Visa-Free Countries for Indians: How India’s Passport Gained Strength After 2014

Traveling the world has become easier than ever for Indian citizens. With growing diplomatic influence and strategic foreign policy decisions, especially after 2014 under Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the Indian passport has seen a significant rise in its global acceptance. Today, Indian passport holders can travel to nearly 58 countries either visa-free or with visa-on-arrival access — a tangible result of India’s strengthening global ties.

Let’s explore this transformation and how Indians are benefiting from it.

Understanding Visa-Free Travel

Before diving into the list, here’s what different visa terms mean:

• Visa-Free: You can enter the country without a visa.
• Visa on Arrival (VoA): You can obtain a visa after landing at your destination.
• e-Visa: You apply online for a visa before your travel.

Each of these options simplifies the travel process, saving time and making spontaneous trips more accessible.

The Impact of Post-2014 Foreign Policy

Since taking office in 2014, the Modi government has actively pursued deeper diplomatic relations and signed bilateral agreements that facilitate smoother people-to-people movement. Here’s how the government has helped strengthen the Indian passport:

• Proactive Diplomatic Engagements: Frequent high-level visits and participation in global summits.
• Strategic Bilateral Agreements: Promoting mutual visa relaxation deals.
• Focus on Soft Power: Increased cultural exchange and diaspora outreach.
• Promotion of Trade & Tourism: Countries are more open to Indian tourists and businesses due to India’s rising global economic profile.

As a result, India’s passport ranking has improved, and its citizens now enjoy more travel freedom than ever before.

Full List of Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Indian Citizens (As of 2025)

Asia

• Bhutan (Visa-Free)
• Nepal (Visa-Free)
• Indonesia (Visa-Free)
• Thailand (Visa on Arrival)
• Malaysia (Visa-Free until Dec 2026)
• Kazakhstan (Visa-Free)
• Macao (Visa-Free)
• Hong Kong (Visa-Free)
• Philippines (Visa-Free for short stays)
• Iran (Visa-Free for 15 days)

Africa

• Mauritius (Visa-Free)
• Seychelles (Visa-Free or VoA)
• Senegal (Visa-Free)
• Gambia (Visa-Free)
• Tunisia (Visa-Free)
• Angola (Visa-Free)

Oceania

• Fiji (Visa-Free for 4 months)
• Vanuatu (Visa-Free)
• Micronesia (Visa-Free)
• Cook Islands (Visa-Free)
• Niue (Visa-Free)

Caribbean

• Barbados (Visa-Free)
• Dominica (Visa-Free for 6 months)
• Grenada (Visa-Free)
• Haiti (Visa-Free)
• Jamaica (Visa-Free)
• Montserrat (Visa-Free)
• Saint Kitts and Nevis (Visa-Free)
• Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (Visa-Free)
• Trinidad and Tobago (Visa-Free)

Central America

• El Salvador (Visa-Free)

Middle East

• Qatar (Visa-Free)
• Oman (Visa-Free or VoA)

Countries That Opened Up to Indians After 2014

Several countries significantly eased entry for Indians post-2014 as a result of improved diplomacy:

• Malaysia: Introduced visa-free entry for Indians for tourism until at least 2026.
• Thailand: Made visa-on-arrival and digital entry cards available to Indians.
• UAE: Granted visa-on-arrival access for Indians with US/UK/Schengen visas or residency.
• Philippines: Recently rolled out visa-free access for Indian citizens under a new dual-tier policy.
• Brazil & Argentina: Eased visa processes for Indian tourists and business travelers.
• Japan & South Korea: Simplified visa documentation and introduced group travel relaxations.

What This Means for Indian Travelers

The growing list of visa-free countries is more than a convenience — it’s a reflection of India’s global clout. For Indian travelers, it means:

• Less paperwork and waiting time
• More spontaneous travel options
• Lower travel planning costs
• Broader exposure to international destinations

Pro Tip: Always Double-Check Before Traveling

Visa policies can change frequently. Always confirm the latest visa requirements with the respective country’s consulate or immigration website before booking your travel.

Final Thoughts

Since 2014, India has taken confident steps to improve its diplomatic ties and global outreach. These efforts have not only elevated the nation’s geopolitical profile but have also brought direct benefits to its citizens — including the freedom to travel more easily. With 58+ countries now welcoming Indian passport holders without the need for a pre-approved visa, the world is more accessible than ever for Indian globetrotters.

Whether you’re planning a beach holiday in the Caribbean, a cultural trip in Southeast Asia, or a business mission in the Middle East, the Indian passport is opening new doors — and it’s only just the beginning.