Indian travellers' visa applications soar 68% for summer 2025

For Indian travellers, summer vacations are no longer just a break from routine — they have become a lifestyle priority. A growing middle class, rising disposable incomes, and an enduring post-pandemic urge to explore are reshaping travel habits, with international trips increasingly becoming the norm. Data from visa processing platform Atlys highlights this shift, revealing a strong uptick in visa applications with a 68% rise in visa applications for summer 2025 compared to the same period last year.

This follows a 45.5% surge in 2024 over 2023, reflecting a sustained demand for global travel. Destinations such as Dubai, Egypt, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia have seen year-on-year growth ranging from 22% to 51%. Meanwhile, Schengen countries, the US, and the UAE are emerging as top choices for the upcoming season, driven by early bookings.

“It’s remarkable to witness how travel has become an integral part of people’s lives,” says Mohak Nahta, founder and CEO of Atlys. “We’re seeing a surge not only in the number of applications but also in the diversity of destinations Indians are curious about. This reflects a collective desire to explore cultures, try new experiences, and make the most of their vacation time.”

A significant driver of this trend is Gen Z, who favour experience-led travel, shorter stays, and spontaneous trips. Countries such as Indonesia, Egypt, and Japan are among their top picks, offering immersive and purposeful travel experiences. Additionally, an increasing number of first-time international travellers are opting for destinations with simplified visa procedures and accessible travel, including Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan.

Another emerging pattern is the rise of “multi-country summer getaways”. Indian travellers are looking to optimise their visas and travel expenses by visiting multiple destinations in a single trip. Atlys data shows an increase in Schengen visa applications being used for extended European itineraries, covering France, Spain, and Italy. “Travelers are becoming more strategic in their planning. Instead of taking multiple separate trips, they are maximising their time and budget with multi-country journeys,” says Nahta.

The growth in international travel also points to a broader shift in mindset. What was once considered an occasional luxury is now seen as an essential part of modern life. Travel is increasingly viewed as an investment in experiences rather than a discretionary expense. Whether it's young professionals exploring new cultures, families prioritising overseas vacations, or first-time travellers seeking affordability and convenience, the desire to travel abroad continues to gain momentum.

With visa applications already outpacing last year’s numbers, summer 2025 is set to be another landmark season for Indian travellers. As accessibility improves and global mobility becomes more seamless, international vacations are no longer just aspirational—they are becoming an expectation. The numbers indicate a shift in how Indians perceive travel. It’s no longer just about visiting a place; it’s about experiencing the world in a meaningful way.