Changes in Visa Rules for Indians Across Nine Countries

International travel can become complicated when the regulations of destination countries change unexpectedly. Indian travelers planning trips in 2026 need to verify whether a destination still offers visa-on-arrival or has shifted to e-visa, ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), or other pre-travel procedures. According to the latest data for 2026, nine countries have modified their visa or entry requirements for Indian passport holders. These include Laos, Qatar, Sri Lanka, Iran, Chile, Ghana, Venezuela, Cape Verde, and Nicaragua. While some nations have transitioned from visa-on-arrival to online application systems, others have introduced new visa categories or digital authorization systems.

Which countries have changed visa rules for Indians?

Based on passport index data from 2025 and the current year, these nine countries have altered their visa or entry protocols for Indian passport holders. Not all these changes necessarily imply stricter regulations; while some countries have adopted online application processes, others have discontinued the visa-on-arrival facility.

Laos: Laos has discontinued its visa-on-arrival system and introduced an e-visa system instead. Instead of completing formalities at the airport, travelers must submit an application online and obtain approval before departure.

Qatar: The previously available visa-on-arrival facility is no longer available. Indian citizens are now required to obtain an e-visa in advance.

Sri Lanka: The system previously designated as "e-visa on arrival" has now been replaced by the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Approval for this must be obtained prior to travel.

Iran: The visa-on-arrival facility in Iran ended in November 2025. An e-visa is now mandatory.

Chile, Ghana, and Venezuela: These three countries have adopted a more traveler-friendly approach. Previously classified under the "visa required" category, they have now introduced e-visa facilities, making the entire process online.

Cape Verde: Effective January 1, 2026, Cape Verde has abolished the visa-on-arrival facility for citizens of 96 countries, including India. A pre-arranged visa is now mandatory.

Nicaragua: From February 14, 2026, Indian passport holders must apply for an electronic visa online or submit the required form via email to Nicaraguan immigration authorities. The visa-on-arrival facility is no longer available here either. Visa-on-arrival and e-visa are not the same; the latter requires obtaining approval prior to travel, meaning one can no longer simply wait for the visa upon arrival at the destination. While comparing passport indices is a good starting point, travelers should verify the latest regulations through the destination's official immigration portal, embassy, ​​or consulate. Before booking non-refundable flight tickets, ensure you check details such as passport validity, processing times, fees, permitted duration of stay, and any required entry forms.