 "From Australia to UAE and Japan, many countries recently eased their visa policy for Indians. WHile some aim to boost tourism, other want to welcome more skilled professionals. Image for Representation. PTI")
While most post-pandemic trends have fizzled out, the passion for holidaying among Indians thrives, cruising along without a hitch. And this frenzy isn’t confined to domestic destinations; it’s global.
According to McKinsey & Company, Indians took around 13 million trips to destinations abroad in 2022. This number is projected to skyrocket to over 80 million annually by 2040.
Also, Indians on vacation are shelling out big bucks. Data from RBI data reveals that Indians are spending a staggering Rs 12,500 crore a month on international travel this financial year.
While there are many factors fueling this wanderlust, a key factor is the relaxation of visa regulations for Indians by various countries.
While some countries aim to boost their tourism sectors, others want to welcome Indian professionals at work.
From Australia to UAE and Japan, which countries have recently rolled out easy visas for Indians? Here’s a closer look.
Australia
Australia has recently unveiled a new ‘First Work and Holiday Visa’ policy for Indians. This one-year visa offers Indians under 30 the opportunity to enjoy an extended holiday while also allowing them to work or study on a short-term basis.
Holders of this visa can travel to and from Australia as often as they like. On Monday, the country’s immigration authorities announced that they will soon begin shortlisting 1,000 Indians who qualify for this program this year.
UAE
The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has launched a new visa-on-arrival policy, allowing eligible Indians to enjoy a 14-day stay upon their arrival in the country.
On October 17, the Federal Authority for Identity, Citizenship, Customs, and Ports Security (ICP) announced that Indian passport holders with standard (ordinary) passports can now access visa-on-arrival at all UAE entry points.
Previously, this privilege was limited to Indian citizens holding residence permits from select countries.
Now persons with permanent resident or green cards or valid visas issued by the United States, the United Kingdom, or any nation belonging to the European Union can avail of the new visa-on-arrival policy.
Dubai
Dubai introduced a five-year multiple-entry visa for Indians.
The visa, issued within two to five working days upon receiving and accepting the service request, allows its holder to stay in the country for 90 days, extendable once for a similar period, with a total stay not exceeding 180 days in one year.
Japan
Japan has launched eVisas for Indian tourists, a system that will eliminate the necessity for physical visa stickers in passports from April 2024.
Indian travellers can now apply for visas electronically via Japan Visa Application Centres managed by VFS Global. Tailored for tourism, the Japan eVisa is a single-entry, short-term visa that permits a stay of up to 90 days in the country.
Germany
Germany introduced a new visa system aimed at attracting skilled professionals through its Opportunity Card programme in June 2024.
With a shortage of around 400,000 skilled workers in specialised sectors, this initiative is designed to bridge the labour gap in the European country. Indians can also apply for this program.
Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan is a visa-free destination for Indians.
With a relaxed visa policy introduced in 2022, Indians can stay up to visa-free stay in Central Asian country for up to 14 days. According to an official website, the maximum duration of the visitor’s visa-free stay is 42 days within every 180 days.
In 2023 alone, 28,300 Indian citizens visited Kazakhstan, and the numbers are rising each year.
Kenya
Starting January 1, 2024, Kenya has removed the visa requirement for foreign visitors, including Indian citizens.
Instead, travellers will need to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (eTA) prior to their trip. The eTA is an online system that grants travel authorisation, simplifying the process for visitors.
This initiative aims to boost Kenya’s vital tourism industry, which is known for its wildlife safaris and beach vacations.
Also read: Globe-trotters: Why more Indians are travelling the world
Singapore
Singapore has relaxed its visa policy for Indians, making it easier for professionals across sectors such as teaching, information technology, and hospitality to work in the city-state.
As a leading global financial hub, Singapore provides a wealth of job opportunities and a business-friendly environment.
According to a 2024 report by The Economic Times, the Singapore Tourism Board is also planning to ease visa rules for Indian tourists, further enhancing travel access.
Sri Lanka
Starting October 1, the Sri Lankan government has announced visa-free access for Indian citizens.
“This visa-free entry will be available for a period of six months,” said Minister of Tourism Harin Fernando, as quoted by PTI.
Azerbaijan
Azerbaijan has recently become a hit among Indian tourists.
Unlike other European nations, obtaining a visa for Azerbaijan is quite easy. While Schengen visas can be challenging to get, Azerbaijan offers a simpler e-visa system for Indians with minimal cost and less processing time.
With input from agencies