VISA FREE TRAVEL
Indian parents getting US residency? 6 financial implications to consider before applying
Investments in bank accounts, mutual funds, shares and other assets will have to be reviewed and modified. It is illegal under India’s FEMA to hold resident bank and demat accounts after moving abroad on a permanent resident status. All such accounts must be converted to non-resident, and FATCA forms disclosing the residential status abroad should be filled up.
India-New Zealand FTA: Expanding India’s footprint in Oceania
More than a trade deal, the India-New Zealand FTA is a strategic gateway to new markets, fresh investment and stronger capabilities, positioning India to compete, connect, and grow across the Asia-Pacific.
Australia's new biometric rule for Indian visa applicants: Who will have to comply? High Commission clarifies
Australian High Commission in India has exclusively mentioned that Australia’s expanded biometric requirements will cover most temporary and permanent visa applicants in India, including visitor, student, skilled-worker and permanent-migration applicants, while the requirement will be determined by individual circumstances; Indian officials travelling on official business are exempt.
Easier visas draw Indian travellers, but Japan and Europe show experiences still matter
In 2026, visa-free entry and simplified visa processes are shaping the travel preferences of Indian tourists. Popular searches have revealed that travellers are particularly drawn to Thailand, Vietnam, and Japan. Malaysia is actively working to enhance its appeal for Indian visitors through easier accessibility and budget-friendly options. Meanwhile, Japan persists as a favoured choice, boasting rich cultural experiences despite existing visa challenges.
U.S. State Department China travel advisory: Key points to note for Americans planning a trip to China
Americans planning to travel to China need to be aware of potential risks including wrongful detention and surveillance. Recent updates from the US State Department emphasize concerns regarding arbitrary enforcement of local laws. Travelers may face exit bans related to business disputes or investigations that they were unaware of. Communications sent in or out of China could be monitored, which may lead to serious legal consequences.
India-New Zealand FTA comes into effect today
The FTA will provide Indian exporters with 100% duty-free access to the New Zealand market, opening opportunities for MSMEs, women entrepreneurs, farmers and artisans. This is expected to facilitate $20 billion in investments into India in 15 years that would create opportunities across manufacturing, infrastructure, agriculture, and innovation.
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Thailand considers Rs 2,836 departure tax that could make trips costlier for Indian travellers
Thailand is contemplating a departure tax of 1,000 baht for travellers leaving the country and 450 baht for air arrivals. This proposal aims to increase government revenue due to the ongoing recovery of its tourism sector. Concerns have been raised regarding potential discouragement of tourist visits and the effect on airfares.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport to suspend flights for Arattu procession on October 20
Flight operations at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will be paused for five hours on October 20 to accommodate the Alpassi Arattu procession from Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. Airlines have been informed to revise their flight schedules during this period. Passengers should check with their airlines for any changes in flight timings, as this temporary suspension aligns with historic customs of the Travancore royal family.
Catch a bully by its horns: How India can turn the latest round of US visa curbs affecting Indian techies to its advantage
Visa restrictions imposed by the US on Indian IT companies may impact individuals working on temporary visas. Many Indian workers may now have to return to India due to these restrictions. Despite these challenges, returnees present opportunities for India in emerging technologies and industries. Additionally, India's relationship with the US requires strategic actions to maintain balance in trade and diplomacy.
VFS Global inaugurates its first visa application centre in Guwahati for 14 countries
VFS Global has inaugurated its first visa application centre in Guwahati, Assam, catering to multiple countries. The facility aims to serve applicants from several Northeastern states, improving accessibility for visa services. Various officials, including Assam's Chief Minister, attended the inauguration event. The centre will facilitate visa applications for countries including the UK, France, and Italy among others. This opening coincides with VFS Global's 25th anniversary, marking a significant milestone.
Indian passport rises to 84th rank in Henley Passport Index 2026; visa-free access to 55 destinations
In the latest update of the Henley Passport Index for October 2026, India has found itself ranked 84th, a dip compared to earlier standings. Indian citizens can now visit only 55 countries without a visa, sharing their rank with Algeria and Mauritania. Leading the list is Singapore with extensive access to 193 destinations, trailed by Japan, South Korea, and the UAE.
World's strongest passports: UAE leads, US ranks 10th; where does India stand?
The United Arab Emirates leads the 2026 Passport Index with a Mobility Score of 182 and access to 182 destinations. India stands at the 72nd position with a Mobility Score of 70, highlighting limited travel access. The rankings reflect significant disparities in international mobility for different nationalities.
Cambodia transitions to electronic visas at its embassies, enhancing convenience for international visitors
Starting this October, Cambodia will discontinue issuing physical visa stickers at its diplomatic missions. Application processes may differ across locations, with some embassies still allowing in-person submissions. Fortunately, Visa on Arrival remains an option for eligible visitors. Indian citizens should verify visa requirements pertinent to their nationality and intentions. Furthermore, travellers must complete the e-Arrival system online within seven days of arrival.
Five Gulf nations pursue Schengen visa waiver: What travellers should know
Millions of Indians live and work in the Gulf, but a Gulf residence permit does not open Europe's doors visa-free. That distinction is central to a proposal in which Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, Kuwait, Oman and Qatar seek easier access to the Schengen area for their citizens. With the EU-GCC summit scheduled in Riyadh on October 24, 2026, the initiative could reshape short-term travel between the regions. But who would actually benefit, why is the UAE already ahead, and would Indian expatriates see any change in their own visa requirements?
Air India student offer: How to get 10% flat discount on tickets and up to Rs 1,000 extra off on direct bookings
For all students planning their next trip, Air India is now offering a generous 10% discount on eligible domestic fares! This special promotion is available for bookings made before October 20, 2026. Be sure to use the promo code UPIPROMO during online reservations for extra savings. Just a reminder, students must show valid documents at check-in to validate their eligibility.
Switzerland visas for Indians: How the new mobility pact and young professionals scheme differ
The recent agreements between India and Switzerland mark a milestone in facilitating student and professional mobility. These arrangements offer advantages such as multiple-entry visas, renewable permits for students, and temporary job opportunities. The Migration and Mobility Partnership addresses wider mobility challenges, while the Young Professionals Exchange Scheme emphasises tailored employment experiences. To access these benefits, Indian applicants must fulfil particular criteria.
JD Vance calls Indian workers ‘indentured servants’: What the term means and its history
JD Vance’s use of the term “indentured servants” while discussing foreign workers has brought attention to a colonial-era labour system. Indentured servitude bound people to work for a fixed period in exchange for food, shelter and sometimes freedom dues. The system differed from slavery, which involved forced labour without the same time-limited contractual terms.
Saudi Arabia airport attacks: India advises its nationals to 'stay indoors' if needed, remain vigilant after 3 killed, 36 injured
The Indian Embassy in Riyadh on Thursday advised Indian nationals in Saudi Arabia to remain alert, stay indoors as necessary and follow instructions issued by local authorities after attacks targeted Abha International Airport and King Khalid International Airport in Riyadh, leaving three people dead and 36 injured.
Why global investors are turning to Georgia for real estate opportunities in 2026
Alliance Group designates 2026 as a pivotal year for international stakeholders targeting Georgia's dynamic real estate landscape. The nation has witnessed substantial increases in residential property transactions, luring buyers from India and Europe. Tbilisi and Batumi stand out with impressive rental yields, while rising GDP and tourism profits bolster investment allure. Additionally, favorable policy adjustments cater to high-net-worth individuals keen on tapping into Georgian real estate opportunities.
BLS International partners with Signzy to enhance fraud detection in visa processing services
BLS International has partnered with Signzy to improve its visa and consular services through advanced technology. This collaboration integrates Signzy’s capabilities for document verification and fraud detection. The technology aims to streamline verification processes and enhance accuracy in operations. BLS International emphasizes using technology to flag issues while leaving final decisions to governments. The partnership illustrates BLS's commitment to building a future-ready technology stack.
Kashmiri filmmaker Arfat Sheikh detained by ICE at Dulles Airport
Upon his arrival at Dulles Airport, Kashmiri filmmaker Arfat Sheikh faced detention by ICE. He traveled to the US to attend an 'Art as Resistance' event in Washington, DC. Despite a pending immigration application, Sheikh's detention reportedly lacked a warrant. His supporters are organizing a campaign for his release from the Caroline Detention Center in Virginia.
Hidden cost of travel: Visa fees, card markups, optional tours and tips that can add 25-40% to budget; here's how to plan for them
Many travelers fail to account for hidden costs while planning international journeys, often only considering major expenses. These overlooked charges can hike trip costs by 25-40%, creating budget overruns. It's vital to include local transport, dining, and extra fees in your budget to avoid unexpected financial surprises. Employing effective budgeting techniques ensures a smoother and more enjoyable experience abroad.
As Thailand cracks down on foreigners, a tourist paradise reconsiders its welcome
Thailand is facing a growing backlash against foreign influence in its tourist hotspots, particularly southern islands such as Koh Phangan, Phuket and Koh Samui. Locals fear foreign investors and businesses are reshaping communities, driving up property prices and pushing residents out.
Delhi to Ulaanbaatar in just 5 hours: India-Mongolia launches first direct flight; timings & what passengers need to know
India and Mongolia have launched direct, non-stop flights between New Delhi and Ulaanbaatar, cutting travel time between the two capitals to around five hours. Operated by Mongolia’s Hunnu Air every Monday, the new service is expected to boost tourism, medical travel and business, while improving access to Buddhist heritage sites in India and Mongolia’s landscapes and winter destinations.
26-year-old youngster travels the world for free, earns Rs 3 lakh for a single trip after discovering a new way to make money
A 26 year old former university graduate has built a travel business from her Instagram account, leading group trips across the world and earning up to roughly Rs 2.5 lakh per trip, after starting out with unpaid social media posts and a string of minimum wage jobs.
Trump administration targets birth tourism with new visa curbs
The United States has introduced visa restrictions targeting individuals and facilitators involved in commercial birth tourism. This initiative aims to combat exploitation of the immigration system for profit through fraudulent practices. Secretary of State Marco Rubio highlighted the need to protect public resources and national security from such operations. A new digital reporting platform has also been launched to gather information on visa abuse cases.
Indian-origin entrepreneur Gagan Biyani launches tuition-free AI academy; tech giants Satya Nadella, Sam Altman to teach
Gagan Biyani has launched the Horowitz Andreessen Academy in San Francisco to provide an alternative education. This academy will focus on technology, entrepreneurship, and artificial intelligence for young people. Its first program will begin in 2027 with around 50 students enrolled for a tuition-free year. Students will receive computing credits and a travel budget but are responsible for housing.
‘Our passport is absolutely useless’: Entrepreneur says he pays Rs 1 crore in taxes but gets no international benefit, post goes viral
An X post by Hyderabad entrepreneur Jitendra Emmani has sparked discussion over the international mobility available to Indian passport holders. Emmani criticised visa requirements, documentation and waiting times, while linking the issue to Indians seeking foreign passports. His comments also mentioned his claimed annual tax payments and drew a range of responses from social media users.
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