The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) recently reinstated the electronic visa (e-visa) facility allowing foreigners from 156 countries to visit India for business, conferences, and medical purposes. The decision does not extend to tourist e-visas, which are yet to be restored. This article delves into the key features, history, and current status of e-visas in India.
Historical Overview of E-Visas
Launched in 2014 by the Indian government as a significant innovation, the e-visa system overhauled the way foreign nationals could secure their visas to visit India. Originally, in 2010, the government had introduced a Tourist Visa on Arrival (TVOA) scheme that was initially valid only for citizens from Japan, Singapore, Finland, Luxembourg, and New Zealand. The e-visa system came into existence when the TVOA was merged with the Electronic Travel Authorization. Further developments in 2017-2018 expanded this facility.
E-Visa Categories
E-Visas, also known as Electronic Visas, are offered under five distinct categories: tourist, business, conference, medical, and medical attendant. However, the facility is currently suspended for tourist e-visas.
Application Process and Entry Rules
The e-visa application process requires foreigners to apply online at least four days before their intended travel date. The provided details undergo verification, following which an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is generated to be displayed at immigration check-posts upon arrival. However, entry through e-visas is permitted only at 28 identified international airports and 5 major seaports in India.
Nodal Ministry and Exclusions
The e-visa system is managed and overseen by the Ministry of Home Affairs, which issues visas to foreigners. Notably, citizens of Pakistan are ineligible for this facility and must apply for standard visas via the Indian High Commission in Islamabad. Moreover, e-visas are not issued to foreign diplomats who have a separate protocol.
Current State of E-Visa Facility
Initially available to 171 countries, restrictions imposed in 2020 due to the pandemic reduced the count to the current 156 countries. The list of countries currently excluded from this restoration consists of China, the UK, Canada, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Iran, Malaysia, and Saudi Arabia. Despite these exclusions, the restoration represents a significant step in resuming regular international operations in India.
