"Pay ₹1 crore in taxes yet still stand in line": Businessman calls Indian passport 'useless'

Entrepreneur Jitendra Emmani’s remarks regarding the Indian passport have sparked a discussion on social media. He questioned the visa process, travel logistics, and the benefits received in return for paying heavy taxes. His post also drew significant engagement.

When planning a trip abroad, many Indians worry about visas even before booking tickets or hotels. Hyderabad-based entrepreneur Jitendra Emmani raised questions about the international reach of the Indian passport in this context. His social media post ignited an online debate on the issue.

Jitendra Emmani, founder of CozyFarms.in, shared his views on the Indian passport on X (formerly Twitter) on September 22. He noted that Indian passport holders are often required to obtain a visa before traveling to many countries—a process that can involve gathering extensive documentation and enduring long waiting periods.

Questions raised about the visa process

In a strongly worded post, Emmani criticized the Indian passport, noting that Indians must navigate complex visa procedures to visit desirable destinations. He questioned why an Indian citizen should have to present a visa from a third country (such as the US) just to gain easy entry into another nation.

US visa described as a travel 'shortcut'

The entrepreneur also highlighted the utility of a US visa. According to him, a valid US visa can offer added convenience for Indian travelers visiting various countries. He questioned why a situation arises where a US visa is required for entry into certain places, despite holding an Indian passport.

Emmani holds a master's degree from Northern Illinois University in the US. In his post, he also mentioned that many Indians are drawn to the passports or citizenship of other countries in search of better international mobility.

Claim of paying ₹75 lakh to ₹1 crore in taxes

The issue was not limited to passports and visas alone; Emmani also raised questions regarding the taxes paid in India. He claimed that he pays between ₹75 lakh and ₹1 crore annually in direct and indirect taxes but does not see the expected benefits—either locally or internationally—in return. This is their personal claim.

Current status of the Indian passport

According to the report, India ranks 73rd in the latest passport index with a mobility score of 69. Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free access to 25 countries and visa-on-arrival facilities in 39 countries, while a visa is required for 129 countries. In 2025, India held the 66th rank with a mobility score of 73.