-1790074237090.webp)
Several countries have revised their visa procedures for Indian passport holders in 2026 by changing how travellers must get permission before international trips. According to the current Passport Index listings, nine countries have introduced changes, ranging from replacing visa-on-arrival facilities with e-visas to making online applications available where visas were earlier needed.
E-Visa Procedures
Laos and Qatar have listed Indian travellers from visa-on-arrival arrangements to e-visa procedures. Under this, Indians must complete the visa process before travelling instead of getting permission after arrival.
Sri Lanka has also altered its system. Indian passport holders who were previously eligible for e-visa on arrival now need an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) before their trip.
Entry Process Changed
Iran has shifted Indian travellers from visa on arrival to an e-visa system. This revision follows an earlier policy update in November 2025, thus signalling that travellers need to complete the application process before departure.
E-Visa Access for Indian Passport
Not all changes have limited entry; instead, countries like Chile, Ghana and Venezuela have also opted for e-visa access for Indian passport holders. This means eligible travellers can apply through an online process rather than using the previous regular visa route.
Visa-On-Arrival Facility
Cape Verde removed its visa-on-arrival facility for citizens of 96 countries, including India, from January 1. Consequently, Indian travellers now must get the needed permission before travelling instead of depending on an arrival-based visa process.
Online Applications
Nicaragua also modified its visa procedure for Indian citizens from February 14. Indian passport holders can currently apply electronically online or submit the visa application form by email to Nicaraguan immigration authorities.
What happens to Thailand Travellers?
Thailand visa rules for Indians have changed, but the famous old scheme remains valid with a minor alteration. The Thailand visa-free entry scheme for Indians will not be revised after all, according to the government. However, even as Thailand has retained the visa-free entry scheme for Indian travellers, it has lowered the permitted days to stay to 1 month.
What Indian travellers must know
The changes underscore the importance of checking present entry requirements before booking flights. Visa-free entry, visa on arrival, e-visas and ETAs are varied mechanisms, and requirements can change separately from passport rankings.
The Indian Ministry of External Affairs maintains a country-wise list of visa facilities for ordinary Indian passport travellers, including visa-free and e-visa arrangements.