In a significant development, the list of countries allowing visa-free entry to Indian passport holders has recently grown, marking a positive trend in facilitating global travel for Indian citizens. This week, both Kenya and Iran joined the list, abolishing visa requirements for Indian travelers.
Kenya Opens Doors for Indian Tourists: What It Means
Kenya's renowned Maasai Mara National Reserve, a sought-after wildlife destination in Africa, has now become accessible to Indian tourists without the need for a visa. This move is expected to encourage a higher influx of Indian visitors to the country, fostering tourism and cultural exchange.
Iran Welcomes Indian Travelers Without Visas: Significance for Religious Tourism
Iran's decision to grant visa-free travel to Indian passport holders holds particular significance for the approximately 15% of Indian Muslims belonging to the Shiite sect. Additionally, this move is anticipated to boost religious tourism to Iran, especially considering its importance as the birthplace of the Zoroastrian faith.
Expanding List of Visa-Free Travel: Recent Announcements
Kenya and Iran's decisions follow recent announcements from Sri Lanka, Thailand, and Malaysia, granting visa-free entry to Indian passport holders. This collective expansion enhances the number of countries where Indian citizens can travel hassle-free.
2023 Passport Index: Extensive Access for Indian Travelers
According to the 2023 Passport Index by Henley and Partners, Indian passport holders can now enjoy visa-free access to 57 countries. This includes destinations offering visa-free travel, visa-on-arrival facilities, and Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), reflecting a positive trend in facilitating seamless global travel for Indian citizens.
Complete List of Countries with Visa-Free/On-Arrival Access for Indian Passport Holders
The following countries provide either visa-free or visa-on-arrival facilities for Indian passport holders:
Albania, Barbados, Bolivia, Botswana, Burundi, Bhutan, British Virgin Islands, Cambodia, Cape Verde Islands, Comoro Islands, Cook Islands, Dominica, El Salvador, Ethiopia, Fiji, Gabon, Guinea-Bissau, Grenada, Haiti, Indonesia, Iran, Jordan, Jamaica, Kazakhstan, Laos, Madagascar, Maldives, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Macao (SAR China), Micronesia, Mauritius, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Nepal, Niue, Oman, Palau Islands, Qatar, Rwanda, Samoa, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Senegal, Somalia, Saint Lucia, Sri Lanka, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Tanzania, Timor-Leste, Thailand, Togo, Tuvalu, Trinidad and Tobago, Tunisia, Uganda, Vanuatu, Zimbabwe.
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