Visa rules for Indian travellers changed in two of our most-booked destinations this year. Thailand shortened its visa-free stay, and Malaysia's visa-free window has a firm end date. Here is what is true right now, which countries are easiest for Indian passport holders, and how to plan your next trip from Lucknow without visa stress.
Change 1: Thailand — still visa-free, now for 30 days
From 15 September 2026, Indian passport holders can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days, replacing the earlier 60-day exemption. Despite many reports, Thailand did not move Indians to a paid visa on arrival — India remains on the visa-exemption list. Before you fly, complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) online. Since most holidays are well under a month, the change makes no difference to a typical Thailand package.
Change 2: Malaysia — visa-free until 31 December 2026
Indian passport holders can visit Malaysia visa-free for up to 30 days under a scheme that currently runs until 31 December 2026. Every visitor must also fill in the free Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) online within three days before arrival. If you have been planning Malaysia, this winter is the time to go — once the window closes, an eVISA may be needed unless the scheme is extended again.
Visa-free and easy-entry countries for Indians in 2026
- Thailand — visa-free with the TDAC arrival card, up to 30 days
- Malaysia — visa-free until 31 Dec 2026 with the MDAC, up to 30 days
- Mauritius — visa-free, up to 90 days
- Nepal — no visa required, no fixed limit
- Bhutan — entry permit, no visa
- Kazakhstan — visa-free, up to 14 days
- Fiji — visa-free, up to 120 days
- Indonesia (Bali) — visa on arrival, 30 days
- Dubai (UAE) — tourist visa, usually online in a few days
- Singapore — e-visa via an authorised agent, 3–5 working days
Stay lengths are for tourism and can change at short notice. Always check the latest rule before you book.
Visa-free does not mean document-free
- A passport valid for at least six months from your travel date, with blank pages.
- A confirmed return ticket and hotel bookings for your full stay.
- Proof of sufficient funds for the trip — immigration officers can ask.
- The destination's online arrival card, completed before you land.
- Travel insurance — not always mandatory, but strongly recommended.
The easiest picks from Lucknow
Thailand is the standout: Lucknow has direct flights to Bangkok, and Thai AirAsia is resuming its Lucknow–Bangkok (Don Mueang) service from mid-November 2026. Malaysia pairs beautifully with Singapore for a two-country first international trip. Dubai remains the quickest getaway, with daily direct flights and a fast visa process.
Let us handle the rules
Visa rules change often, and a missed arrival card or a short-validity passport can end a holiday at the airport. Sheeraz Tours' visa desk checks your documents, files your visa where one is needed and confirms the latest entry rules before you travel — backed by 19+ years of experience and 50,000+ travellers yearly.
Entry rules are as of October 2026 and can change. Confirm with our visa desk before you travel.
Want a visa-free holiday this winter? Request a quote on sheeraz-tours.com or WhatsApp our team for Thailand and Malaysia packages from Lucknow.
Frequently asked questions
Is Thailand still visa-free for Indians in 2026?+
Yes. From 15 September 2026, Indian passport holders can enter Thailand visa-free for tourism for up to 30 days. You must complete the Thailand Digital Arrival Card (TDAC) before arrival.
How long can Indians stay in Malaysia without a visa?+
Up to 30 days for tourism, under a visa-free scheme that runs until 31 December 2026. The Malaysia Digital Arrival Card (MDAC) must be filled within three days before arrival.
What happens to Malaysia visa-free entry after 31 December 2026?+
Unless Malaysia extends the scheme, Indian travellers will need an eVISA for trips after that date. Travelling this December lets you use the visa-free entry while it lasts.
Which visa-free country is best for a first international trip from Lucknow?+
Thailand — direct flights, a 30-day visa-free stay, Indian food everywhere and packages for every budget.
Do I need travel insurance for visa-free countries?+
It is not always mandatory, but we strongly recommend it. Medical treatment abroad can be very expensive without cover.