The year 2025 is proving to be an unprecedented year for Indian travelers. Travel rules around the world are rapidly changing, and many countries are introducing new travel regulations for Indian passport holders. This year, impressive new features and additional conveniences have been added to visa procedures. Digital visa procedures have been simplified in some places, while visa-free entry has become available elsewhere. Let’s explore these 10 major changes.
New Zealand’s Remote Work Visa Becomes a Spotlight
From January 27, 2025, New Zealand’s visitor visa will not only allow tourism but also remote work for up to 90 days. Under this rule, travelers can stay there for a total of six months, providing an excellent opportunity for digital nomads.
South Africa’s Faster Visa Processing Scheme
South Africa has reduced visa processing times to just three days under its Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS). This has made group tours and package trips easier and faster than ever.
Visa-Free Entry for Indians in Palau
Palau, an island nation located in the Western Pacific Ocean, is now offering Indians visa-free travel for up to 30 days. This move aims to strengthen ties between the two countries and promote tourism.
Philippines’ Double Visa-Free Offer
The Philippines has introduced two visa-free options for Indians. Tourists can travel without a visa for up to 14 days. Additionally, those with a valid US, Schengen, UK, or Japan visa/PR are allowed 30 days of visa-free travel.
Philippines Digital Nomad Visa
Indian remote workers can now obtain a Digital Nomad Visa for stays ranging from 3 to 12 months in the Philippines. The initial fee is only US$65, making it a great option for work-life balance.
New $250 Fee for US Visas Implemented
Visas will become more expensive for foreigners traveling to the United States in 2025. A new “Visa Integrity Fee” has come into effect on July 4th, requiring an additional $250 (approximately ₹21,500) per non-immigrant CVI. This fee applies to students, employees, and other special visa categories, increasing the total cost of a US visa to approximately ₹40,000.
Important Changes in Schengen and German Visa Rules
The Schengen Area is now offering long-term multiple-entry visas to Indians who have already applied. Meanwhile, effective July 1, 2025, Germany has discontinued informal appeals for visa rejections. Only formal legal appeals will be accepted.
Entering Argentina with a US Visa
Indian travelers will no longer need a separate Argentina visa. If you have a valid US tourist visa, you can enter Argentina directly, making travel much easier.
Switzerland’s Golden Visa Program
Switzerland has opened the Golden Visa route for investors. This requires paying an annual tax of CHF 200,000 (₹2.18 crore) or investing at least CHF 1 million (₹10.9 crore) in a Swiss company. This facility will grant Indians the right to reside in Europe.
Strictness in US Visa In-Interview Rules
The US has limited the visa in-interview exemption until September 2, 2025. After this, most non-immigrant CVI applicants will be required to undergo an in-person interview with a consular officer, making the process even more stringent.