Visa Rules 2026: When you’re planning a trip abroad, it’s easy to fall back on old travel guides or outdated information you find online. Unfortunately, this can create real headaches when you arrive at the airport. The Passport Index’s 2025 and 2026 comparative report actually shows that many countries have modernized their border security and immigration systems.

As a result of these updates, several countries have stopped issuing visas on the spot when you land. Now they require you to get approval before you even board your flight. On the bright side, some countries have swapped physical visas for convenient online e-visas to make things easier for Indian travelers. So while many countries have ditched visa-on-arrival and now require e-visas or online eTAs, others have made the whole process more straightforward.

These 9 countries updated their visa policies

Laos

Old rule: Indian visitors could grab a visa when they landed at the airport. New rule: Visa-on-arrival is no longer available. You’ll need to apply online and get your e-visa before you travel.

Qatar

Old Rule: Indians could enter on arrival. New rule: Qatar switched things up and now asks Indian citizens to secure an e-visa in advance before traveling.

Sri Lanka

Old Rule: The e-Visa used to fall under the on-arrival category. New rule: You now need an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) to visit Sri Lanka. This means you must get ETA approval before boarding your flight.

Iran

Old rule: Indian citizens could take advantage of the on-arrival option. New rule: The on-arrival system has been phased out. You now have to submit e-visa applications through the official e-visa portal.

Cape Verde

Old rule: You could get an on-arrival visa through online pre-registration. New rule: On-arrival visas have been eliminated for 96 countries, including India, starting January 1, 2026. You’ll need to get your visa ahead of time through an embassy or official channel.

 

Updated visa requirements: On-arrival visas have been discontinued for 96 countries, including India, starting January 1, 2026. You’ll now need to obtain visas in advance through an embassy or official channel.

 

Nicaragua

Previous requirement: On-arrival or substitute visa program was available. Current requirement: Effective February 14, 2026, Indian citizens can only apply for e-visas online or submit applications via email to immigration officials for approval. On-arrival entry is no longer permitted.

 

Chile, Ghana and Venezuela

Previous requirement: Sticker or embassy visa was required for Indian passport holders in these three countries. Current requirement: Great news for Indian travelers! These countries have made things easier by launching e-visa options, so you can complete the entire process online.

Key things to remember before purchasing international flights

An e-visa or eTA needs government approval before your trip. Airlines won’t give you a boarding pass without it. Only submit e-visa applications through the official immigration website or embassy of the country you’re visiting. Be cautious of unauthorized travel agents making false promises. Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your travel date and has enough blank pages. Several countries ask for proof of a return ticket, hotel reservation, and adequate funds when approving an e-visa. Always verify immigration requirements before buying a non-refundable ticket.