An Indian couple was stopped on South Korea's Jeju Island and deported back to India despite being eligible for visa-free entry, The Indian Express reports. As of October 2026, Indian passport holders can visit 25 countries visa-free, according to the newspaper.

Visa-free access allows entry for a specific purpose and period, but immigration officers have the final say after checking documents, purpose of visit and eligibility. Airlines may also deny boarding if required documents are missing.

Visa-free rules generally do not permit work, long-term study or residence.

Travellers should check the destination government's immigration website for visa-free rules and refer to the Ministry of External Affairs' country-wise visa information. Passport validity must meet the destination's requirements; some countries require several months of passport validity beyond the date of departure.

A return or onward ticket showing departure within the permitted stay is also required.

The incident shows that visa-free access does not automatically guarantee entry and that travellers must ensure they meet all conditions set by the destination country.