New Visa Rules for Indians in 2026

Cape Verde Suspends Visa on Arrival 

Effective from 1 January 2026, the government of Cape Verde has suspended its visa on arrival (VOA) facility for citizens of 96 countries, including India. Indian travelers intending to visit Cape Verde must now obtain a visa before their departure. This policy change is a significant shift from the previous arrangement and requires travelers to plan their visa applications well in advance of their intended travel dates.  

France Introduces Transit Visa Exemption Pilot

France has launched a six-month pilot program, effective 19 February 2026, that exempts Indian nationals from the requirement of an Airport Transit Visa (ATV). During this trial period, Indian passport holders can transit through the international zones of French airports without needing a visa. This initiative is designed to facilitate smoother and more convenient travel for Indians connecting through France to other destinations.  

India Ineligible for U.S. Diversity Visa (DV) Program 2026

The United States Department of State has announced that natives of India are not eligible to apply for the Diversity Immigrant Visa (DV) Program for the fiscal year 2026. This is because India is designated as a "high-admission" country, meaning more than 50,000 of its natives have immigrated to the U.S. in the previous five years under other visa categories. Therefore, Indian citizens cannot participate in the DV-2026 lottery.  

Visa Waiver Agreement Between India and Saudi Arabia

India and Saudi Arabia have signed a visa waiver agreement for holders of diplomatic, official, and special passports. This agreement allows for visa-free travel for officials from both countries, aiming to facilitate official duties and strengthen strategic partnerships. The agreement was signed as part of the India-Saudi Arabia Strategic Partnership Council's initiatives to boost bilateral exchanges.  

General E-Visa Information for Indian Citizens 

The Government of India provides an e-Visa facility for citizens of many countries, which simplifies the process of obtaining a visa for various purposes. The e-Visa is available in five sub-categories: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, and e-Conference. Applicants can apply online through the official government portal, and the process typically requires uploading a recent photograph and a copy of the passport's details page.

It is important to use the official website to avoid fraudulent sites.  

Conclusion 

The visa landscape for Indian travelers is continuously evolving, with several key changes taking effect in 2026. The extension of visa-free access by Malaysia offers greater flexibility for short-term visits. Conversely, the suspension of visa-on-arrival in Cape Verde requires more preparation from travelers. The transit visa exemption pilot by France is a welcome development for those with connecting flights. It is vital for all Indian citizens planning international travel to verify the latest visa requirements from official government sources before their journey to ensure a hassle-free experience.