Indian travellers making international excursions in 2026 will have to note some of the changes to visa and entry requirements implemented by different countries. Some countries have cut visa-free stay periods while others have done away with visa on arrival options and now require prior e-visas or approval.
Countries That Updated Visa, Entry Rules For Indians
Thailand
Thailand continues to allow visa-free entry for Indian passport holders for tourism for 60-day visa-free stay. However, the country has cut the duration of stay from 60 to 30 days. The new 30-day visa exemption for Indians took effect on September 15, 2026.
Cape Verde
Cape Verde ended its visa-on-arrival facility for Indian citizens on January 1, 2026. Now, Indian passport holders will have to apply for a visa before departure instead of upon arrival at the airport.
Bolivia
Bolivia has also moved away from its visa-on-arrival policy for Indian passport holders by introducing an e-Visa system. Indian travellers will now have to apply for an electronic visa before departure as the visa on arrival facility has been discontinued.
Iran
Iran has rescinded its visa-free policy for ordinary Indian passport holders. India will now require Indians to apply for the necessary visa before departing for the Islamic Republic.
Nicaragua
Nicaragua has cancelled visa-on-arrival access for ordinary Indian passport holders. Indian travellers will now have to seek prior approval from the country’s immigration authorities before departure for tourism visits.
Malaysia
Malaysia continues to allow Indian passport holders visa-free entry for 30-day visits for eligible categories of visitors up to December 31, 2026.
However, Indian travellers will have to meet entry conditions such as having a passport valid for at least 6 months, return tickets and hotel bookings confirmations upon arrival in the country.
What Indian Travellers Should Check
Visa policies and entry conditions are subject to change throughout the year making it important for Indian passport holders to consult the official website of the immigration or foreign affairs department of their intended destination. Having the necessary visas, travel documents and arrival cards prepared can save Indian travellers from hassles at immigration checkpoints.