India expands e-visa program

IMPACT – MEDIUM

What is the change? India is poised to introduce new visa subcategories for foreign nationals attending government conferences or accompanying other foreign nationals seeking medical treatment.

What does the change mean? Once the change is implemented, applicants from more than 160 countries and territories will be eligible to apply for e-Conference Visas and e-Medical Attendant Visas in addition to the currently available e-Tourist, e-Business and e-Medical visas.

• Implementation time frame: Ongoing. The Indian government has distributed a circular on the change, but the visas are not yet available on India’s e-visa website.
• Visas/permits affected: E-Conference Visas and e-Medical Attendant Visas.
• Who is affected: Foreign nationals traveling to India for a government-sponsored conference or accompanying other foreign nationals who are seeking treatment on an e-Medical Visa.
• Impact on processing times: The changes could significantly reduce processing times for eligible travelers. E-visas are typically issued within 72 hours.

Background: India introduced e-visa subcategories for tourists, business travelers and medical visits to its e-visa program in April 2017. Officials are now poised to add the two additional subcategories. E-Conference visas will be valid for a single visit of up to 30 days. E-Medical Attendant Visas will be valid for up to three entries in a 60-day period.

BAL Analysis: The new e-visa subcategories will ease procedures for those traveling to India for a conference or accompanying a person seeking medical treatment. They will be especially convenient for those traveling on short notice. Those with questions about which visa option is best for them can contact BAL.

This alert has been provided by the BAL Global Practice group and our network provider located in India. For additional information, please contact your BAL attorney.

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