On the global rankings, India’s passport made a remarkable showing in the 2026 Henley Passport Index by climbing 10 places up to 75th, thus reflecting stronger international mobility for Indian citizens.
However, despite this improved position, Indian travelers saw a marginal decrease in the number of destinations they can visit without a visa compared to last year. Needless to say, this is of great consequence to tourism and business travel, as travelers may be unable or discouraged from visiting countries that no longer offer such conveniences. For Indian passport holders and travel stakeholders, this milestone is a major update that reveals how global travel freedom is shifting in 2026.
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What Happened with India’s Global Passport Position This Year?
According to the latest information from the Henley Passport Index — which evaluates global rankings based on the number of visa-free destinations available to passport holders using verified international data — India’s passport has been making steady progress in recent years.
In 2025, it ranked in the mid-80s. In 2026, it rose to 75th position globally.
This improvement was driven by:
- Bilateral agreements signed by India with several countries
- Visa-on-arrival and e-visa arrangements becoming easier to obtain
- Post-pandemic recovery of international travel routes
The Henley Index sources its data from the International Air Transport Association (IATA), the world’s leading aviation industry database, giving additional credibility to its rankings.
Visa-Free Countries Total Now Stands at 56
While India’s overall ranking improved, the number of destinations Indian passport holders can visit without a prior visa actually fell from 57 last year to 56 this year.
Two countries — Iran and Bolivia — changed their entry policies, meaning Indian travelers no longer enjoy visa-free or visa-on-arrival treatment there.
What Does This Mean for Travellers?
- Iran now requires Indian travelers to apply for a regular visa instead of allowing visa-free entry.
- Bolivia ended its visa-on-arrival policy and introduced mandatory e-visa requirements.
In practical terms, these changes mean that Indian tourists, business professionals, and long-term visitors will need to plan ahead for paperwork. This increases documentation timelines and may add costs.
Nonetheless, visa-free agreements with other countries — including popular destinations for Indians such as Bhutan, Nepal, parts of Southeast Asia, and the Caribbean — continue to benefit Indian travellers.
What Does the Henley Passport Index Indicate for 2026?
The Henley Passport Index calculates passport strength based on:
- The number of destinations a passport holder can enter without prior visa approval
- Access through visa-free entry, visa-on-arrival, and electronic travel authorisation (ETA)
The more destinations a passport grants access to, the stronger it is considered globally. In 2026, countries such as Singapore and Japan continue to lead global mobility rankings, with their citizens enjoying access to around 190 destinations without needing a pre-arranged visa.
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Long-Term Travel Opportunities and Growing Alternatives
Despite a modest reduction in visa-free destinations, India’s improved ranking signals broader positive trends, including:
- Expanding diplomatic engagement
- Improved travel cooperation agreements
- Rising international reputation as both a major outbound and inbound travel market
This is encouraging news for India’s outbound tourists and business travellers who frequently travel internationally for work.
For example, Morocco is targeting up to 80,000 Indian visitors this year through expanded e-visa facilities and tourism promotion campaigns, demonstrating how countries are actively seeking Indian travellers.
Similarly, updated visa policies in destinations like Thailand — including longer stay options and simplified entry procedures — are expanding travel choices for Indian passport holders.
What This Means for Indian Passport Holders in 2026
More Flexible Travel
With 56 destinations accessible without prior visas, Indian citizens still enjoy significant mobility for leisure and business travel.
Stronger Global Standing
An improved ranking reflects India’s growing diplomatic presence and global engagement.
Need for Careful Planning
As visa policies evolve, travelers must verify entry rules before booking flights to avoid disruptions.
Travelers can also consult updated destination lists such as Visa-Free Countries for Indian Passport Holders in 2026 to stay informed about the latest entry requirements.
Final Word
India’s rise in the 2026 Global Passport Index reflects steady improvement in international travel mobility. While specific visa policy changes have slightly reduced visa-free access, the broader trend remains positive.
With enhanced diplomatic efforts and improved rankings, Indian passport holders are better positioned today than in previous years to explore global opportunities, pursue business abroad, and connect with international communities.
For smooth international travel in 2026, travellers should:
- Check the latest visa requirements before departure
- Review bilateral travel updates
- Prepare documents well in advance to avoid delays
Overall, these developments indicate a gradual strengthening of India’s global mobility position in 2026.
