Malaysia: Visa-Free Entry with a Digital Catch
Malaysia has extended its visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens until the end of 2026, making spontaneous trips to see the Petronas Towers or explore Penang's street art easier than ever. Indians can now enter Malaysia for up to 30 days for tourism
or business without needing a traditional visa. However, this convenience comes with a mandatory digital step: all travellers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days prior to arrival. Failure to do so can result in delays or even denial of entry. To ensure a smooth process, immigration officials will also expect you to have a confirmed return ticket, proof of accommodation, and sufficient funds for your stay.
Thailand: A Shift from 60 to 30 Days Visa Exemption
Thailand remains a top destination for Indian travellers, but its visa policy has recently been adjusted. After a period of offering a 60-day visa exemption, the Thai Cabinet has approved a new 30-day visa-free stay for Indian nationals. This move shifts India from the Visa on Arrival category to the visa-exempt list, aiming to simplify entry procedures. While the duration has been shortened, the change provides more certainty for travellers, who no longer need to consider a paid Visa on Arrival. The Tourism Authority of Thailand noted that this 30-day period aligns well with the average length of stay for Indian visitors, which is about seven days. This policy is expected to boost tourism, with authorities projecting a record 2.7 million visitors from India.
Sri Lanka: Free of Cost, But an ETA is a Must
Our island neighbour, Sri Lanka, has made travelling from India significantly more affordable. As of May 2026, the country has waived the fee for its Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for Indian citizens. While this is often described as 'visa-free', it's important to note that obtaining the ETA online before your departure is still mandatory. The good news is that the application is now free of charge. This free ETA allows for a 30-day stay and includes a double-entry facility, meaning you can enter the country twice within that 30-day validity period. Although an ETA can sometimes be obtained on arrival, applying online beforehand is strongly recommended to avoid long queues and potential issues at immigration.
Kenya: Visa-Free, But eTA Replaces It
Kenya has opened its doors wide to global travellers, including those from India, by removing traditional visa requirements. However, 'visa-free' doesn't mean you can just show up with your passport. Instead, all visitors must now apply for an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) online before their trip. This system replaces the previous e-visa process. The standard tourist eTA allows for a stay of up to 90 days and is valid for a single entry. While there is still a processing fee associated with the eTA, the government's aim is to streamline the arrival process, reducing queues and paperwork at the airport. Remember, there is no visa-on-arrival facility, so securing your eTA in advance is essential.
