Picture this: you get out of bed around Tuesday morning, purchase plane tickets to Thailand or Barbados, pack your bags, and walk out the door. You don't have to deal with visa paperwork, embassy visits, or even an exhausting waiting period. All you need is your passport, a plan, and the ability to travel anywhere you want.
Isn't it too good to be true? Well, not anymore.
Due to a recent policy change, holders of Indian passports can now travel visa-free to 62 countries, including several in Southeast Asia, the Caribbean, Oceania, Africa, and even the Middle East. That's right, 62 different countries, regions and islands across the globe are now at your fingertips.
If you're one of those who have put off international travel due to visa related issues, here's your motivational signal to start.
Traveling isn't complete without mentioning visas. They come with a long list of red tape like forms, expensive fees, and long waiting periods. But what makes the entire thing excruciating is uncertainty.
Updated information from the Henley Passport Index 2024 shows that Indian travelers can enjoy broader travel access without procedural hassles. Our passport now allows us visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 62 countries compared to 57 last year.
This is a major boost. India may still be in 80th position globally in terms of passport power, but this new access is a step forward toward some amazing places.
For those hearing for the first time, the Henley Passport Index ranks passports based on how many places can be visited without needing a visa prior to travel. The ranking is based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), so it is a big deal.
In 2024, passports from France, Germany, Italy, Japan, Singapore, and Spain are ranked highest as they each permit access to 194 countries without a visa. Afghanistan, on the other hand, is at the bottom of the ranking: 28 countries is the only number they have access to.
Now let's talk about India even if we are not winning any races, some growth is better than none. With more countries available with visa exemptions, travel is made simpler and last minute vacations are more achievable for Indians who are eager to see what the world has to offer.
Let's move onto the more interesting information, like that astonishing list of 62 countries Indian passport holders can visit visa-free or get a visa upon arrival.
We categorized them by region so you can picture that trip you've been dreaming of!
We all know going overseas isn't only about posting flawless pictures on Instagram it's also about remembering:
Now that you have access to 62 places with no need to go through visa processes makes this an ideal opportunity to start completing your travel bucket list.
Moreover, a number of these places are inexpensive, safe for solo travelers, and perfect for vegetarians from India. Therefore, there's no reason not to go!
Before you embark on your trip by just throwing a bag over your shoulder, consider these tips to make your travel smoother:
Trust us, download maps and translation apps because they will make things much easier for you.
Be careful about observing local culture and dress codes particularly in middle eastern, and african nations.
Start with these select travel spots if you are feeling overload with choices:
With more and more countries starting to understand the possibilities offered by Indian tourists, we can assume that this list will keep growing. India's global relevance and undergoing prosperity, as well us its strong youth interested in tourism, change the world's perception of India.
Hence, get ready for new destinations, quality international flights, and less stamps on passports.
We all do dream trips. Thailand, Maldives, Bolivia and many others.
Believe it or not, that day you say you are planning for, is actually today.
Visa requirements are pawning 62 new locations, meaning your passport is more potent than ever. Your only limitation now is motivation.
When are you planning on going there?
Have a plan? Looking for travelling budget advice when trying to visit one of the countries that previously didn't require a visa? If you tell me I will gladly assist you in developing that idea!