Thailand and Sri Lanka have extended their warm embrace to Indian tourists by offering visa-free entry, making travel hassle-free and more accessible. This gesture reflects the strengthening ties and growing tourism between these nations and India.
Thailand’s Initiative:
Thailand initiated its visa-free entry for Indian nationals on November 10, 2023, with an extension until November 11, 2024. The move has proven fruitful, witnessing a substantial increase in Indian tourists. From November 2022 to April 2023, Thailand welcomed approximately 7,55,066 Indian visitors, a number that surged to 9,68,000 between November 2023 and April 2024, indicating a notable 28.2% rise. This underscores India’s significance as a key market for Thailand’s tourism sector.
Sri Lanka’s Pilot Project:
Similarly, Sri Lanka embarked on a pilot project in October last year, extending visa-free entry to Indian travelers until May 31, 2024. This initiative aims to foster tourism and strengthen bilateral relations between the two countries. Indian visitors can enjoy a 30-day stay in Sri Lanka, exploring its rich cultural heritage and scenic landscapes.
Impact on Tourism and Economy
Thailand:
Tourism plays a pivotal role in Thailand’s economy, contributing around 20% of total employment and 12% of its GDP, which amounts to approximately $500 billion. With an ambitious target of attracting 80 million tourists by 2027, Thailand’s visa-free entry for Indian nationals aligns with its broader strategy to bolster tourism and drive economic growth.
Simplified Travel Procedures
Visa-free travel streamlines entry procedures, obviating the need for a pre-arranged visa and reducing associated fees. Indian travelers can traverse several countries seamlessly, armed only with their passport. While specific requirements may vary, essentials such as proof of onward travel and adequate financial means are typically necessary.
Expanded Horizons: List of Visa-Free Countries
Indian passport holders enjoy visa-free access to a plethora of countries worldwide, fostering global mobility and cultural exchange. From the picturesque landscapes of Mauritius to the vibrant streets of Jamaica, the opportunities for Indian travelers are abundant.
Here’s a curated list of visa-free countries for Indian nationals:
- Angola – Visa-free: 30 days
- Barbados – Visa-free: 90 days
- Bhutan – Visa-free / 14 days
- Dominica – Visa-free / 180 days
- El Salvador – Visa-free: 90 days
- Fiji – Visa-free / 120 days
- Gambia – Visa-free: 90 days
- Grenada – Visa-free: 90 days
- Haiti – Visa-free: 90 days
- Iran – Visa-free / 15 days
- Jamaica – Visa-free
- Kazakhstan – Visa-free / 14 days
- Kiribati – Visa-free: 90 days
- Macao – Visa-free: 30 days
- Malaysia – Visa-free: 30 days
- Mauritius – Visa-free: 90 days
- Micronesia – Visa-free: 30 days
- Nepal – Visa-free
- Palestinian Territories – Visa-free
- Rwanda – Visa-free: 30 days
- Saint Kitts and Nevis – Visa-free: 90 days
- Senegal – Visa-free: 90 days
- St. Vincent and the Grenadines – Visa-free: 90 days
- Sri Lanka – Visa-free: 30 days
- Thailand – Visa-free: 30 days
- Trinidad and Tobago – Visa-free: 90 days
- Vanuatu – Visa-free: 30 days
Neighboring Nations and Beyond
In addition to these destinations, neighboring countries like Nepal and Bhutan extend a warm welcome to Indian travelers without the need for a passport. Valid identification documents such as Aadhaar card, driving license, or voter ID suffice for travel to these neighboring havens.
Conclusion
The extension of visa-free entry by Thailand and Sri Lanka signifies a significant milestone in fostering tourism and strengthening bilateral relations with India. As Indian travelers explore new horizons with simplified entry procedures, the global community witnesses the transformative power of travel in bridging cultures and forging enduring bonds.
