With global travel becoming more accessible, there’s never been a better time to take advantage of visa-free travel for Indians. Whether you’re chasing waterfalls in Mauritius, beach hopping in Thailand, or just checking off your bucket list, these visa free countries for Indian passport holders make it easier than ever to travel stress-free.
A visa free country for Indian passport holders is a country where Indian citizens can travel without needing a visa in advance. In simple terms, you do not need to apply for a visa at an embassy, consulate, or even online before your trip. You just pack your bags, book your tickets, and fly off.
However, this doesn’t mean all these countries are completely free of any requirements. Some of them allow visa on arrival; which means you’ll get the visa once you land in the country. But all of them are considered visa-free travel for Indians because you don’t have to go through the traditional lengthy process of visa approval.
Though, there are two neighbouring countries that do not require a passport for entry, Nepal and Bhutan. While no passport is required for entry, Indian citizens must carry valid identification documents such as an Aadhaar card, driving licence, or voter ID card while travelling to these countries.
Understand the Difference Between Visa-free, Visa -on-Arrival, E-visa
Visa-Free: No Visa required, e.g. Thailand, Kazakhstan, Jamaica
Visa-on Arrival: Get your Visa on arrival, e.g. Maldives, Seychelles
E-visa: Apply online before you fly, e.g. Turkey, UAE
01.Thailand
Indian citizens can enjoy visa-free entry to Thailand for tourism purposes, allowing stays of up to 60 days. If you wish to stay longer than 60 days, you can apply for a visa extension. The ease of travel and variety of attractions, from Bangkok to the islands, make it a top destination for Indians.
While visa-free entry is available, you can also apply for a Visa-on-Arrival at certain airports, but it’s recommended to check the specific requirements and eligible airports in advance.
Valid passport with at least six months of validity, confirmed return or onward flight tickets, proof of accommodation, proof of financial means, and passport-sized photographs are essentially required. Ensure your passport has at least one blank page for visa stamps. Be prepared to show proof of sufficient funds upon arrival.
Also, all foreign nationals including Indians must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card before entering the country.
Key aspect of tourism in Thailand
Thailand is a popular tourist destination known for its beaches, temples, vibrant culture, and delicious food, attracting millions of visitors annually, with a target of 40 million tourists in 2025.
Beaches and Islands: Thailand boasts stunning beaches and numerous islands, including popular destinations like Koh Phi Phi, Koh Samui, and Krabi. The capital city, Bangkok, offers a mix of historical landmarks, bustling markets, and modern attractions.
Temples & Historical Sites: The country is rich in temples, monasteries, and historical sites, showcasing its rich cultural heritage.
Food: Thai cuisine is renowned worldwide, with street food and fine dining experiences available throughout the country.
Shopping: Thailand is a shopper’s paradise, with markets, malls, and department stores offering a wide variety of goods.
Nightlife: Thailand is known for its vibrant nightlife, with options ranging from lively bars to quiet pubs.
Other Attractions: Elephant sanctuaries, national parks, and cultural festivals are also popular.
02. Mauritius
It’s a perfect destination for beach lovers it’s a scenic beauty makes it an experience of a lifetime. Indian citizens can enter Mauritius for tourism, business, or short visits without a visa for stays of up to 90 days. There’s no need for a pre-registration procedure or visa application before travel. You can obtain a visa on arrival at the airport, free of charge, for tourist purposes.
You must have a passport, valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Mauritius, confirmed return or onward ticket, enough money to cover your stay along with the proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or invitation letter.
Mauritius, an Indian Ocean island nation, is a popular tourist destination known for its stunning natural beauty, diverse attractions, and vibrant culture. It offers a mix of relaxation, adventure, and cultural experiences, making it appealing to a wide range of travellers. The island’s tropical climate, pristine beaches, and lush landscapes attract visitors seeking both beach holidays and nature exploration.
Key aspects of tourism in Mauritius
Attractions: Mauritius boasts diverse attractions including beaches (Mont Choisy, Trou-aux-Biches, Flic en Flac), waterfalls (Chamarel), lagoons, and national parks (Black River Gorges).
Culture: The island’s culture is a blend of African, Indian, Chinese, and European influences, reflected in its cuisine, music, and architecture.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy water sports, hiking, exploring markets, and learning about local traditions like the Sega dance.
Best time to visit: The ideal time to visit Mauritius is from May to December when the weather is cool, dry, and sunny, perfect for beach activities and exploring the outdoors.
Getting Around: Taxis and rental cars are readily available for getting around the island. Buses are also a popular and affordable way to travel.
03. Malaysia
Indian citizens can enter Malaysia visa-free for tourism purposes until December 31, 2026, with a stay of up to 30 days per visit, but must have a passport valid for at least six months and complete the Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC).
Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay. You must complete the MDAC online before your trip. Confirmed return or onward flight ticket, sufficient funds to cover your stay and proof 0f accomodation are essential requiremets to enter in Malaysia. For minors, a birth certificate and a copy of the parent’s passports are required. For other purposes such as work, study, etc. you will need to obtain the appropriate visa before entering Malaysia.
Key aspect of tourism in Malaysia
Malaysia, with its diverse landscapes and rich culture, is a popular tourist destination offering a blend of bustling cities, historical sites, pristine beaches, and lush rainforests, making it a ‘Truly Asia’ experience.
Popular Destinations: Kuala Lumpur with the Petronas Towers and KL Tower, Penang with George Town, Langkawi with Langkawi Sky Bridge, Malacca with Jonker Street, Sabah with Sarawak, and the Cameron Highlands are some of the most popular cities to travel.
Cultural Experiences: Explore the vibrant streets of George Town, visit the Batu Caves, or discover the rich history of Malacca.
Natural Wonders: Enjoy the pristine beach
04. Kenya
Indian citizens planning to travel to Kenya now require an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) instead of a visa, which can be obtained online before their trip. You’ll also need a valid passport with at least six months remaining on it and two blank pages.
Apart from that, you’ll likely need to show a return or onward ticket, proof of accommodation, such as a hotel booking or an invitation from a friend or family member and it’s recommended to have travel medical insurance. Depending on the type of visa, you may need to provide evidence that you have enough funds to cover your stay in Kenya. You will need a recent passport-style photograph for your eTA application.
Key aspects of tourism in Kenya
Kenya, with its diverse landscapes and wildlife, is a popular destination for tourism, offering safaris, cultural experiences, and beach holidays, and is the third largest source of foreign exchange revenue for the country.
Wildlife and Safaris: Masai Mara: Renowned for its vast savannah, the Great Migration (wildebeest crossing the Mara River), and abundant wildlife, including lions, leopards, cheetahs, elephants, and giraffes.
Amboseli National Park: Offers stunning views of Mount Kilimanjaro and a diverse range of wildlife, including elephants and giraffes.
Hot Air Balloon Safaris: A unique way to experience the Masai Mara at sunrise, often followed by a “Champagne Bush Breakfast”.
Cultural Experiences: Maasai Culture: Visiting a traditional Maasai village provides insight into their nomadic lifestyle.
Coastal Culture: The Swahili culture is prominent in coastal cities like Mombasa and Lamu (a UNESCO World Heritage site), with unique architecture and donkeys as the primary mode of transport in the old town.
Cultural Heritage Sites: Fort Jesus, Vasco da Gama Pillar, Krapf Memorial Museum, and Kaya Kinondo (sacred forest) offer glimpses into Kenya’s history and heritage.
Beaches and Coastal Areas: Watamu, Diani Beach, and Galu Beach known for their beautiful beaches and coral reefs.
Best Time to Visit: June to October offers dry weather and pleasant temperatures, making it ideal for safaris.
05. Kazakhstan
Indian citizens can enter Kazakhstan visa-free for up to 14 consecutive days under a new visa-free entry regime. However, the total duration of visa-free stays within any 180-day period cannot exceed 42 days. For stays longer than 14 days, a visa is required.
A visa can be obtained through the e-visa system for tourism or business purposes, allowing for a stay of up to 90 days. The e-visa application process is online and allows for submitting documents electronically.
Key aspects of tourism in Kazakhastan
Kazakhstan offers a diverse range of attractions for tourists, from vibrant cities to stunning natural landscapes and historical sites. Kazakhstan is generally considered an affordable travel destination, offering a range of budget-friendly options for accommodation and activities.
Kazakhstan offers a mix of urban and rural experiences, with modern architecture and historical sites like the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi. Kazakhstan’s tourism industry is experiencing growth, with the market projected to reach $1.09 billion by 2025.
Almaty: A cultural and tourism hub with attractions like the Central Museum, Ascension Cathedral, Panfilov Park, and the iconic Kok-Tobe Hill, offering panoramic city views.
Nur-Sultan (Astana): The capital city, known for its modern architecture, including the Bayterek Monument, and the right and left banks, each offering unique historical and modern experiences.
Charyn Canyon National Park: Home to the world’s largest canyon, this park offers stunning views of the Valley of the Castles and Charyn Ash Grove.
Lake Kaindy: A unique lake with an underwater forest of submerged trees, perfect for hiking and photography.
Turgen Gorge: A nature lover’s paradise with waterfalls, lakes, meadows, and dense forests, ideal for trekking and biking.
Natural Landscapes: Kazakhstan is home to stunning landscapes like the Big Almaty Lake and the Kok-Tobe Hill, offering opportunities for outdoor activities.
Cultural Experiences: The country offers insights into Kazakh culture, traditions, and cuisine, with opportunities to visit museums and experience local life.
Best Time to Visit: The ideal time to visit Kazakhstan is from April to May and September to October, when the weather is milder and the landscape is more alluring.
06. Sri Lanka
Indian citizens generally need an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) to enter Sri Lanka for tourism or business. This eTA is a digital permit linked to your passport and allows for a short stay, typically up to 30 days. You can apply for the eTA online through the official Sri Lanka ETA website.
Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your intended stay in Sri Lanka. You’ll need a scanned copy of the first and last pages of your passport. You’ll need a credit or debit card to pay the eTA fee. A scanned copy of a recent passport-sized photo may be required. Confirmed return ticket and proof of accomodation is essential.
Sri Lanka offers a diverse range of tourist experiences, from ancient cities and temples to beautiful beaches and wildlife reserves. The country is known for its cultural heritage, natural beauty, and affordable prices, making it a popular destination for both budget and luxury travellers.
Key aspects of tourism in Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka boasts a variety of attractions, including ancient cities like Anuradhapura and Polonnaruwa, the cultural triangle with sites like Sigiriya and Dambulla, stunning beaches like Mirissa and Unawatuna, and lush tea plantations in the highlands.
Popular Tourist Places: Colombo, Kandy, Galle, Anuradhapura, Polonnaruwa, Sigiriya, Nuwara Eliya, Ella, Dambulla, and Mirissa are among the most popular tourist places in Sri Lanka.
Wildlife and Nature: The country is home to diverse wildlife, including elephants, leopards, and a variety of bird species, making it a popular destination for wildlife enthusiasts.
Cultural Experiences: Sri Lanka has a rich cultural heritage, with ancient temples, religious sites, and vibrant festivals.
Affordable Travel: Sri Lanka is generally considered an affordable travel destination, with options for both budget and luxury travellers.
Best Time to Visit: The best time to visit Sri Lanka depends on the region. The Western and Southern coasts are best visited from December to April, while the Eastern coast is best from April, May, and September.
07. Fiji
Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Fiji and can obtain a visitor’s permit upon arrival, which is valid for up to four months. A valid passport, valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay, is the primary requirement. Additional documentation may be needed depending on the purpose of the visit, such as a return ticket and proof of sufficient funds and proof of accomodation. While no visa is required, obtaining a visitor’s permit on arrival is still necessary. Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps.
Key aspects of tourism in Fiji
Fiji’s tourism industry is vibrant and diverse, drawing visitors with its stunning natural beauty, rich culture, and diverse activities. The islands offer pristine beaches, lush rainforests, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a popular destination for beach vacations, diving, and adventure tourism. Key attractions include the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands, known for their beauty, and Taveuni, nicknamed “The Garden Island” for its verdant landscapes.
Natural Beauty: Fiji is famous for its turquoise waters, white sand beaches, and vibrant coral reefs, making it a paradise for beach lovers and water sports enthusiasts.
Adventure Activities: From scuba diving and snorkeling to kayaking and surfing, Fiji offers a wide range of activities for the adventurous traveller.
Cultural Experiences: Visitors can learn about Fiji’s rich history and culture through visits to national heritage parks, museums, and traditional villages.
Island Hopping: The numerous islands of Fiji offer unique experiences, with each island offering its own distinct charm and attractions.
Popular Islands: Viti Levu, Vanua Levu, Taveuni, and the Mamanuca and Yasawa Islands are among the most visited islands.
Best Time to Visit: The Fijian winter, from May to October, is considered the best time to visit for pleasant weather and numerous.
08. Kiribati
Karibati refers to Kiribati, an island country in the central Pacific Ocean, officially known as the Republic of Kiribati. Indian citizens generally do not require a visa for Kiribati for stays of up to 28 days; however, they must hold a valid Indian passport, a return/onward ticket, and sufficient funds for their stay.
Key aspect of tourism in Kiribati
Kiribati is a hidden gem for those seeking a unique island experience, with its natural beauty, cultural richness, and opportunities for adventure and relaxation. Kiribati, a Pacific island nation, is becoming an increasingly important destination for tourism, though still relatively undeveloped. It offers unique cultural experiences, white sandy beaches, and breathtaking sunsets, attracting those seeking adventure and relaxation.
Unique Destination: Kiribati is a remote, island nation in the central Pacific Ocean, consisting of 33 islands, 21 of which are inhabited.
Developing Sector: While tourism is growing, it’s not yet the largest sector of Kiribati’s economy, which relies heavily on exports of copra and coconuts.
Beaches: Kiribati is known for its white sandy beaches and beautiful sunsets.
Culture: Visitors can experience Kiribati’s unique culture, values, and traditions.
Tarawa Atoll: The capital and most populated region, Tarawa Atoll, offers a blend of modern life and historical significance, including the site of World War II battles at Betio.
Other Islands: Explore other islands like Makin Island, Aranuka Island, and Ambo Island.
09. Jamaica
Indian citizens do not require a visa to enter Jamaica for tourism or cultural purposes for stays up to 90 days. A valid passport is sufficient for entry. Upon arrival, an immigration officer will stamp the passport, which serves as a valid tourist visa for the period of the stay. The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay. This visa-free entry applies to tourism and cultural purposes.
Key aspects of Tourism in Jamaica
Jamaica is a popular tourism destination known for its vibrant culture, beautiful beaches, and lush landscapes. The island offers a blend of relaxation, adventure, and cultural exploration. Key attractions include Dunn’s River Falls, Seven Mile Beach, and Blue Hole. The tourism industry is a major driver of Jamaica’s economy, with the Jamaica Tourist Board (JTB) playing a key role in promoting the island as a global destination.
Attractions: Jamaica boasts a diverse range of attractions, including natural wonders like waterfalls, rivers, beaches, as well as cultural sites like the Bob Marley Museum and Devon House.
Activities: Visitors can enjoy various activities, from relaxing on beaches to exploring the island’s interior through hiking, rafting, or wildlife tours.
Accommodation: Jamaica offers a wide variety of accommodation options, from all-inclusive resorts to smaller hotels and guesthouses, catering to different budgets and preferences.
Cultural Experiences: Jamaica’s unique culture is a major draw, with visitors able to experience local music, food, and traditions.
10. Macao
Indian citizens can enter Macau visa-free for stays of up to 30 days. If you plan to stay longer than 30 days, you will need to apply for a visa, either before your trip or upon arrival. This allows for visa-free travel for tourism or business purposes. You must ensure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry.
Macau and Hong Kong have separate immigration policies, so you need to check the requirements for each location separately. If you are planning to visit Hong Kong as well, you may need a Pre-Arrival Registration (PAR) for short stays of up to 14 days.
Key aspects of tourism in Macau
Macau tourism is a blend of cultural attractions, world-class entertainment, and vibrant dining, making it a popular destination for travellers. The city is known for its unique fusion of Chinese and Portuguese influences, evident in its historic center, architecture, and cuisine. Macau’s gambling industry is also a major draw, with numerous casinos and entertainment venues.
Cultural and Historic Sites: The historic center of Macau, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, features landmarks like the Ruins of St. Paul’s, Senado Square, and A-Ma Temple.
Entertainment and Gaming: Macau is known for its casinos and entertainment venues, including the City of Dreams and the Venetian Macao.
Food and Drink: Macau offers a diverse culinary scene, with Portuguese and Chinese influences, and is known for its egg tarts and claypot coffee.
Shopping: The city features shopping malls and boutiques, including those in the major casinos.
Events and Festivals: Macau hosts various events throughout the year, including the Macau Arts Festival, dragon boat races, and fireworks displays.
11. Nepal
Indian citizens do not need to apply for the Nepal visa since it is a visa free country for Indian citizens. If you are planning a Nepal trip from India, all you need is an identity proof like your Election Card that is issued by Election Commission or passport to enter Nepal.
Children under 18 may need to show a birth certificate or school ID along with a parent or guardian.
Key aspects of tourism in Nepal
Tourism is Nepal’s largest industry and a primary source of foreign exchange and revenue, contributing significantly to the country’s GDP. Landscapes, rich culture, and adventure opportunities, attracting tourists for trekking, wildlife viewing, and cultural experiences.
Himalayan Mountains: Nepal is home to eight of the world’s ten highest mountains, making it a magnet for mountaineers, rock climbers, and adventure seekers.
Trekking and Hiking: Popular trekking routes include those to Mount Everest and the Annapurna region.
Cultural and Religious Sites: Kathmandu, Pokhara, Lumbini (birthplace of Buddha), and other cities offer a rich tapestry of culture, heritage, and religious sites.
Wildlife and Nature: National parks like Chitwan and Bardiya offer opportunities for wildlife viewing and nature exploration.
Adventure Activities: River rafting, biking, and paragliding are popular adventure activities.
12. Bhutan
Indian citizens do not need a visa to enter Bhutan but require an entry permit. This permit is issued at the point of entry, such as Phuentsholing or Paro International Airport. To obtain an entry permit, Indian citizens need a valid Indian passport or Voter ID, two passport-sized photos, and travel insurance.
The entry permit is typically valid for up to 7 days and can be extended if needed. The entry permit allows you to visit only Thimphu and Paro. To visit other areas, you’ll need a Special Area Permit, which can be obtained from the Immigration Office in Thimphu. If you are driving your own vehicle, you will also need an Extension Permit from the Road Safety and Transportation Authority (RSTA).
Key aspects of tourism in Bhutan
Bhutan offers a unique tourism experience centered on its pristine natural beauty, rich cultural heritage, and a focus on happiness. The country attracts visitors with its stunning landscapes, including mountains, forests, and valleys, as well as its well-preserved Buddhist monasteries and traditions. Bhutan’s tourism is managed under a ‘high-value, low-volume’ policy, aiming to balance environmental protection and sustainable development.
Natural Beauty: Bhutan boasts diverse ecosystems, including lush forests, pristine valleys, and high-altitude mountain regions.
Cultural Heritage: The country is home to numerous monasteries, dzongs (fortified monasteries), and religious sites, reflecting its deep-rooted Buddhist culture.
Sustainable Tourism: Bhutan’s tourism policies emphasize environmental protection and community involvement.
Unique Experiences: Visitors can enjoy trekking, wildlife viewing, cultural festivals, and wellness activities.
Here is list of countries allow Indian nationals to travel without a visa for a limited time:
- Angola 30 Days
- Barbados 90 Days
- Micronesia 30 Days
- Dominica 180 Days
- El Salvador 180 days
- Palestinian Territories Visa-free
- Rwanda 30 days
- Gambia 90 days
- Saint Kitts and Nevis 90 days
- Grenada 90 days
- Senegal 90 days
- Haiti 90 days
- St. Vincent & Grenadines 90 days
- Iran 15 days
- Trinidad and Tobago 90 days
- Vanuatu 120 days
