Travel Made Easy: Visa on Arrival Countries for Indians
If you have been wishing to travel the world but feel that you will get stuck at the visa stages, then you are in luck. Visa on arrival and E-visa options are making travel to foreign countries easier than before, especially for Indians. They are timesaving and allows one to negate the hassle of pre-application requirements and procedures, hence making it the best way to begin your trip.
Wondering which countries offer visa on arrival for Indians? Read on to discover the top destinations and start planning your next journey!
What is Visa on Arrival?
Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a convenient option for Indian citizens since they do not have to apply for a visa beforehand and can get it once they reach their destination, at the border or airport. It is excellent for those who wish to travel on short notice, have a business meeting that requires them to leave immediately, or are spontaneous travelers who like to plan on the go.
Visa on Arrival vs. Visa-free: Key Differences Explained
Understanding the difference between visa-free entry and visa-on-arrival is a critical factor in planning international travel. Both these policies facilitate travel by different means and processes, although each serves differently:
| Visa-free | Visa on Arrival |
● Indian nationals holding valid Indian passports can travel to certain countries without applying for a visa. ●Such arrangements are made either through mutual agreements between two countries or as a unilateral approach by the country of the first destination. ●Visa formalities are eliminated, allowing travelers to freely enter the country. | ● In visa-on-arrival countries, Indians must obtain a visa upon landing at the destination. ● This option is faster and more convenient than applying for a visa beforehand. ● Travelers show up with their passports and supporting documents and are given a visa at the border or the airport. |
Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for Indian Travelers
Travelling abroad is now easier than ever, with numerous countries offering on-arrival visas for Indians. Check them out in the list below:
1.Thailand: Enjoy a 30-day stay with a visa on arrival or free entry.
2.Maldives: A 30-day visa on arrival lets you bask in this tropical paradise stress-free.
3.Indonesia: Explore scenic islands with an e-visa or on-arrival option, valid for 30 days.
4.Vietnam: Choose a visa on arrival or an e-visa to stay for up to 30 days.
5.Myanmar: Discover golden pagodas with a 30-day visa on arrival.
6.Jordan: Immerse in history and beauty with a 30-day visa on arrival.
7.Cambodia: Visit Angkor Wat with an e-visa or arrival visa, valid for 30 days.
African Countries
●Rwanda: A 30-day visa on arrival lets you explore its stunning landscapes.
●Zimbabwe: Go on thrilling safaris with a 30-day visa on arrival.
●Ethiopia: Experience historic wonders with an e-visa or visa on arrival.
Island Getaways
●Fiji: Dive into pristine waters with a visa on arrival for up to 4 months.
●Seychelles: Explore this tropical haven with a visa on arrival for up to 30 days.
●Mauritania: Discover desert beauty with a 90-day visa on arrival.
South American & Pacific Destinations
●Bolivia: Witness breathtaking landscapes with a 30-day visa on arrival.
●Samoa: Enjoy serene tropical beauty for up to 90 days.
●Palau Islands: Experience tranquillity with a 30-day on-arrival visa for Indians.
Documents Required for Visa on Arrival for Indians
The documents required for visa-on-arrival for Indians vary depending on the destination. In this regard, some of the common documents are:
- Valid Passport: Ensure that you have a valid passport that is above six months of validity from the date of entry and contains all the required blank surfaces for visa stamps.
- Arrival/Departure Form: Some countries have this form available at the point of entry and require its completion at that time.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Based on the requirements of the country being visited, you will need to carry one or two of your recent passport-sized photographs.
- Visa Fee: In most countries, the visa processing fee can be paid in local currency. Carry the exact amount in cash, as cards may not always be accepted.
- Proof of Purpose of Visit: This might involve specific proof of factors such as hotel bookings, invitation letters, travel tickets, etc.
- Proof of Financial Means: In the course of dealing with such matters, a bank statement of sorts or similar document might be required to prove you can cover your expenses during your stay.
- Return or Onward Ticket: Most visa-on-arrival countries for Indians require proof of departure plans to ensure compliance with the visa’s validity period.
Step-by-Step Process for Visa on Arrival for Indians
While the process may differ from one country to the other, the following guide provides a rough overview of what one should do:
- Research and Verify: You will need to check whether the country provides visa on arrival for Indian citizens as well as review other parameters like eligibility and other requirements. The official website of the embassy or consulate of the country you intend to visit has accurate information which will be useful for your trip.
- Arrival at the Destination: When you arrive at the designated international airport, locate either the immigration desk or the visa on arrival desk where the particular service is offered.
- Documentation: You will need to have a valid passport, recent passport-size photographs, filled arrival/departure forms, visit purpose proof (Hotel reservations or invitation letters), proof of having enough funds, and either a return ticket or onward ticket.
- Application and Payment: The documentation requirements change from one country to the other, which is why you must follow the instructions provided by the specific immigration officer at the visa-on-arrival facility. You will need to fill out forms as well as pay the visa fee, which is recommended for you to carry in cash since cards are mostly not allowed.
- Visa Issuance: After the payment is received, the officials verify the documents and if all is in order, the immigration officer stamps the VISA.
- Entry and Duration: After obtaining your visa, proceed through immigration. The visa on arrival allows you to stay in the country for a specified period, which could range from 15 to 30 days or more, depending on the destination.
Now that you know which countries offer visas on arrival for Indians, there’s another thing that needs your attention. Several countries require you to have a travel insurance plan as a mandatory requirement in order to get a visa. Moroever, when you plan a trip with multiple flights, the chances of missing anyone are low but never zero. Countries like the 27 Schengen countries of Europe require a Travel Insurance policy mandatorily to apply for a Schengen visa. Australia requires a visa for a 70 year old Senior traveler.
Having an international travel insurance plan like the Star Travel Protect Insurance Policy can enable you to handle both situations, along with gaining coverage for lost/delayed luggage, trip cancellations/interruptions, medical emergencies, and more.
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- No Medical Sublimits for all travelers upto 75 years of Age
FAQs
1.Why do countries have visas on arrival?
Countries issue visas on arrival to promote tourism and encourage international trade by facilitating a smoother entry process for guests and business visitors. This policy helps countries gain more tourists by relaxing visa requirements while keeping essential paperwork in place. This is useful for people who are in a crunch and do not have the time or the resources to get a visa in advance.
2.What are the requirements for obtaining a visa on arrival?
The requirements for a visa on arrival for Indians can vary depending on the destination. But for the majority of the countries, one would need valid documents, like a valid passport, recent passport photographs, proof of necessary appointments, hotel bookings, proof of funds, and a return flight ticket.
3.Can I extend my visa on arrival?
Some visa-on-arrival countries for Indians issue visas for a few days and allow for an extension, while others are a bit stricter with their rules. The easiest way to figure out if changes are possible is to directly get in touch with immigration or your local immigration office at your destination for the time and conditions needed to be met for further extensions.
4.What is the purpose of a visa-on-arrival?
Visa on arrival for Indians is typically issued for short-term purposes, such as tourism, business meetings, or visiting family. It’s a convenient option for those planning a spontaneous trip or unable to apply for a visa beforehand. Requirements usually include a valid passport, travel documents, and a visa fee.
5.What are the top India visa-free countries?
Nepal, Barbados, Haiti, Bhutan, Hong Kong SAR, Sri Lanka, Senegal, and Qatar are some of the top visa-free countries for Indians.
