India Tightens Visa Registration Rules, Launches ₹1,800 Cr Platform June 05

India’s Ministry of Home Affairs has notified the Immigration and Foreigners (Amendment) Rules, 2026, making registration mandatory before visa expiry for foreigners staying up to 180 days. The Cabinet also approved a ₹1,800 crore extension of the IVFRT Scheme through 2031 to modernize visa and registration services. These changes tighten entry controls while streamlining digital processes for travelers.

New Registration Timeline Takes Effect

Foreigners arriving in India for up to 180 days must now register before their visa expires if they seek to extend their stay. Previously, registration could be completed within 14 days after the 180-day period ended. Late registration beyond the visa expiry is now permitted only under emergent circumstances. This change shifts responsibility to travelers to plan registration in advance.

Online Appeals System Added to Rules

For the first time, the amended rules include an online appeal system for immigration decisions. Affected persons can file appeals with the Commissioner of the Bureau of Immigration within 30 days of receiving an order. The Commissioner must decide after hearing the concerned party, with resolution required within 60 days. This creates a formal dispute mechanism previously absent from immigration procedures.

₹1,800 Crore Platform Modernizes Services

The Cabinet approved extending the IVFRT Scheme from 2026 to 2031 with a ₹1,800 crore outlay. The platform will integrate visa, immigration, and registration services into a secure, unified system. According to government statements, the system aims to facilitate genuine travelers while strengthening national security. The digital infrastructure upgrade modernizes how India processes foreign visitor data and applications.

What This Means for Travelers

Foreigners staying in India for more than 180 days on eligible visas now face stricter compliance requirements. Registration must occur before visa expiry, not after. The new online appeal system offers recourse if immigration officials reject applications or impose penalties. Travelers should verify registration requirements early and complete the process within prescribed timelines to avoid late registration complications.

Final Thoughts

India’s immigration rule changes require foreign visitors to register before visa expiry, tightening compliance. The ₹1,800 crore digital platform upgrade aims to streamline processes while strengthening security checks on incoming travelers.

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