When you think of traveling across Asia, the word “visa” often feels like a hurdle. But the past few years have seen a wave of visa‑free programs that are turning the continent into an almost open‑door adventure for Indian travellers. These initiatives, backed by governments, tourism boards and private airlines, are simplifying paperwork, cutting costs and encouraging a surge in inter‑Asian visits. As a traveller from India, you’ll discover how these programmes can save you time, money and even open up new cultural experiences.
In the next sections, I’ll walk you through six key visa‑free or e‑visa initiatives that are redefining how Indians explore Asia. From the digital travel card of Malaysia to the e‑visa partnership between India and Vietnam, each trend offers a unique advantage. By the end, you’ll have a clear map of where you can jump straight into the action without a pile of paperwork.
“Travel is a passport to understanding; fewer borders mean more stories.” – An Indian travel blogger
Indonesia’s Bali and Jakarta are now accessible to Indian passport holders for up to 30 days without a visa. The initiative, announced in 2023, was a response to the rising number of Indian tourists in the archipelago. You can simply check your eligibility on the official Indonesia e‑visa portal, and within minutes you’ll receive a digital approval. No need to visit the Indonesian embassy in New Delhi or Bangalore – just a few clicks and you’re ready to pack.
This programme is especially attractive for budget travellers. Flights from Mumbai to Bali on airlines such as AirAsia or IndiGo start from ₹15,000 (approximately ₹120 per flight ticket when booked early). Add in a budget hotel for ₹2,500 a night, and you’re looking at a total trip cost of around ₹35,000 for a week – a fraction of the price you’d pay for a Western holiday.
To make the most of this trend, plan a cultural itinerary that includes a day at the Ubud Monkey Forest, a sunset at Tanah Lot, and a trek in the Bukit Peninsula. These experiences, combined with the ease of visa‑free entry, make Indonesia a top choice for Indian travellers seeking adventure and relaxation.
Vietnam has revamped its e‑visa system, allowing Indian passport holders to apply online for a 30‑day stay at a flat fee of ₹1,200. The portal is user‑friendly, accepting payments via UPI, NetBanking or credit cards. Once approved, the e‑visa is sent to your email and can be printed or shown on a mobile device.
What makes this trend stand out is the partnership with Indian travel agencies like Thomas Cook and MakeMyTrip. They offer bundled packages – flight plus hotel – at discounted rates. For instance, a 7‑day trip to Hanoi and Ho Chi Minh City can be booked for as low as ₹45,000, inclusive of accommodation, airport transfers and a city tour.
With the digital nature of the e‑visa, you can even add a last‑minute change or extension without hassle. The seamless process encourages spontaneous trips, making Vietnam a frequent stop on Indian travellers’ itineraries.
Malaysia has introduced a “Digital Travel Card” that grants Indian passport holders visa exemption for up to 30 days for business or tourism. The card is issued by the Malaysian Immigration Department and can be applied for online through the MyKad portal. A small fee of ₹800 is payable, and once approved, you receive a QR code that you can scan upon arrival.
This trend is a boon for Indian professionals working in Singapore, Kuala Lumpur or Penang. Companies like Tata Consultancy Services and Infosys now sponsor the card for their employees, reducing travel time and costs. For leisure travellers, the card opens up access to popular spots such as Langkawi, Penang’s George Town and the Cameron Highlands.
Because the card is valid for multiple entries, you can hop between Malaysia and neighbouring countries like Thailand or Singapore without re‑applying. That flexibility encourages longer stays and deeper exploration of Southeast Asia.
Thailand’s e‑visa system, launched in 2021, allows Indian passport holders to apply online for a 30‑day stay. The application fee is ₹1,500, payable via credit card or UPI. Once approved, the e‑visa is emailed and can be printed or displayed on a mobile device.
Tourism promoters in Thailand have bundled this with “All‑Inclusive” packages that include flights from Delhi to Bangkok, a stay at a 4‑star hotel, and guided tours of Ayutthaya, Chiang Mai, and Phuket. The total cost for a 10‑day trip can be as low as ₹70,000, making Thailand an attractive alternative to European destinations.
Moreover, the Thai government has introduced a “Smart Visa” for Indian entrepreneurs, allowing them to stay up to 90 days for business purposes. This encourages start‑ups and investors to explore joint ventures in the region.
The Philippines has expanded its e‑visa to include Indian citizens, with a fee of ₹1,200. The application is straightforward, and once approved, you receive a digital visa that is valid for 30 days. This is a significant step because it aligns with the Philippines’ “Philippine Tourism Investment Incentives” aimed at boosting inbound tourism.
Indian families with Filipino relatives can now travel more easily, visiting cities like Manila, Cebu and Davao. Travel agencies such as SIA Tours have curated family‑friendly itineraries that include cultural tours, beach stays and local cuisine experiences. For solo travellers, the city of Manila offers vibrant nightlife, historic sites like Intramuros and the National Museum.
With the e‑visa, Indian tourists can also join the growing “Philippine Digital Nomad Visa” program, which allows extended stays for remote workers. This trend is particularly appealing to Indian freelancers who want to blend work and travel.
Singapore has launched a “Digital Passport” that is specifically designed for Indian business travellers. After a quick online application and a fee of ₹1,000, you receive a QR code that serves as your visa. The passport allows multiple entries for up to 90 days, ideal for executives, investors and entrepreneurs.
The programme is integrated with the Singapore Tourism Board’s “Smart Tourism” initiative, which offers digital guides, contactless payments and a seamless check‑in at hotels. For example, a trip to Singapore can be booked for ₹90,000 for a 5‑day stay, including flights, a luxury hotel, and a guided business networking event at Marina Bay Sands.
Because Singapore is a global business hub, this trend encourages Indian professionals to explore opportunities in fintech, biotechnology and e‑commerce. The digital passport reduces the time spent on immigration, allowing more focus on meetings and collaborations.
Now that you’ve seen the six visa‑free programmes, here are a few actionable steps to turn them into your next adventure:
By following these steps, you’ll experience the joy of seamless travel across Asia while keeping your budget in check. Whether you’re chasing the sunrise over the Thai beaches, exploring the historic streets of Vietnam, or networking in Singapore’s skyscrapers, these visa‑free programmes are your passport to a richer, more accessible travel experience.
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