Indians can now travel to 59 countries visa-free

India’s passport is not just a booklet anymore — it’s a gateway to the world. In 2025, the Indian passport has climbed to the 77th position on the Henley Passport Index, granting holders visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to 59 countries. This is India’s highest-ever jump in the global mobility rankings — a leap of eight places from the previous year. But what does this leap signify beyond numbers and access?

While the likes of Singapore and Japan dominate the top ranks with access to nearly 200 destinations, India's upward trend reflects growing diplomatic clout and international goodwill. This progress isn't just about travel convenience—it's a broader statement about India’s global engagement and rising influence.

For Indian citizens, this means more spontaneous travel, reduced paperwork, lower visa costs, and greater freedom to explore the world.

What Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Travel Really Means

Visa-Free Travel: Visa-free means you do not need to apply for a visa before traveling. You can simply book a flight, pack your bags, and head off. Upon arrival, your passport is stamped, and you’re good to go. However, the length of stay and permitted activities (like tourism or business) vary from country to country, so always check official travel advisories before departure.
Visa-on-Arrival (VoA): In contrast, visa-on-arrival means you don’t need to apply beforehand, but you do need to get a visa at the port of entry. This usually involves filling out a form, providing a return ticket and hotel details, and paying a small fee.
ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization): Some countries also offer ETAs — a kind of digital visa-free entry. For example, Seychelles allows Indians to apply for a travel permit online before arrival.

The Passport Index 2025: What It Tells Us

According to the Henley Passport Index, which ranks 199 passports based on data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), India now enjoys access to 59 countries without needing a prior visa. While the number of new destinations added this year is just two — Sri Lanka and the Philippines — India’s ranking has improved significantly thanks to changes in global travel policies.

India now shares the 77th spot with countries like Burkina Faso, Côte d'Ivoire, and Senegal. In comparison, Singapore holds the top rank with visa-free access to 194 countries, followed by Japan, South Korea, and several EU nations.

While countries like Singapore top the Henley Index with access to 193 countries, India’s climb from 85th to 77th is monumental.

India’s access includes countries in Africa, Asia, the Caribbean, Oceania, and South America — some popular, others off-the-beaten-path gems.

Why This Rise Matters Beyond Travel

The growing power of the Indian passport also supports:

A stronger passport isn't just about ticking destinations off a bucket list. It reduces logistical hurdles for business travellers, simplifies overseas academic plans, and boosts last-minute vacation opportunities.
But on a national scale, it’s more than just mobility — it’s about diplomacy. A passport’s strength reflects a country’s bilateral relationships, trust in its border security, and mutual respect in international forums.
India’s leap in rankings suggests not just smart diplomacy, but also growing soft power and influence in global affairs.

growing power of the Indian passport

List of 59 Visa-Free and Visa-on-Arrival Countries for Indians (2025)

Visa-Free Access for Indian Passport Holders

Angola
Explore Angola's rugged landscapes, waterfalls, and Atlantic coastline. A hidden gem in Africa, it’s ideal for adventure seekers and wildlife lovers.
Barbados
A Caribbean paradise offering white-sand beaches, coral reefs, and British colonial charm. Perfect for romantic getaways and beach vacations.
Bhutan
Known for its Gross National Happiness, monasteries, and pristine mountains. Great for eco-tourism and cultural retreats.
British Virgin Islands
Sail through crystal-clear waters, explore hidden coves, and enjoy laid-back island life. Ideal for water sports and yachting.
Cook Islands
Located in the South Pacific, these islands offer snorkeling, Polynesian culture, and peaceful lagoons. A true tropical escape.
Dominica
Nicknamed the “Nature Island” of the Caribbean, Dominica is rich in rainforests, hot springs, and hiking trails.
Fiji
World-famous for its coral reefs, turquoise waters, and Fijian hospitality. Excellent for diving and island-hopping.
Grenada
Known as the “Spice Isle,” this Caribbean island boasts nutmeg plantations, waterfalls, and stunning beaches.
Haiti
With historical forts, Caribbean beaches, and vibrant art, Haiti offers a unique blend of resilience and beauty.
Iran
Home to Persian architecture, rich history, and warm hospitality, Iran is a cultural haven for history buffs.
Jamaica
Reggae music, Dunn’s River Falls, and Blue Mountain coffee — Jamaica is energetic, scenic, and soulful.
Kazakhstan
Vast steppes, futuristic cities like Nur-Sultan, and the breathtaking Charyn Canyon await you in this Central Asian treasure.
Kenya
From Maasai Mara safaris to Mount Kenya treks, Kenya offers wildlife, culture, and adventure all in one.
Kiribati
One of the least-visited countries, Kiribati is ideal for off-grid explorers interested in sustainability and indigenous culture.
Macao
A mix of Portuguese and Chinese cultures with glittering casinos and historic temples. Great for quick getaways from Asia.
Madagascar
Famous for its unique biodiversity and lemurs, Madagascar is a dream for nature lovers and ecotourists.
Malaysia
Enjoy the Petronas Towers, tropical islands, and multicultural street food scenes from Kuala Lumpur to Langkawi.
Mauritius
A luxury destination with volcanic mountains, coral reefs, and crystal-clear lagoons. Ideal for honeymoons.
Micronesia
Dive among WWII shipwrecks or relax in remote atolls. Micronesia is untouched and tranquil.
Montserrat
A British Overseas Territory known for its lush forests and dormant volcanoes. A quiet retreat in the Caribbean.
Nepal
Gateway to the Himalayas, Nepal offers trekking, temples, and spiritual enlightenment.
Niue
This South Pacific island is famed for its coral cliffs, marine life, and cave systems.
Philippines
Now visa-free for Indians, it’s known for Palawan, Boracay, and over 7,000 islands of tropical paradise.
Rwanda
See mountain gorillas up close in Volcanoes National Park or explore Kigali’s art and café culture.
Senegal
A mix of West African music, markets, and beaches. Visit Lake Retba and Dakar’s vibrant art scene.
St. Kitts and Nevis
Two-island nation with historic sugar plantations and golden beaches. A great blend of relaxation and heritage.
St. Vincent and the Grenadines
Island-hop across turquoise waters, snorkel among reefs, or hike La Soufrière volcano.
Thailand
From Bangkok's nightlife to Chiang Mai's temples and the beaches of Phuket, Thailand is a traveler’s dream.
Trinidad and Tobago
Experience Carnival, calypso music, and the unique mix of African and Indian cultures.
Vanuatu
Volcanoes, shipwrecks, and tribal culture — Vanuatu offers a wild and wonderful Pacific island experience.

Visa-On-Arrival Access for Indian Passport Holders

Bolivia
Explore the surreal Salar de Uyuni salt flats and ancient ruins. High-altitude and high-reward travel.
Burundi
Known for its drum culture, Lake Tanganyika, and rolling green hills. Off the beaten path, but culturally rich.
Cambodia
Visit Angkor Wat, explore Phnom Penh, and take a river cruise on the Mekong.
Cape Verde Islands
These Atlantic islands offer volcanoes, sandy beaches, and a unique Afro-Portuguese culture.
Comoro Islands
Between Madagascar and Mozambique, this archipelago is a tranquil hideaway with Arabic and Swahili influences.
Djibouti
A desert-meets-ocean landscape. Snorkel in the Gulf of Tadjoura or visit Lake Assal, one of the saltiest in the world.
Ethiopia
Historical sites like Lalibela’s rock churches, Simien Mountains, and coffee culture make it a standout.
Guinea-Bissau
A seldom-visited West African country with wildlife, mangrove forests, and Afro-Portuguese culture.
Indonesia
From Bali’s beaches to Java’s volcanoes and Sumatra’s rainforests, Indonesia is diverse and dynamic.
Jordan
Home to Petra, the Dead Sea, and Wadi Rum — a mix of history, luxury, and desert adventure.
Laos
A laid-back Southeast Asian country with Buddhist temples, riverside towns, and mountain treks.
Maldives
Luxury overwater villas, turquoise lagoons, and diving spots make the Maldives a top romantic destination.
Marshall Islands
Perfect for marine adventures, this island chain offers scuba diving, coral reefs, and Pacific hospitality.
Mongolia
Ride horses on the steppe, sleep in a yurt, and trace Genghis Khan’s legacy in this vast, wild country.
Mozambique
Famous for its Indian Ocean coastline, marine parks, and Portuguese-African cuisine.
Myanmar
Visit Bagan’s ancient temples and Inle Lake’s floating villages. A place of deep culture and quiet charm.
Namibia
Home to the surreal sand dunes of Sossusvlei and wildlife-packed Etosha National Park.
Palau Islands
A paradise for divers, Palau boasts some of the world’s best underwater biodiversity.
Qatar
A blend of futuristic architecture and traditional souks. Great for luxury layovers and desert tours.
Samoa
Relax under waterfalls, swim in blue lagoons, and experience vibrant Polynesian culture.
Sierra Leone
Beautiful beaches, chimpanzee sanctuaries, and welcoming people define this West African gem.
Somalia
Cultural travelers can explore Mogadishu’s architecture and beaches, though travel is advised with caution.
Sri Lanka
From ancient ruins to hill-country tea estates and beach resorts — now visa-free for Indians.
St. Lucia
Home to the iconic Pitons, luxurious resorts, and Caribbean charm. A perfect island honeymoon spot.
Tanzania
Witness the Great Migration in Serengeti or summit Mount Kilimanjaro. Safari capital of Africa.
Timor-Leste
One of the newest countries in Asia, known for coral reefs and Portuguese colonial towns.
Tuvalu
Tiny and remote, Tuvalu is among the least-visited countries — a paradise for slow, mindful travel.
Zimbabwe
Home to Victoria Falls, Hwange National Park, and rich Shona heritage.

ETA Required

Seychelles
Apply online for ETA and then enjoy pristine beaches, granite boulders, and coral reef snorkeling.

Travel Today, Diplomatic Gains Tomorrow

India’s jump in the Henley Passport Index isn’t just about visiting 59 countries. It’s a reflection of India’s growing diplomatic clout, economic power, and global connectivity. It also promises a better travel experience — fewer queues, less paperwork, and more spontaneity.

While the passport still doesn’t offer visa-free access to top-tier travel hubs like the US, EU, Canada, or Australia, it marks steady progress. For the millions of Indians who travel for leisure, business, or education, this new level of access opens doors — literally and figuratively.

So, if you’re holding an Indian passport in 2025, the world is closer than ever. Pack your bags.

With inputs from agencies

Image Source: Multiple agencies