VISA FREE
Thailand's tourism thrives with $22.4 bn revenue: India key driver along with China, Malaysia
Thailand's tourism ministry reported a significant increase in foreign tourists during the first half of 2024, recording 17.5 million arrivals, marking a 35% rise from the same period last year. These visitors contributed 825 billion baht ($22.42 billion) in revenue, with China, Malaysia, and India as the leading source markets. Tourism remains a crucial economic driver for Thailand amidst challenges like slowing exports and high household debt.
Applying for a US student visa? American Embassy has a warning for you
Indian students continue to favor the United States as their top destination for overseas education, with expectations of increased student visa applications in 2024. In 2023, India issued 140,000 student visas, and the number of Indian students in the US surged by 35 percent to reach a record 268,923, constituting over 25 percent of the international student population in the country. Acting spokesperson Nicole Holler highlighted the appeal of US universities for their facilities, faculty quality, research opportunities, and career benefits.
UK general election: FTA with India on manifesto agenda for both Tory, Labour
As the UK gears up for the general election, a potential free trade agreement with India remains a key focus for both the Conservatives and Labour, with negotiations stalled at the fourteenth round. The Tories aim for a comprehensive partnership, including technology and defense, while Labour criticises missed deadlines and emphasises readiness to finalise the deal. Challenges include tariff removal on Scotch whisky and concerns over visa rules for Indian workers.
Inclusion of Taiwan in Laos Govt's visa-waiver program for Chinese tourists gives false impression: Taiwan's Foreign Ministry
Taiwan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) criticised Laos' visa-waiver program for Chinese tourists, stating it falsely implies Taiwan is part of China. The program, valid from July 1 - December 31, allows Chinese nationals to visit Laos visa-free for up to 15 days as part of a group tour. MoFA expressed concerns that Laos' collaboration with China undermines Taiwan's sovereignty and international standing, emphasising that Taiwan and China are not subordinate to each other.
Travel ease on horizon? Taiwan mulls visa-on-arrival for Indians
Taiwan's Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs, Chung Kwang Tien, announced on Tuesday that the Taiwanese government is contemplating offering visa-on-arrival for Indian citizens.
Industry executives a worried lot: Why India-China tensions are equal to a big headache for electronics makers
Indian electronics manufacturers have suffered $15 billion in production losses and 100,000 job cuts due to escalating tensions with China. Visa delays for Chinese executives are hindering the industry's expansion plans, leading to a $10 billion export opportunity loss and $2 billion in value addition loss. Government probes into Chinese companies operating in India have further impacted the sector.
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Indians can visit 62 countries visa-free: What to see and how much it will cost
India's passport has advanced to the 80th position in the latest Henley Passport Index. This new ranking permits Indian citizens to travel to 62 countries without needing a prior visa. Here is what not to miss in each country, and how much a one week long holiday will cost you. *flight fares not included
Hungary to relaunch Golden Visa as Guest Investor Program on July 1
Hungary relaunches its Golden Visa Program as the Guest Investor Program (GIP) for non-EU/EEA nationals, offering residency through real estate investments or donations. The program grants visa-free travel across the EU and extends permits to family members. Hungary's new immigration law introduces changes and delays in implementation.
India should seek easy visa norms for semi and unskilled workers in bilateral agreements: Experts
Trade experts suggest India should negotiate easy visa norms in bilateral agreements to boost remittances and wages for semi and unskilled workers. These agreements can also help curb illegal entry of Indian laborers into developed nations.
Portugal dispels Schengen Area suspension fear with new border control systems
Concerns about Portugal's potential suspension from the Schengen Area have been alleviated by a joint statement from the Portuguese government and SEF, addressing the implementation of new border control systems.
Moscow bets on visa-free deal to attract more Indians
The new visa free group travel agreement being worked out between India and Russia should boost the tourist numbers to Moscow from India by at least 30%, said Evgeny Kozlov, first deputy head of the office of the mayor and the government of Moscow in an interview to ET. Kozlov, who is also the chairman of Moscow City Tourism Committee, said Russian federal officials are also working on a project to enable virtual cards for Indian travellers while they are in India before coming to Russia.
Country depends on tourism; 60 pc people come from India: Sri Lankan MP V Radhakrishnan
Sri Lankan MP V Radhakrishnan said that tourism is a major reason for the two nations' positive ties. Sri Lanka is reliant on travel. About 60% of the population is Indian. Sri Lanka is now experiencing economic growth. In the future, the two nations ought to collaborate, particularly in the travel and tourist sector."
High airfares remain a challenge, says Thomas Cook India's Madhavan Menon
Thomas Cook India's Executive Chairman Madhavan Menon highlighted high airfares and limited airline capacity as significant challenges affecting both leisure and business travelers in India. Despite an increase in scheduled flights, the demand-supply constraints are expected to ease only in the long term with the introduction of new aircraft. Menon outlined the company's plans to expand its physical network through owned and franchise outlets and enhance its digital presence.
India, Russia to sign pact for visa-free tourism this year
"India is at the final stage of internal state coordination," Nikita Kondratyev, director of the Russian Economic Development Ministry's Department of Multilateral Economic Cooperation and Special Projects, said on the sidelines of the International Economic Forum "Russia - Islamic World: KazanForum 2024" in Kazan.
Visa free group travel between Russia and India expected by the end of this year: Minister
Russia and India are set to enhance tourism ties through visa-free group tourist exchanges. Consultations for a bilateral agreement will start in June, aiming for completion by year-end. Russia plans to follow successful models with China and Iran, fostering greater tourism cooperation between nations.
China to allow visa-free entry for foreign tour groups arriving by cruise ships
China is set to allow visa-free entry for foreign tour groups arriving via cruise ships, aiming to boost inbound tourism. Effective from May 15, groups can stay up to 15 days without a visa, entering from 13 ports. The move supports the cruise industry and enhances people-to-people exchanges.
Paris, Milan become the new favourite shopping destinations for travellers after London's 'Tourist Tax'
After Brexit, the UK discontinued tax-free shopping incentives, leading thousands of tourists to redirect their shopping to Paris, Milan, and Madrid. Despite lobbying efforts, the UK remains steadfast in its decision. The shift has resulted in increased spending per person, particularly in France and Italy. While some argue the policy negatively impacts tourism, the UK government asserts it benefits public finances.
Thailand extends visa exemption program for Indian tourists
Thailand has extended visa exemption for Indian and Taiwanese tourists until November 11, 2024, to boost tourism and economy. The country aims to attract 80 million tourists by 2027, emphasizing the sector's vital role in the economy.
Sri Lanka extends visa-free access for Indian tourists
Sri Lanka has renewed visa-free entry for tourists from India and six other countries to boost tourism industry recovery post-pandemic and economic crises. The initiative aims to enhance accessibility and convenience for international travelers, signaling the government's commitment to promoting tourism and creating seamless travel experiences. Online visa application process introduced for security checks.
Canada's policies not lax: Immigration minister slams Jaishankar's comments over Nijjar row
Tension between Canada and India persists over remarks by Indian EAM S Jaishankar on arrests linked to Hardeep Singh Nijjar's killing. Immigration Minister Marc Miller disputes the comments, emphasizing concerns over extremism and separatism.
Antigua, Grenada, Dominica: Citizenship-related visas explained
Caribbean's CBI programs offer diverse benefits like visa-free travel, low living costs, and multiple citizenships. Antigua, Grenada, and Dominica provide unique investment options. CARICOM allows free movement and residency in 20 countries, fostering economic cooperation and integration.
Have a Japan visa? Here are six other countries you can visit visa-free
Exploring the world is now easier for Indian passport holders holding a valid Japan visa. Here are six destinations you can visit visa-free
El Salvador to offer 5,000 “free passports” to skilled foreign workers
El Salvador's President Nayib Bukele aims to enhance the country's economy by offering 5,000 "free passports" to skilled international workers, granting them full citizenship rights, including voting. To further facilitate relocation, El Salvador plans to waive taxes and tariffs on assets such as equipment and intellectual property.
Bulgaria, Romania take first steps into Europe's visa-free Schengen zone
With Bulgaria and Romania's inclusion, the Schengen area now has 29 members, including several European Union states along with Switzerland, Norway, Iceland, and Liechtenstein.
Safari in mind? Indian passport can take you to these African countries visa-free
Kenya is synonymous with African safaris. Witness the Great Migration in the Masai Mara, spot the Big Five in Amboseli National Park, or relax on the pristine beaches of Mombasa. Explore the vibrant capital Nairobi or delve into the rich history of the Great Rift Valley.
Visa-free travel becoming more popular, surge in On-arrival options: UN
According to the latest UN Tourism report, visa-free travel has increased globally, with 21% of the world population not requiring any form of visa, up from 17% in 2008 and 20% in 2018. Additionally, 14% of the world population can now apply for visas on arrival, compared to 6% in 2008 and 15% in 2018. The report suggests that international travel openness has rebounded to pre-pandemic levels after COVID-19-related restrictions were lifted.
Europe travel: EU agrees on stricter rules for visiting Schengen area
The ambassadors of European Union member states have introduced stricter rules for visiting Europe, allowing the EU to halt visa-free travel for countries whose citizens can enter the Schengen area without a visa.
India needs to relax visa rules to lure more tourists, says Agoda CEO
"What's fascinating is that a lot of searches are coming from beyond the usual markets for India like the US and Middle East. A lot of people from Asian countries like Japan are finding India fascinating," he said. Indians are travelling abroad like never before, taking advantage of airfares and hotel rates on a par with domestic travel and free visas offered by many countries. However, inbound travel remains below pre-Covid-19 levels recorded in 2019, despite growing after the pandemic, according to tourism ministry data.
Saudi Arabia eyes 7.5 mn Indian visitors by 2030, offers 96-hour free visa
Witnessing increasing demand for travel from India to Saudi Arabia for spiritual and leisure purposes, Riyadh aims to attract 7.5 million Indian visitors by 2030, as articulated by Alhasan Aldabbagh, President - Asia Pacific, Saudi Tourism Authority, during the prominent SATTE 2024 travel show.
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