India: Outbound travel from India continues to soar in 2024, with visa applications rising by 11% compared to last year. This surge not only surpasses pre-pandemic levels but also marks a 4% increase over 2019, reflecting the growing enthusiasm of Indian travelers for international destinations.
Top International Destinations for Indian Travelers in 2024
Indian travelers are increasingly exploring global destinations, with Canada, China, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, the Netherlands, Saudi Arabia, Switzerland, the United Kingdom, and the United States ranking among the most sought-after in 2024. These countries attract tourists, business travelers, and students, offering unique experiences, cultural exchanges, and economic opportunities.
Encouraging Early Visa Applications
As outbound travel demand remains strong, Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia at VFS Global, emphasized the importance of early visa applications to avoid delays.
“India continues to show a strong demand for international travel, and it’s clear that this momentum will persist in 2025. We encourage applicants to apply for their visas well in advance to ensure a smooth travel experience.”
Visa processing times vary by country, making early applications essential to avoid last-minute rushes, particularly during peak travel seasons.
Beware of Fake Websites & Travel Scams
Talwar also cautioned travelers about fraudulent websites and social media pages impersonating VFS Global.
“Appointments are free and available only through www.vfsglobal.com on a first-come, first-served basis. We urge applicants to stay alert and plan early to avoid scams.”
Travelers are advised to always use official platforms to book visa appointments and avoid agencies charging unnecessary fees or making false promises.
Growing Demand for Tailored Visa Services
With the rise in international travel, VFS Global’s Visa At Your Doorstep (VAYD) service has gained significant popularity. This premium offering allows travelers to complete their visa application and biometric enrollment from the comfort of their preferred location.
📈 VAYD growth in India:
✔ 6x increase over 2019
✔ 21% growth over 2023
✔ Available for 16 countries within India
This reflects a shift towards convenience-driven visa services, catering to busy professionals and frequent travelers.
VFS Global’s Role in the Visa Process
As a trusted partner to 52 sovereign governments, VFS Global manages the administrative aspects of visa applications, including:
✔ Visa form collection
✔ Supporting documentation processing
✔ Biometric data collection
🔹 However, VFS Global does not decide on visa approvals—this responsibility remains with the respective government authorities.
With India’s outbound travel sector booming, early planning, vigilance against fraud, and the adoption of technology-driven visa services are key to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free travel experience in 2024 and beyond.
