Top 10 Visa On Arrival Countries for Indians | 2025 Travel Guide

2024-07-25

What is Visa on Arrival?

Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a type of visa that doesn't need to be secured in advance when travelling or entering a country. It is distributed on arrival at the destination country and depends solely upon you and your passport. That's right! Each country has designated visa regulations and countries with VoA trust the bearer's nation to have completed thorough background checks on the person that the passport is issued to, so much so that the arrival country can trust the person to enter without any prior notice or permission.

We all know that international travel has no bounds and needs to be borderless. Well, your passport surely knows that and gives you the power to enter several countries without a permit or pre-required visa confirmation. This is called Visa on Arrival, and here's how it works for Indian passport holders

Power of the Indian Passport

The Indian passport ranks 81st according to the Henley Passport Index, which measures global passport power. It provides visa-free or visa on arrival access to 62 countries. That means if you have an Indian Government issued passport, then you can enjoy visa free entry to these 62 countries with ease. This is a great advantage for spontaneous travelers who prefer little to no preparation beforehand or even businessmen who must travel to these countries frequently and don't want to waste time on visa requirements and formalities.

List of Top 10 Visa-on-Arrival Countries

Before we dive into the list, it's important for Indian citizens to understand that travel documents, passport validity, and entry rules may vary for each destination. Always check the latest travel information and visa policy before planning your trip.

Thailand

Thailand, with its vibrant street life, culturally significant temples, and popular beaches, is loved by all and serves as a famous vacation spot for couples and bachelors alike.

Visa Fee: 2,000 THB (approx. ₹4,500)

Duration: 15 days (about 2 weeks)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks), return/onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds (10,000 THB per person)

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, photo, travel itinerary

Indonesia

Indonesia is home to the province of Bali, a tropical paradise which is one of the most affordable and fun vacation hotspots from India. A lot of people add Bali to their bucket list due to its rainforests, beaches, volcanoes and easy access.

Visa Fee: Free for 30-day VoA; approx. ₹3000 (for extension)

Duration: 30 days (extendable to 60 days)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months, return/onward ticket

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, photo, travel itinerary

Maldives

Maldives, also another great luxurious vacation spot, is home to crystal-clear waters, luxurious overwater bungalows, and rich marine life, ideal for relaxation and diving. It's also a famous honeymoon location so VoA makes it very accessible for tourism purposes.

Visa Fee: Free

Duration: 30 days (extendable to 90 days)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months, proof of sufficient funds, confirmation of accommodation

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, travel itinerary

Seychelles

Perfect for people who love to be a part of nature and enjoy its richness, this archipelago of 115 islands is another great vacation spot which offers great beaches, nature reserves and unique wildlife that one must get to experience at least once in their lifetime.

Visa Fee: Free

Duration: 30 days (extendable)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for the duration of stay, return/onward ticket, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, travel itinerary

Nepal

India's next-door neighbor, situated in the Himalayas, is the country of Nepal. It offers great trekking and outdoor activity experiences like mountaineering. It has amazing landscapes, ancient temples and rich cultural experiences.

Visa Fee: approx. ₹2500 for 15 days (about 2 weeks), ₹4200 for 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks), ₹10500 for 90 days (about 3 months)

Duration: 15, 30, or 90 days (about 3 months)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, photo

Mauritius

If you're looking for a country with water-based adventure activities, like snorkeling, free water diving, hiking, etc. with clean blue waters and great sands and diverse culture then Mauritius is where you should head.

Visa Fee: Free

Duration: 60 days (about 2 months)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for the duration of stay, return/onward ticket, proof of accommodation, sufficient funds

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, travel itinerary

Bhutan

Known as the Land of the Thunder Dragon, Bhutan has great landscapes, majestic monasteries, and a unique approach to measuring happiness. People travel to Bhutan for relaxing and rejuvenating from the day-to-day hustle of their life and to get a new outlook on life.

Visa Fee: Free

Duration: 14 days (about 2 weeks)

Entry Requirements: Indian nationals do not require a visa but must carry a valid passport or Voter ID card

Documents Needed: Passport or Voter ID card, travel itinerary

Cambodia

Cambodia is a popular stop along the Southeast Asia backpacking route. The biggest tourist highlight of the country is the awe-inspiring ancient temples of Angkor Wat. It is the largest religious monument in the world and is considered one of the Ancient Seven Wonders of The World. This makes the visa waiver status of Cambodia even more advantageous for Indian backpackers.

Visa Fee: approx. ₹2500

Duration: 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months, return/onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, photo, travel itinerary

Jordan

The country of Jordan is situated between Israel, Syria, Iraq and Saudi Arabia. It is home to intriguing places such as the Wadi Rum Desert and the ancient city of Petra. The Dead Sea, also known as the salt sea, is accessible through this country. Its high salt content makes it a popular tourist destination, allowing visitors to float effortlessly and "never sink." It's truly an ideal spot for a unique and memorable vacation.

Visa Fee: 40 JOD (approx. ₹4,200)

Duration: 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months, return/onward ticket

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, photo, travel itinerary

Laos

Laos, also known as the "Land of a Million Elephants", is a culturally rich country in Southeast Asia. It's renowned for its untouched landscapes, French colonial architecture, and peaceful Buddhist monasteries. It is the perfect vacation destination if you are looking to slow down your life, enjoy the moment and dip your foot in the cultural experiences this country has to offer.

Visa Fee: USD 30 (approx. ₹2500)

Duration: 30 days (about 4 and a half weeks)

Entry Requirements: Passport valid for at least 6 months, return/onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds

Documents Needed: Passport, visa application form, photo, travel itinerary

Conclusion

These are the top 10 countries that Indian passport holders can travel to without a pre-required visa. Other such countries that deserve an honorary mention for being visa-free or offering visa exemption are – Mozambique, Zimbabwe, Kenya, Tanzania and Madagascar.

When planning your international travel, always check the latest visa regulations and entry rules for your destination. Remember that passport expiry dates, blank passport pages, and other travel restrictions may affect your ability to enter these countries. It's also a good idea to consult official sources or a travel agent for the most up-to-date travel advice and visa information.

So, what are you waiting for? Grab your passport and your bags, and travel to these destinations today without any visa trouble. Whether it's for tourism purposes or business travel, these visa-on-arrival and visa-free destinations offer Indian citizens great opportunities for global mobility and unforgettable experiences.

FAQ's

1. What is a Visa on Arrival and how does it work for Indian passport holders?

A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a travel authorization that Indian citizens can obtain directly at the destination country's port of entry, such as airports or border crossings. Instead of applying for a visa at an embassy or consulate before travel, you simply present required documents upon arrival and pay the visa fee on-site. The immigration officer will then stamp your passport with the visa, allowing you to enter the country.

2. Which documents do I need to carry for Visa on Arrival as an Indian traveler?

Essential documents for most VoA countries include a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months validity, confirmed return flight tickets, hotel bookings or accommodation proof, sufficient funds (cash or bank statements), recent passport-sized photographs, and a completed visa application form. Some countries may require additional documents like travel insurance, invitation letters, or proof of yellow fever vaccination depending on your travel history.

3. How much does Visa on Arrival typically cost for Indian citizens?

VoA fees vary significantly by country and visa duration. Costs typically range from $10-100 USD, with most popular destinations charging between $25-50. For example, Thailand charges around $35-40, while Maldives offers free VoA for Indians. Some countries offer different pricing tiers based on stay duration (15 days, 30 days, 90 days). Always carry extra cash in USD as many countries don't accept Indian rupees or cards for visa fees.

4. Can I extend my Visa on Arrival once I'm in the destination country?

Extension policies vary by country. Some nations like Thailand and Indonesia allow VoA extensions through local immigration offices for additional fees, while others require you to exit and re-enter. Countries like Maldives typically don't allow extensions for tourist VoA. It's important to check specific extension rules before travel and plan your itinerary accordingly, as overstaying can result in hefty fines or future entry bans.

5. What are the top 5 most popular Visa on Arrival destinations for Indians?

The most popular VoA destinations for Indians include Thailand (30-day stay, great for beaches and culture), Maldives (30-day free visa, perfect for luxury resorts), Indonesia (30-day stay, ideal for Bali and cultural experiences), Sri Lanka (30-day ETA system, close proximity and cultural similarities), and Dubai/UAE (96-hour and 30-day options, excellent for shopping and business). These countries offer diverse experiences from tropical beaches to modern cities.

6. Are there any restrictions on the purpose of visit with Visa on Arrival?

Most VoA are issued strictly for tourism, transit, or short-term business purposes. Activities like employment, long-term business setup, journalism, or study are typically prohibited. Some countries may allow business meetings or conferences but restrict commercial activities. Always declare your purpose honestly at immigration, carry supporting documents (like conference invitations for business travel), and ensure your activities align with the visa category to avoid legal complications.

7. How long does the Visa on Arrival process take at the airport?

Processing time varies from 15 minutes to 2 hours depending on the country, airport efficiency, arrival time, and passenger volume. Popular destinations during peak season may have longer queues. Dubai and Singapore typically process VoA quickly (15-30 minutes), while some African or smaller nations might take longer. Arrive with completed forms, exact change, and organized documents to expedite the process.

8. Can I apply for Visa on Arrival if I have a connecting flight through the country?

It depends on the country’s transit visa rules:

Some countries offer free transit visas for layovers under 24-72 hours.

Other countries may require a full VoA for exit from the airport.

For example:

Singapore, Turkey, UAE: Often provide free transit visa options.

Thailand & Indonesia: VoA needed if you exit the airport.

Check your airline’s transit policies before travel.

9. What should I do if my Visa on Arrival application gets rejected at the airport?

If your VoA is rejected:

You’ll likely be denied entry and sent back to India, usually at your expense.

Common rejection reasons include insufficient funds, missing documents, or previous immigration violations.

Prevent rejection by:

Carrying complete documentation

Ensuring sufficient funds

Providing a clear and truthful itinerary

10. Are there any health or vaccination requirements for Visa on Arrival countries?

Yellow fever vaccination may be required if arriving from an endemic region.

COVID-19 certificates may be needed for certain countries.

Routine vaccinations like Hepatitis A/B, Typhoid, and Japanese Encephalitis are recommended for some destinations.

Always check health advisories 4-6 weeks before travel.