2026 Travel: Visa, Flight, Airport Changes for Indians

• India expands Fast Track Immigration – Trusted Traveller Programme to 13 airports, enabling eligible citizens to use biometric e-gates for faster clearance.
• EU Schengen Area introduces Entry/Exit System, replacing passport stamping with biometric checks for non-European travelers, with full rollout expected by April 2026.
• IndiGo expands long-haul flights to Europe (UK, Netherlands, Greece) and Air India resumes direct flights to Shanghai from 2026, increasing international connectivity.
• US visa process becomes stricter and costlier for Indians, with new fees, social media reviews, fewer interview waivers, and mandatory in-country interviews.
• Palau and the Philippines introduce new visa-free entry options for Indian travelers, offering varying stay durations and conditions.

Why It Matters: New global travel rules will change how Indians plan and experience international trips.