New Delhi, March 18: The ongoing conflict in West Asia has left many foreign nationals unable to depart from India, as their flights have been canceled or disrupted. In response, the Indian government has announced significant visa and immigration relief measures for affected citizens.
These measures include free extensions of visas/e-visas, waivers on overstay penalties, and the provision of exit permits and temporary landing permits. These initiatives aim to ensure that foreign nationals can return to their countries safely and legally.
An advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in the Philippines stated, “Due to the ongoing conflict in West Asia, many foreign nationals are unable to leave India before their visas expire, as flights have been canceled or affected. In a gesture of goodwill and humanitarian concern, the Indian government has taken steps related to visas.”
According to the advisory, all types of visas/e-visas that are nearing expiration will be extended for one month at no cost for citizens of affected countries, based on a case-by-case assessment by the regional immigration office (Foreigners Regional Registration Office).
Any overstay penalties for foreign nationals affected by the conflict since February 28 will be waived. Additionally, exit permits will be provided free of charge to these individuals.
Failure to obtain exit permits or extend visas will not be considered a violation of immigration laws for the affected foreign nationals. Those who arrive in India due to flight diversions will be granted temporary landing permits (TLP) at no cost.
During a press briefing on Tuesday, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) stated that every possible effort is being made to evacuate Indians stranded in crisis-hit areas of the Middle East. The ministry clarified that the situation is being monitored 24/7.
MEA spokesperson Randhir Jaiswal mentioned that on Monday, 650 Indian citizens, including students, crossed the Iran border and reached Armenia and Azerbaijan. Additionally, 284 pilgrims have also crossed into Armenia, with 130 of them returning home. The safety and well-being of Indians residing in the region remain the government’s top priority.
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