Global Mobility Shifts
The Henley Passport Index for 2026 reveals a positive trend for Indian citizens, as India's passport has improved from 85th position in 2025 to 80th globally.
This enhanced ranking indicates better diplomatic relations and easier international travel for Indian passport holders. This progress means more destinations are becoming accessible without the need for visas. However, while the global score looks promising, individual country policies are also crucial. Changes in entry requirements by certain nations can directly affect the ease with which Indians can travel abroad, despite an overall increase in passport power. Thus, it's essential to stay informed about specific visa regulations to ensure smooth travels.
Iran's Visa Mandate
Beginning November 17, 2025, the landscape shifted dramatically for Indian travelers wishing to visit Iran. Previously, visa-free access allowed for short stays, eliminating the need for pre-arranged embassy visits or paperwork. This ease of entry included specific conditions, such as duration limits, proof of financial stability, and the requirement of a return ticket. However, this has changed; now, Indian citizens must apply for a visa before traveling, even for transit purposes. The Ministry of External Affairs cautioned Indian citizens about potential risks, particularly with misleading offers of visa-free entry that have led to unfortunate incidents, including instances of being lured and later held for ransom. Therefore, it is strongly advised to meticulously prepare and secure the required visa before embarking on any trip to Iran.
Bolivia's e-Visa Requirement
In 2026, Bolivia has also revised its entry policies for Indian passport holders, implementing a mandatory e-Visa system. This means that travelers must now secure an e-Visa before their departure. The e-Visa application process includes online submissions, uploading essential documents, and paying the required fees electronically. Approval must be granted before travel. Previously, in 2025, Indian citizens could benefit from a visa-on-arrival system, allowing them to complete formalities upon reaching Bolivian airports. This change reflects adjustments in how visa policies are categorised, with visa-on-arrival counted as easy access, while e-Visas fall under the ‘visa required’ category. These shifts underscore the importance of regularly reviewing the most up-to-date entry requirements to avoid travel disruptions.
Impact & Destinations Count
The net result of these adjustments by Iran and Bolivia is a decrease in the number of easy-entry destinations available to Indian travelers, despite the overall improvement in India’s passport ranking. While the Henley Passport Index for 2026 has shown an enhancement in global mobility for Indians, the accessible destinations decreased from 57 to 55. This indicates a complex relationship between a nation’s passport ranking and the specific policies of other countries. Indian travelers must remain vigilant and informed about these developments to ensure smooth journeys. This situation highlights the necessity of double-checking all travel requirements before making any bookings, regardless of previous experiences.
Stay Informed & Prepared
Visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and eTA policies are subject to change due to various global factors, including diplomatic considerations, security concerns, health issues, or migration trends. Consequently, Indian travelers are urged to always verify the latest entry requirements before making any travel arrangements, even to destinations that previously offered easy entry. The key takeaway is to stay updated on the most current regulations. This proactive approach ensures that travelers can adapt quickly to any changes and prevent unexpected issues. By staying informed and verifying the current requirements, Indian travelers can confidently plan their trips and avoid potential setbacks. Always check the official guidelines for the most accurate and current information to make informed decisions.
