Indian Tourists Say No to Turkey and Azerbaijan: Visa Applications Crash 42%

In a striking turn of events following India’s recent military operation, Sindoor, a wave of national sentiment has reshaped international travel trends, triggering a sharp decline in visa applications to Turkey and Azerbaijan. According to data released by visa processing platform Atlys on Tuesday, Indian visa requests to these two nations have plummeted by 42%, signaling a conscious shift in traveler preferences aligned with geopolitical concerns.

This sudden dip stems from statements issued by both Turkey and Azerbaijan, publicly backing Pakistan in the aftermath of Operation Sindoor. Their support provoked an immediate and emotionally charged response from Indian travellers, who appear to have chosen patriotism over picturesque destinations.

Swift and Decisive Reaction

Atlys CEO Mohak Nahta confirmed the change was neither delayed nor diffused. “The reaction wasn’t scattered—it was sharp and behavioral,” Nahta stated. “People didn’t wait for a campaign or advisory. They acted on instinct, information, and access to other options.”

Within just 36 hours of Turkey and Azerbaijan’s pro-Pakistan stance, Atlys recorded a 60% surge in mid-process drop-offs, as users abandoned their visa applications in real time. The platform noted that most of these users didn’t simply pause plans—they redirected them entirely.

Metro Cities Lead the Exit

The brunt of this shift was observed in India‘s major metropolitan hubs. Visa applications to Turkey from cities like Delhi and Mumbai fell by 53%, highlighting the strong political and emotional reaction among urban travellers. In contrast, Tier-II cities such as Indore and Jaipur saw a more measured decline of around 20%, suggesting slightly higher resilience or delayed response.

From Boom to Backlash

Ironically, the shift comes after a highly promising start to 2025. Between January and March, visa applications to Turkey and Azerbaijan had risen by 64% compared to the same quarter in 2024. Destinations like Istanbul, Cappadocia, and Baku had captured the imagination of Indian travellers looking for affordable luxury and exotic experiences.

But as the geopolitical narrative changed, so did the travel priorities. Atlys highlighted that larger group travel plans were the first to be abandoned—group visa requests fell by 49%, as family and extended group trips were shelved. Solo and couple travel plans also declined, but at a more modest 27%, indicating a relatively cautious yet independent decision-making process.

Youth Drive the Change

The most dramatic behavioural shifts came from the 25-34 age group, who accounted for over 70% of the incomplete visa processes. Described by Atlys as “digital natives with instant access to news and booking options,” this demographic responded the fastest, using online platforms to pivot their travel plans within hours.

Interestingly, women travellers showed a more definitive change in course. The platform noted a 2.3x higher likelihood among women to completely switch destinations and begin fresh visa applications for countries such as Vietnam or Thailand, seen as safer, neutral, and equally enriching options.

Southeast Asia Gains as a Trustworthy Alternative

As Turkey and Azerbaijan fell from grace, other nations gained. Visa applications to Vietnam, Indonesia, and Egypt jumped by up to 31%, driven by their political neutrality, cost-effectiveness, and cultural appeal. The pivot demonstrates Indian travellers’ willingness to prioritise principles and peace of mind over prior plans.

“These are not just emotional reactions—they’re informed decisions,” said Nahta. “Our users didn’t just drop out—they moved forward, reapplying for destinations they could trust.”

Atlys has since suspended all marketing efforts for Turkey and Azerbaijan. “We stand with India and the national sentiment,” Nahta added. “Our job is not just processing visas—it’s enabling meaningful and mindful travel.”

Also Read : Sanjeev Gandhi: A Visionary Leader Transforming the Global Chemical Industry