Summary: Many countries offer Visa on Arrival for Indians, allowing them to enter the country without prior visa applications. Discover the list of countries offering this convenient option and learn the step-by-step process for securing a Visa on Arrival.
Traveling not only broadens our perspectives but also allows us to re-establish a connection with our inner selves—a goal that can be exceedingly difficult to achieve in the midst of the chaos of everyday life. While traveling around the world is a thrilling experience, getting a visa may be difficult and time-consuming. Fortunately, many countries offer the convenience of visas upon arrival for Indians, extending a warm invitation with open hearts, unburdened by the complexities of visa applications.
What is a Visa on Arrival?
There are two primary types of visas that many countries across the world offer, specifically:
- A Pre-Approved Visa
- A Visa on Arrival
Certain countries require you to have a pre-approved visa, which requires a lengthy application and approval process that needs to be finished well in advance of the anticipated travel date. On the other hand, others make it simple to get a visit by granting visas to travelers upon arrival.
A visa on arrival is a kind of visa that grants you entry to your dream destination right at the moment you step foot in a foreign land. Tourists are able to travel conveniently with this sort of visa as it spares them from the hassle and the complexities of submitting visa applications in advance. However, it is important to acknowledge that not every country grants Indian nationals an “on-arrival visa,” and the prerequisites and limitations for acquiring one differ across nations.
List of Countries That Issue A Visa On Arrival To Indians
The following nations allow Indian citizens to enter the country without a visa:
1. Maldives
There is something magical about Maldives especially for travellers in search of adventure below the sea. This tropical paradise offers relaxing beaches, fun-filled water sports, and spectacular sunsets.
Best time to Visit: November to April
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
2. Thailand
It is no secret that Thailand has been a favorite destination to many Indian travelers owing to its wonderful weather around the year, scenic beauty, temples, palaces, as well as its wonderful beaches.
Best time to Visit: October to March
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
3. Indonesia
Indonesia is a haven for both nature enthusiasts and thrill-seekers, with an array of spectacular experiences awaiting you. Cities like Jakarta, Komodo, Bali, and Penida are just a few of the Indonesian destinations brimming with exciting activities and breathtaking sights to explore.
Best time to Visit: May to September
Visa Duration: For 30 days
4. Iran
Iran has a rich cultural history in the arts, literature, poetry, cuisine, and architecture, and there are numerous eye-catching attractions. It is truly worth the trip to visit Tehran, Shiraz, Esfahan, Mashhad, and other cities in the country.
Best time to Visit: May to September
Visa Duration: For 90 days
5. Jordan
Another country that offers visa-on-arrival to Indians is Jordan, which is located near the Red Sea and Dead Sea. As you explore Jordan’s natural wonders, you’ll learn about its impressive history as well.
Best time to Visit: March to May
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
6. Myanmar
There are a number of temples and diverse cultures woven into the natural landscape of Myanmar, an Asian country located west of Southern Asia. Its colonial architecture and warm sunlight welcome visitors year-round from all over the world.
Best time to Visit: October to February
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
7. Cambodia
Cambodia, despite its modest size, presents an abundance of attractions for travelers. Alongside its captivating history and heritage, the nation is known for its stunning natural landscapes, making it a compelling destination for tourists.
Best time to Visit: November to April
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
8. Madagascar
Madagascar is the fourth largest island in the world, and its expansive landscape makes it an ideal destination for a vacation. It is a tropical paradise destination with fascinating flora and fauna for tourists to explore.
Best time to Visit: April to October
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
9. Seychelles
The Seychelles comprises of 115 coral and granite islands, is an authentic paradise for wanderers. Beyond its breathtaking beaches, picturesque coastlines, and vibrant landscapes, this nation also boasts an array of rare wildlife species, adding to its allure as a truly exceptional travel destination.
Best time to Visit: April to October
Visa Duration: Up to 90 days
10. Ethiopia
Ethiopia offers a distinctive and captivating experience. A beautiful country in the Horn of Africa, Ethiopia is known for its high-quality coffee, ancient culture, and picturesque landscape.
Best time to Visit: September to March
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
11. Tanzania
Tanzania is well-known for its snow-capped Mount Kilimanjaro in the East African continent. It is renowned for its natural charm, attractive beaches, wildlife, archaeological sites, and ancient towns, making Tanzania a great place to visit!
Best time to Visit: June to October
Visa Duration: Up to 90 days
12. Zimbabwe
Throughout the year, tourists flock to Zimbabwe to experience its mesmerizing culture, scenic landscape, ancient history and architecture, and more.
Best time to Visit: May to October
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
13. Uganda
Uganda is known as the Pearl of Africa and boasts a diverse landscape, including mountain ranges, lakes, waterfalls, mountains, and cultural sites in addition to exotic animal species.
Best time to Visit: December to February and June to August
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
14. Laos
Southeast Asia’s Quiet Heart, Laos is a timeless beauty waiting to be explored. Your inner traveler will be captivated by Laos’ rich history, customs, and variety of landscapes and cultures.
Best time to Visit: October to April
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
15. Somalia
As a small, landlocked country, Somalia is strategically located in the Horn of Africa. Known as a nation of poets, this country is surrounded by mountains, hills, and semi-deserts.
Best time to Visit: October to February
Visa Duration: Up to 30 days
16. Bolivia
There are tons of tourist attractions in Bolivia, a country in central South America. There are six World Heritage Sites in the country. It also has a lot of spectacular highlands and lowlands that are great for trekking.
Best time to Visit: April to October
Visa Duration: For 30 days
17. Botswana
The African landlocked nation of Botswana has some of the best wilderness areas in the world. It feels like you’re traveling through a vast natural wonderland when you travel across several regions.
Best time to Visit: May to October
Visa Duration: For 30 days
18. Burundi
Burundi is a landlocked nation in Central Africa, bordering Lake Tanganyika on the southwestern side. It’s known for its hospitality, and for its coffee and tea. There are a lot of national parks and reserves in the country, which are a must-see.
Best time to Visit: May to October
Visa Duration: For 90 days
19. Mozambique
As one of the southern African nations, Mozambique has a lengthy coastline along the Indian Ocean that is dotted with a number of well-known beaches such as Tofo and offshore marine reserves.
Best time to Visit: June to September
Visa Duration: For 30 days
20. Rwanda
Rwanda, also known as the Country of a Thousand Hills, provides an unforgettable experience with its breathtaking landscape and friendly locals. The volcanoes, highlands, and expansive plains of this country are endowed with breathtaking biodiversity and incredible wildlife.
Best time to Visit: June to September
Visa Duration: For 30 days
21. Mauritania
A country of deserts and oceans, Mauritania is located in northwest Africa. It is a beautiful sight to see Saharan Adrar caravan towns against the Atlantic Coast of the Atlantic. You can also see millions of migratory birds wintering at Parc National du Banc d’Arguin.
Best time to Visit: July to September
Visa Duration: Up to 90 days
22. Gabon
Nature lovers will be enthralled by Gabon’s deep rainforests and vast grasslands. This unexplored part of Africa has white-sand beaches, rushing rivers, and ethereal landscapes.
Best time to Visit: May to September
Visa Duration: For 90 days
23. Samoa
Samoa is an island country in the South Pacific. Located halfway between New Zealand and Hawaii, it consists of nine islands, four of which are inhabited. Samoa is undoubtedly a paradise on earth with its stunning scenery.
Best time to Visit: June to September
Visa Duration: For 90 days
24. Sierra Leone
Sierra Leone is considered a beautiful paradise for outdoor adventures and awe-inspiring nature. As part of the transatlantic slave trade, this West African country has a very special historical significance.
Best time to Visit: November to April
Visa Duration: For 30 days
25. Togo
Togo is famous for its hilltop communities and palm-lined beaches in the Gulf of Guinea region of West Africa. If you enjoy exploring undiscovered places, this is a must-visit place for you.
Best time to Visit: November to April
Visa Duration: For 90 days
26. Timor-Leste
Timor-Leste, or East Timor, is a country in Southeast Asia that occupies half of Timor. The nation is surrounded by coral reefs teeming with marine life. There is no doubt that Timor-Leste is a stunning and unique tourist destination.
Best time to Visit: May to October
Visa Duration: For 30 days
27. Tuvalu
Tuvalu is an independent island nation in the Pacific Ocean. Located in one of the smallest and most remote locations in the world, it is the perfect getaway for relaxation and getting away from the daily grind to enjoy the marine environment and nature.
Best time to Visit: June to October
Visa Duration: For 30 days
28. St. Lucia
There’s an island state in the Caribbean called St. Lucia. It’s the epitome of adventure and inspiration. The soothing waves, warm beaches, and friendly people of St. Lucia captivate anyone who sets foot on her coast.
Best time to Visit: December to April
Visa Duration: For 42 days
29. Marshall Islands
The Marshall Islands are in the middle of the Pacific Ocean. The island is one of the best-undiscovered destinations in the world, surrounded by pristine beaches and crystal-clear water.
Best time to Visit: January to April
Visa Duration: For 30 days
30. Guinea-Bissau
Located between Senegal and Guinea, this former Portuguese territory is known for its biodiversity, wildlife, and cultural riches. There are 80 odd islands in the Bijagos Archipelago in Guinea-Bissau that are home to strange creatures such as saltwater hippos and holy rituals.
Best time to Visit: November to April
Visa Duration: For 30 days
31. Cape Verde Islands
A Portuguese explorer discovered the Cape Verde archipelago in 1460. While Portuguese colonialism left a lasting impression on the islands, African traditions and Creole identity are prominently represented in their literature and music.
Best time to Visit: November to June
Visa Duration: For 60 days
32. Comoro Islands
The Comoro Islands are located between Mozambique and Madagascar and have a fascinating mix of cultures, stunning landscapes, pristine beaches, and a wide range of wildlife to discover.
Best time to Visit: April to November
Visa Duration: Up to 45 days
33. Palau Islands
Located in the western Pacific Ocean, Palau is a part of the Micronesia region and consists of a total of 500 islands in its archipelago. As far as tourism is concerned, there are many opportunities for scuba diving and snorkeling in the country.
Best time to Visit: June to August
Visa Duration: For 30 days
Difference between an eVisa and Visa on Arrival
A lot of times, people get confused between an eVisa and a Visa on Arrival when planning international travel. While both are two common methods for travelers to obtain entry visas for visiting foreign countries, they differ in several key aspects, such as:
1. Application Process:
eVisa: When obtaining an eVisa, travelers can initiate the application online by accessing the official government website of the intended destination. This process involves the digital submission of necessary documents and information.
Visa on Arrival: For Visa on Arrival, travelers arrive at their destination’s airport or point of entry and complete the visa application process there. This usually involves filling out a physical application form and providing the necessary documentation in person.
2. Pre-Approval and Waiting Period:
eVisa: With an eVisa, travelers secure visa approval in advance of their journey. This ensures that they can confidently board their flights without the need for paperwork or on-the-spot waiting upon arrival.
Visa on Arrival: Visa on Arrival may entail queuing and completing the visa application process at the entry point, potentially resulting in extended waiting times and potential entry delays.
3. Validity Period:
eVisa: The validity period of an eVisa is usually predetermined and varies from country to country, ranging from a few days to several months. Travelers must enter and exit the country within this specified time frame.
Visa on Arrival: Visa on Arrival may have a shorter validity period, typically allowing a stay of a few weeks, depending on the country’s norms. Travelers should be aware of these regulations when planning their visit.
4. Entry Assurance:
eVisa: An eVisa provides travelers the assurance of knowing their visa status in advance, ensuring their entry into the foreign country, provided they meet the specified entry criteria.
Visa on Arrival: Visa on Arrival carries a minor risk of denial by immigration officers at the entry point, should any issues with the application or submitted documents arise.
5. Payment Method:
eVisa: The cost of an eVisa is typically a fixed fee, which travelers pay online during the application process. This allows travelers to pre-plan and budget for their visa expenses.
Visa on Arrival: The fee for a Visa on Arrival is usually paid in cash upon arrival at the destination. Travelers should ensure they have the local currency readily available to cover this expense.
How Can I Get a Visa on Arrival?
To ensure a smooth and uncomplicated process in securing a visa on arrival, you can follow these comprehensive steps:
1. Research Visa Requirements
Commence your journey by researching the visa-on-arrival prerequisites applicable to the particular nation you intend to visit as each one has its own set of rules and regulations, so make sure you understand them thoroughly. You can usually find this information on the official website of the country’s embassy or consulate.
2. Check Passport Validity
Confirm that your passport possesses a remaining validity of at least six months from your anticipated entry date. Some countries may also specify a necessity for a minimum of two blank pages in your passport to accommodate visa stamps.
3. Prepare Passport-Sized Photos
Ascertain whether the visa application necessitates the provision of passport-sized photographs. Certain nations have specific criteria pertaining to the size and format of these photographs, underscoring the significance of having them readily available in advance.
4. Verify Financial Requirements
Check if the country you plan to visit requires proof of sufficient funds for your stay. This may include providing bank statements as well. Make sure you have the necessary financial means to meet their requirements.
5. Provide Proof of Onward Travel
Ensure you have proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or a travel itinerary, indicating that you will leave the country before your visa expires. This documentation should be readily available to present upon arrival.
6. Pay Visa Fees
Often countries may charge a fee for the visa on arrival. Be prepared to pay this fee, and check whether they accept cash or cards. It’s a good idea to have the funds in the local currency if cash payment is required.
7. Complete Arrival Forms
Upon arrival at the destination airport or any other point of entry, you may need to fill out specific forms or applications for the visa on arrival. Be sure to have all the necessary information and documents ready for this step.
8. Keep Copies of Important Documents
Keep photocopies or digital scans of your passport, visa, and other essential documents. Safeguard these duplicates in a separate location from the originals, as a precaution against potential loss or theft.
9. Stay Informed
Stay abreast of any alterations in visa prerequisites or processes for your chosen country of visit. Occasionally, regulations and procedures may undergo changes, making it imperative to stay well-informed throughout your travel planning.
10. Allow for Extra Time
It’s advisable to arrive at the airport with some extra time to spare. Delays can happen, and having a buffer in your schedule can prevent unnecessary stress. Also, make sure to follow any additional instructions from immigration officials.
FAQs
Why do countries offer Visa-on-Arrival?
Nations provide Visa-on-Arrival to stimulate tourism and attract foreign travelers. By granting Visa-on-Arrival, they streamline the visa issuance process, sparing tourists the need for advance visa applications. This convenience can sway more individuals towards choosing a particular nation as their travel destination.
Is there a cost associated with obtaining a visa on arrival?
The fees for visa-on-arrival can vary between countries. While some countries impose no charges for this service, others may require a predetermined fee. It’s essential to check the particular prerequisites of your travel destination to ascertain whether a fee is applicable for your visa on arrival.
What documentation is necessary when applying for a visa on arrival?
The usual requisites for a visa-on-arrival application comprise a valid passport, a visa application form, passport-sized photographs, bank statements demonstrating adequate financial means, and visa fees paid in foreign currency. It is advisable to check the official website of the country for any supplementary documentation requirements.
Does having a visa on arrival ensure my entry into the country?
No, possessing a visa-on-arrival does not guarantee an entry into a country. Similar to any other visa application, it can be declined. To enhance your approval odds, it is imperative to ensure you possess all the required documents and comprehend the application process, thereby expediting visa issuance.
Related Links
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