There’s encouraging news for Indian travellers in 2025. Indian passport holders can now access around 59 international destinations without applying for a traditional visa in advance. This improved access includes visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, and electronic travel authorisation (eTA) options, making international travel simpler and faster.
According to mid-2025 updates from the Henley Passport Index, India’s global mobility has strengthened noticeably this year, reflecting better travel freedom for Indian citizens.
India’s Passport Ranking in 2025
In the latest global rankings, India has moved up to 77th place, with Indian passport holders now able to enter 59 destinations either visa-free or with minimal entry formalities. This marks a steady improvement compared to earlier years and highlights growing international acceptance of Indian travellers.
Popular Destinations Open to Indian Travellers
Several well-known and frequently visited countries continue to welcome Indian tourists with relaxed entry rules. These include destinations in Southeast Asia, South Asia, Africa, the Caribbean, and the Pacific Islands. Countries such as Thailand, Maldives, Indonesia, Nepal, and Bhutan remain favourites due to their proximity, affordability, and flexible visa policies.
However, travellers should always verify:
- Maximum permitted stay
- Purpose of travel (tourism vs business)
- Passport validity requirements
Rules can vary by destination and may change without notice.
Countries Indians Can Visit Without a Pre-Approved Visa (2025)
Visa-Free Entry
Indian passport holders can enter the following destinations without any visa in advance:
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
A visa is issued after landing at the destination, usually with basic documentation and a fee:
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
e-Visa / eTA
Pre-travel online approval required, usually processed quickly:
Seychelles
Understanding Entry Categories
- Visa-Free: No visa needed before or after arrival for short stays
- Visa-on-Arrival: Visa granted at the airport or border
- eTA / e-Visa: Online authorisation required before travel
Each option reduces paperwork compared to traditional embassy visas but may still involve conditions such as return tickets or proof of funds.
Final Word
With nearly 59 destinations now more accessible, 2025 is a great year for Indian travellers planning international trips. Whether it’s island escapes, cultural hotspots, or short regional getaways, global travel has become noticeably more convenient for Indian passport holders.
Always check official embassy or immigration sources before booking, as visa policies can change.
