Planning an international trip in 2025 might be simpler than you think. A number of countries have rolled out visa reforms aimed at streamlining travel for Indian passport holders, whether for study, family trips or solo adventures. From reduced processing times to broader eligibility, these updates promise smoother access to global destinations for Indian travellers.
- New Zealand’s remote work
New Zealand has opened its doors to Indians on a visitor visa, allowing them to work remotely in the city. It was introduced in January 2025, and allows Indians to live and work from New Zealand for up to six months, with 90 days allocated for work – a haven for digital nomads.
- Fast-track South Africa
Under the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS), group visa application approval has become faster than ever. In just three working days, you can have your visa for a South-African vacation with little to no delays and endless paperwork.
- Visa-free Palau
The Republic of Palau, a paradise on earth, has extended visa-free entry to Indians for stays as long as 30 days. While there are no direct flights to Palau yet, travellers can visit the place through Manila, Singapore, Seoul or Taipei. The offbeat gem has no visa hassles for Indian citizens at all!
- Philippines joins the list
Philippines, which is among the happiest places on Earth, is also offering Indians a visa-free entry to its country to boost tourism. It is divided into two categories, with the first one being that Indians are eligible for a 14-day visa-free visit. On the other hand, travellers with a valid visa or residency from the US, UK, Japan, Australia or any Schengen country have a 30-day visa-free entry.
- United States integrity fee
Following US President Donald Trump’s mass deportation and tariff frenzy, the United States has approved a new $250 visa integrity fee. Adding to the other visa costs, an Indian citizen can now attain a US visa for Rs 41,000. It is likely to kick in from October 2025. Additionally, they have also added a step of social media scrutiny for all applications to maintain transparency.
- Be a digital nomad in Slovenia
From November 2025, Slovenia will start its digital nomad visa for Indian citizens who have a remote job for a foreign firm. While it is non-renewable, family members are included in the visa. To apply for it again, the visa holder must stay outside of Slovenia for six months.