New Delhi, August 10: The Indian government has announced the addition of 11 new international entry points to facilitate easier access for foreign nationals holding e-visas. This includes nine new land ports and two new airports, bringing the total number of international ports available for e-visa holders to 88.
The central government stated that under the guidance of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, the visa system has become more liberal, simplified, and technology-driven in recent years. The aim is to provide convenience to legitimate foreign travelers while enhancing the country’s internal security.
Under the new system, e-visa holders can now enter India through 37 airports, 38 seaports, and 13 land ports. The recently added airports include Bhopal and Tirupati, while the new land ports comprise Agartala, Darang, Gede, Ghojadanga, Haridaspur, Jaigaon, Dawki, Moreh, and Attari (Road).
The government believes that the addition of these new ports will enhance the utility and appeal of the e-visa system. Currently, India processes nearly 95% of e-visa applications in less than 72 hours, allowing foreign travelers to obtain travel permissions quickly.
The e-visa facility was introduced in 2014 for citizens of 43 countries with electronic travel authorization (ETA). It has now expanded to cover citizens from 172 countries. According to the government, e-visas currently account for about 78% of all visas issued, reflecting their growing popularity.
The e-visa service is available in 17 different categories, including tourist, business, medical, student, transit, mountaineering, and group visitor visas for cruise passengers.
The government believes that this new arrangement will boost tourism, business, medical travel, and international connectivity. It will also provide foreign travelers with more options and better facilities, strengthening the country’s global tourism and investment potential.
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