From Visa Changes To New Flight Routes: 5 Big Updates For Indian Globetrotters

Indian travellers heading abroad in 2025 should take note of several significant changes that could impact their trips. From new visa rules in the US and Europe, to visa-free access to destinations like Sri Lanka and Kenya, faster immigration clearance at major airports, and expanded IndiGo flights to Europe, these updates make it crucial to plan ahead. Here’s a roundup of the five key developments every Indian international traveller should know before flying.Faster Immigration Checks The Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) is now available at 13 airports across India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Amritsar, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli and Kozhikode. The scheme allows eligible Indian citizens and Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) to use biometric e-gates for rapid immigration clearance. Once registered online through the FTI-TTP portal and biometrics are submitted, travellers can simply scan their boarding pass at a designated e-gate to complete immigration in roughly thirty seconds. Membership is valid for up to five years or until the passport expires, whichever comes first, and the programme is set to expand to more airports, including Navi Mumbai and Jewar (Noida).IndiGo Expands Its Footprint Across EuropeIndiGo has broadened its international network with new flights to Amsterdam, Manchester, London and Copenhagen. The airline launched direct services from Mumbai to Amsterdam and Manchester in July 2025, followed by the start of daily operations to London Heathrow on October 26, 2025. Later that month, it introduced a new route to Copenhagen, strengthening access to the Nordic region. With these additions, IndiGo becomes the first budget carrier to offer direct connections between India and these major European cities. The expansion forms part of the airline’s wider strategy to boost long-haul connectivity, with further destinations such as Athens planned for the near future.New US Visa Rules Tighten Interview Requirements For TravellersThe United States has revised its visa regulations for foreign tourists, introducing stricter rules around interview requirements and effectively ending the long-standing practice of applying for visas in third countries to secure faster appointments. From September 2, 2025, most applicants must now attend their visa interview in their country of citizenship or legal residence, and eligibility for skipping in-person interviews has been significantly reduced, with B1/B2 renewals no longer automatically exempt.These changes mean that applicants must schedule interviews locally rather than travelling abroad for quicker processing, and far fewer travellers will qualify for interview waivers. As a result, waiting times for US visas are likely to rise in some countries, prompting travellers to plan well ahead and account for possible delays. Even those renewing existing visas may now be required to appear in person, adding an extra step for many who previously avoided interviews altogether.More Destinations Open Up As Indians Gain Visa-Free AccessIndian travellers now have visa-free entry to both Sri Lanka and Kenya, following recent policy changes by the two countries. Sri Lanka introduced visa-free travel for Indian citizens in October 2024, while Kenya implemented its visa-free regime for Indians at the start of 2024. Beyond these, several other nations continue to offer visa-free or visa-on-arrival access to Indian passport holders, expanding travel options considerably.Although visas are no longer required for entry into Sri Lanka or Kenya, travellers must still meet standard entry conditions, including carrying a valid passport, demonstrating sufficient funds and holding a return or onward ticket. It remains essential to check the latest entry guidelines before planning a trip.The EU Rolls Out a New Entry–Exit System For TravellersThe European Union has introduced a new entry–exit system designed to tighten border security and streamline the movement of non-EU travellers. Under this system, travellers from non-EU countries will have their biometric data and travel details recorded on arrival and departure, replacing the traditional passport stamping process. The change aims to make border checks more efficient while enhancing security across the Schengen area, though travellers may initially experience longer processing times as the system is phased in.FAQsWhat is the Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP)?The FTI-TTP allows eligible Indian citizens and OCI cardholders to use biometric e-gates at select airports for faster immigration clearance, reducing processing time to around 30 seconds.Which airports currently have FTI-TTP e-gates?FTI-TTP is available at 13 airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, Kolkata, Hyderabad, Kochi, Ahmedabad, Lucknow, Amritsar, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, and Kozhikode.What are the latest US visa changes for Indian travellers?As of 2 September 2025, most applicants must attend visa interviews in their country of citizenship or legal residence, and B1/B2 visa renewals no longer automatically qualify for an interview waiver.Which new destinations can Indians now fly to via IndiGo?IndiGo now offers direct flights from Mumbai to Amsterdam, Manchester, London Heathrow, and Copenhagen, marking its first budget carrier services connecting India directly to these European cities.Which countries recently became visa-free for Indian citizens?Sri Lanka (since October 2024) and Kenya (since January 2024) now allow Indian travellers to enter without a visa, though a valid passport, proof of funds, and a return ticket are still required.No Passport Or Visa Needed: India Simplifies Cross-Border Travel For Nepal, Bhutan