Visa requirements can change without much notice, making it important for Indian travellers to check the latest immigration rules before booking an international trip. Information that was correct a year ago may no longer apply when you are ready to travel.
The 2026 Passport Index listing shows that several destinations have changed the way Indian passport holders obtain travel permission. In some cases, visa-on-arrival has been replaced by an eVisa or prior online approval, while other countries have introduced online visa options that make the application process more convenient.
Here are the key changes affecting Indian travellers.
Laos, Sri Lanka and Iran Have Moved to Online Processes
Laos: The current 2026 Passport Index lists Laos under the eVisa category for Indian passport holders, with a stay of up to 30 days. Travellers should therefore complete the online visa process before departure rather than relying on an older visa-on-arrival listing.
Sri Lanka: Indian passport holders are currently required to obtain an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for short visits. Sri Lanka’s official immigration website says travellers should obtain ETA approval before arrival. It also notes that a limited facility to apply for an ETA at the port of entry remains available, subject to additional fees and approval.
Iran: Iran changed its rules for ordinary Indian passport holders in November 2025. According to the Ministry of External Affairs, Iran suspended its one-way tourist visa facility for Indian ordinary passport holders from November 19, 2025. Indian travellers now need a visa to enter or transit through Iran, while the current Passport Index listing shows the eVisa route.
Cape Verde and Nicaragua Require Advance Arrangements
Cape Verde: The country ended visa-on-arrival access for nationals of 96 countries from January 1, 2026. Current Passport Index information lists Cape Verde as requiring a visa for Indian passport holders. Travellers should arrange the required visa before departure and verify the latest instructions with the relevant Cape Verdean authorities.
Nicaragua: Nicaragua changed its entry process for Indian travellers in February 2026. According to current reporting on the change, Indian passport holders moved from the previous visa-on-arrival arrangement to a process requiring prior approval. Applications can be submitted electronically or through the country’s immigration authorities, depending on the applicable procedure.
Chile, Ghana and Venezuela Now Offer eVisa Options
There have also been changes that make the application process more digital.
Chile, Ghana and Venezuela are listed in the current Passport Index as offering eVisa facilities to Indian passport holders. This means eligible travellers can apply through an online process instead of relying solely on a traditional sticker or embassy-issued visa.
These changes show why travellers should not depend on old visa lists when planning an international holiday. The exact requirements can vary according to the purpose of travel, passport type and other conditions.
What Indian Travellers Should Check Before Booking Flights
Travellers should verify the latest entry requirements through the destination country’s official immigration or embassy website before purchasing a non-refundable international ticket.
If an eVisa, ETA or other prior approval is required, travellers should complete the process before departure and keep the approval available while travelling. Sri Lanka, for example, advises ETA holders to carry a copy of their approval and requires a passport valid for at least six months, a confirmed return ticket and sufficient funds for the stay.
It is also important to use official government websites when applying for an eVisa or ETA and to be cautious about unofficial agents or websites making guarantees about visa approval.
Visa rules can change during the year, so checking the latest requirements shortly before travel remains essential.