Visa-Free Countries for Indian Citizens

Visa-free countries allow travellers to enter without obtaining a visa in advance. The countries that are visa-free for Indian citizens eliminate the need for lengthy visa applications and enable spontaneous travel. In such countries, a valid passport suffices for entry and simplifies travel plans.

How many countries can Indians visit without a visa? As of February 2025, Indian citizens can enter 26 visa-free countries. The convenience of entry in a free visa country for Indian citizens opens doors to numerous adventures without any bureaucratic hurdles. Indian passport holders can explore new cultures and landscapes without the stress of visa procedures.

When entering a foreign country, travellers may encounter various entry types:

• Visa-Free Entry: It permits entry without a visa for a specified duration.
• Visa on Arrival: It provides a visa upon arrival at the destination.
• e-Visa: Apply online and receive an electronic visa before departure.
• Traditional Visa: Obtain a visa from the destination's consulate or embassy prior to travel.

Each country determines its own entry requirements based on diplomatic relations and policies between them and India.

Visa-free countries make travel more convenient. Even though there are no visa-free European countries for Indian citizens, Indians can visit many other countries without a visa.

How many visa free countries for Indian citizens are there? Let us explore these countries.

Many countries offer Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) facilities to Indian passport holders. Here is a list of destinations that allow this facility to Indian passport holders:

[Note: The visa policies are subject to change at any time. It is advisable to verify the current visa requirements with the official consular services of the destination country before planning your trip.]

Read More: Schengen Visa for Indians

xIn addition to visa-free countries for Indian citizens, numerous countries offer e-visa facilities to Indian passport holders. Here is a list of destinations offering this facility:

[Note: The visa policies are subject to change. It is advisable to verify the current visa requirements with the official consular services of the destination country before planning your trip.]

Also Read: How to Apply for VISA Online

Indian citizens can travel to Nepal and Bhutan without a passport.

• Nepal: For Nepal, a valid photo ID, such as a Voter ID card, suffices.
• Bhutan: Bhutan allows entry with a Voter ID or other government-issued identification.

These arrangements facilitate easier travel for Indians to these neighbouring countries.

Indian citizens can access several countries without a visa. It makes international travel more convenient. However, even in these visa-free destinations, certain entry requirements must be met:

• Valid Passport: Ensure your passport has at least six months' validity from your date of arrival.
• Proof of Sufficient Funds: Some countries may require you to have enough funds to cover your stay.
• Return or Onward Ticket: A confirmed return or onward travel ticket is often necessary.
• Accommodation Details: Proof of lodging, such as hotel reservations or an invitation letter, may be required.
• Health Requirements: Certain destinations might require vaccination certificates, like those for COVID-19 or yellow fever.

Please Note: Visa-free entry does not permit employment or long-term stays. Always verify the specific entry requirements of each destination before planning your trip, as policies can change.

Also Read: How to Apply for Passport? Online and Offline

Indian passport holders can visit various countries without a visa. However, certain travel documents are essential to ensure smooth entry:

Valid Passport

You should have a valid passport for at least six months beyond your intended departure date. Some countries may have specific validity requirements.

Return or Onward Ticket

Many visa-free countries require proof of a return or onward journey to confirm your departure plans within the allowed stay period.

Proof of Accommodation

Some nations may ask for details on accommodation during your visit. You may show hotel reservations or an invitation letter from a host.

Sufficient Funds

Demonstrating adequate financial means to cover your stay is often necessary. This can include bank statements.

Travel Insurance

Having travel insurance is advisable to cover unforeseen situations like medical emergencies or trip cancellations.

Also Read: How to Check Visa Status with Passport Number

Even though there are many visa-free countries for Indian citizens, you are required to have a suitable visa to enter many other countries. The type of visa you will need depends on the purpose of the travel and the duration of the visit. Some visa categories are as follows:

Tourist Visa

A tourist visa is issued for leisure travel, sightseeing, or visiting friends and family. It is valid for short stays in the destination country.

Business Visa

It is for attending business meetings, conferences, or exploring commercial opportunities. It does not permit employment in the host country.

Employment Visa

It is required for individuals seeking to work in a foreign country. It requires a job offer and sponsorship from an employer in the destination country.

Student Visa

It is for pursuing academic studies or research at educational institutions abroad. Applicants must provide proof of admission.

Transit Visa

It is needed when passing through a country en route to another destination. Validity is generally short-term.

Medical Visa

It is for those seeking medical treatment in another country. It requires documentation from the medical facility providing treatment.

Journalist Visa

It is issued to media personnel travelling for professional purposes, such as reporting or filming.

Also Read: What is the Difference Between a Visa and a Passport?

Exploring visa-free countries simplifies international travel and makes spontaneous abroad trips more accessible for Indian passport holders. However, unexpected situations can arise even in the easiest travel destinations. A travel insurance policy ensures financial security against medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen issues.

At TATA AIG, we provide comprehensive international travel medical insurance to keep you protected wherever you go. If you get into situations like a lost passport, medical emergency, or trip delay, our travel insurance plans offer necessary financial support. You can easily purchase travel insurance online and ensure a hassle-free experience before your journey.

Travelling abroad should be about creating memories, not worrying about uncertainties. With TATA AIG, you can explore the world confidently as you have the right protection in place. Plan your next trip, secure your travel insurance online, and embark on worry-free adventures!