From visa-free getaways to remote work opportunities, new 2025 visa policies are opening exciting doors for Indian travellers across the globe.
IDue to a number of significant changes in global visa regulations, Indian passport holders now have much simpler access to international travel. Before organizing your next vacation, you should be aware of the following major changes, which include visa-free travel, expedited processing, and new prospects for digital nomads:
- New Zealand Visitor Visas Now Permit Remote Work
New Zealand has amended its visitor visa regulations to allow remote employment for up to 90 days during a stay of up to six months, effective January 27, 2025. This implies that you can work remotely while primarily taking in New Zealand as a tourist if you work for a foreign company.
- Through tour operators, South Africa introduces the Express Visa.
With the launch of the Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS) in South Africa, authorized tour operators can now apply directly for group visas. This action streamlines the process for the Indian organization ट्रैवेलर्स by cutting the processing time to only three working days.
- Indians Can Enter Palau Without a Visa
Indian nationals can now enter the island nation of Palau without a visa for brief stays of up to 30 days. Despite the lack of direct flights from India, it is still an accessible paradise for Indian travelers because to easy connections via Singapore, Manila, Seoul, and Taipei.
- The Philippines Provides Two Ways to Travel Without a Visa
Under two new regulations, Indian people can now enter the Philippines without a visa. Indians are allowed to travel for up to 14 days without a visa. Additionally, you are entitled to a 30-day visa-free stay if you are a citizen of the US, Japan, or the Schengen area and have a valid visa or permanent residency.
- The US will charge a $250 Visa Integrity Fee.
Indian tourists visiting the US should expect higher prices. The majority of nonimmigrant visas, including those for employment and study, will now be subject to a new “visa integrity cost” of USD 250 (about ₹21,600). As a result, the entire application fee will increase to about USD 473, or about ₹41,000. It is anticipated that the implementation date will fall on or around October 1, 2025.
- Applicants for US Student Visas Are Examined on Social Media
Social media disclosure is now required for Indian students applying for US visas. Candidates must maintain their profiles public and disclose all handles and usernames used within the last five years. Red flags may be raised by deactivating accounts or removing postings right before applying.
- Slovenia Will Accept Digital Nomads from India
On November 21, 2025, Slovenia will begin issuing visas for digital nomads. For a maximum of one year, Indian remote workers who work for foreign companies are permitted to reside in Slovenia and may bring their families with them. The visa cannot be renewed, though, and you will need to take a six-month hiatus from Slovenia before you can reapply.
