Outbound travel from India remains strong in 2024, with visa applications rising by 11% compared to the previous year. This growth surpasses pre-pandemic levels and marks a 4% increase over 2019. The rising demand for international travel from India indicates a steady recovery in the global travel sector and highlights the growing interest among Indian travellers in exploring destinations abroad.
Popular Destinations for Indian Travelers in 2024
In 2024, some of the most sought-after international destinations for Indian travellers include Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States.
These countries are good increasing numbers of Indian travellers, with each destination offering unique experiences and opportunities for cultural exploration, business, and leisure.
Encouraging Early Visa Applications
“India continues to show a strong demand for international travel, and it’s clear that this robust momentum will persist in 2025. We encourage applicants to apply for their visas well in advance to avoid the last-minute rush and ensure a smooth travel experience,” said Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia at VFS Global.
Talwar also emphasized the importance of applying early to ensure visa approval before peak travel seasons. As visa processing times may vary, early application can help travelers avoid unnecessary delays and stress.
Beware of Fake Websites and Scams
Talwar stressed that applicants should be cautious of counterfeit websites and fake social media pages pretending to be VFS Global. “Appointments are free and available only through www.vfsglobal.com on a first-come, first-served basis. We continue to raise awareness about this issue and urge applicants to plan their travel early,” she warned.
Travelers are advised to always use the official website to avoid falling prey to fraudulent services that charge unnecessary fees or provide false promises.
The Rise of Tailored Visa Services
VFS Global continues to see an increasing demand for tailored visa services. The Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service, in particular, has become a popular choice among applicants. This premium service allows travelers to complete their visa application, including biometric enrollment, from their preferred location.
In 2024, VAYD bookings in India saw a six-fold increase compared to 2019 and a 21% growth over 2023. VFS Global offers VAYD services for 16 countries within India, providing added convenience and flexibility to travelers.
VFS Global’s Role in the Visa Process
VFS Global works as a trusted partner to 52 sovereign governments, providing visa services on their behalf. With a network of over 560 visa application centers spread across 19 cities in India, VFS Global handles the administrative side of the visa application process, including the collection of visa forms, supporting documentation, and biometric data.
However, VFS Global does not play a role in the decision-making process of granting or refusing visas, as this responsibility lies with the respective governments.
