining security.
Schengen Area: A Clearer Path to Longer Visas
While not a visa-free update, a major development for Europe-bound travellers from India is the EU's new 'cascade' regime for Schengen visas, adopted in April 2024. This policy creates a structured path for frequent travellers to obtain long-term, multiple-entry visas. Indian nationals who have lawfully used two Schengen visas within the last three years can now be issued a two-year multiple-entry visa. Following that, they may become eligible for a five-year visa, provided their passport has enough validity. This change significantly reduces the hassle of reapplying for every trip, offering frequent visitors travel rights similar to those of visa-free nationals. It provides predictability and convenience for those planning regular business or leisure trips to the 29 countries in the Schengen zone.
