New Visa Rules for Indians in 2025: What’s Changed for Travel to the US, Philippines and More

Planning a foreign trip in 2025? Good news, many countries have simplified their visa rules for Indian passport holders. From faster approvals to visa-free entries and remote work options, these changes are making international travel smoother and more accessible.

Work Remotely from New Zealand

Since January 2025, Indians on visitor visas can work remotely in New Zealand. You can live there for up to 6 months, with 90 days permitted for remote work, perfect for digital nomads.

Faster Visa for South Africa

South Africa has made group visa processing quicker under its Trusted Tour Operator Scheme (TTOS). Visa approvals now take just 3 working days, making family or group travel much easier.

Palau Offers Visa-Free Entry

The island nation of Palau now allows Indian citizens to enter without a visa for up to 30 days. While there are no direct flights, you can travel via cities like Singapore, Manila, Seoul, or Taipei.

Philippines Joins Visa-Free List

The Philippines offers visa-free entry to Indians in 2 cases:

• 14 days visa-free for all Indian citizens
• 30 days visa-free for those with valid visas or residence permits from the US, UK, Japan, Australia, or Schengen countries

US Adds Visa Fee and Social Media Check

From October 2025, Indian travellers will need to pay a new $250 "visa integrity fee" for US visas, taking the total cost to around ₹41,000. The US has also added a mandatory social media background check for all applicants.

Read more: How Indians Can Get a Germany Freelance Visa for ~₹7,500?

Slovenia Launches Digital Nomad Visa

Starting November 2025, Slovenia will offer a digital nomad visa for Indians working remotely for overseas employers. The visa is not renewable, and you must leave the country for 6 months before applying again. Family members can also be included under this visa.

Conclusion

Whether you're planning a vacation, work-from-abroad stint, or family trip, these updated visa rules for 2025 offer more flexibility and opportunities for Indian travellers. Keep these new policies in mind while planning your next international adventure!

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