Top Countries Offering Visa Relaxation for 2025 Events & Festivals
In 2025, several countries are easing visa requirements to attract more visitors for major global events, cultural festivals, and expos. These temporary visa relaxations are perfect opportunities for tourists, event attendees, and digital nomads.
Here are the top countries rolling out the red carpet:
1. France – 2025 Summer Olympic & Paralympic Games (Paris)
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- Fast-track Schengen visa processing for accredited fans, journalists, and volunteers
- Special visa categories for Olympics-related visitors
- Digital visa application enhancements for select nationalities
Travel Tip:
Apply early and check if your Olympic event ticket qualifies you for a simplified visa process.
2. Saudi Arabia – Riyadh Expo 2030 Preparations & 2025 Cultural Events
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- Expansion of the eVisa program to more countries
- Easier tourist visa access for attendees of Saudi Seasons (e.g., Riyadh Season)
- Multiple-entry eVisas for up to one year
Travel Tip:
Apply via the official Saudi eVisa portal and link your application to the event or festival.
3. Japan – Expo 2025 Osaka (Pre-Event Year)
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- Relaxed visa rules for visitors attending pre-Expo events and industry forums
- New short-term visa waiver agreements in discussion with Asian and EU countries
- More countries eligible for multiple-entry tourist visas
Travel Tip:
Business travelers and students attending Expo prep conferences get priority processing.
4. India – International Yoga Day, G20 Cultural Events & Tech Summits
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- Expanded e-Tourist visa categories for international event attendees
- Discounted visa fees for cultural festival seasons (e.g., Diwali, Holi)
- Streamlined group visa options for conferences
Travel Tip:
Use India’s official eVisa portal—avoid third-party sites.
5. South Korea – K-Pop & Cultural Events Boom
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- K-Culture visa trials for fans attending major K-pop festivals
- Temporary visa-free entry for some Southeast Asian nations during big festivals
- Extended stay allowed for digital nomads under new visa pilot
Travel Tip:
Check embassy websites around KCON, Busan One Asia Festival, or major comebacks.
6. UAE – Expo Legacy Programs & Global Art Shows
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- Dubai short-term visa on arrival for more countries
- Simplified event visas linked to Art Dubai, GITEX, and COP events
- Easy online group visa application for conferences and trade expos
Travel Tip:
Secure your event invitation or confirmation email before applying.
7. Brazil – Carnival & Global Sustainability Events (Rio 2025)
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- Reinstated visa-free access for citizens of the USA, Canada, and Australia
- Easier festival visas during Carnival season
- Reduced visa fees for sustainability summit attendees
Travel Tip:
Apply through Brazil’s consular portal and mention your event in the purpose of visit.
8. Indonesia – Bali Spirit Festival, Tech Conferences & Cultural Weeks
Visa Relaxation Highlights:
- VOA (Visa on Arrival) available for 90+ countries
- Upcoming plans for Digital Nomad visas with event access perks
- Simplified group travel visa programs for festival goers
Travel Tip:
Travelers attending health, wellness, or digital innovation events may qualify for expedited processing.
Bonus: Countries Offering Temporary Visa-Free Access for 2025
- Malaysia – Visa-free for China & India until Dec 2025
- Thailand – Visa-free entry for several nations expanded through 2025
- Qatar – Visa-free or eTA for travelers attending 2025 sporting events
Conclusion
If you’re looking for an excuse to travel in 2025, these visa-friendly events and festivals make it easier than ever. Whether it’s music, tech, sports, or culture—you’ll find a destination ready to welcome you.