Visa On Arrival Countries For Indians
Visa on Arrival Countries for Indians
All of us love to travel to and explore new places as much as possible. Not only does travelling widen our horizons, but it also enables us to take a pause and reconnect with our inner selves, a goal that is incredibly elusive amidst the turmoil of our daily lives.
It is always better to be safe than sorry, and travelling is no exception to said rule. Therefore, before embarking on your next adventure, ensure that you have a suitable travel policy for your journey to and from and stay in the intended destination.
Whilst one essential prerequisite for international travel is a suitable travel insurance, another is a valid passport and visa. There are two main categories of visas offered by different countries across the globe, namely:
- A Pre-Approved Visa
- A Visa on Arrival
To travel to some nations, you need a pre-approved visa that has a comprehensive application and approval process, which must be completed well in advance of the intended travel date. However, some countries offer visas on arrival to visitors, making it easy to plan a visit.
Visa on Arrival
A visa on arrival is a type of visa issued at the time of a foreign national’s arrival in a country. The application for a visa on arrival is usually submitted at the airport along with the necessary documents as directed by the respective immigration authorities. It is important to note that a visa on arrival is issued for a specific period and a predetermined fee.
There are several advantages of a visa on arrival, some of which have been listed below.
- No need to file a visa application
- The flexibility to make travel plans and arrangements at a relatively short notice
- Minimal paperwork required
You should also note that some countries are “visa-free”, meaning you do not require any type of visa to travel there.
Although you may be required to apply for relevant permits depending on the nature of your visit, for the more part, you will not require a pre-approved visa to travel to visa-free countires or countries where India is included under their list of visa-exempt nations. A popular example of this is Seychelles.
Popular countries that issue a visa on arrival to Indians
Several nations offer the facility of visas on arrival to Indian nationals or are visa free. Here are more popular options for Indian passport holders.
1. The Maldives
Set in the Indian Ocean, the gorgeous archipelago of the Maldives is an international tourist attraction that sees extensive footfall from tourists across the globe. Due to its scenic beaches, private resorts, and proximity to India, the picturesque island nation is the preferred travel destination for Indian nationals.
The Maldives issue a tourist visa on arrival to Indian citizens that is valid for 30 days in the island nation. However, it is advisable to peruse the list of entry requirements and travel documents for the Maldives before your trip to the scenic archipelago.
Visa Cost: The visa on arrival to the Maldives is free for Indian citizens.
2. Myanmar
Myanmar has had long-standing cultural, economic, and strategic ties with India and is one of the nations that provide visas on arrival to Indian citizens, albeit through specific international entry checkpoints at the following airports.
- Yangon International Airport;
- Mandalay International Airport;
- Nap Pyi Taw International Airport.
Visa Cost: A visa on arrival for Myanmar shall cost an Indian citizen $50.
3. Fiji
Located in the southern part of the Pacific Ocean, Fiji is an archipelago that is renowned across the globe for its mountains, beaches, reefs, and lagoons. Indian nationals planning a trip to Fiji need not apply for a pre-approved visa as India is included under Fiji’s list on visa exmept countries
Visa Cost: No fees are needed since Indian passport holders are visa-exempt when travelling to Fiji, but you may be required to pay certain mandatory fees at the airport upon arrival.
4. Sri Lanka
Located to the south of the Indian subcontinent Sri Lanka offers visas to Indian citizens, provided you carry an Electronic Travel Authorisation on arrival. Visitors with a valid ETA are issued short visit visas in Sri Lanka for 30 days.
Visa Cost: For citizens of SAARC member nations, including Indian nationals, there is a fee of $25 for a double-entry short visit visa for Sri Lanka, carrying a validity of 30 days. This visa is issued on arrival at a port of entry in Sri Lanka.
5. Seychelles
Considered the dream destination for nature enthusiasts, Seychelles is home to several picturesque beaches, natural reserves, and coral reefs. Indian nationals travelling to Seychelles are issued visas on arrival in the island nation.
Visa Cost: The visa on arrival for Seychelles does not carry any cost and is valid for 30 days.
Here is the complete list of nations providing visas on arrival to Indian nationals
Bolivia
This South American country is a favourite among travellers for its ethnic diversity and is the place to be if you are an avid trekker or mountaineer. The mountain range of the Cordillera Real, the Huayna Potosi mountain peak, and Sajama and Illimani are some of the popular spots where you can enjoy an invigorating trek.
A single-entry visa that is valid for 30 days takes about 3-4 days of processing time. Depending on whether you are going there for a business trip or a holiday, the cost of the visa will vary.
Visa Cost – ₹1,399 (tourist), ₹7,999 (business)
Cook Islands
You’ll be surprised by the culture of the Cook Islands as the population there believes in sustainable living. Right from water conservation to the use of electric vehicles, you can enjoy an eco-friendly vacation over here. And when you feel lazy, you can bask on a sunny beach on a hammock with some fresh coconut water!
While there is a lot to do at the Cook Islands, make sure to plan your trip well. The good news is that you need not worry about a business or tourist visa for up to 31 days if you are an Indian national.
Visa Cost – Free
Indonesia
When you think about Indonesia, Bali is the first name that clicks with you as it is among the most popular tourist spots there. Apart from the wondrous beaches and delicious local cuisine, you can also experience the exotic wildlife in Indonesia.
And the good news is that, as an Indian, you can enjoy up to 30 days of visa-free stay in Indonesia! Since the visa is exempted for Indian citizens, that is one thing you can strike off your list if you are travelling for a week-long work trip or holiday.
Visa Cost – Free
Jamaica
Jamaican beaches, as well as their reggae music and coffee, are quite popular all over the world, and so, it is no surprise if a trip to Jamaica is on your list too! All you need is your itinerary and your passport because, as an Indian national, you do not need a visa for up to 14 days on your trip to Jamaica.
However, it would be a good idea to check if you have any connecting flights overseas while visiting this destination, in which case, you will need a visa for the second location.
Visa Cost – Free
Jordan
Jordan, as a country, has an interesting history which a lot of travellers like to explore. The Dead Sea, Wadi Rum, and Colonnaded Street are some of the many interesting places worth visiting. This country is also a favourite destination for higher education for students across the globe.
India has had diplomatic relations with Jordan, and so, procuring a visa is not a difficult process.
You only need to ensure that you have all the required documents in place, depending on the nature of your visit. You can also get a transit visa for Jordan if you are travelling to Europe or Africa through Jordan.
Visa Cost –
- Single-entry visa - 1 month: JD 40
- Double-entry visas - 3 months: JD 60
- Multiple-entry visas - 6 months: JD 120
Mauritania
The country of Mauritania has a lot to offer to tourists who seek different types of thrills. Whether you want to go bird-watching, tour the city or relax among green palm groves, there’s something for everyone. And then, there is also the delicious traditional food that you will simply enjoy!
If you’re visiting friends or relatives in Mauritania, simply taking a short vacation or going there for business purposes, you can easily get a single-entry Mauritania visa that is valid for 30 days.
Visa Cost – ₹999
Nigeria
A well-planned trip to Nigeria can be a lot of fun if you like shopping at local markets for handicrafts, camping, or partying at the Calabar Carnival. But that’s not all; this country has a lot more to offer to tourists, and one needs to visit Nigeria to understand nature’s beauty in the wildlife parks, savannas and warm springs!
Procuring a Nigerian visa is not difficult. The online process is quite simple and takes about 20-25 processing days. The validity of a single or multiple-entry visa is 90 days.
Visa Cost – ₹26,399
Niue Island
Located in the South Pacific Ocean, Niue Island is renowned across the globe for its picturesque coral reefs and limestone cliffs. All travellers to this beautiful island nation are required to carry a passport valid for at least three months from the date of arrival.
As far as a visa is concerned, if you are planning to stay in the country as a tourist for a period not exceeding 30 days, you are not required to apply for a pre-approved visa. Just remember that you need to have onward journey tickets and sufficient funds to finance your stay at the island. Therefore, there is one less thing to worry about in the checklist for your proposed trip to Niue Island.
Visa Cost – Free
Qatar
Nestled in the Arabian Peninsula, Qatar is a nation in Western Asia that is renowned as much for its desert plains as its beaches. Considered to be one of the most visited travel destinations across the world, Qatar has a visa-+policy for the citizens of more than 95 countries, India being one of them.
If you are planning to travel to Qatar from India, you shall be eligible for a visa-on-arrival valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. This period can be further extended by another 30 days to make the total stay duration of 60 days. The aforementioned visa is valid for both single and multiple trips to Qatar.
Visa Cost – Free
The Republic of Marshall Islands
Situated near the Equator, the Republic of Marshall Islands is a small archipelago comprising 5 islands. With more than 97 per cent of its geographical territory constituted by water, this island nation is famous for its lagoons, beaches and coral reefs.
The Republic of Marshall islands offers visa-on-arrival to Indian nationals, provided they travel with a passport valid for a minimum of 6 months from the date of arrival and the required health-related documents. This visa is valid for a period of 30 days from the date of arrival to the country.
Visa Cost - $100 for tourist visas and $300 for business visas
Réunion Island
Réunion Island is an overseas department and territory of France that is situated in the Indian Ocean. Boasting a culture influenced by several cultures, the island is famous for its volcanoes, coral reefs, and beeches. Indian nationals travelling to this French region can enjoy a visa-free stay for a fortnight.
Visa Cost - Free
Rwanda
Situated on the convergence point of the African Great Lakes region and East Africa, Rwanda is a subtropical nation in the African continent. Renowned as the 'land of a thousand hills', this nation has no dearth of natural beauty, with a savanna to its east and several mountains to its west.
There are several lakes in Rwanda, the largest of which is Lake Kivu that spans most of the country's western border. Rwanda provides visa-on-arrival to the citizens of several nations, including India. Therefore, Indians travelling to the African nation can enjoy a visa-free trip for a period not exceeding 30 days.
Visa Cost - Free
Senegal
Adorned with sandy plains, Senegal is a country in West Africa that has tourism as a significant part of its economy. Tourists from different parts of the world travel to this nation to visit its beautiful rivers, lakes, and beaches. Senegal is renowned for its luxury beach resorts that offer a refreshing getaway to tourists.
With its diverse wildlife as well as historical attractions such as museums and architectural masterpieces, Senegal is a popular tourist destination. The country offers visa-on-arrival to Indian citizens that is valid for three months. However, before travelling to Senegal, ensure that you have the required documents in place.
Visa Cost - ₹715 for a tourist visa
Tanzania
Think of the Serengeti National Park, and Tanzania must come to your mind. Renowned across the world for its diverse wildlife and national parks, this East African nation is a popular tourist hub. Home to Africa's highest mountain, Kilimanjaro, Tanzania attracts tourists from all over the world.
Some of the most famous tourist attractions in the country include the Kilimanjaro National Park, Mafia Island, and the beaches of Zanzibar. Tanzania offers visa-on-arrival to Indian citizens that is valid for a period of 90 days from arrival in the country.
Visa Cost - $100 for tourist visa-on-arrival
Tunisia
Welcoming close to 20 million tourists every year, Tunisia is one of the most visited countries in the African continent. Celebrated for its picturesque beaches and warm weather, the country has modern as well as ancient tourist attractions. The capital city of Tunis is a cosmopolis and houses modern and luxurious hotels and resorts.
On the other hand, the archaeological site of Carthage is a UNESCO World Heritage Site. If you are making plans to visit Tunisia, you do not need to worry about a visa since the country offers visa-on-arrival to Indian nationals. This visa is valid for a maximum period of 90 days.
Visa Cost - 221 Tunisian Dinar for tourist visa-on-arrival
Tuvalu
Situated in the South Pacific Ocean, Tuvalu is a group of nine islands. The country is known for its beaches and reefs that are home to some of the world's most unique and endangered marine creatures. Tuvalu offers visa-on-arrival to Indian citizens; this visa is valid for one month from the date of arrival in the island nation.
Visa Cost - $100
Zimbabwe
Situated in Southeast Africa, Zimbabwe is a country renowned for its highlands, forests, and waterfalls. Home to Victoria Falls on the Zambezi River, the beautiful African nation attracts tourists from across the globe. The climate of Zimbabwe is subtropical for most regions, with the highlands exhibiting colder temperatures.
Zimbabwe offers visa-on-arrival to Indian citizens. This visa has a validity of 30 days from the date of entry into the nation. Therefore, if you are planning a trip to the African nation, there is no need to apply for a pre-approved visa.
Visa Cost - $30 for a single-entry visa-on-arrival
It is important to note that several nations have visa-free entry for Indians, including Nepal, Bhutan, Mauritius, Serbia, and Hong Kong.
What is Travel Insurance?
A travel insurance is a safety net that protects you against any potential adverse events during your travels. You can think of travel insurance as your guardian angel away from home, one that is committed to providing you adequate protection in the face of any eventualities during your trip.
Purchasing an adequate travel insurance policy is advisable for any trip, domestic and international alike. If you want to purchase travel insurance in India, your search can stop at Tata AIG. With our wide range of travel insurance plans and ceaseless commitment to our policyholders, you can be assured of quality service at affordable prices.
To know how travel insurance premium is defined, check our travel insurance premium calculator.
To pick the right travel insurance for you & your family, check our compare travel insurance page
You can purchase a Tata AIG travel insurance plan by visiting our website and perusing the plans available for different locations. With our domestic travel insurance policies starting at ₹26 per day and our international travel insurance plans beginning from ₹40.82 per day, you can be sure of getting comprehensive travel insurance without a sizable dent in your pocket.
To sum it up
Suppose you travel to any countries that offer visas on arrival or visa-free facilities to incoming Indian nationals. In that case, you need not worry about applying for a travel visa in advance. However, you still need to ensure that your trip is financially secured as an adequate travel insurance policy.
At Tata AIG, we provide destination-specific international travel insurance policies at a price as low as ₹40.82 per day. At such a feasible cost, you get multiple benefits, including travel assistance, a cover for the loss and delay of baggage, a Hijack cover, coverage for accidents and illnesses, a personal liability cover, automatic policy extension, and a Covid-19 cover. You can peruse and purchase Tata AIG international travel insurance plans here.
Safe travels!
Disclaimer
Information last updated Oct '21. While this information is sourced reliably, visa requirements can change. For the most current visa details, visit the official Consulate/Embassy website.
Visa fees are subject to change depending on immigration rules, conversion rates and other economic factors. The fee rates given are also approximate values and are not static values. They are subject to change after the date from which the article is written.
Disclaimer / TnC
Your policy is subjected to terms and conditions & inclusions and exclusions mentioned in your policy wording. Please go through the documents carefully.