A little get-away from the mundane daily life is something that many of us desire. Sometimes, it's the lengthy visa processing time that acts as a hurdle in reaching our dream destination. So here are a few countries where Indians can travel without worrying about a visa:
Nepal
Nepal, home to the Himalayas, is an often visited destination by trekkers around the world. The journey from India to Nepal is easy and budget-friendly too! If you are travelling by air, all you need to carry is either a valid Indian passport or your Indian voter ID card with a photograph. So now it's time to pack your bags and go trekking and paragliding in the Himalayas and exploring the heritage sites in Nepal.
Bhutan
Just like Nepal, Bhutan is a culturally rich nation sharing its borders with India. Though Bhutan allows Indian citizens to travel visa-free, they have stated that visitors from India is required to get a permit. It can be done online through their website, through a tour operator or at the point of entry
Seychelles
Seychelles is an archipelagic state consisting of 115 islands open to visitors worldwide. Though visitors do not need a visa, they are required to apply for a Travel Authorisation (TA) at least 10 days prior to their travel. The application can be made through through Seychelles E-Border app. A standard application fee is charged during this process. The requirements, as specified by the government include a valid passport, selfie, contact information, trip information, airline booking confirmation, accommodation booking confirmation and credit or debit card information. The time taken to process the application would depend on the package that is chosen. On arrival, a visitor’s permit will be issued. This maybe your call to visit Seychelles, which is known for hosting various rare species of life and for activities like cruising, swimming, fishing and sailing.
Niue
This scenic island country with a panoramic view situated in the South Pacific Island, often referred to as ‘The Rock’. Niue allows Indian citizens to visit the country visa-free for less than 30 days. Visitors are required to take connection flights through New Zealand in order to reach Niue. The entry requirements include having a valid passport and meeting New Zealand’s border entry requirements while transiting. The government of Niue has also recommended all visitors to get a travel insurance. Tourism is a developed sector in Niue and they have various activities at hand for the tourists.
Montserrat
Montserrat is an island country situated in the Caribbean Sea and is home to an exotic variety of flora and fauna. It has included India in the list of countries that does not require a visa, in order to visit. Just make sure that you have a valid passport during your period of stay. Here is your key to explore the monasteries, museums, chapels, monuments and sculptures located in the splendid hillsides and town of Montserrat. Hikes, train trips, the annual Alliouagana Festival of the Word and other natural attractions make it a worthwhile journey for all visitors.
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
St Vincent And the Grenadines is a small and beautiful archipelago that is open to international travellers. The visitors must have a valid passport, a return ticket, a place to stay and should indicate the reason for travel, as mentioned in the official government website. Indian nationals are free to travel without any visa. Visitor’s permit will be granted on arrival by an Immigration Officer and it would be valid for three months. In case of extensions, changes can be made at the Immigration Head Office in Kingstown.
Grenada
Grenada is a part of West Indies situated in the Eastern Caribbean Sea, which renders a visa-free visit to Indian nationals. If you have a valid Indian passport, get your ticket to explore the wide range of activities that Grenada offers! You can be a part Grenada’s exuberant culture by taking part in their festivals and culture, experiencing the eco-adventures, exploring and site seeing and by tasting their delicious cuisine.
Jamaica
Jamaica is yet another island country in the Caribbeans that does not pose a visa requirement to Indian citizens. Indians can travel to Jamaica with a valid and approved travel document, preferably a passport. Jamaica offers you safaris, waterfalls, beaches, gardens and a great range of other water activities like river rafting.
Kenya
Kenya, an East African country, is often distinguished by its rich culture and traditions. Kenya brings the pictures of wildlife and safaris into our minds. An Indian citizen does not require a visa to travel to Kenya as a tourist. Instead, you would be in need of an “electronic Travel Authorisation” (eTA) while travelling. An eTA application can easily be filed online and once approved, it would be electronically linked to your passport. Kenya allows for a stay up to 90 days. The Immigration Office has specified that the eTA extensions can be done in the Immigration Office in Nairobi after expiration of current eTA. The eTA requirements as specified by the Kenyan government are an Indian passport, with at least two blank pages, valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in Kenya, confirmation page of the application, a colour passport size photograph, current email address, a basic travel itinerary and the return ticket.
Angola
Angola, a South African country, is blessed with panoramic views of nature. Angola permits Indian passport holders to visit the country without a travel visa for up to 30 days. If you wish to stay for more than 30 days, you can easily apply for an e-visa through their website. The Kissama National Park, Tunda Vala Fissure, Dilolo lake, Dala Waterfalls and a lot more act as Angola’s major attractions.
Mauritius
Mauritius is drawn with picturesque natural resources like waterfalls and glassy blue beaches with golden shore. Mauritius exempting India from the visa requirements has given Indian citizens a chance to explore the national parks, botanical gardens, museums, hiking trails and many natural wonders! All you need to do is fill in the all-in-one travel form, which is available in their official website and take a printed copy of the completed form while travelling. You need to submit the form to the health officials on arrival at Mauritius.
Kazakhstan
In July 2022, Kazakhstan introduced visa-free travel to all Indian citizens. The government has set the maximum duration of the visitor’s visa-free stay is 42 days within every 180 days. Kazakhstan is a Central Asian country that offers a series of attractions to its visitors. Various museums, natural attractions, places of pilgrimage and monuments act as major sights in Kazakhstan.
Fiji
Fiji, an island country situated in the South Pacific, has exempted Indian citizens from carrying a visa during their visit, but make sure to carry all the required documents with you. The requirements include a passport valid for at least six months beyond the intended period of stay, a return ticket or a ticket for onward travel, a confirmed address for your stay in Fiji and a complete immigration arrival card. According to BBC, Fiji has one of the most developed economies in the Pacific, relying heavily on tourism and sugar industries.
Cook Islands
Cook Islands in the South Pacific consists of 15 islands in total. For a stay of less than 31 days, Cook Islands has allowed the visitors to travel visa-free. The permits will be issued at the border on your arrival. Visitors must meet the general requirements related to evidence of identity, character, health and proof of onward travel. You must provide evidence of sufficient funds for yourself and for dependent children (if applicable). You must also be a bona fide visitor, not intending to work or study during your stay in Cook Islands. Delve into the various water activities, mountain hikes and many other entertainments when you travel to this destination.
