Snapshots
July has come bearing good news for Indian passport holders. As of July 2025, India has jumped eight spots from 85th to 77th on the Henley Passport Index. India now boasts visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 nations, up from 57 the previous year. This is the biggest jump in the index in India's history. Indian passport holders can now navigate travel arrangements like no one's business, from the tropical Maldives and Thailand to the bustling Malaysia and Indonesia. Stronger diplomatic vibes, ease of international travel, and a stronger passport mean you can just get up and go.
There are actual benefits to this significant upgrade; it's not just for show! More spontaneity with less paperwork: Bali happy hour? Yes. An impromptu girls' trip to Bangkok at the last minute? No sweat. No agency costs, no embassy runs, and no anxiety over visas.
What is the Henley Passport Index?
The Henley Passport Index rates passports according to the number of places you can visit without a visa. It is updated every month using information from Henley & Partners' own research and IATA's Timatic database, and it covers 199 passports and 227 destinations. The passport receives one point for each destination, regardless of whether it is visa-free, visa-on-arrival, or ETA/eVisa. There are no points if a previous visa is required. Your passport power increases as you accrue more points; it's similar to a premium membership for travellers.
But what does visa-free for Indians actually mean? Not all of the 59 countries are completely visa-free for Indians; some are visa-free, some offer an E-visa, and then some give you a visa on arrival.
Visa-free for Indians
When a nation grants visa-free entry, it indicates that you can enter without obtaining a visa or prior authorisation. You can avoid waiting periods, paperwork, and diplomatic visits because of this freedom. You can just land in the country and start exploring if you have a valid passport. Visa-free nations are ideal for impromptu travel plans by Indian passport holders who don't want to bother with red tape. With no questions asked, you can travel like a world citizen who is eager for adventure, thanks to this arrangement.
5 visa-free destinations for Indians
- Bhutan: Known for its picturesque mountains, Bhutan offers a tranquil retreat with breathtaking landscapes and Buddhist culture. Visit the Tiger’s Nest Monastery for an unforgettable hiking experience.
- Nepal: A paradise for trekkers and nature lovers, Nepal offers access to the iconic Himalayas, including Mount Everest. Kathmandu’s ancient temples also hold deep cultural value. And there's really no bad season to visit Nepal, so a win win really.
- Mauritius: Dream beaches, crystal-clear waters, and rich culture make Mauritius a perfect escape. Ideal for water sports, nature walks, and luxury relaxation.
- Thailand: Known for vibrant street markets, pristine beaches, and temples, Thailand blends lively city life with serene islands like Phuket and Koh Samui.
- Philippines: History, culture, and natural beauty, the Philippines has it all. From visiting UNESCO Heritage sites to soaking up the sun at Boracay, you can do it all.
e-Visa
An e-Visa (electronic visa) allows travellers to apply for a visa entirely online before their trip. This makes the process more effective and streamlined by doing away with the requirement to travel to embassies or consulates. The e-Visa is frequently easier to obtain than traditional visas and lets you visit the nation for a predetermined amount of time after it is authorised. By completing an online application and paying the required amount, you can obtain an e-Visa, which you can then show when you get to your destination. It's a great choice for nations that wish to expedite the admissions process without sacrificing security inspections.
5 e-Visa Destinations for Indians
- Sri Lanka: Just a short flight away, Sri Lanka offers pristine beaches, tea plantations, and cultural heritage sites like Sigiriya Rock. Don’t miss exploring the ancient temples.
- Oman: A dreamy Middle Eastern gem with desert landscapes, fjords in Musandam, and the charm of Muscat’s souks, Oman is unexplored territory that offers an unmatched travel experience.
- Vietnam: A vibrant country filled with lush rice fields, scenic beaches, and mouth-watering food, Vietnam is perfect for both adventurers and history buffs. And believe us, you'll never run out of things to do in Vietnam!
- Myanmar: Myanmar’s ancient temples, particularly in Bagan, provide an incredible backdrop for both photography and spirituality. Visit Inle Lake for stunning views of floating gardens. And Burmese food? You can't plan your trip here without trying the authentic Burmese dishes. That said, do check for the political situation once before planning to go to Myanmar.
- Kenya: Known for its wildlife and safaris, Kenya’s Masai Mara offers breathtaking views of lions, zebras, and elephants roaming freely. Beyond the wildlife, also make sure you explore Nairobi and its cultural gems.
Visa on arrival
Visa on arrival (VOA) means that upon arriving in a country, you can obtain a visa at the border, airport, or point of entry. By using this method, you can avoid applying in advance, but you will still need to fill out documents and pay a fee when you arrive. For tourists with a valid passport who don't want to deal with drawn-out visa application procedures prior to their trip, this is ideal. Despite its convenience, it's crucial to make sure you fulfil all entry requirements because different nations may have different needs, such as return tickets or proof of cash.
5 visa-on-arrival destinations for Indians
- Maldives: Famous for its pristine beaches and luxurious resorts, Maldives’ VOA access lets you easily indulge in water sports or relax in its crystal-clear lagoons.
- Cambodia: Visit the majestic Angkor Wat temple complex, one of the world’s most famous archaeological sites. Cambodia offers rich history and natural beauty.
- Jordan: With the ancient city of Petra, Jordan offers a journey back in time. The Dead Sea’s healing waters make it a unique and relaxing destination.
- Indonesia: Known for its rich culture and natural beauty, Indonesia’s islands like Bali and Java are a haven for surfers, beach lovers, and cultural enthusiasts.
- Tanzania: From the Serengeti to Mount Kilimanjaro, Tanzania is home to some of the world’s most incredible wildlife and natural beauty. Climb Africa’s tallest mountain or go on a thrilling safari.
That said, the visa rules keep getting updated every now and then, so make sure you check before you plan your next trip!