“The Ugly Side Of Travel,” Content Creator Highlights Struggles Of Indian Passport Holders; Sparks Debate

A travel content creator on Instagram has now sparked a serious discussion about how people travelling with Indian passports face more challenges during immigration, compared to passport holders of other countries. He shed light on the fact that Indians are often asked more questions and looked at with suspicion. 

Content Creator Shares Challenges Of Travelling With An Indian Passport

Jayant Sharma, who goes by the username @jaystravelblog, is a travel content creator with more than 100K followers on Instagram. He recently shared a post titled  “What is it like to travel as a third world citizen?”. The post, which now has more than 2k likes, has struck a chord with many travellers. The caption under the post reads: “The ugly side of travel I had to come across as an Indian passport holder who loves travelling. It’s not in the guidebooks. Not on the reels. Not in the sunsets, the flights, or the airport lounges. It’s in the stares. The silence. The paperwork that makes you prove your humanity.” 

His post brings attention to how Indians are often made to go through intensive paperwork or receive suspicious looks from immigration officers, simply for wanting to visit another country. He questions why only Indians have to justify a 7-day holiday and why they must convince officials they will return home. They are often asked things like: ‘Where are you from?’, ‘Why are you here?’, ‘Do you have enough money?’ and more.

And to be honest, the entire caption under Jayant’s post feels very real. The immigration process to visit another country can be emotionally exhausting for Indians. Not only that, but many also face visa rejections for baseless reasons. His post highlights the dark side of those international trips we dream of planning.

Also Read: Indian Passport Holders Can Now Visit These 58 Countries Hassle-Free; Full List Inside

Netizens Express Similar Opinions

Jayant also added that many officials see a ‘brown-skinned man’ as someone who might overstay their trip on a tourist visa. The ‘lingering looks of doubt’, thorough security checks, and repeated questioning make it extremely difficult for Indians to enjoy their travel experiences.

Many users found the post relatable and shared their thoughts. One user wrote, “That is sad.. and many people don’t realise how fortunate they are to have a strong passport”.  Another travel enthusiast added, “This is such a needed post! Thank you for writing this. As a fellow travel enthusiast, this hits hard”. Another user also added, “Passport privilege is a real thing”. 

While most supported the post, one user also disagreed and said, “Don’t create unnecessary fear. Be good and all will be good”, implying that such posts might discourage others from planning their holidays with ease.

Also Read: Travel Made Easy: 10 Countries With Simple Visa Processes For Indian Passport Holders

The post, which has sparked an online discussion, reflects a harsh truth. Indians are often subjected to stricter checks, endless questions, and heaps of paperwork just to get a visa for a one-week holiday. Many even face straight-up visa rejections without valid reasons.

What do you think of this post? Let us know. 

Cover Image Courtesy: @jaystravelblog/ Instagram and Freepik/ narvikk