India is the second-largest overseas source market (excluding Canada and Mexico) and fourth overall for total international arrivals.
India has cemented its position as one of the fastest-growing outbound travel markets, making it a key focus for global tourism boards. The country is now the second-largest overseas source market for the United States excluding Canada and Mexico and ranks fourth overall in total international arrivals.
Notably, in 2024, the United States welcomed 2.19 million Indian visitors, reflecting a 24.3% surge from 2023. This exceeds pre-pandemic levels by over 20%, compared to 1.4 million Indian visitors visiting US in 2019. In addition to tourism, India has become a major contributor to the U.S. student community. Jennifer Larson, U.S. Consul General in Hyderabad, highlighted that more than half of all Indian students in the U.S. hail from Telangana and Andhra Pradesh.
Further, the upward trajectory of Indian travel to the U.S. is expected to continue in 2025, with experts predicting more tourist footfalls from the market. Recognising this potential, Brand USA—the destination marketing organisation for the United States—hosted its 11th Annual India Sales and Media Mission from January 20-22, 2025, at The Taj Krishna in Hyderabad. The three-day event served as a vital platform for U.S. tourism stakeholders to strengthen ties with the Indian travel trade and media.
The mission was led by Fred Dixon, President & CEO of Brand USA, and included a contingent of 50 U.S. tourism organisations, making it the most expansive India mission to date. Among the participants were six CEOs representing major U.S. destinations and a luxury receptive agency, all of whom engaged in productive discussions with Indian travel partners. Simon Brooks, President of Bonotel, John Percy, President & CEO of Destination Niagara USA, Doug Bourgeois, Assistant Secretary of Tourism, Louisiana Office of Tourism, Martha Sheridan, President & CEO of Meet Boston, Todd Davidson, Chief Executive Officer, Travel Oregon, and Liz Bittner, President & CEO, Travel South USA were present in the CEO mission. Angie Briggs, Senior Vice President, Industry Partnerships and Engagement and Chief Development Office; Chris Heywood, Senior Vice President, Public Relations & Chief Communications Officer; and Jackie Ennis, Vice President, Global Trade Development, were among the other senior Brand USA executives present at the event.
“Their presence reflects our dedication to deepening partnerships and fostering greater travel between our nations,” shared Dixon.
Dixon also credited the U.S. State Department for playing a crucial role in facilitating seamless travel between India and the U.S. He acknowledged their contributions in visa facilitation, diplomatic collaborations, and cultural exchange programs.
Additionally, one of the biggest catalysts for increasing Indian arrivals to the U.S. is expanding air connectivity. Currently, Air India operates nonstop flights to five key U.S. cities—Chicago, Newark, New York, San Francisco, and Washington Dulles. The airline has further enhanced its services by introducing the new Airbus A350 on Delhi-New York and Delhi-Newark routes, offering an upgraded experience for long-haul travellers. There are ongoing discussions around increasing the flight connectivity between the two nations.