For millions of Indians, traveling abroad is more than just a holiday—it’s a chance to explore new cultures, build careers, and experience the wider world. But behind the excitement lies a challenge that few outside India truly understand: the bias Indian passport holders often face at immigration counters around the world.
Recently, travel content creator Prateek Singh shared his candid experience in a viral Instagram video, shedding light on what many Indians silently endure while traveling internationally. His words struck a chord, sparking debate across social media and highlighting the everyday struggles tied to the Indian passport’s global reputation.
“Even in Visa-Free Countries, Our Passports Are Questioned”
Prateek described how Indian travelers are often subjected to lengthy questioning, even in countries where visa-free access exists.
“If you’ve ever traveled out of India, you know the struggle. You still have to stand and give a 30-minute viva. Many times, you won’t get entry even in visa-free nations because your intentions are questioned. This happens even if you’ve got a fixed itinerary and a taxi waiting outside,” Singh explained.
Despite holding major visas such as the US, Japan, and Schengen visas, Singh recounted how immigration officers continued to scrutinize him more than travelers from other nations.
A Wallet Check at Transit
In one particularly jarring incident during his recent trip to South Korea, Singh said that at Hong Kong’s transit counter, officers demanded he open his wallet so they could inspect his cash and credit cards.
“Nobody else was asked to do the same. I was singled out, despite holding most major visas,” he revealed.
This wasn’t an isolated case—it’s a reflection of a wider skepticism faced by Indian travelers globally. Immigration authorities often demand proof of funds, onward tickets, and even personal explanations more frequently from Indian passport holders than from many other nationalities.
Why This Bias Exists
Unfortunately, the bias against Indian travelers isn’t always baseless—it has been shaped by the misuse of visa-free agreements by a minority of individuals. Singh pointed to the example of Serbia, which once offered visa-free entry to Indians.
That privilege was revoked after authorities discovered that some travelers were attempting to cross illegally into Europe through Serbia.
“Now, it’s no longer visa-free for us. Misuse by a few has ruined it for the majority,” Singh lamented.
The actions of a small number of people have far-reaching consequences, forcing honest Indian travelers to endure stricter checks and fewer freedoms.
Social Media Reactions: Frustration and Self-Reflection
Singh’s video sparked an outpouring of responses from Indian travelers who resonated deeply with his account.
- One user wrote:
“True. Every step is tedious, from the visa application to immigration for Indians. It’s just so sad.” - Another added:
“The number of documents and layers of verification required just to get a tourist visa says everything. Only those who’ve applied and traveled know how degrading it feels sometimes.”
Many highlighted the frustration of excessive paperwork—bank statements, sponsorship letters, confirmed bookings—just to prove one’s credibility for a short holiday.
At the same time, some users pointed to behavioral issues abroad that have hurt the Indian passport’s reputation.
One traveler shared:
“I’ve seen fellow Indians sitting on airport floors playing cards, eating gutka, and shouting on the phone. We love our people, but what’s acceptable at home isn’t acceptable everywhere. We need to do better.”
Another added a sobering reflection:
“Yes, we have a proud history. But in 2025, we’re still failing in basic civic sense. Passport rankings reflect that.”
The Indian Passport’s Global Standing
As of 2025, the Indian passport ranks much lower than passports from countries like Japan, Singapore, or EU states, offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to only a limited set of destinations. While recent years have seen slight improvements, it remains far behind in terms of global mobility.
This limited freedom often means:
- Longer visa processing times.
- Higher rejection rates (particularly for Schengen and US visas).
- Intense questioning at borders, even in visa-free nations.
Why Stronger Measures Are Needed
Prateek Singh’s message was clear: the Indian government must take stronger steps against passport misuse. Strict action against those attempting illegal migration or misusing visa-free agreements is essential to rebuild trust with foreign governments.
Equally important is fostering awareness among Indian travelers about how behavior abroad affects perceptions at a global level. From respecting cultural norms to following rules at airports, every action matters in shaping how the Indian passport is viewed.
What Indian Travelers Can Do
While systemic change will take time, individual travelers can adopt strategies to reduce the risk of bias and rejection:
- Carry proper documentation – Even in visa-free countries, have hotel bookings, return tickets, and proof of funds handy.
- Maintain travel history – Holding valid visas from the US, UK, Schengen, or Japan helps build credibility.
- Behave responsibly abroad – Respecting cultural norms, maintaining decorum at airports, and avoiding disruptive behavior strengthen India’s image.
- Be transparent at immigration – Answer questions confidently and truthfully.
- Plan thoroughly – A well-documented itinerary reduces suspicion about your intentions.
Final Thoughts
Traveling with an Indian passport comes with unique hurdles, and Prateek Singh’s viral video has reignited conversations around the bias and struggles Indians face at global borders.
While part of the issue lies in the misuse of privileges by a minority, much also depends on how Indians present themselves abroad and how the government safeguards the integrity of the passport.
Until broader change happens, Indian travelers must remain prepared—armed with documents, patience, and awareness. After all, every responsible journey contributes to reshaping the reputation of the Indian passport on the global stage.
