Multiple countries have introduced visa policy changes in early 2026 that directly affect Indian passport holders. From the UK’s shift to a fully digital visa system to Japan ending walk-in applications at South Indian VFS centres, here are eight updates Indian travellers should know before booking flights.
| Country | Change | Date |
|---|---|---|
| UK | Physical visa labels eliminated; eVisa mandatory | 25 Feb 2026 |
| Japan | Walk-in applications banned at 4 South Indian VFS centres | 2 Mar 2026 |
| USA | FIFA priority visa appointment slots launched | 2026 |
| Sri Lanka | Digital Nomad Visa introduced (1-year stay) | 2026 |
| Armenia | Visa-free entry for select Indian permit holders | 1 Jan – 1 Jul 2026 |
| Greece | All Visa Application Centres restored | 12 Feb 2026 |
| France | Fast-tracking Indian student admissions | Ongoing |
| Delhi | VFS Global facility relocated to Connaught Place | 12 Jan 2026 |
UK eVisa Now Mandatory for Indian Travellers
The UK eliminated physical visa labels on 25 February 2026, completing its transition to a fully digital immigration system. Indian travellers must now manage their visa status through the UK’s online platform before travel. Airlines have been authorised to deny boarding to passengers who lack valid digital permission.
If you hold an existing UK visa, verify your digital status before booking flights. Our UK Visa Guide covers updated requirements and the eVisa registration process.
Japan Ends Walk-In Visa Applications in South India
From 2 March 2026, walk-in visa applications have been eliminated at VFS centres in Chennai, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Puducherry. Indian applicants in these cities must now book online appointments before visiting.
Check current wait times using our Processing Times tool before scheduling your appointment.
US Launches FIFA Priority Visa Appointments
The US introduced the “FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System” (FIFA Pass), giving World Cup 2026 ticket holders access to priority B1/B2 visa interview slots. Indian fans with match tickets can use this system to secure consular appointments faster than the standard queue.
Review our US Visa Guide for B1/B2 requirements and use the Interview Simulator to prepare for the consular interview.
Sri Lanka, Armenia, and Other Visa Updates for Indians
Sri Lanka Digital Nomad Visa: Indians aged 18 and above earning a minimum of $2,000 per month from employers outside Sri Lanka can apply for a one-year Digital Nomad Visa to live and work remotely from the country.
Armenia visa-free window: Indian passport holders with valid residence permits from the US, EU, Schengen, or GCC nations can enter Armenia visa-free for up to 180 days between 1 January and 1 July 2026.
Greece visa processing restored: All Visa Application Centres resumed operations on 12 February 2026 after earlier disruptions. Indian Schengen visa applicants can now book appointments at all Greek VACs. Prepare your paperwork using our Document Checklist.
France student fast-track: France is working on simplified visa procedures for Indian students, aiming to host 30,000 Indian students by 2030. Discussions include reduced processing delays and potential visa-free airport transit pilots.
Delhi VFS relocation: The VFS Global facility handling UK, Ireland, Denmark, Finland, and Norway visa applications in Delhi moved to VFS Global House, Connaught Place on 12 January 2026.
FAQ
Q: Is the UK eVisa mandatory for Indian travellers now? A: Yes. Since 25 February 2026, the UK has eliminated physical visa labels entirely. Indian travellers must manage their immigration status through the UK’s online platform, and airlines can deny boarding without valid digital permission.
Q: Can Indians still walk in for Japan visa at VFS centres in South India? A: No. From 2 March 2026, walk-in applications have been eliminated at VFS centres in Chennai, Kochi, Hyderabad, and Puducherry. Online appointments are now mandatory.
Q: What is the US FIFA Pass for visa appointments? A: The FIFA Prioritised Appointment Scheduling System gives World Cup 2026 ticket holders access to priority B1/B2 visa interview slots at US consulates, reducing the usual wait times.
Q: How does Sri Lanka’s Digital Nomad Visa work for Indians? A: Indians aged 18 and above who earn a minimum of $2,000 per month from employers outside Sri Lanka can apply for the Digital Nomad Visa, which allows a one-year stay in the country.
Q: Can Indians visit Armenia visa-free in 2026? A: Indian passport holders with a valid residence permit from the US, EU, Schengen, or GCC nations can enter Armenia visa-free for up to 180 days between 1 January and 1 July 2026.
Source: UK Home Office; Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Japan; U.S. Department of State; Department of Immigration and Emigration, Sri Lanka