Malaysia will soon allow Indian tourists to travel in the country visa-free. And it’s not the only country to do so this year. It’s a good time to be travelling from India if you’re craving pristine beaches, beautiful islands and delicious food, both on the streets as well as in award-winning fine dining restaurants. Here are three countries in Asia that have given Indians visa exemptions and waivers this year.
Malaysia: visa-free
On 26 November, the Malaysian government officially bid adieu to visa requirements for Indian and Chinese nationals. Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim announced this decision during his speech in Putrajaya at the annual congress of his People’s Justice Party, stating that visa-free entry would be effective from 1 December 2023. While it’ll be subject to security screening, no visa will be needed for a trip to Malaysia lasting up to 30 days.
Thailand: visa-free
Since 10 November, Thailand has also done away with the requirement of a visa for Indian and Taiwanese travellers, providing a generous 30-day visa-free stay. This policy is slated to last until 10 May 2024, with the option of an extension depending on demand, as indicated by the Thai government.
Sri Lanka: free visas
Sri Lanka’s Cabinet adopted the issuance of a free visa initiative in October for visitors of seven countries–India, Russia, China, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia and Japan. Commencing as a part of a pilot program, this initiative took immediate effect and will extend till 31 March, 2024. Previously, Indian tourists were levied a $20 (about Rs1,663) visa application fee. The new program eliminates this fee entirely, although you would still have to apply for a visa prior to travelling.
Coming soon: visa-free entry to Vietnam
Vietnam is also contemplating the possibility of allowing visa-free entry for individuals from India and China. Nguyen Van Jung, Vietnam’s Minister of Culture, Sports, and Tourism has advocated for short term visa exemptions for the two countries in order to boost Vietnam’s recovery of tourism. Currently, Indians travelling to Vietnam require e-visas that have a validity of 90 days and allow multiple entries.