Indian travellers planning overseas holidays in 2026 are being advised to check entry requirements carefully, as several destinations have introduced, expanded or shifted towards online visa and travel-authorisation systems. Countries including Laos , Sri Lanka , Iran, Chile, Ghana and Venezuela have digital application options for eligible Indian passport holders. However, requirements differ across destinations, including visa validity, permitted entry points, documentation and processing timelines. Travellers should verify the latest rules with official immigration or consular authorities before booking flights and accommodation. Laos Indian passport holders travelling to Laos can apply for an electronic visa before departure. The Laos e-visa is accepted only at designated entry points, making it important for travellers to confirm whether their intended airport or border checkpoint is included in the approved list. Applicants should also check the required documents, visa validity, and processing time through the country's official e-visa system. Sri Lanka Sri Lanka introduced a free 30-day tourist Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) for citizens of 40 countries, including India, from May 25, 2026. Under the arrangement, eligible Indian visitors can stay in Sri Lanka for up to 30 days and receive double-entry permission. The second entry must be made within the validity period applicable after the first arrival. Travellers are advised to obtain the ETA before flying and check the latest conditions through Sri Lanka's official ETA platform. Iran Indian citizens travelling to Iran are required to obtain an e-visa before departure under the applicable visa system. Travellers should not rely on assumptions about visa-on-arrival facilities. Before making travel arrangements, applicants should confirm the current application procedure, required paperwork, processing period and authorised points of entry. Chile Chile has introduced an online visa application facility for Indian travellers, allowing eligible applicants to complete the process digitally. Applicants should first establish whether they meet the eligibility criteria and then prepare the required supporting documents. The expected processing period should also be confirmed through Chile's official consular channels before finalising travel plans. Ghana Ghana provides an electronic visa application route for eligible Indian passport holders. The documentation and conditions may depend on the purpose of the visit. Travellers should therefore confirm the applicable visa category, supporting paperwork, fees, and validity period through Ghanaian immigration authorities or the country's official diplomatic channels. Venezuela Indian travellers visiting Venezuela can apply electronically under the applicable visa system. However, entry requirements may vary depending on factors such as the purpose and duration of the trip. Applicants should verify eligibility criteria, documentation and other conditions before making flight or accommodation bookings. Documents Indian Travellers Should Carry Having an approved visa or travel authorisation does not necessarily mean travellers can skip other entry requirements. Airlines and immigration officials may ask for additional documents. Travellers should keep the following ready: A valid passport meeting the destination's validity requirements Approved e-visa or travel authorisation Return or onward travel tickets Confirmed accommodation details Proof of sufficient financial resources Travel insurance, if required by the destination Check Latest Visa Rules Before Booking Visa and entry regulations can change, sometimes with limited notice. Rules applicable at the time of booking may also be different by the time of travel. Indian passport holders should therefore check the destination's official immigration portal, embassy or consular website before making non-refundable travel bookings. Verifying visa validity, permitted entry points, documentation and other conditions in advance can help travellers avoid problems at airline check-in or immigration.
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