Visa Updates 2025: Travelling abroad is becoming easier for Indian passport holders as several countries are now offering visa-free access, making international travel more convenient. However, each destination comes with its own set of rules and conditions. If you’re planning a trip, it’s worth checking out these updates to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey.
Philippines Now Visa-Free for Indians – But With a Limit
Indian travellers can now visit the Philippines without a visa for up to 14 days. You can arrive through any international airport, seaport, or cruise terminal. However, there’s a catch – the stay is strictly limited to 14 days, and cannot be extended. This makes it a great short vacation option, especially for budget travellers looking for a quick international getaway.
Travelling to the US Just Got More Expensive
While some countries are relaxing visa rules, the United States has made it costlier for Indian visitors. The non-immigrant visa fee, which used to be around ₹21,546, has now increased by another ₹21,546, nearly doubling the cost. This makes a US trip significantly more expensive for Indian tourists, especially for short-term visitors.
New Zealand Offering Budget-Friendly Visa for Remote Workers
New Zealand is offering a Visitor Visa for just ₹22,000, aimed at digital nomads like freelancers, consultants, creators, and tech professionals. This visa allows you to live and work remotely from New Zealand – but only if your income comes from outside the country. You cannot work for a local company or sell goods and services within New Zealand. Still, it’s a fantastic opportunity for those earning remotely to explore the country while continuing to work online.
South Africa Introduces “Groove Visa” via Trusted Tour Operators
South Africa has launched a new Groove Visa under its Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS). Under this system, travellers can apply for a visa directly through verified tour operators. The tour operators themselves will undergo strict background checks, ensuring a safe and streamlined visa process. This makes travelling to South Africa both easier and more reliable for Indian tourists.
Discover Palau – Visa-Free for 30 Days
The beautiful island country of Palau, located in the Pacific Ocean, now allows Indian travellers to stay visa-free for up to 30 days. While there are no direct flights from India, you can reach Palau via Manila, Seoul, or Taipei. That said, Palau can be expensive, so it’s wise to plan your travel budget in advance.
Conclusion
With some countries removing visa barriers and others increasing travel costs, it’s more important than ever to stay informed about global visa changes. For Indian travellers, options like the Philippines, Palau, New Zealand, and South Africa offer exciting, flexible travel opportunities—especially for remote workers and explorers. Just make sure you understand the rules before you go!
