Record-Breaking Increase in Visa Applications

Tourist visa applications for summer 2025 have seen an unprecedented 68% increase compared to the previous year, as reported by visa processing platform Atlys. This surge highlights a significant shift in how Indians perceive international travel, now viewing it as a lifestyle priority rather than a luxury.

Top Destinations for Summer 2025

Schengen countries, the United States, and the UAE are emerging as the most sought-after destinations for Summer 2025, based on early booking trends. This follows a strong 45.5% year-over-year increase in visa applications during 2024, with destinations like Dubai, Egypt, Singapore, Vietnam, and Indonesia seeing growth rates between 22% and 51%.

Changing Travel Patterns Among Indians

"We're witnessing a remarkable transformation in travel patterns," said an Atlys spokesperson. "The surge isn't just about numbers – it's about Indians actively seeking diverse cultural experiences and making international travel an integral part of their lives."

Generation Z Leading the Travel Renaissance

Generation Z travelers are at the forefront of this travel renaissance, showing a keen interest in experience-focused journeys and shorter stays. Indonesia, Egypt, and Japan rank as top choices among young travelers looking for immersive cultural experiences.

Simplified Visa Procedures Attracting First-Time Travelers

A notable trend for Summer 2025 is the rise of first-time international travelers opting for destinations with simplified visa procedures. Countries offering visa-free or visa-on-arrival access, such as Cambodia, Sri Lanka, and Azerbaijan, are becoming increasingly popular among first-time explorers.

The Rise of Multi-Country Summer Getaways

Another significant trend is the growing popularity of multi-country summer getaways. Travelers are utilizing Schengen visas to explore multiple European destinations in single trips, with France, Spain, and Italy being popular combinations.

Travel as a Lifestyle Priority

"It's remarkable to witness how travel has become an integral part of people's lives. We're seeing a surge not only in the number of applications but also in the diversity of destinations Indians are curious about," says Mohak Nahta, Founder and CEO of Atlys.