Travelling globally and exploring new locations is a coveted dream that so many harbour. For Indian passport holders, this dream can now be a reality more than ever before! The global influence exerted by India has improved relations with many nations who are now offering visa-free travel for the country’s residents, doing away with the requirement of visas.
With the latest addition of Thailand and Sri Lanka offering visa-free access to Indian residents, let’s explore these 11 scenic Southeast Asian countries that provide free visas for Indian passport holders!
1. Thailand
Thailand is a renowned tourist hot spot inviting more than 35 million travellers yearly! Famous for its white sandy beaches, exotic hotels, historic temples, and delicious foods – Thailand boasts of rich cultural heritage.
- Thailand started granting 30-day visa-free entry for visitors from India and Taiwan from November 1, 2023.
- The initiative will remain applicable till May 10, 2024.
2. Sri Lanka
As the country’s economy and tourism industry recover, there is a spate of bars, restaurants and villas that are welcoming tourists from across the world.
- Indians can now visit Sri Lanka visa-free on a tourist visa from October 2023 to March 2024.
- However, if you still wish to apply for a visa, during or post this duration, the standard cost for a Sri Lanka visa is INR 1,660 for a tourist visa, granting a 30-day stay in the country for double entry. The tourist visa allows you only a maximum of two entries to Sri Lanka.
3. Vietnam
- Indians travelling to Vietnam can apply for a visa-on-arrival online and receive it at one of Vietnam's participating international airports, including Ha Noi, Da Nang, Ho Chi Minh City, and Nha Trang.
- You will need a passport with blank pages and at least six months validity, as well as passport-size photos.
- You can pick from a one-month multiple entry visa, a three-month multiple entry visa and a three-month single entry visa.
4. Malaysia
- Citizens of China and India have been granted visa-free entry to Malaysia for a duration of up to 30 days from December 1, 2023 as a pilot project until March 31, 2024.
- However, with the visa requirements lifted, Indian nationals will still have to go through security screening for visiting Malaysia.
5. Timor-Leste
The island country of Timor-Leste in Southeast Asia includes the eastern half of the island of Timor, the nearby islands of Atauro (Kambing) and Jaco, and the enclave of Ambeno. The coasts are lined with coral reefs with thriving marine life and there are several historical sites to visit on land!
- The country offers tourist visa-on-arrival for a 30-day stay.
- You will need a passport with at least six months validity and proof of sufficient funds for the length of your intended stay.
6. Macau
Macau brings its tourists the best of two worlds: Europe and Asia!
- Indians do not require any visa to travel to Macau for a period of less than 30 days. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of your visit to Macau.
- Indian passport holders can apply for a visa on arrival at any of the border checkpoints of the Border Control Department of the Public Security Police upon arrival at Macau. The maximum limit of stay is typically 90 days and allows for a single entry.
7. Indonesia
Most know Indonesia by Bali – and for good reasons too! The magical island of Bali is just as calming as it is enchanting.
- Indians can receive their visa-on-arrival for the duration of 30 days.
- You need a passport with six months validity.
- You will also need to download the PeduliLindungi app and fill in details to complete your profile on it prior to arrival. Designated ports of entry for visa on arrival include Soekarno-Hatta in Jakarta and Ngurah Rai in Bali.
8. Maldives
It’s everyone’s favourite honeymoon destination for a reason. And beyond the beaches, diving opportunities and floating breakfasts, the reason also includes a visa on arrival!
- The visa-on-arrival in the Maldives for Indian passport holders is valid for 30 days, free of cost.
- Travel documents must be updated, and your passport must be valid for six months after your arrival date in the Maldives.
- You can get your visa extended for up to 90 days after getting approval from the relevant authorities.
9. Cambodia
- Indian passport holders can opt for visa-on-arrival for Cambodia or apply for a visa prior to travelling as well. The visa on arrival allows you to stay in the country for a maximum of 30 days.
- You will need to provide your passport, proof of hotel bookings and return flight tickets and passport-size photographs on arrival to obtain your visa.
- Travel agents, however, recommend that you apply for a visa before you travel in order to avoid the potentially long queues at the airport.
10. Laos
Best known for some of Southeast Asia's most spectacular waterfalls, Laos is famous for its amazing scenery, ethnic villages, and unexplored lands.
- The Laos visa-on-arrival is issued for 30 days and is available at Wattay International Airport, Luang Prabang International Airport, Pakse International Airport and Savannakhet International Airport.
- You will need your valid Indian passport, return tickets, proof of accommodation for the duration of your visit and an itinerary for your trip.
11. Myanmar
- Indian travellers can easily get a visa-on-arrival when in Myanmar, which grants its holder a maximum stay of 30 days in the country.
- One can get the same at the airport for a fee, followed by getting the visa stamped. There is even a faster and simpler process to gain entry to the country—by applying for the electronic Myanmar visa.
It’s only December, but summer is on the horizon, and so are some exciting travels! Before you rush to get your documents in order for a Schengen visa, know that you don’t have to travel too far or wait too long for your visa to process. Which of these South-East Asian country are you visiting next? Let us know in comments below!
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