Travel News
New visa-free travel for Indian passport holders in 2025: Complete list of 59 destinations -
Dubai: Indian passport holders can now travel to 59 countries without needing a visa in advance, according to the Henley Passport Index July 2025 update. This includes destinations offering visa-free, visa-on-arrival, and electronic travel authorisation (ETA) entry.
Countries across Asia, Africa, Oceania, and the Caribbean have opened up more to Indian travellers. Popular spots such as Malaysia, Maldives, Thailand, Mauritius, and Indonesia are now visa-free or offer visa-on-arrival access.
This growing ease of travel reflects the increasing recognition of Indian tourists worldwide and efforts to simplify entry requirements. However, travellers are advised to check individual country rules, including permitted stay durations and any health or COVID documentation, on official websites before planning their trips.
India’s rising passport strength
India has climbed to the 77th position on the Henley Passport Index, up from 80th in 2024 and 85th the year before. It now shares this rank with Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal — all granting visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 destinations.
How India compares globally
While India has made steady progress, Singapore leads the 2025 rankings, offering visa-free access to 194 destinations. It is followed by Japan and South Korea with 190 destinations, while several European countries, including Germany, Italy, and France, hold close at 189.
The UAE has been one of the biggest risers, jumping 34 places over the past decade — from 42nd to 8th — and becoming the only major country to enter the global top 10.
Meanwhile, Pakistan has also improved modestly, climbing from 101st in 2024 to 96th place in 2025.
Where can Indians travel without a visa in 2025?
The 59 destinations fall into three categories:
Visa-free – enter without applying for a visa
Visa-on-arrival (VoA) – visa issued at entry
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) – apply online for short-term entry
Visa-free countries for Indian passport holders
Angola
Barbados
Bhutan
British Virgin Islands
Cook Islands
Dominica
Fiji
Grenada
Haiti
Iran
Jamaica
Kazakhstan
Kenya
Kiribati
Macao
Madagascar
Malaysia
Mauritius
Micronesia
Montserrat
Nepal
Niue
Philippines
Rwanda
Senegal
St. Kitts and Nevis
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Thailand
Trinidad and Tobago
Vanuatu
Visa-on-arrival countries
Bolivia
Burundi
Cambodia
Cape Verde Islands
Comoros Islands
Djibouti
Ethiopia
Guinea-Bissau
Indonesia
Jordan
Laos
Maldives
Marshall Islands
Mongolia
Mozambique
Myanmar
Namibia
Palau Islands
Qatar
Samoa
Sierra Leone
Somalia
Sri Lanka
St. Lucia
Tanzania
Timor-Leste
Tuvalu
Zimbabwe
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation)
Seychelles
What’s the difference: Visa-free vs Visa-on-arrival?
Visa-free: No prior paperwork — just pack your bags and travel. Most countries set a maximum stay (e.g., 14, 30, or 90 days) and require a return ticket and proof of accommodation.
Visa-on-arrival: Get your visa at the airport after arrival.
Usually involves:
Filling a form
Showing passport, return ticket, hotel booking
Paying a fee (varies by country)
ETA: A simplified, online process before travel. You receive a digital travel authorisation instead of a traditional visa.
Important travel tips for Indian passport holders
Always check the official embassy website of the destination country.
Requirements like passport validity, return ticket, or travel insurance may still apply.
Entry conditions can change rapidly due to geopolitical or health concerns.
Planning your next trip?
With more doors open than ever, Indian travellers can now explore the world more freely. Whether you're dreaming of pristine beaches, cultural escapes, or business travel — 2025 brings fewer visa hurdles and more travel possibilities.
