The Indian outbound travel market continues to demonstrate remarkable growth, positioning Indian travelers as significant contributors to the global tourism economy. This upward trend is set to continue with 66% of Indian travelers planning to travel more in 2025, according to Skyscanner further solidifying India’s position as a leader in both travel intent and spending within the Asia-Pacific (APAC) region. The surge in travel is indicative of a transformation in the way Indian travelers engage with international destinations, reshaping the global travel landscape, particularly in how visas are processed and managed.
As the world rebounds from the pandemic, global tourism has seen a powerful resurgence, with numbers approaching 98% of pre-pandemic levels, as noted by the UN World Tourism Barometer. Indian travelers have been at the forefront of this recovery, reflected in an 81% increase in outbound spending in mid-2024 compared to 2019. This growing trend underscores a rising appetite among Indian tourists for varied travel experiences, spanning multiple destinations and cultures. In response to this heightened demand, the visa ecosystem has evolved, with a strong emphasis on convenience, accessibility, and personalization.
Indian travelers have significantly evolved, and their expectations have shifted with increased spending power. Today, the modern traveler seeks more than just traditional amenities—they desire premium services that enhance convenience and offer personalized experiences. In the past, access to lounges was a coveted perk, whereas now, services like home luggage check-ins provided by premium airlines cater to this demand for added comfort and efficiency. Similarly, VFS Global has elevated the travel experience with services such as Visa at Your Doorstep (VAYD), which allows travelers to complete visa formalities from the comfort of their homes, thus avoiding the hassle of in-person visits to visa application centers.
Furthermore, advancements such as real-time application tracking systems empower travelers with greater transparency and control over their visa applications. Applicants can track their progress at every step of the journey, offering them peace of mind and reducing uncertainty. These services represent a significant shift from the traditional, opaque visa application process, setting a new benchmark in efficiency and customer satisfaction.
The desire for personalization in travel continues to grow among Indian tourists. As they explore longer stays and multi-country itineraries, their expectations are shifting toward services that can adapt to their evolving needs. In this context, the role of artificial intelligence (AI) and virtual assistants has become crucial in enhancing the customer service experience. AI-powered chatbots, used by airlines, hotels, and booking platforms, offer travelers immediate assistance, answering queries, providing bookings, and resolving issues quickly, all contributing to a smoother, more personalized journey.
Similarly, biometric security such as Digi Yatra, is streamlining airport procedures, making travel even more seamless by enabling passengers to pass through security checks and immigration processes using facial recognition technology. This emphasis on seamless travel experiences is expected to continue, with travelers increasingly seeking more streamlined processes and increased control over their journeys.
Looking ahead, the visa landscape for Indian travelers is poised for further transformation. With the growing demand for long-term and multi-entry visas, along with the rise of personalized services, the future of travel will be characterized by even more convenience, flexibility, and personalized attention. Indian travelers are no longer just participants in the global tourism revival—they are actively shaping its trajectory, driving innovation in visa services and beyond. As these trends unfold, VFS Global will continue to play a pivotal role in aiding global mobility, ensuring that the travel experience remains as seamless, accessible, and enriching as
(Author: By Yummi Talwar, Chief Operating Officer – South Asia, VFS Global)
