2024 has certainly been a year of visa ups and downs, and 2025 promises more adventures (and probably some bureaucratic hurdles). Before you plan your holidays for next year, here are some visa updates you should know about!

United States: increase in visa appointments

Good news for Indian travelers and professionals! The US is increasing its visa appointment slots by 1 million in 2025 to address the backlog. The move is expected to significantly reduce the waiting time for popular visas such as B1/B2 tourist and business visas, thereby ensuring quicker processing and greater accessibility.

Thailand to launch e-Visa for Indians

From January 1, 2025, Indian citizens will require an e-Visa to enter Thailand. This change marks the end of the current visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens, effective from November 2023.

As per the existing 60-day visa waiver, till December 31, 2024, Indian travelers can continue to visit Thailand without a visa for tourism and short business trips. This allows hassle-free travel with minimal immigration checks.

United Kingdom: Higher financial proof requirements and visa fee increase

Starting in 2025, Indian students and skilled workers will be required to demonstrate 11% higher savings for visa applications. This will affect proof of living expenses for students and income limits for workers, making financial planning even more important.

The UK is also implementing a slight increase in visa fees for various categories. Although the exact increase varies, it’s important to factor it into your budget when applying for a student, work or visitor visa.

Malaysia now visa free for Indians till 2026

If you have the thought of Petronas Towers in your mind then there is good news for you. Malaysia has extended its visa waiver program for Indian citizens till December 31, 2026. The initiative is part of Malaysia’s efforts to boost tourism, strengthen its economy and prepare for its role as the 2025 ASEAN Chair, while setting the stage for the Malaysia Travel Year 2026. ,

Zimbabwe launches e-Visa for Indians

Zimbabwe has unveiled a new electronic visa on arrival (eVisa) system, with the aim of promoting tourism and streamlining entry processes. This innovative initiative allows travelers from 118 countries to obtain their visa on arrival at international airports in the country. To obtain an eVisa, eligible travelers can complete an online application at least 72 hours before their intended travel.

Japan starts e-Visa process for Indians

Japan has officially launched the e-Visa portal for Indian citizens! with this new visa According to the system, Indians wishing to visit Japan will no longer require a physical visa sticker for entry.

The e-Visa program was announced in August last year and officially launched on April 1. Under this new programme, Indians can apply for electronically generated visas through official visa application centers operated by VFS Global.

With the e-Visa, Indians will be allowed single-entry short-term Japanese visas exclusively for tourism purposes. Along with Indian citizens, foreigners living in India will also be eligible to apply for this eVisa.

Europe (Schengen area): long multiple-entry visa

In a move that will benefit frequent travellers, Schengen countries are now offering multiple-entry visas valid for up to two years for eligible Indian applicants. This policy simplifies travel across Europe, allowing multiple trips without repeated applications.

India joins Australia’s work and holiday visa program

From October 1, 2024, Indian passport holders can avail of the exciting opportunity to live, work and visit Australia through the country’s Working Holiday Maker Visa programme. Eligible Indian citizens aged 18 to 30 can vote for the opportunity to apply for a Work and Holiday Visa.

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