Visa on Arrival for Indians: Your Comprehensive Guide

For Indian travelers who dream of exploring new countries without the hassle of long visa application processes, the Visa on Arrival (VoA) option can be a game changer. More and more countries around the world are opening their doors to Indian tourists with VoA facilities, making international travel smoother and more accessible than ever before.

This guide provides a complete overview of everything you need to know about Visa on Arrival for Indians: the list of countries offering it, eligibility, documentation, application steps, and tips for a hassle-free journey.

What is Visa on Arrival?

A Visa on Arrival (VoA) is a type of visa granted to travelers at the airport or another entry point upon arriving in the destination country. Unlike traditional visas that require pre-approval from embassies or consulates, VoA is issued at the destination. However, travelers must still meet certain eligibility criteria and provide the necessary documentation.

The process is usually simpler, faster, and less stressful than traditional visa applications, making it an attractive option for spontaneous trips or last-minute travel plans.

Benefits of Visa on Arrival

Convenience: Avoid lengthy application processes and embassy visits.
Time-Saving: The application can be completed at the airport, often within minutes.
Spontaneity: Ideal for last-minute travelers or those who prefer a more flexible approach to travel planning.

Countries Offering Visa on Arrival for Indian Citizens

Here’s a list of popular destinations offering Visa on Arrival for Indians, making them easier to explore without the hassle of pre-arranged visas.

1. Thailand

Validity: 15 days
Fee: Approximately 2000 Thai Baht (INR 4800)
Requirements: Proof of accommodation, return ticket, passport validity of at least 30 days, and sufficient funds (10,000 THB per person or 20,000 THB per family).
Process: Available at major airports in Thailand.

2. Indonesia

Validity: 30 days (can be extended once for another 30 days)
Fee: Approximately USD 35 (INR 2800)
Requirements: Return or onward ticket, passport validity of at least 6 months.
Process: Available at major international airports in Indonesia, including Bali and Jakarta.

3. Maldives

Validity: 30 days (can be extended)
Fee: Free
Requirements: Confirmed hotel booking, sufficient funds, return or onward ticket.
Process: Issued at Male International Airport upon arrival.

4. Mauritius

Validity: 60 days
Fee: Free
Requirements: Proof of accommodation, sufficient funds for the duration of stay, and return or onward ticket.
Process: Issued at the point of entry upon arrival.

5. Sri Lanka

Validity: 30 days
Fee: Approximately USD 35 (INR 2800)
Requirements: ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization), return or onward ticket, passport with at least 6 months validity.
Process: Can apply for ETA online before arrival or complete the VoA procedure at the airport.

6. Seychelles

Validity: 90 days
Fee: Free
Requirements: Proof of accommodation, sufficient funds, return or onward ticket.
Process: Issued upon arrival at Seychelles International Airport.

7. Jordan

Validity: 30 days
Fee: Approximately JOD 40 (INR 4200)
Requirements: Return or onward ticket, proof of funds, and passport with at least 6 months validity.
Process: Issued at Queen Alia International Airport and other entry points.

8. Cambodia

Validity: 30 days
Fee: Approximately USD 30 (INR 2400)
Requirements: Return or onward ticket, passport validity of at least 6 months.
Process: Available at major airports and land borders.

9. Nepal and Bhutan

Validity: Unlimited for Nepal, no visa required for Bhutan (for up to 15 days)
Fee: Free
Requirements: Valid passport or voter ID (for Bhutan).
Process: Border checks only; visa-free access for Indian citizens.

10. Tanzania

Validity: 90 days
Fee: Approximately USD 50 (INR 4000)
Requirements: Proof of funds, return or onward ticket, passport validity of at least 6 months.
Process: Issued at Dar es Salaam and Kilimanjaro airports.

Eligibility Criteria for Visa on Arrival

The criteria vary depending on the country, but here are some general requirements:

Passport Validity: Most countries require a passport with at least 6 months of validity.
Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of onward travel is often required.
Proof of Funds: Some countries require proof that you have enough money for your stay.
Confirmed Accommodation: In some cases, a hotel booking or other accommodation confirmation is needed.
Health and Safety Documents: Post-COVID, certain countries may require vaccination certificates.

Documentation Required

The documents needed for a Visa on Arrival generally include:

Valid Passport (with at least 6 months’ validity from the date of entry)
Return or Onward Ticket (to prove the traveler’s intention to leave after the allowed period)
Accommodation Proof (hotel booking confirmation or other accommodation details)
Proof of Sufficient Funds (recent bank statements or currency in some cases)
Photographs (passport-size photos, typically two, for the visa form)
Health Documents (vaccination certificates, if required)

Steps to Apply for a Visa on Arrival

Arrival: Head to the designated VoA counter after landing.
Submit Required Documents: Provide your passport, return ticket, proof of accommodation, and other requested documents.
Fill Out the Application Form: Complete the Visa on Arrival application form provided at the counter.
Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the fee in the local currency or as per the instructions.
Receive Your Visa: After review, your visa will be stamped on your passport, allowing you entry into the country.

Tips for a Smooth Visa on Arrival Experience

Carry Local Currency: While many VoA counters accept USD, it’s wise to carry the local currency of the destination.
Keep Photocopies of Key Documents: Have copies of your passport, return ticket, and hotel booking in case needed.
Check for Online Options: Some countries offer Electronic Visa on Arrival (eVoA), which you can complete online before arriving, reducing wait times.
Arrive Early if Possible: During peak travel times, VoA counters can be crowded, so arriving early can save time.
Prepare for Questions: Immigration officers may ask about your travel plans, so be prepared to answer questions about your itinerary.

Potential Challenges with Visa on Arrival

While Visa on Arrival is convenient, there can be some potential issues:

Long Wait Times: During peak travel seasons, the lines at VoA counters can be long.
Risk of Denial: VoA does not guarantee entry; immigration officers have the discretion to deny entry if they have concerns.
Limited Countries Offering VoA: Not all countries offer Visa on Arrival for Indian citizens. Always double-check before traveling.
Currency and Payment Issues: Some VoA fees must be paid in specific currencies, and not all counters accept credit/debit cards.