All of us are now aware with the hassles related to the preparations for a holiday. Among all of these the most difficult is getting a visa on arrival for Indians. It is even more embarrassing when you have to give proofs to enter a place where you just want to explore and relax for a few days. Along with all this come the interviews, the mismatching answers, etc.
Travelling abroad can be a long drawn affair at times. Right from the choosing of a place to the funds required – one must take care of the essentials so that the vacation is worth the time and energy spent and that it doesn’t turn out to be their worst nightmare. Then there is the issue of getting ones visa for the country one wants to visit. This is the biggest hurdle and can prove to be fatal.
It is that time of the year when you pack your bags and head off to someplace far from the drudgery of work and simply relax your mind and body. Countries today are more open to travel and tourism that they were before. Competitive flight tickets, exotic locations and impressionable experiences promise to provide a holiday like never before. But with the prospect of vacationing in a foreign country, the thought of having to get a visa is a sure put-off. Those interviews make one ‘squirm in the chair’ and there is always a probability of being denied the visa. Yeah, there goes all you’re planning. Wait!! Rumour has it that there are countries that provide visa on arrival for Indians.
Going for a vacation outside India isn’t just about packing one's bags or choosing an exotic location. There is much planning to do and the most important of them all is the procurement of visas to enter the country you plan to visit. To get that to happen, an interview at the respective consulate, hours of documentation and there is always the chance of being rejected. How about planning your visit to places that provide Indian citizen with visas upon their arrival? Sounds good, doesn’t it.
There are however a few places where you get visa on arrival or by mail or free visa. All Indians passionate for travelling should absolutely not miss these.
Let your travels be smooth-sailing when you journey into these countries that are happy to provide you with a visa on arrival.
1. El Salvador -
A VOA can be obtained by Indians visiting El Salvador by purchasing a $10 tourist stay card for a maximum of 3 months. This 90 day permit also covers the countries of Guatemala, Honduras and Nicaragua, ensuring you make the most of your visit.
2. Maldives –
This island of many islands grants Indians a free visa on arrival for up to 30 days. Just ensure you have a return air ticket or necessary visas for an onward journey to your next destination. About 80 islands have been developed solely for tourists to guarantee you a good time. If you choose to wander onto inhabited islands, just be sure to abide by local rules. The archipelago of 80 small islands, Maldives offers Indian citizens visas on arrival up to 30 days of stay.
Just about everyone seems to be raving about this island paradise. To travel to the island populated by inhabitants, a permit is needed and the authorities need o be contacted for the same. Be warned, Maldives is expensive and so travel loaded. Having said that, you will get value for the money spent. This is an archipelago with about 80 islands here. You can enjoy the beauty of the waters here and also spend days in luxurious houseboats. There are posh resorts too which are beautiful inside out. The only thing you need to be aware of is that the expenses are higher compared to many other places as these are one resort islands. Also important to know is that you will need a permit to explore the inhabited islands. The Visa on Arrival for Indians is valid up to 30 days.
• Facts -
A joyful vacation is guaranteed given that almost 80 of the archipelago islands are waiting for you to be discovered.
• Things to do -
Unfortunately, inhabited islands are not open to tourists without permit, so if you’re the adventurous kind, ensure the permit leaves the country with you.
• Note -
As expensive as it gets, Maldives can be very enjoyable if you can adapt to the local ways. Inhabited islands can get difficult to set foot on with your native style, so be quick to learn and you’ll have a great time here!
3. Seychelles -
Seychelles offers VOA for Indians free of charge for a period of one month. If you feel like you can’t get enough of the island, you can further extend your stay for a period of 3 months from the date of issue. It is believed that further extensions are also possible, although you might want to check with the authorities on that.
4. Haiti -
This beautiful Caribbean country offers free visa for Indians up to 90 days. The turmoil which the country has seen over the past decade is sure to appeal to your emotional side. Although earthquake torn and recently affected by a cholera epidemic, put the risks aside and you have a fascinating journey which takes you from old ruins to castles and citadels to the heart-warming culture and cuisine of its people. You’ve heard the story about the earthquake that ravaged the place in 2010 and the struggle to rebuild. If you wish to, you can visit the island as it provides free visas upon arrival for Indian.
There is a 90-day visa rule that is to be maintained when traveling there. You will simply enjoy the places of historic significance, delectable cuisine, and addictive cremas. It’s time you take that trip and hum along ‘We are the World’ when you set foot on Haitian soil. Located in the North Atlantic Region of the Carribean Islands, this is a place which will give you both a beautiful as well as emotional experience to cherish. The locations are beautiful and the people too even after they have suffered. Explore the ruined forts, temples and castles. You should also try the cremas and other traditional food here.
• Visa -
Visa free for Indians for up to 90 days.
• Facts -
North Atlantic Ocean runs north of this Caribbean country
• Things to do -
Culturally rich, the place is crawling with forts and castles. Their cuisine will leave your taste buds pampered and the drink suggested often is cremas.
• Note -
Frequent earthquakes might be a problem, apart from the recent cholera outbreak in 2014. If you can take your chances here, the experience here will be breathtaking.
5. Oman -
Indians can obtain a visa on arrival in Oman which costs OMR 6 or its equivalent in Indian currency. The visitor’s permit is initially valid for one month. It can further be extended for another one month with the same fee. Just remember not to overstay your visit or you shall end up paying a fine of OMR 10 for everyday that goes beyond the validity of the visa.
6. Vanuatu -
A lesser known archipelago consisting of about 83 islands in the Pacific Ocean, Vanuatu offers VOA for Indians up to 3 months which can be further extended to 4 months. Plenty of hotels and resorts restaurants and bars make up the islands where the weekend of fun and frolic starts from Friday afternoon.
• Visa -
Extendable visa upto 4 months, initial one is issued on arrival with a deadline of 30 days
• Facts -
83 islands in the Pacific Ocean make up this archipelago. The history of why they called this place East Hebrides is quite fascinating if you ask me.
• Things to do -
Home to a diverse marine ecosystem, not all fish down the deep blue is your friend. You can however try diving with a little caution. Kava is a must try drink here- you will either like it or hate it, there is no ‘in between’. Yasur, an active volcano has been amazing the tourists visiting for long.
• Note -
Weekends start as early as Friday afternoon, and wine shops are usually closed around that time. That’s a weird habit given everyone parties towards the end of the week. Aside this, everything else is on the bright side, be it restaurants or lodges.
7. Grenada -
Offering a visa on arrival for 90 days, this Caribbean island has plenty to keep you entertained throughout your entire stay. With many of the locals speaking in English, language will pose no barrier for Indians hoping to explore every crevice of the island.
• Visa -
For 90 days, the visa you get on arrival for free is all yours
• Facts -
High on beauty, this Caribbean island is big on weather, well engineered spices, forts and estates, waterfalls and sun-kissed beaches.
• Things to do -
With just 3 days for the completion of wedding formalities, you can elope right here to your partner. Party and eat seafood all you want, since rum, spices, food and dark chocolate sell like crazy.
• Note -
Don’t even bother trying the local rum, since it is way stronger than what you’re used to. Most people here speak English, and the frequent jams here will easily make you feel like home!
8. Mauritius –
A beautiful location, Mauritius is a place where you can do like anything. You can either sit and chill by the waters or dance with one of the local entertainers or just go on clicking pictures. It is however always better to step out of the box and try something new. How about some skydiving? It is important to note that it is always better to know French or at least have a phrasebook handy as it is the second most popular language here after English. Visa on Arrival for Indians is valid up to 90 days.
• Visa -
Free access for Indians up to 90 days ( unbelievable isn’t it?)
• Facts -
Majorly an island destination, the clear waters around is to be appreciated
• Things to do -
Skydiving- Tandem skydiving that is, is a must try here.
• Note -
If your French is week, you might want to travel with a translator along. Although many know English, yet communication might be a little spaced out at remote locations.
9. Madagascar -
It’s travel made easy with visa on arrival for Indians which lasts for 30 days. The landscape is exhilarating, the food awesome and the fauna simply diverse. A word of caution – ask before you take photographs of anything – yes, certain people groups, tombs, and places are simply not meant to be captured on celluloid. Other than this, Madagascar is everything that the movie by the same name portrayed it to be. This is a big Carribean Island with rich diversity in terms of flora and fauna. There is also a beautiful natural reserve here. The place is so big that it can also be referred to as a different continent. Visa on Arrival for Indians is available till 90 days, if at all it is issued. Please note that knowing a little Malagasy will prove very helpful and also do not click pictures of anything without asking the local people.
• Visa -
90 whole days for visa validity for the Indians. You do need to check of visas are being issue at all.
• Facts -
Filled with a diverse vegetation and fauna, the Carribean island will not let you down with its scenic beauty.
• Things to do -
Keep an eye on the baobab trees and Tsingy de Bemaraha Reserve- a limestone plateau that has been standing for ages. And there’s regular beach activity of course.
• Note -
You might want to stay on the quieter side here to not get into trouble. The locals might get fierce if photographed without consent. Try getting hold of a Malagasy translation key book for help.
10. Indonesia -
To stay for a maximum of 30 days in Indonesia, Indian citizens need to procure a visa on arrival at the cost of as little as USD 25. Along with this one needs to show proof of having enough funds on them to take care of their stay in the country, and confirmed return tickets as well. A passport that is valid for at least 6 months from the date one enters Indonesia is crucial to have. If you have all of this ready, make your way to this beautiful land and enjoy the exotic beaches and sunsets at Bali. For a dose of Indonesian culture, try visiting Ubud or if you want to see a volcano in action, Mt. Batur is a great pick.
Visa upon arrival for Indians is the privilege one gets here. However, a cost of USD 35 is to be paid to procure the same. Indonesia is an island with beautiful blue beaches, the famed Bali and street food that has been highlighted on many lifestyle channels. However, Bali can get expensive to keep that in mind before you decide to fly off to the island destination. Pack light as you will travel much. Don’t forget your bathing suit and camera. Being a rival location, Indonesia is full of exoticness. You can sit by the beaches or some water sports. There are also a number of temples and the street food here is delicious. Some islands here such as Bali can be very expensive, so be prepared not to get shocked later. Going to this place is very hassle free as the Visa on Arrival for Indians can be obtained for 30 days with a fee of USD 35.
• Visa -
Pay USD 35 and the Visa is all yours for 30 days.
• Things to do -
Dive, relax, eat, laze around, and repeat. Street foods are a delight here and so are the temples everywhere.
• Note -
The islands of Indonesia run on the tourists that flock down here, so it might get a little expensive than you predicted.
11. Comoros -
One of the best island destination all over the world, it is visited by people from the whole world in hundreds. It is a part of the Carribean Islands and there is a lot you can do here. This includes snorkelling, diving, hiking, fishing, water walks, hot springs and turtle walks. English is the main language spoken and French is an added advantage. Visa is free for Indians on arrival for 180 days.
• Visa -
Available for Indians on arrival, against a fee of 61 Euros.
• Facts -
Comoros is basically a string of stifling volcanic Islands in the Indian Ocean, around the coast of East Africa.
• Things to do -
Good knews for dolphin fanatics- the place is crowded with the most behaved ones, trekking, taking dives and hiking are other popular sports
• Note -
An entirely Muslim country, partying and wearing a bikini to a beach might be looked down upon even if you are a non-Muslim. One thing you need to watch out for is the spreading Malaria here. There are political conflicts rising up every now and then, so there must be a layer of extra caution while you’re here.
12. Dominica -
• Visa -
Visa on arrival for Indians, free for up to 180 days
• Facts -
A source of active volcano, this Caribbean island is bounded by innate exquisiteness all around.
• Things to do -
The same old hiking and diving, visit to the waterfalls, turtle walks, hot springs and snorkelling
• Note -
Considered to be one of the most secure foreign island vacation destinations, Dominican music is popular all over the world. English is spoken by many, but knowing French will certainly prove to be a benefit.
13. Jamaica -
When one talks of Jamaica – the only word to describe it would be – beaches. Yes, this land is not just a cultural hotspot but a place that is home to the calypso, some of the best beaches in the world and great cuisine. The home of Bob Marley, Jamaica requires Indian citizens to procure a visa on arrival if one plans to stay there for more than 14 days. When there, please do visit Montego Bay – you have not seen anything like this before! The famous Montego Bay is waiting for you to set foot. The land of Bob Marley, Jamaica is a cultural hotspot that will sweep you off your feet. Shake those hips to the enchanting calypso beats, lie on its beaches and get drenched in its beaches. If you plan to stay on for more than 14 days, then its visa free travel for Indians. The thrilling experience that one will get from visiting Jamaica is unexpected.
• Visa -
Although a 14 day limit, visa is available on arrival for Indians
• Facts -
It is a tropical ecstasy beyond being just another Caribbean island.
• Things to do -
Ensure you visit the grave of legendary singer Bob Marley, who was born and buried here. Try the adventure sports including zipling and have a taste of the scrambled eggs in a fruit called ackee. Getting married here is a fun experience too!
• Note -
Jamaican people are friendly, but often look for chances to fleece you. Conversion of currency is a simple procedure, but knowing the rates for exchange is advisable. Never ever tell people you don’t know where you are staying or that it’s your first time here, so matter how friendly they seem.
14. Micronesia -
The island of Micronesia is made up of 600 small islands and is found in the Pacific Ocean. The authorities here provide free visa on arrival for Indians for up to 30 days. If you desire to stay for a longer period, it would be best to contact the consulate there. The place provides ample water spots options, diving, visiting ancient monuments and museums. The amenities that one gets here are basic yet comfortable. Do remember that though luxury 5-star hotels aren’t available here, you will do just fine with the amenities provided.
• Visa -
Visa will be with you for 30 days for free here
• Facts -
Comprising of four states: Yap, Chuuk, Pohnpei and Kosrae, the Federated States of Micronesia has over 600 islands in the heart of the Pacific Ocean to call its own. The weather to greet you all through your time here will be a lot of pouring rain and a tropical atmosphere
• Things to do -
Diving, swimming, beaches, ruins, islands, artefacts and similar other places and sports of significance will keep all your attention on the country while you’re here. Adventure buffs can vouch for this place any time.
• Note -
Micronesia is just like Maldives but within a budget. You can expect decent accommodations, though not high-end hotels. Amenities are limited and being polite is highly appreciated by the locals here.
15. Saint Lucia -
• Visa -
In exchange of USD 50, the visa is available for Indians up to six weeks and can be extended if you decide to stay for longer.
• Facts -
An Island located off Central America
• Things to do -
Climbing Gros Piton is even more nerve-racking than trying out diving and snorkelling. The beaches, volcanoes, botanical gardens, ruins and parks here attract quite the number of tourists as well.
• Note -
If not a military personnel, don’t even bother carrying your camouflage goodies- it’s strictly illegal here.
16. Tuvalu -
• Visa -
Visa on arrival for Indians, valid for up to a month
• Facts -
South Pacific is where it is based in- as a really minute archipelago.
• Things to do -
Tea No is a national sport here, and a must-try on that note. It is a beach biased destination, so the sea will call on you like no other.
• Note -
If you want a beach vacation with some alone time away from the din, this is just the destination for you. Lacking in luxury, Tuvalu will disappoint you if you cannot travel without comfort.
17. Jordan –
The middle-east does offer a number of holiday destinations. Take Jordan for instance. The place happens to be on our list of countries offering visa on arrival for Indians for a period of two weeks against a fee of USD 30. Those traveling must also carry a sum of USD 1000 to take care of their stay and have their return tickets booked as well. An addition to this is that if Indians enter and exit Jordan via Aqaba along the Red Sea, then they get a visa for one month for free.
The Indians coming to Jordan can get a Visa on Arrival for 2 weeks by paying a fee of approximately US$ 30. They must carry at least US$ 1000 (or equivalent) to cover their stay and hold onward or return flight tickets for their next destination. Indians entering and exiting Jordan from Aqaba, along the Red Sea, are granted a 1 month visa for free. The Dead Sea is a great hangout!
18. Kenya –
While many may steer clear of this route, the wildlife in Kenya is a welcoming holiday destination for those who like to brave it out. The world famous Masai Mara Wildlife reserve is located here and offers one a great treat away from home. What is best is that Kenya makes it to my list of countries offering visa on arrival for Indians. One is required to procure the document against a payment of USD 50 on arrival.
This is a great opportunity for one to experience the land of Africa. Places like Nairobi and Mombasa must make it to your visit list of you decide to give Kenya a try. Go wild in Kenya. The Masai Mara wildlife reserve in Africa is the place to be at. Mombasa offers great historical tours and Nairobi its safaris. The Indian traveler need not worry about visas as he will be granted one on arrival for an amount of USD 50. This little paradise is waiting with open arms to greet tourists. Consider a visit to this country.
19. Bhutan -
India’s neighbor offers a good experience to those who wish to have an enchanting and inexpensive holiday experience. One can reach the place by land or air. To get to Bhutan by road from Siliguri, upon reaching Jaigaon, Indian citizens can enter Phuentsholing without a visa. Going deeper into the country, would require a permit to be obtained from here or Thimpu.
Referred to as the land of the Thunder Dragon; Bhutan’s monasteries like Tiger’s Nest is a visit worth a lifetime. The country is bright cuisine rich yet healthy.
20. Fiji Islands –
The region of the South Pacific is bestowed with the beautiful Fiji Islands. The authorities provide free visa on arrival to Indian tourists with an aim to increase tourism prospects. Charming beaches, healthy marine life, good food and super friendly inhabitants, Fiji is a perfect place for couples who wish to escape to a secluded paradise.
21. Sri Lanka -
For a mere USD 15, Indian citizens are given visas on arrival at Sri Lanka. Tangy cuisine, beaches that are a relief to the sore eyed and a mix of British colonialism with tradition is what this little island offers its tourists. A super cheap place to shop for clothes and as well as precious stones, you will enjoy your time here and may even come back for a second time.
With visa on arrival now being offered to Indians by many countries, travel hassle-free to some of these choicest destinations which guarantee a smooth journey and an even more memorable experience. As exciting as a trip abroad may be, the trouble that one has to take up for the visa is maddening. From interviews to conflicting information, each process is lengthy on its own term, spoiling the fun even before you get to set out. Which is why, these countries are a paradise to Indian travelers. With no hassle for visa, no trip to the office every other day, you can take all your time in just packing everything you want.