If you're an Indian passport holder with a valid Schengen visa, your travel opportunities extend far beyond the 29 European countries in the Schengen Area. This visa grants access to popular destinations such as France, Germany, and Italy, and opens doors to numerous non-Schengen countries across Europe, Asia, Africa, and the Americas. Many of these nations allow Indian travellers to enter visa-free, obtain a visa on arrival, or apply for an e-visa, provided they hold a valid Schengen visa.

In this comprehensive guide, we'll explore the list of countries you can visit with your Schengen visa, detailing the entry requirements and highlighting the unique experiences each destination offers. Whether planning a multi-country European tour or exploring beyond Europe, this information will help you make the most of your Schengen visa.

Countries you can travel to with a Schengen visa on an Indian passport:

Here is the list of countries which allow Indian passport holders to travel visa-free if they have a valid Schengen visa: 

Visa-Free Countries

• Andorra

• Belarus

• Belize

• Bosnia and Herzegovina

• Cyprus

• Honduras

• Guatemala

• South Korea

• Mexico

• Moldova

• Montenegro

• Nicaragua

• North Macedonia

• Vatican City

• Colombia

• Kyrgyzstan

• Serbia

• Albania

• Georgia

• San Marino

• Philippines

Visa On Arrival Countries

• Oman

• Saudi Arabia

E-visa Country

• Turkey

VOA and E-visa

• Armenia

Travel Authorization

• Taiwan
  

Andorra

Andorra, a picturesque microstate between France and Spain in the Pyrenees, does not impose its visa requirements. However, since it lacks an airport and is only accessible by land through France or Spain, Indian passport holders must transit through the Schengen Area to reach Andorra. Therefore, a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa is essential for Indian travellers visiting Andorra.

Entry Requirements:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.

• Multiple-Entry Schengen Visa: Necessary to re-enter the Schengen Area after visiting Andorra.

Important Considerations:

• Transit through Schengen countries: Since entry to Andorra is only possible through France or Spain, ensure your Schengen visa allows for multiple entries to avoid complications when re-entering the Schengen Area after visiting Andorra.

• No Border Controls: While Andorra does not have formal border controls with its neighbours, standard Schengen entry and exit procedures apply when crossing into and out of France or Spain.

• Duration of Stay: Visitors can stay in Andorra for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, aligning with Schengen visa regulations.
  

Belarus

Belarus, a landlocked country in Eastern Europe, is known for its historical cities and Soviet-era architecture, and offers relaxed visa entry for travellers holding valid EU or Schengen visas. Although Belarus maintains its own visa policies, Indian passport holders can enter Belarus without a separate Belarusian visa under certain conditions, making it a convenient option for multi-country trips in Europe.

Visa Substitution Policy

Belarus waives the national visa requirement if the traveller:

• Holds a valid Schengen visa or a national visa from any EU country

• Arrives and departs through Minsk National Airport (the waiver applies only for air travel through this airport)

This exemption allows Indian travellers with Schengen or EU visas to visit Belarus without needing to apply separately for a Belarus visa, streamlining regional travel.

Belize

Belize, a lush Caribbean nation located on Central America's eastern coast, is renowned for its barrier reef, Mayan ruins, and predominantly English-speaking population. While Belize maintains its own visa requirements, Indian passport holders benefit from a simplified entry rule if they already possess a valid Schengen visa.

Visa Exemption Policy

Indian nationals do not need a separate Belize visa if they hold a valid visa from any Schengen Member State. This visa exemption permits travel to Belize for tourism or business purposes, without the need to apply at a Belizean embassy or consulate.

Entry Requirements

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the date of entry.

• Valid Schengen Visa: The visa must be valid on the date of entry into Belize.

• Purpose of Visit: Tourism, business, or family visits are typically allowed under this rule.

• Length of Stay: Up to 90 days without needing a separate Belize visa.

Bosnia and Herzegovina

Bosnia and Herzegovina, nestled in the western Balkans, is known for its medieval villages, rivers, and Ottoman-era architecture. While it enforces national visa policies for many travellers, Indian passport holders can enter visa-free under specific conditions, making it an excellent addition to a broader European itinerary.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals do not need a separate visa for Bosnia and Herzegovina if they hold one of the following:

A valid multiple-entry visa issued by:

• Any EU country

• A Schengen Area member state

• The United States

This substitution allows for flexible travel without the need to apply for a Bosnia and Herzegovina national visa in advance.

Entry Requirements

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.

• Eligible Substitute Visa: Must hold a valid multiple-entry visa from the EU, Schengen Area, or the USA.

• Purpose of Visit: Allowed for tourism, business, or family visits.

• Length of Stay: Up to 90 days within a 180-day period, but can extend up to 6 months depending on the type of substitute visa and traveller profile.

Cyprus

Indian citizens holding a valid double or multiple-entry Schengen visa that has been used at least once to enter a Schengen country can enter Cyprus without requiring a separate Cypriot visa. This policy permits a stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

Entry Requirements:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least six months beyond the duration of the intended stay.

• Schengen Visa: A valid double or multiple-entry Schengen visa previously used to enter a Schengen country.

Important Considerations:

• Separate Visa Regimes: Cyprus is not part of the Schengen Area; therefore, a Cypriot visa does not grant entry to Schengen countries, and vice versa.

• Policy Verification: Visa policies are subject to change; always verify the current requirements with official sources before planning your trip.

Honduras

Honduras, located in the heart of Central America, offers a rich blend of Caribbean beaches, lush rainforests, and ancient Mayan ruins. While it requires visas for many nationalities, Indian passport holders can enter Honduras visa-free under specific conditions, thanks to a visa substitution policy that simplifies entry for eligible travellers.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals do not require a separate visa for Honduras if they hold a valid visa issued by Canada, the United States, or any member state of the Schengen Area. This substitution enables Indian travellers to bypass the Honduran visa application process when holding a valid visa from one of these key partner regions.

Guatemala

Guatemala, the heart of the ancient Mayan world, is famous for its volcanoes, colonial cities like Antigua, and breathtaking natural beauty. While it maintains its own visa requirements for many nationalities, Indian passport holders can enter visa-free under certain conditions, making Guatemala a convenient stop for travellers exploring the Americas.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals do not need a separate visa for Guatemala if they hold one of the following:

A valid visa issued by:

• Canada

• The United States

• Any Schengen Area member state
  
  

This policy eliminates the need for a Guatemala-specific visa, allowing Indian passport holders to travel flexibly and with simplified procedures.

South Korea

South Korea, a high-tech, culture-rich destination in East Asia, draws Indian travellers with its vibrant cities, K-pop culture, historical sites, and scenic landscapes. While Indian passport holders typically require a visa to enter Korea, there is a special transit/tourist visa exemption for those meeting specific international travel criteria.

Visa Substitution / Transit Policy

Indian nationals may enter South Korea without a tourist visa for up to 30 days, provided they meet the following conditions:

Are permanent residents or valid visa holders of:

• The United States

• Canada

• Australia

• New Zealand

• A Schengen Area member state

&

• If you are transiting through Korea from or to one of the above countries.

This special exemption acts as a transit-based visa waiver for eligible Indian travellers making international connections.

Mexico

Mexico, the vibrant land of tacos, tequila, beaches, and ancient Aztec heritage, offers Indian travellers a simplified entry process. While Mexico has its own national visa requirements, Indian passport holders can enter visa-free under a substitution policy if they already hold a valid visa or permanent residency from certain countries.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals do not need a separate visa for Mexico if they hold one of the following valid visas or residence permits:

• United States

• Canada

• Japan

• United Kingdom

• Any Schengen Area member state

This allows entry to Mexico without a separate Mexican visa for purposes such as tourism, transit, or business.

Moldova

Moldova, a hidden gem in Eastern Europe known for its vineyards, monasteries, and rural charm, has made travel easier for Indian passport holders. Thanks to its liberal visa substitution policy and accessible e-Visa system, Moldova is increasingly popular for travellers exploring the Balkans and Eastern Europe.

Visa Substitution & e-Visa Policy

Indian nationals do not need a separate Moldovan visa if they hold:

A valid visa (Type C or D) or a valid residence permit issued by:

• United Kingdom

• Any Schengen Area country

• Any European Union member state

OR

A valid visa or residence permit (excluding transit visas) issued by:

• United States

• Canada

These travellers may enter visa-free for stays up to 90 days in any 180-day period. Additionally, Indian citizens who don’t meet the above criteria can apply for a Moldova e-Visa without requiring an invitation letter.

Montenegro

Montenegro, a Balkan beauty famed for its Adriatic coastline, medieval towns, and dramatic mountain landscapes, offers visa-free entry for Indian citizens under specific substitute visa conditions.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals do not require a separate Montenegrin visa if they hold a valid visa or residence permit from one of the following countries:

• Schengen Area

• United Kingdom

• Ireland

• United States

• Canada

• Japan

• New Zealand

• Australia

This policy allows for short-term visits without requiring a prior application for a national visa.

Nicaragua

Nicaragua, with its colonial cities, volcanoes, and Pacific beaches, offers a visa-on-arrival option for Indian travellers who already possess qualifying visas.

Visa on Arrival Policy

Indian nationals can obtain a visa on arrival in Nicaragua if they hold a valid visa from:

• Canada

• United States

• Schengen Area Member State

North Macedonia

North Macedonia, a Balkan nation of mountain lakes and Ottoman towns, offers a partial visa exemption for Indian nationals based on substitute visas, though with stricter documentation rules.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian passport holders do not need a separate North Macedonian visa if they hold a valid double-entry or multiple-entry C-type visa from:

• Schengen Area

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Canada

Vatican City

Vatican City, the world’s smallest independent state, is nestled entirely within Rome, Italy. While it does not issue its own visas, entry is governed entirely by Italian visa policy.

Entry Policy for Indians

Schengen Visa Required: Since Vatican City has no border controls, you must enter via Italy, and therefore:

• A valid Schengen visa (Type C) is required.

• Entry is subject to the same rules and limitations as those in Italy.

Colombia

Colombia, a vibrant South American nation known for its coffee, Caribbean beaches, and colonial towns, offers Indian travellers visa-free access under specific international visa substitution rules, making it an easy add-on for travellers holding U.S. or Schengen visas.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian passport holders do not need a separate Colombian visa if they have:

• A valid C or D visa issued by a Schengen Area member state, or

• A valid U.S. visa (excluding C1 transit visas), with at least 180 days of validity remaining at the time of entry

This allows for tourism or business travel without applying for a Colombian visa.

Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan, known for its alpine lakes, nomadic culture, and the Silk Road legacy, offers a limited visa-free stay for Indian travellers who hold long-term visas from select major countries. This makes it a convenient short-entry point in Central Asia for globally mobile Indian passport holders.

Visa-Free Policy (Long-Term Visa Holders)

Indian citizens can enter Kyrgyzstan visa-free for up to 7 days if they hold a long-term visa (valid for more than 3 years) issued by:

• United States of America

• United Kingdom (Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland)

• Any Schengen Area member state

Serbia

Serbia, situated in the heart of the Balkans and renowned for its vibrant cities, monasteries, and Danube River cruises, offers Indian passport holders visa-free entry under a straightforward visa substitution policy, making it a perfect stop on any European itinerary.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals do not need a separate Serbian visa if they hold a valid visa or residence permit issued by any of the following:

• European Union (EU) member state

• Schengen Area member state

• United Kingdom (UK)

• United States (US)

This exemption allows short visits for tourism, business, or family purposes.

Albania

Indian nationals can enter Albania visa-free for up to 90 days within a 180-day period, provided they hold a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa that has been used at least once in a Schengen country.

Entry Requirements:

• Valid Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond the intended stay.

• Schengen Visa: Valid multiple-entry visa, previously used in a Schengen country.

• Proof of Accommodation: A hotel reservation or an invitation letter from a host in Albania.

• Return or Onward Ticket: Evidence of return or further travel.

• Sufficient Funds: Minimum of €50 per day of stay.

• Travel Insurance: Recommended, covering the entire duration of the stay.

Georgia

Indian passport holders holding a valid Schengen visa, as well as visas or residence permits, are eligible for visa-free entry into Georgia. This privilege allows for stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period. 

Key Conditions:

• Validity at Entry: Ensure your Schengen visa is valid when arriving in Georgia. Expired visas, even by a day, are not accepted.

• Multiple Entries: The visa-free arrangement permits multiple entries, provided your Schengen visa remains valid.

• Documentation: Carry a physical or digital copy of your valid Schengen visa and your passport. Immigration officials may request these documents upon entry.

Additional Recommendations:

• Travel Insurance: Although not mandatory, it's advisable to have travel health insurance that covers your stay in Georgia.

• Proof of Accommodation and Funds: Please be prepared to present hotel bookings or an invitation letter, along with evidence of sufficient financial means for your stay.

San Marino and Vatican City

San Marino and Vatican City are landlocked microstates surrounded by Italy, which do not issue their visas. Instead, entry into San Marino is governed by Italy's visa policies. Therefore, Indian passport holders must obtain a Schengen visa to enter Italy, which also grants access to San Marino and Vatican City.

• Entry via Italy: Since San Marino has no airports or seaports, entry is only possible through Italy. Thus, compliance with Italian (Schengen) visa requirements is essential.

• Duration of Stay: The Schengen visa permits stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• No Border Controls: There are no formal border controls between Italy and San Marino, allowing for seamless travel.
  
  

Note: While San Marino does not have its own visa regime, it's crucial to ensure that your Schengen visa is valid for your intended stay.

Philippines

Indian nationals holding valid and current visas or permanent residence permits from the Schengen Area are eligible for a visa-free stay of up to 30 days.

Requirements:

• Confirmed return or onward ticket.

• Proof of accommodation.

• Evidence of sufficient financial means.

• No derogatory record with the Philippine Bureau of Immigration.

Extension: This stay is non-extendable and cannot be converted into other visa categories.

Oman

Oman, the jewel of the Arabian Peninsula, with its desert dunes, rugged mountains, and stunning coastline, offers a visa-on-arrival facility for Indian passport holders under specific eligibility conditions, making short trips to this Gulf country easy and accessible.

Visa on Arrival Policy

Indian nationals are eligible for a 14-day visa on arrival in Oman if they meet any of the following conditions:

Hold a valid visa or residence permit issued by:

• Australia

• Canada

• Japan

• United Kingdom

• United States

• Any Schengen Area member state

OR

• Are residents of a Gulf Cooperation Council (GCC) country (e.g., UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, etc.)

Saudi Arabia

Saudi Arabia, once reserved for religious and business travellers, now welcomes Indian tourists under flexible visa-on-arrival and transit policies. From the dunes of Riyadh to the heritage sites of AlUla, the Kingdom is increasingly accessible for eligible travellers.

Visa on Arrival Policy

Indian nationals can obtain a tourist visa on arrival in Saudi Arabia if they meet the following conditions:

Hold a valid:

• Schengen visa

• UK visa

• U.S. visa

The visa must be valid and used at least once previously (some exceptions apply). Must arrive via a Saudi national carrier such as Saudia or flynas.

Turkey

Turkey, where East meets West, allows Indians to experience its rich heritage, bustling bazaars, and Mediterranean coastline via a conditional e-Visa policy.

e-Visa Policy

Indian nationals can apply for a single-entry Turkey e-Visa valid for 30 days, if they:

Hold a valid visa or residence permit from:

• Schengen countries

• United Kingdom

• United States

• Ireland

Armenia

Armenia, a country of ancient monasteries and mountain landscapes, offers Indian travellers an accessible visa-on-arrival and e-Visa route under broad substitution rules.

Visa Substitution Policy

Indian nationals can obtain a visa on arrival or an e-Visa for stays up to 120 days if they hold valid visas or residence permits from:

• EU or Schengen member states

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Canada

• Australia

• New Zealand

• South Korea

• Japan

• Russia

Also accepted: valid residence permits (physical card or sticker) from UAE, Saudi Arabia, Kuwait, Qatar, Bahrain, or Oman.

Taiwan

Taiwan, renowned for its vibrant cities, lush mountains, and night markets, offers Indian passport holders a simplified entry process through a 14-day online travel authorisation, provided they hold qualifying visas or permanent residency from certain countries.

Online Travel Authorisation (e-Visa Waiver)

Indian nationals may enter Taiwan visa-free for up to 14 days if they hold any of the following:

Valid or expired visa (not more than 10 years old) or permanent residency issued by:

• Australia

• Canada

• Japan

• New Zealand

• United States

• United Kingdom

• Any Schengen Convention country
  

In conclusion, holding a valid multiple-entry Schengen visa significantly broadens travel opportunities for Indian passport holders. This visa facilitates access to numerous non-Schengen nations beyond the 29 countries in the Schengen Area. Countries such as Albania, Georgia, Serbia, and the Philippines offer visa-free or simplified entry procedures for travellers with a Schengen visa.

However, it's crucial to note that visa policies are subject to change. Before planning your trip, always verify the latest entry requirements with the official embassy or consulate of your destination country. Ensure that your Schengen visa is valid for your intended stay and that you meet additional entry conditions, such as proof of accommodation, return tickets, and sufficient funds.