India has recently announced a graded relaxation in visa and travel restrictions. In tandem with this, India allows all foreign nationals as well as all OCI and PIO cardholders to travel to the country.

These individuals are allowed to enter India for any purpose except for tourism

The Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) stated that this relaxation is applicable to both foreign nationals and Indian nationals who want to enter or leave India.

The MHA release mentioned, “In view of the situation arising out of the COVID-19 pandemic, the Government of India had taken a series of steps to curtail the inward and outward movement of international passengers since February, 2020. The Government has now decided to make a graded relaxation in visa and travel restrictions for more categories of foreign nationals and Indian nationals who wish to enter or leave India.”

“Therefore, it has been decided to permit all OCI and PIO cardholders and all other foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose. These individuals can enter by air or water routes through authorised airports and seaport immigration check posts. This does not include those on a Tourist Visa,” the MHA release added.

These nationals can avail of flights flying Vande Bharat Mission and Air Transport Bubble arrangements

They can also travel by any non-scheduled commercial flights. These flights have to be allowed by the Ministry of Civil Aviation to enter or leave India.

These travellers have to keep in mind the COVID-19 related guidelines issued by India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

“The Government of India has also decided to restore with immediate effect all existing visas. This does not include electronic visa, Tourist Visa, and Medical Visa). If the validity of such visas has expired, fresh visas of appropriate categories can be obtained from Indian Mission/Posts concerned.”

Also, foreigners who wish to undergo medical treatment in India can apply for a Medical Visa. They can also apply for this visa for their medical attendants.

“Therefore, this decision will enable foreign nationals to come to India for various purposes. These include business, conferences, employment, studies, research, medical purposes, etc,” the MHA concluded.

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