Published: 8 October 2026. Visa rules for Indian travellers have shifted noticeably this year. Some countries have launched brand-new e-visa portals for Indian passport holders, while others have ended visa-on-arrival and now demand approval before you board. Here is this week’s roundup of the newest launches and changes, based on recent reports. Verify the current position on the destination’s official portal before booking.
New E-Visa Launches: Chile, Ghana and Venezuela
The good news: Chile, Ghana and Venezuela have launched accessible e-visa portals for Indian passport holders, as per recent reports — apply online instead of visiting an embassy with a paper file.
- Chile has introduced a digital visa application option — confirm eligibility and timelines through official Chilean consular channels.
- Ghana has opened an online application pathway for Indian visitors.
- Venezuela has moved towards an electronic visa system for eligible Indian travellers.
All three were previously “difficult” destinations paperwork-wise — but apply early, since new systems can take longer than advertised.
Sri Lanka: Free 30-Day ETA for Indians
Sri Lanka has standardised entry around the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA). As per recent reports, from 25 May 2026 Sri Lanka offers a free 30-day tourist ETA to citizens of 40 countries, including India, with double-entry permission — the second entry must fall within the validity counted from the first arrival.
The ETA must be obtained before flying. Apply on Sri Lanka’s official ETA platform. Planning a longer trip? Our Sri Lanka 5-day Ramayana trail guide covers a ready itinerary.
Countries That Ended Visa-on-Arrival
Several destinations have scrapped on-arrival facilities for Indians, making pre-approved e-visas mandatory. Boarding can be denied without one.
| Country | What changed (as per recent reports) |
|---|---|
| Laos | Visa-on-arrival ended; e-visa required before departure, valid only at designated entry points |
| Qatar | Indian citizens must now secure an e-visa in advance |
| Iran | On-arrival phased out; e-visa through the official portal before departure |
| Nicaragua | From 14 February 2026: e-visa online or via email to immigration — no on-arrival entry |
| Cape Verde | From 1 January 2026: on-arrival abolished for 96 countries including India |
The 2026 trend is clear: electronic pre-authorisation is replacing arrival counters. The practical rule — if the destination offers an e-visa or ETA, get it approved before leaving India. For the full picture, see our nine-countries visa rule change breakdown.
Kenya eTA and a Pre-Booking Checklist
Kenya continues its Electronic Travel Authorisation (eTA) — valid for travel within 90 days of issue, as per recent reports, with the permitted stay decided at entry. Before booking any trip, run through this checklist:
- Check the official portal first — these facts are as per recent reports; only the destination’s immigration website is final.
- Apply with a time buffer — never apply the night before your flight.
- Match entry points — some e-visas (Laos is the classic example) work only at designated airports or borders.
- Beware copycat websites — pay fees only on official government domains, never on lookalike “express” sites.
Our Vietnam e-visa guide shows how smooth online visa systems can be.
Frequently Asked Questions
Which countries recently launched e-visa options for Indians?
As per recent reports, Chile, Ghana and Venezuela have launched new e-visa portals for Indian passport holders.
Is Sri Lanka’s ETA really free for Indians?
As per recent reports, yes — since 25 May 2026, a free 30-day tourist ETA with double-entry permission applies to 40 countries including India. Apply before flying.
Can Indians still get visa-on-arrival in Laos or Qatar?
As per recent reports, no. Laos has ended visa-on-arrival for Indians; Qatar now requires an e-visa in advance.
What is the difference between an e-visa and an ETA?
An e-visa is an electronic visa applied for online; an ETA/eTA is a lighter pre-travel authorisation linked to your passport. Both must be approved before travel.
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