Iran, Kenya, Malaysia: List of countries offering visa-free travel to Indians, view the new guidelines

In the recent past, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and several other countries have relaxed visa requirements for Indians.

Earlier, Sri Lanka announced a visa-free entry initiative for visitors from India and six other countries including China, Russia, Malaysia and Japan.

New Delhi: To boost the tourism and travel sector, the Iranian government on Friday canceled visa requirements for visitors from 33 countries, including India. Giving details, Iranian Minister of Cultural Heritage, Tourism and Handicrafts Ezzatollah Zarghami told state news agency IRNA that this measure was taken to attract more visitors from countries around the world and increase the number of tourists traveling to Iran.

“The Islamic Republic has shown its willingness to open doors to people around the world and provide them with more facilities so that they can easily visit our country and enjoy its benefits,” Zarghami said.

Previously, Malaysia, Sri Lanka and several other countries had relaxed visa requirements for Indians.

Checklist of countries offering visa-free travel to Indians:

Kenya

Kenya previously said it will abolish visa requirements for international visitors from January 1. The move is expected to boost the country’s crucial tourism sector, allowing visitors to travel hassle-free to experience wildlife safaris and beach holidays.

President William Ruto gave details when he said: “It is no longer necessary for anyone from any corner of the world to bear the burden of applying for a visa to come to Kenya.”

Malaysia

Last month, Malaysia also relaxed visa requirements for Indians. Visitors from India and China can now enter Malaysia without a visa and stay for up to 30 days. The new guidelines will come into effect from December 1, 2023. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim said the exemption was subject to strict security vetting.

“Initial screenings will be conducted for all tourists and visitors to Malaysia. Security is another matter. If there are criminal records or a risk of terrorism, they will not be allowed to enter,” the Prime Minister said.

Sri Lanka

Prior to this, Sri Lanka announced a visa-free entry initiative for visitors from India and six other countries including China, Russia, Malaysia, Japan, Indonesia and Thailand. This initiative will remain in effect until March 31, 2024

Thailand

Similarly, Thailand has also started granting 30 days visa-free entry to visitors from India and Taiwan from November 1. The initiative will remain applicable until May 10, 2024.

Vietnam

Vietnam similarly announced that it plans to introduce visa-free entry for Indians and Chinese to promote tourism. Currently, citizens of certain European countries enjoy visa-free access, while others can obtain e-visas with a validity of 90 days and multiple entry options.