Indian Travellers: 2 Countries No Longer Visa-Free

India's passport has risen in the Henley Passport Index 2026, moving from 85th place in 2025 to 80th this year. This indicates a slight improvement in India's global travel standing. However, despite the better ranking, Indian passport holders now have visa-free access to fewer countries, with the number decreasing from 57 to 55 destinations. This change occurred because Iran and Bolivia, which previously allowed Indian travelers to enter without a visa, have updated their entry rules. Indian travellers can no longer visit these two countries visa-free. Find out which Iran India and Iran previously had an agreement that allowed Indian passport holders to enter Iran without a visa for short stays. However, in November 2025, Iran decided to change this policy and now requires Indian citizens to obtain a visa before travelling to or transiting through the country. The main reason for this change is the misuse of the visa waiver, particularly by individuals making false travel promises to Indians. As a result, Iranian authorities opted to tighten their entry regulations and suspend the visa-free facility for Indian citizens. Therefore, Indians must now apply for and secure a visa in advance before visiting Iran. Bolivia For Bolivia, Indians could earlier get a visa on arrival, which meant there was no need to apply in advance. Travellers could land in Bolivia, complete the formalities at the airport, and pay the required fee. However, the country has now moved Indians to an e-Visa system. This means travellers must apply online before their journey, submit documents, and wait for approval. Even though the process is digital and simpler than a traditional embassy visa, it still requires prior permission.