Travelling abroad? Recent visa rule changes you need to know

More and more countries are relaxing norms for Indian passport holders. From visa on arrival, free transit visa, Schengen visa going digital and a ways to avoid US visa queue, here's a list of all the noteworthy changes that took place in the last few months.

1) Indonesia
The Republic of Indonesia made its visa-free travel ban official. It means that the ban that came into effect during pandemic is here to stay. Indians can continue to travel to Indonesia with a visa on arrival.


2) The United States of America
Visiting US has become a little costly. They increased their visa fee for business, tourist and other categories of travel. Since 17 June, business and tourism (B1 and B2 categories) visitor visas; non petition-based NIVs have increased from $160 (Rs13,125) to $185 (Rs15,176).

Travellers who also have "clearance received" or "department authorization" stamp on their passport can apply for an interview waiver while applying for a fresh visa. Those who do not have this stamp can avail this service if their visa is within 48 months of expiry.

3)Kazakhstan
Kazakhstan recently announced visa-free travel for Indian travellers and at the same time launched direct low-cost flights. FlyArystan, a low cost carrier, launched a direct return flight from Delhi to Shymkent, with fares as low as Rs 4,500 one way.

4) Saudi Arabia
If you are transiting through Saudi Arabia and taking Saudia Airlines or Flynas airline, you will be eligible to obtain a four-day transit visa free of charge. The visa is issued on your ticket and is valid for 90 days.

5) Egypt
Egypt will soon start issuing a valid 30 day single-entry visa to Indians for roughly $25 (Rs 2,060).

6) China
After pandemic, China recently opened up its gate to welcome tourists back. Tourists who had valid visa issued before March 28 2020 can use it now to visit the country whereas others can apply for fresh one as well.

7) Europe
EU member states and lawmakers have reached an agreement to transform the current Schengen visa system into a primarily digital process, eliminating the need for a physical sticker in passports.

Once formally adopted, the new law will enable most visa applicants to apply online, making the process easier, cheaper, and faster.