A Shift in Travel Plans: Visa Requirements for Indians Heading to Serbia
European nation revokes visa-free travel for Indian passport holders.
Brace yourselves, Indian players, because starting January 1, 2023, soaking up the charm of Serbia will be a bit more complex. The Serbian government has decided to scrap its visa-free entry policy for Indian citizens, making it necessary for us to apply for and pay for visas beforehand.
Indian jet-setters expressed a mix of dismay and frustration as Serbia was one of the few European countries still offering visa-free entry. However, the change seems to be a consequence of Serbia's bid to become part of the European Union. As union members, stricter immigration policies are a must.
If you've got a trip to Serbia planned after January 1, 2023, be prepared to pony up for a visa. You can try your luck at the Serbian Embassy in New Delhi or another country of your choice.
However, don't be too disheartened! If you've got a valid Multiple Entry Visa from Schengen Member States, you can still enter Serbia visa-free. Do keep in mind, though, that this information is as up-to-date as a freshly baked loaf of sourdough—current as of the latest available data.[1]
Intriguingly, Serbia has also tightened entry rules for citizens of Guinea-Bissau, Tunisia, and Burundi, in addition to reveling in a friendly welcome for Indians no more.
But fear not! Mauritius, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Maldives continue to offer Indian jet-setters the freedom of visa-free travel, so there's still plenty of vacation options to explore.
While we bid farewell to the convenience of visa-free entry into Serbia, we'll just have to buckle down, fill out some paperwork, and make plans for a new Serbian adventure. Stay tuned for more travel updates!
[1] As of the latest information available, Indian citizens with a valid Multiple Entry Visa from Schengen Member States can enter Serbia visa-free. This information may not reflect current changes, if any have occurred.
In light of the upcoming visa requirements for Indians travelling to Serbia, it might be necessary to reevaluate lifestyle choices that include travel, as these changes could impact travel plans. Meanwhile, politics and general news continue to shape the travel landscape, with Serbia tightening entry rules for multiple countries while maintaining generous policies for some, such as Mauritius, Thailand, Indonesia, and the Maldives.
