58 visa-free destinations for Indian passport holders this summer

Looking to travel this summer as an Indian passport holder? Good news, Indian travelers can visit up to 58 destinations visa-free. The top destinations are placed throughout Asia, Africa, and the Caribbean and Pacific Islands.

Aside from these destinations, many countries also offer additional options for streamlined travel requirements, such as e-visas or electronic travel authorities.

On a global-scale, India’s passport ranks at 82. Such ranks are typically based on factors like freedom of movement and travel for nationals.

Here’s the full list of countries Indian passport holders can travel visa-free to, according to Henley & Partners:

Each country has their own set of designated entry restrictions for incoming passengers. Overall, the main distinction between visa requirements tends to be the demand for some sort of pre-departure approval. While specific instructions may vary, countries typically follow one of the five following visa policies:

1. Visa-free

Any destination designated as ‘visa-free’ requires no visa or paperwork required to enter the country. Normally, only a valid passport is required.

2. Visa required

Passengers wishing to travel to such a destination must obtain a visa prior to visiting. This is process typically conducted in-person, at the closest embassies or consulates of the respective country. Often times, visa appointments are necessary and long-wait times are expected, thus travelers are advised to plan in advance.

3. Visa on arrival (VOA)

A visa on arrival (or VOA) destination indicates that while a legal visa is required to enter the country, passengers can obtain a visa once arriving at the destination. Thus, this means that no visa permissions or paperwork filing prior to travel are necessary. The process is often completed at the immigration and border control of the respective destination, and airports will often dedicate a section for this process.

4. E-visa

As the name suggests, e-visas mean that while visas are required for these destinations, the process is completed online and the final visa is electronic. The option offers greater flexibility for prospective passengers.

5. Electronic Travel Authority (ETA)

While countries with an ETA distinction do not demand passengers to obtain a visa before traveling, a separate travel authentication process is required. The process tends to be faster and simpler than traditional visa applications, making travel to these destinations much easier. However, it is important to note that ETAs may typically be designed for short-term stays, in comparison to some visa durations.

Mariam Khan is a trainee journalist at Gulf News.