Visa-Free Travel to Indians: Iran Joins Kenya, Thailand, Vietnam in Easing Rules
Iran has joined a growing list of countries visa-free travel for Indian passport holders
Iran has joined a growing list of countries, including Kenya, Thailand, and Vietnam, in offering visa-free travel for Indian passport holders, allowing them to stay for up to 15 days. The move, announced on Tuesday by the Iranian embassy, aims to boost tourism and strengthen ties between the nations. Here are four key points to know about this development:
- Conditions for Visa-Free Travel: Indian citizens holding ordinary passports can now enter Iran without a visa once every six months, with a maximum stay of 15 days. However, it’s crucial to note that this stay cannot be extended, and the visa waiver applies exclusively to tourists.
- Air Border Entry Only: The Visa-free entry into Iran for Indians is applicable only for Indian nationals entering the country via air borders. Those wishing to stay longer, make multiple entries within six months, or engage in other activities besides tourism must obtain the necessary visas from Iranian missions in India for .
- Expansion of Visa-Free Program: Iran’s decision to grant Visa-free entry into Iran for Indians is part of a broader initiative that includes 32 other countries. Notable additions to this list include the United Arab Emirates, Saudi Arabia, Japan, and Malaysia for Tourist visa exemptions for Indians.
- Visa waiver program for Indian citizens : Several countries have recently relaxed Tourist visa exemptions for Indians requirements for international visitors, aiming to attract tourists and stimulate economic growth. Kenya, Malaysia, Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Vietnam have all implemented similar measures, offering visa exemptions or extending visa-free periods for tourists from various countries.
Visa-Free Travel in Other Countries: A Quick Overview(Visa waiver program for Indian citizens)
- Kenya: Kenya abolished visa requirements for international visitors from January 1, facilitating hassle-free travel for tourists interested in exploring the country’s wildlife safaris and pristine beaches.
- Malaysia: Tourists from India and China can now enjoy visa-free entry to Malaysia for up to 30 days, effective from December 1, 2023. However, stringent security screenings are in place to ensure the safety of visitors.
- Sri Lanka: Sri Lanka introduced a visa-free entry program for visitors from India and six other countries until March 31, 2024, aiming to promote tourism and enhance bilateral relations.
- Thailand: Thailand initiated a 30-day visa-free entry scheme for visitors from India and Taiwan starting from November 1, with the program scheduled to run until May 10, 2024.
- Vietnam: Vietnam is considering visa-free entry for Indian and Chinese nationals to boost tourism. Currently, citizens of select European countries enjoy visa-free access, while others can obtain e-visas for multiple entries with a 90-day validity period.
- visa relaxation for Indian tourists make Indian passport strong
- visa-free travel trends worldwide help Indian passport holders
The expansion of visa-free travel options reflects a global trend toward facilitating international tourism and fostering closer diplomatic ties between nations.