India Travel – Visa Changes

Are you planning future trips to India?  Check the current visa rules and information, especially if you may need to make more than one trip in a short space of time.  Changes to visa rules for visitors have been in effect since last December. 

The Commonwealth Games takes place in New Delhi from 3-14 October 2010.  If you plan to attend, play it safe and check the entry requirements well in advance of travel.

All visitors to India must obtain a visa before travelling.  Those arriving without a visa will be refused entry.

The new rule requires that tourists visiting India on a tourist visa are not permitted to return within two months, with certain exceptions.  When departing India visitors’ passports are stamped to indicate that they are not able to return for two months.  This rule applies no matter how long visitors have been in India.  Those wishing to re-enter the country within two months may need to apply for special permission. 

Visitors arriving in India with long-term, multiple-entry visas must register with a Foreigners Regional Registration Officer within 14 days.  Penalties for violations are serious.   For further information about transit visas, employment visas and business visas visit the Foreign Office (FCO) website.  Note also that passports must have at least six months’ validity remaining.

Most British nationals visiting India each year have a trouble-free visit.  However, close to 400 British nationals required assistance in a recent 12-month period.  Incidents included deaths, hospitalisations, arrests and stolen or lost passports.  Visitors to India would also be wise to register with the FCO ‘LOCATE’ service.

The FCO currently advises against travel to certain areas of India, so before booking check for the latest updates.   To access the FCO information, visit our Travel Guide to India and follow the link for the FCO ‘Know Before You Go’ country advice section for India – click here. 

Don’t risk travelling without comprehensive travel insurance and remember to check that all your planned activities are covered.  For Backpacker travel insurance click here.

Flickr cc Image: Dainis Matisons (Taj Mahal, Agra)