India Loses Visa-Free Access in 2026

India’s global passport standing has taken an intriguing turn in 2026. While Indian citizens can now boast a higher ranking on the Henley Passport Index, the number of destinations accessible without a visa has slightly dipped, creating a paradox that has left many travellers puzzled. In 2025, Indian passport holders could enter 57 countries without prior visa arrangements. Fast forward to 2026, that number stands at 56, a subtle decline despite India’s leap from 85th to 75th position on the index.

The Henley Passport Index, published by Henley & Partners, measures the mobility strength of passports globally, drawing data from the International Air Transport Association. It evaluates not only visa-free access but also visa-on-arrival and electronic travel authorisations. Essentially, the higher the number of destinations that do not require advance paperwork, the stronger a passport’s global mobility. India’s rise in ranking, despite the minor reduction in visa-free countries, demonstrates that the country is moving ahead of others in the global leaderboard even if the absolute access has slightly decreased.

Why India Lost Visa-Free Access

The two countries that have removed India from their visa-free list are Iran and Bolivia. In November 2025, Iran suspended its visa-free entry for ordinary Indian passport holders. The decision followed a series of troubling incidents where Indian nationals were reportedly lured with fraudulent job offers, only to face kidnapping and ransom demands upon arrival. The Ministry of External Affairs in India confirmed that due to these safety concerns, Indian travellers must now secure a visa in advance to enter Iran.

Bolivia, on the other hand, introduced a procedural change rather than a security-driven one. Previously, Indian citizens could obtain a visa on arrival, which qualified as visa-free access under Henley’s methodology. In 2026, Bolivia transitioned Indian travellers to an e-visa regime, requiring pre-approval before departure. This technical requirement meant Bolivia no longer counted as a visa-free destination, contributing to the minor drop in India’s accessible countries.

A Glimpse of Recovery

Interestingly, the month-by-month data within 2026 shows subtle recovery. January reflected 55 accessible destinations after losing Iran and Bolivia. By February, one additional country, The Gambia, was added back to India’s list, bringing the total to 56. While this does not fully restore the 57 destinations of 2025, it signals a modest rebound and highlights the dynamic nature of passport rankings and international mobility.

For Indian travellers, the key takeaway is to remain aware of evolving visa policies. While a passport’s ranking can improve due to global shifts, actual visa-free access may fluctuate. Staying informed ensures that holiday plans or business travel do not face unexpected hurdles at the border.

India’s leap on the Henley Passport Index underscores a broader narrative of increasing global recognition. However, the recent setbacks in Iran and Bolivia remind travellers that mobility is influenced not only by rankings but also by diplomatic and security realities. Whether planning a vacation in Europe, exploring the African continent, or seeking adventure in South America, Indian passport holders must remain vigilant, ensuring all travel authorisations are up-to-date.

In conclusion, while the Henley Passport Index presents an encouraging picture of India’s rising mobility, the nuanced reality shows the importance of understanding specific country regulations. Strategic planning, staying informed through reliable travel sources, and adapting to policy changes ensures smooth journeys for Indian travellers worldwide.