6 Countries That Changed Visa Rules for Indians in 2026
Planning an international trip in 2026? Visa rules for Indians have changed in several destinations, with countries introducing or expanding e-visa and digital travel-authorisation options. From Laos and Sri Lanka to Chile and Venezuela, Indian passport holders should check the latest entry requirements before booking flights or accommodation.
Before applying, travellers should check the approved entry points, required documents, visa validity and expected processing time on Laos' official e-visa portal.
Indian travellers can use the ETA for a stay of up to 30 days with double-entry permission. The second entry must take place within the validity period provided after the first arrival.
Travellers should still apply for the ETA before departure and verify the latest requirements through Sri Lanka's official ETA platform.
Travellers should not assume that a visa will automatically be available on arrival. It is important to check the application process, documentation, processing time and permitted entry points well before the planned trip.
Applicants should confirm their eligibility, prepare the required documents and check the expected processing timeline through Chile's official consular channels before making final travel arrangements.
The requirements can vary depending on the purpose of the visit. Travellers should therefore check the permitted travel purpose, supporting documents, applicable fees and visa validity through Ghana's official immigration or embassy channels.
Since requirements can differ based on the purpose and duration of travel, applicants should carefully review the eligibility conditions and documentation requirements before booking their trip.
Before departure, Indian travellers should keep these documents ready:
The safest approach is to check the destination country's official immigration, embassy or consular website before purchasing non-refundable tickets. Confirming the rules in advance can help prevent airline boarding issues, delays at immigration and other unexpected travel problems.
1. Laos
Indian travellers visiting Laos can apply for an e-visa before their journey. However, the electronic visa is valid only for entry through designated checkpoints.Before applying, travellers should check the approved entry points, required documents, visa validity and expected processing time on Laos' official e-visa portal.
2. Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka introduced a free 30-day tourist Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for citizens of 40 countries, including India, from May 25, 2026.Indian travellers can use the ETA for a stay of up to 30 days with double-entry permission. The second entry must take place within the validity period provided after the first arrival.
Travellers should still apply for the ETA before departure and verify the latest requirements through Sri Lanka's official ETA platform.
3. Iran
Indian passport holders travelling to Iran currently need to apply for an e-visa before departure under the applicable system.Travellers should not assume that a visa will automatically be available on arrival. It is important to check the application process, documentation, processing time and permitted entry points well before the planned trip.
4. Chile
Chile has introduced a digital visa application option for Indian travellers, making it possible to complete the application process online rather than relying entirely on traditional paper-based procedures.Applicants should confirm their eligibility, prepare the required documents and check the expected processing timeline through Chile's official consular channels before making final travel arrangements.
5. Ghana
Ghana also offers an electronic visa option for Indian passport holders. Eligible travellers can submit their applications before leaving India.The requirements can vary depending on the purpose of the visit. Travellers should therefore check the permitted travel purpose, supporting documents, applicable fees and visa validity through Ghana's official immigration or embassy channels.
6. Venezuela
Indian travellers heading to Venezuela can use an electronic visa application process under the applicable entry system.Since requirements can differ based on the purpose and duration of travel, applicants should carefully review the eligibility conditions and documentation requirements before booking their trip.
Documents To Keep Ready
Visa approval is only one part of international travel preparation. Immigration and airline authorities may also ask for supporting documents.Before departure, Indian travellers should keep these documents ready:
- A passport with the required validity
- Approved e-visa or travel authorisation
- Return or onward flight tickets
- Proof of accommodation
- Evidence of sufficient funds
- Travel insurance, where required
Check Visa Rules Before Booking
International visa rules for Indians can change without much notice. Even after obtaining a visa or travel authorisation, travellers should verify the latest entry conditions before departure.The safest approach is to check the destination country's official immigration, embassy or consular website before purchasing non-refundable tickets. Confirming the rules in advance can help prevent airline boarding issues, delays at immigration and other unexpected travel problems.
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