Travelling Abroad? These 4 Countries Have Changed Visa Rules for Indian Travellers
Visa rules for Indian travellers have changed in several countries in 2026, making it more important than ever to verify entry requirements before planning an international holiday. While many destinations previously allowed Indians to enter without much paperwork, a few popular countries have now introduced stricter visa policies. As a result, travellers may need to apply for visas or obtain prior approval before leaving India.
The latest changes affect Iran, Bolivia, Cape Verde and Nicaragua, all of which have revised their entry rules for Indian passport holders. These updates come alongside a slight decline in India's position on the Henley Passport Index 2026, where the country now ranks 81st. Indian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 55 destinations, compared to 57 a year earlier.
Here's a closer look at the countries that have updated their visa policies for Indian citizens.
Bolivia Replaces Visa-On-Arrival With E-Visa
Travelling to Bolivia now requires advance planning. The South American nation has ended its visa-on-arrival facility for Indian passport holders and shifted to a fully online e-visa process.
Visitors must complete the digital application, upload the necessary documents and wait for approval before travelling. Although the process is online, travellers can no longer rely on obtaining a visa after landing.
Cape Verde Now Requires a Visa Before Departure
Cape Verde, famous for its picturesque islands and peaceful beaches, has also changed its immigration rules for Indian tourists .
From January 1, 2026, the country officially withdrew its visa-on-arrival facility for citizens of 96 countries, including India. Earlier, Indian travellers could register through the country's online system, pay the required fee and receive their visa after arrival.
Under the revised policy, visitors must secure a valid visa before starting their journey. Those arriving without the necessary travel authorisation may be refused entry.
Nicaragua Introduces Mandatory Pre-Travel Approval
Nicaragua has introduced one of the most significant visa policy changes for Indian nationals this year.
Since February 16, 2026, Indian passport holders are no longer eligible for visa-on-arrival. Instead, they have been placed under the country's Consulted Visa (Category C) system.
This means travellers must receive prior authorisation from Nicaragua's immigration authorities before boarding their flight. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers who fail to present the required approval.
Iran Ends Visa-Free Access for Indians
Iran has also revised its entry policy for Indian travellers.
The country has discontinued its visa-free entry programme for ordinary Indian passport holders, ending one of the most convenient travel options in West Asia. Indians planning to visit attractions such as Tehran, Isfahan or Shiraz must now obtain a valid visa before departure.
The visa waiver programme was suspended in November 2025, and the new requirement remains in effect in 2026.
Travel Tips: What Indian Tourists Should Do Before Booking
With visa regulations changing more frequently, travellers should verify the latest requirements before confirming international travel plans. Following a few simple precautions can help avoid unnecessary delays or travel disruptions:
International travel rules continue to evolve, and visa policies can change with little notice. If you're planning a foreign holiday in 2026, taking a few extra minutes to check the latest immigration requirements can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Staying informed before booking your tickets could save you from unexpected complications at the airport.
The latest changes affect Iran, Bolivia, Cape Verde and Nicaragua, all of which have revised their entry rules for Indian passport holders. These updates come alongside a slight decline in India's position on the Henley Passport Index 2026, where the country now ranks 81st. Indian passport holders currently enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 55 destinations, compared to 57 a year earlier.
Here's a closer look at the countries that have updated their visa policies for Indian citizens.
Bolivia Replaces Visa-On-Arrival With E-Visa
Travelling to Bolivia now requires advance planning. The South American nation has ended its visa-on-arrival facility for Indian passport holders and shifted to a fully online e-visa process.
Visitors must complete the digital application, upload the necessary documents and wait for approval before travelling. Although the process is online, travellers can no longer rely on obtaining a visa after landing.
Cape Verde Now Requires a Visa Before Departure
Cape Verde, famous for its picturesque islands and peaceful beaches, has also changed its immigration rules for Indian tourists .
From January 1, 2026, the country officially withdrew its visa-on-arrival facility for citizens of 96 countries, including India. Earlier, Indian travellers could register through the country's online system, pay the required fee and receive their visa after arrival.
Under the revised policy, visitors must secure a valid visa before starting their journey. Those arriving without the necessary travel authorisation may be refused entry.
Nicaragua Introduces Mandatory Pre-Travel Approval
Nicaragua has introduced one of the most significant visa policy changes for Indian nationals this year.
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Since February 16, 2026, Indian passport holders are no longer eligible for visa-on-arrival. Instead, they have been placed under the country's Consulted Visa (Category C) system.
This means travellers must receive prior authorisation from Nicaragua's immigration authorities before boarding their flight. Airlines may deny boarding to passengers who fail to present the required approval.
Iran Ends Visa-Free Access for Indians
Iran has also revised its entry policy for Indian travellers.
The country has discontinued its visa-free entry programme for ordinary Indian passport holders, ending one of the most convenient travel options in West Asia. Indians planning to visit attractions such as Tehran, Isfahan or Shiraz must now obtain a valid visa before departure.
The visa waiver programme was suspended in November 2025, and the new requirement remains in effect in 2026.
Travel Tips: What Indian Tourists Should Do Before Booking
With visa regulations changing more frequently, travellers should verify the latest requirements before confirming international travel plans. Following a few simple precautions can help avoid unnecessary delays or travel disruptions:
- Check the latest visa guidelines on the official embassy or immigration website of your destination.
- Apply early if an e-visa, embassy visa or prior approval is required.
- Carry both printed and digital copies of important travel documents.
- Confirm your airline's boarding requirements, as airlines often verify visa eligibility before allowing passengers to fly.
International travel rules continue to evolve, and visa policies can change with little notice. If you're planning a foreign holiday in 2026, taking a few extra minutes to check the latest immigration requirements can help ensure a smooth and stress-free journey. Staying informed before booking your tickets could save you from unexpected complications at the airport.
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