With international travel becoming more accessible than ever, Indian passport holders are increasingly exploring destinations across the globe. One development that has significantly simplified the travel process is the introduction of e-visas.
Designed to eliminate the need for embassy visits and lengthy paperwork, e-visas offer a faster and more convenient way to obtain travel authorisation. In this article, we explore the key aspects of e-visas for Indian travellers, helping you plan your next trip easily and confidently.
What is an E-Visa?
An e-visa, or electronic visa, is a digital alternative to the traditional paper visa issued by embassies or consulates. It allows travellers to apply for and receive visa approval online without visiting a visa office.
Once approved, the e-visa is either emailed to the applicant or linked electronically to their passport. E-visas are typically used for short-term travel purposes such as tourism, business, or transit.
The application process usually involves filling out an online form, uploading required documents, and paying the visa fee through a secure portal. Quicker processing times make it a convenient option for Indians looking to explore international destinations with minimal hassle.
Top Countries Offering E-Visa to Indian Passport Holders
Across the globe, there are many e-visa countries for Indians, making international travel easier and more accessible than ever before.
| S.No. | Country Name | Stay Duration | Visa Fee |
| 1 | Armenia | 21 or 120 days | 3,000 AMD (approx. ₹650) |
| 2 | Azerbaijan | 30 days | US $20 |
| 3 | Bahrain | 14 days | BD 9.000 (approx. ₹1,950) |
| 4 | Barbados | 30 to 90 days | Free |
| 5 | Benin | 30 days | €50 (approx. ₹4,500) |
| 6 | Cambodia | 30 days | US $30 + service charges |
| 7 | Colombia | 30 days | US $82 |
| 8 | Côte d’Ivoire | Not specified | Not specified |
| 9 | Djibouti | 1 to 90 days | US $12–$23 |
| 10 | Ethiopia | 30 days | US $82 |
| 11 | Georgia | 30 days within 120-day period | US $20 + 2% service charges |
| 12 | Kazakhstan | 30 days | Free |
| 13 | Kenya | 90 days (extendable by 90 days) | US $32.50 + processing fees |
| 14 | Kyrgyzstan | 60 days | US $51.50 |
| 15 | Lesotho | 44 to 180 days (varies by visa type) | US $150 |
| 16 | Malaysia | 30 days | RM105 + service charges |
| 17 | Moldova | 90 days within 180-day period | €40 (approx. ₹3,600) |
| 18 | Myanmar | 28 to 70 days (varies by visa type) | US $50–$70 |
| 19 | New Zealand | Up to 1 year (tourist visa) | NZ $441 |
| 20 | Papua New Guinea | 30 days | ₹8,000 to ₹10,000 |
| 21 | Russia | 8 days (specific regions) | US $40 |
| 22 | Saint Lucia | 6 weeks | EC $125 |
| 23 | Saint Vincent & Grenadines | 1 month | Free |
| 24 | South Korea | 5 years (varies by visa type) | Free |
| 25 | Singapore | 30 days | US $30 |
| 26 | Sri Lanka | 30 days (extendable up to 180 days) | US $20-25 |
| 27 | Suriname | 90 days | US $25 |
| 28 | Taiwan | 90 days | INR 3,800 |
| 29 | Tajikistan | 45 days | US $50–$70 (including GBAO permit) |
| 30 | Tanzania | 90 days | US $50 |
| 31 | Thailand | 15 days | Free |
| 32 | Uganda | 3 months | US $750 |
| 33 | Uzbekistan | 30 days | US $40 + actual charge $15 |
| 34 | Vietnam | 30 days | US $35 |
| 35 | Zambia | 30 days | US $25.28 |
Please note that visa fees and stay durations are subject to change. It’s advisable to consult the respective countries’ official embassy or consulate websites for the most up-to-date information before planning your trip.
Why is International Travel Insurance a Must-Have Even for E-Visa Countries?
While securing an e-Visa simplifies your travel plans, don’t overlook the importance of travel insurance– it’s your financial safety net abroad. Here’s why it’s crucial to get an insurance plan before your trip:
- Medical Emergencies Abroad: Healthcare costs in many countries can be extremely high. Travel insurance ensures you’re covered in case of illness, injury, or hospitalisation during your trip.
- Trip Cancellations or Delays: Unforeseen events like flight cancellations, delays, or personal emergencies can disrupt your itinerary. Travel insurance helps recover non-refundable expenses.
- Lost Baggage or Documents: Losing luggage or important documents like your passport can be stressful. Insurance can cover the cost of lost belongings and assist in recovery or replacement processes.
- Natural Disasters or Political Unrest: If your destination experiences a sudden natural calamity or unrest, insurance can help cover evacuation or rebooking expenses.
- Mandatory in Some Countries: Certain countries offering e-Visas, such as Schengen nations, require travel insurance for entry.
- Personal Liability Protection: If you’re involved in an incident where someone else is injured or property is damaged, travel insurance can help cover legal or compensation costs.
- Support Services: Most travel insurance policies offer 24/7 emergency assistance, helping you deal with hospitals, consulates, or legal issues in an unfamiliar country.
E-visas have revolutionised international travel for Indian passport holders by streamlining the visa process and eliminating the need for lengthy embassy appointments. With a growing list of countries offering e-visas, exploring the world has never been easier.
However, while planning your trip, investing in comprehensive travel insurance is equally important to ensure a safe and stress-free journey. The right insurance policy can provide essential support abroad from unexpected medical emergencies to trip disruptions.
