Russia Sets to Unite with Japan, South Korea, UAE, Maldives, Nepal and Bhutan in a New Visa Policy Bonanza to India, Supercharging Asian Tourism and Opening a New Era in Travel Sector

Russia sets to unite with Japan, South Korea, UAE, Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan in a new visa policy bonanza to India, marking the dawn of a transformative era in Asian tourism. With this historic visa agreement, India will open its doors wider than ever before to visitors from these countries, making it easier for tourists to explore India’s rich culture and diverse landscapes.

The new visa policies will not only supercharge inbound tourism but also strengthen diplomatic and economic ties across Asia. This unprecedented move is poised to boost tourism flows, benefiting both India and its neighbours. India’s tourism sector is set to thrive as these countries join forces under this new, simplified visa system. This bold step opens a fresh chapter in the travel industry, offering unparalleled opportunities for travellers, operators, and stakeholders across the region. The stage is now set for India to shine as a global tourism hub.

India is setting a new course for travel across Asia and beyond with its groundbreaking decision to roll out visa-free and gratis e-tourist visa schemes. In an unprecedented move, India is inviting citizens from Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Mauritius, the Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan to explore its vast landscapes, rich culture, and thriving cities, all without the hassle of applying for a visa. This is more than just a policy shift; it’s a complete transformation in how India approaches international tourism. The country’s “Chalo India” initiative aims to bring in more tourists, revitalize the economy, and enhance India’s diplomatic ties across the world. This momentous policy marks the dawn of a new era of accessible travel and presents an exciting opportunity for international tourists to visit India like never before.

India Breaks Free: Welcoming the World with Open Arms

For decades, India’s complex visa requirements acted as a barrier to tourism, but now the country is completely rethinking its approach. India has decided to extend a warm welcome to citizens from multiple countries with free e-tourist visas and visa-free entry, sparking a revolution in global tourism. The nation is not only opening its borders but is actively encouraging travellers from countries like Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Mauritius, Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan to explore its diverse beauty. The introduction of these free visas is a bold strategy by India to encourage global travel, boost tourism, and strengthen international relations. As part of this initiative, India has committed to issuing five lakh (500,000) free e-tourist visas and one lakh (100,000) additional visas through a diaspora referral programme by March 2025. India is no longer just a place to visit; it’s now an open invitation to experience everything it has to offer without the visa barriers that once made travel a challenge.

Russia Gets a 30-Day Visa Holiday – A Game-Changer for Russian Tourists

India’s ties with Russia have never been stronger, and the new free visa policy is proof of this growing friendship. In a significant step to enhance inbound tourism and strengthen diplomatic ties, Prime Minister Narendra Modi announced on Friday that India will introduce a free e-visa facility for Russian tourists. This announcement, made during a joint press briefing with Russian President Vladimir Putin in New Delhi, marks a new chapter in India-Russia relations.

The new policy will allow Russian nationals to apply for e-tourist visas and group tourist visas with no processing fee. The applications will be processed within 30 days, making it quicker and easier for Russian tourists to visit India. This move reflects India’s growing commitment to making the country a more accessible and attractive destination for global travellers.

By removing visa fees, the initiative is expected to encourage more Russian visitors to explore India’s diverse landscapes, rich culture, and iconic landmarks. Prime Minister Modi’s announcement aligns with India’s broader goal of expanding its tourism sector and fostering stronger international relationships. The visa-free policy is also seen as a gesture of goodwill, deepening the strategic partnership between India and Russia.

The introduction of these free e-visas and group tourist visas is expected to have a significant impact on tourism, with Russian nationals gaining easier access to explore India. This initiative underscores India’s efforts to simplify entry procedures and boost tourism in the post-pandemic world, making it easier for citizens of Russia to experience the country’s cultural heritage, spiritual landmarks, and vibrant cities.

Japan Visa-on-Arrival (VoA)

For Japan, Japanese nationals can avail themselves of Visa-on-Arrival (VoA) at designated international airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, and Chennai. However, this is not a blanket visa-free arrangement — Japanese citizens still need to obtain authorization via VoA before travel.

South Korea– e visa

South Korea does not have a visa-free agreement with India. South Korean citizens are required to apply for an e-Visa before their travel to India. The e-Visa allows for a streamlined process, but it’s still a required step, unlike visa-free entry.

UAE Visa-on-Arrival

Similarly, UAE nationals enjoy Visa-on-Arrival; however, this is available only for UAE citizens who have previously held an e-Visa or a regular visa to India. First-time visitors from the UAE must apply for an e-Visa or regular visa before their journey. This restricts the assumption of “visa-free” access for new travellers.

India’s policy aims to make travel easier and more accessible for visitors from these countries, fostering goodwill and boosting tourism. While the process has been simplified, it still requires some pre-travel steps, such as VoA, e-Visa, or prior visa applications.

Malaysia Celebrates Free E-Tourist Visas – A Gift for Malaysian Citizens

Malaysia’s travel community received a diplomatic gift when India’s High Commission in Kuala Lumpur announced that Malaysian citizens would receive a free 30-day e-tourist visa, valid for multiple entries until December 31, 2026. This announcement represents a major milestone in India-Malaysia relations and signifies India’s commitment to promoting bilateral tourism. The visa scheme allows Malaysians to easily access India’s rich cultural heritage, beautiful beaches, and world-famous temples without worrying about visa fees. The move reflects India’s desire to strengthen its ties with ASEAN countries, especially Malaysia, by fostering greater people-to-people connections. With this simple and cost-free visa process, Malaysian families, pilgrims, and travellers can enjoy an enriching holiday in India, contributing to the growth of India’s tourism sector.

Thailand’s Visa Waiver – A Six-Month Gift to Thai Tourists

India’s visa-free gesture has extended to Thailand, where the Indian government has waived visa fees for Thai nationals visiting India between July 1 and December 31, 2024. Thai passport holders can enjoy a 30-day stay in India, with double entry, without paying any government charges. This generous offer not only makes India more accessible to Thai tourists but also strengthens the cultural and diplomatic ties between the two nations. Thailand has long been a crucial partner in South East Asia, and India’s decision to make travel easier for its citizens shows India’s commitment to fostering closer ties. This visa fee exemption will no doubt encourage more Thai travellers to explore India’s iconic landmarks, cultural heritage, and diverse landscapes.

Philippines Welcomes a One-Year Free E-Tourist Visa – A Major Boost for Filipino Adventurers

In a groundbreaking development, India has introduced a one-year free e-tourist visa for Filipino nationals. Announced during President Ferdinand Marcos Jr.’s state visit to New Delhi in August 2025, this visa scheme opens up India for Filipino adventurers, business travellers, and families looking to experience India’s vast array of cultural treasures. With no visa fees to pay, Filipinos can now explore the wonders of India, from the serenity of Rishikesh to the bustling streets of Mumbai. This scheme not only benefits Filipino tourists but also strengthens the India-Philippines relationship, as both countries aim to deepen their ties and facilitate travel between their citizens.

Mauritius and Maldives – A Longstanding Visa-Free Relationship with India

Mauritians and Maldivians have long enjoyed preferential treatment when it comes to visiting India. Mauritian nationals have access to free e-tourist visas, making it easier for them to visit India and experience its rich history, culture, and spirituality. This visa policy reflects the deep-rooted historical and familial connections between India and Mauritius, many Mauritians being of Indian descent. Maldivians also benefit from the visa-free arrangement, as they can enter India for up to 90 days without a visa, making it easier for them to travel to India for tourism, business, or medical reasons. This relaxed visa regime strengthens the ties between India and its Indian Ocean neighbours, promoting increased tourism and cross-border commerce.

Nepal and Bhutan – Open Borders for Close Neighbours

Nepal and Bhutan share an open-border policy with India, making travel between these countries incredibly easy. Citizens of both Nepal and Bhutan can enter India without needing a passport or visa, as long as they carry valid identity documents. This open-door policy has been in place for many years and is a testament to the close cultural, economic, and political ties between India and its Himalayan neighbours. Whether for work, tourism, or trade, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan can cross freely into India, strengthening regional integration and fostering better relations.

Chalo India Initiative – A Bold Step to Revive Inbound Tourism

India’s tourism ministry has launched the Chalo India initiative, a massive push to revive the tourism industry after the pandemic. As part of this initiative, India has committed to providing five lakh free e-tourist visas and an additional one lakh visas through a diaspora referral programme by March 2025. This campaign is expected to significantly boost inbound tourism, as it makes travel to India more affordable and accessible. The diaspora referral programme is particularly important, as it encourages Indian nationals abroad to refer their friends and families to visit India. This initiative is a win-win for both India and its partners, as it helps to promote tourism, support the economy, and strengthen diplomatic relationships.

India–Russia Travel: Surge in 2024‑25 Signals New Era of Mutual Tourism

The travel connection between India and Russia has witnessed a remarkable resurgence in 2024 and early 2025. New visa‑friendly policies, eased entry processes and renewed bilateral enthusiasm have contributed to a strong rebound in tourist flow in both directions.

According to Russian‑Indian diplomatic data, the number of Indian tourists visiting Russia more than doubled in 2024. The count rose from around 60,000 in 2023 to over 120,000 in 2024.

On the return side, Russia remained a significant source of inbound visitors to India. In 2023, approximately 160,000 Russian travellers came to India — a figure that surpassed the combined totals of 2021 and 2022.

The upward trend continued into 2025. For instance, in the first half of 2025, the Russian capital Moscow welcomed 40,800 Indian visitors — a 40 per cent increase compared with the same period the previous year. India is now considered the second‑largest non‑CIS (Commonwealth of Independent States) source country for tourism to Moscow. (travelandtourworld.com)

This rebound is not purely incidental: Both governments have eased visa restrictions, improved connectivity, and promoted cross‑cultural engagements. Reports suggest that by the end of 2025, the mutual tourist flow could reach as many as 450,000 travellers.

From the perspective of the tourism industry, this revival presents immense opportunity. Hotels, tour operators and travel services in both India and Russia are gearing up for a sustained surge. Increased demand affects hospitality, local transport, tour circuits and even cultural exchange programmes.

For Indian travellers heading to Russia, Moscow has become increasingly accessible and welcoming thanks to improved visa procedures, cultural festivals and better air connectivity. (travelandtourworld.com) Indian visitors now appear among the most active guests in Moscow’s premium hotel segment.

Meanwhile, Russia continues to send tourists to India, drawn by India’s diverse landscapes, heritage sites, rich culture and new visa‑facilitation efforts. The sustained inflow of Russian visitors into India indicates renewed confidence and interest in South Asia’s tourism offerings.

That said, available data is provisional. Many numbers are based on media reports or statements by diplomatic missions rather than fully audited official statistics. Detailed breakdowns — by region, purpose of travel or stay duration — remain scarce.

In conclusion, 2024 and early 2025 mark a strong rebound for India–Russia tourism. Indian tourists to Russia have surged, and Russian inbound arrivals to India remain significant. With visa facilitation, improved connectivity and growing bilateral cooperation, this renewed travel corridor could become one of the defining trends of post‑pandemic global tourism. For travellers, tour operators, and policymakers alike — the India–Russia tourist bridge is back — and potentially stronger than ever.

India’s Free Visa Strategy: Soft Power and Economic Ambition

The free visa and visa-free schemes being offered by India are not just about hospitality—they are a calculated move to enhance India’s soft power and economic stature. By making it easier for citizens from Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Mauritius, Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan to visit, India is showcasing its diplomatic strength and economic ambition. Tourism plays a vital role in India’s economy, and by waiving visa fees, India aims to attract more foreign visitors, thus increasing foreign exchange earnings and supporting local industries such as hospitality, retail, and transportation. These free visa policies signal that India is not only becoming a global travel hub but also a rising power in international diplomacy.

India’s Open-Door Policy – A New Era of Accessible Travel

India’s visa-free and gratis visa policies have ushered in a new era of accessible travel. Citizens from Russia, Malaysia, Thailand, the Philippines, Mauritius, Maldives, Nepal, and Bhutan can now explore India with ease, thanks to these bold diplomatic moves. With the Chalo India initiative further boosting inbound tourism, India is positioning itself as one of the most tourist-friendly destinations in the world. Whether you’re a Russian adventurer, a Malaysian family, a Thai culture enthusiast, or a Filipino business traveller, India’s message is clear: come and explore the beauty, culture, and warmth of India without the burden of visa fees. This unprecedented offer not only promises to boost tourism but also strengthens India’s position as a global leader in diplomacy and soft power.

The post Russia Sets to Unite with Japan, South Korea, UAE, Maldives, Nepal and Bhutan in a New Visa Policy Bonanza to India, Supercharging Asian Tourism and Opening a New Era in Travel Sector appeared first on Travel and Tour World