1. Kenya: Visa-Free, But Not Paperwork-Free
Kenya made headlines by announcing visa-free entry for all global travellers, including Indians, starting in 2024. While this move was widely celebrated, the term "visa-free" can be misleading. Indian passport holders no longer need to apply for a traditional
visa, but they must obtain an Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) online before departure. This is a mandatory pre-screening process. The application requires your passport, a photo, contact information, travel itinerary, and accommodation booking confirmation. While most applications are processed within a few days, it is not instant and there is a processing fee involved. Arriving in Nairobi without a pre-approved eTA will lead to denied entry. This change from an e-visa system to a required eTA is a crucial detail for anyone planning a Kenyan safari or coastal getaway, as it's a new mandatory step that replaces the old visa process entirely.
2. Malaysia: A Generous but Temporary Welcome
Malaysia has long been a favourite for Indian tourists, and the good news is that it currently offers visa-free entry for stays of up to 30 days. This policy has been extended through December 31, 2026, to boost tourism. However, this isn't a permanent arrangement and is subject to extensions or changes, making it essential to verify the rules close to your travel date. More importantly, even with the visa exemption, travellers must complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days before arriving. This is a free but compulsory step. Forgetting to fill out the MDAC can cause significant delays at immigration. Additionally, officers may still ask for proof of sufficient funds, a confirmed return ticket, and accommodation details. For stays longer than 30 days, a standard e-visa is still required.
3. The Schengen Area: Navigating System-Wide Upgrades
For Indian travellers, getting a Schengen visa has always been a meticulous process. While India is not part of the new ETIAS visa-waiver program (that's for visa-exempt countries), significant background changes in 2026 still affect the process. The Schengen zone is rolling out a new Entry/Exit System (EES), which replaces manual passport stamping with digital biometric scans to track the 90/180-day rule automatically. Furthermore, a transition to fully digital visas—a barcode you receive online instead of a sticker in your passport—is underway. While these changes aim for future efficiency, the immediate effect can be increased scrutiny during the application process. On a positive note, the 'cascade regime' is now more consistently applied, which means travellers with a good visa history have a clearer path to obtaining multiple-entry visas valid for two or even five years, a major benefit for frequent flyers.
4. South Africa: A New Digital Path with Caveats
South Africa recently simplified its entry process by introducing an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) system for eligible Indian travellers. This new online platform promises processing within 24 to 48 hours for short-term visits of up to 90 days, replacing the often lengthy traditional visa application. The ETA is digitally linked to your passport and allows for multiple entries. However, there are important details to note. As of mid-2026, the ETA system is only available for travellers arriving at specific international airports like Johannesburg, Cape Town, and Lanseria. Furthermore, reports suggest that the online ETA might not be available for travellers with children under 18, who may need to use the conventional, slower visa application route. This makes it critical for families to verify the exact requirements for all travellers before booking non-refundable tickets. It's a great step forward, but one that requires a careful reading of the fine print.
