What Exactly Has Changed?
In a move designed to boost tourism and streamline travel, India’s Ministry of Home Affairs has added 11 new locations to its list of designated entry points for e-visa holders. This expansion includes two new airports and, most significantly, nine additional
land border crossings. The update brings the total number of approved entry ports to 88, comprising 37 airports, 38 seaports, and 13 land ports. This change makes it more convenient for international visitors to access a wider range of destinations directly, especially in Central India and regions bordering neighbouring countries. Previously, travellers were restricted to a smaller list of entry points, which sometimes required them to book indirect flights or make cumbersome domestic transfers to reach their final destination.
Meet the New Gateways
The latest expansion is a strategic mix of air and land routes, opening up new corridors for tourism and business. The two new airports now accepting e-visas are Bhopal (BHO) in Madhya Pradesh and Tirupati (TIR) in Andhra Pradesh. The addition of Bhopal provides a direct gateway to the heart of India, while Tirupati offers easier access for pilgrims and tourists visiting the popular temple town. The nine new land ports significantly broaden options for overland travellers. They include major crossings with Bangladesh (Agartala, Gede, Haridaspur, Ghojadanga, Dawki), Myanmar (Moreh), Bhutan (Jaigaon, Darranga), and Pakistan (Attari Road). This is particularly beneficial for those planning multi-country itineraries across South Asia.
Practical Benefits for Your Itinerary
This expansion offers tangible advantages for travellers. The most obvious benefit is increased flexibility. You can now fly directly into cities like Bhopal to explore the rich history of Central India or arrive in Tirupati without needing a connecting flight from a larger hub like Chennai or Bengaluru. For those embarking on regional tours, the new land border options are a game-changer. For example, a traveller could explore West Bengal and then cross into Bangladesh via the Haridaspur checkpoint, or travel from Manipur into Myanmar through the Moreh border, all using the convenient e-visa system. This enhanced connectivity can save time, reduce travel costs, and allow for more creative and immersive travel planning, encouraging visitors to explore beyond the traditional tourist circuits. The move is expected to distribute international visitors more widely across the country.
A Quick Refresher on the Indian E-Visa
The Indian e-visa is an electronic travel authorisation that allows citizens of eligible countries to apply online for a visa without visiting an embassy or consulate. First introduced in 2014, the program has expanded to include nationals of 172 countries. The system covers several categories, including tourism, business, medical treatment, and attending conferences. It's crucial to remember that you must apply for the e-visa online through the official government website and receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email before you travel. You will need to present a printed copy of this ETA at the immigration counter upon arrival, where the actual visa will be stamped into your passport. The government notes that around 95% of e-visa applications are processed within 72 hours, making it a highly efficient system for travellers.
Applying and Key Considerations
The application process remains unchanged. Applicants should use the official Government of India portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in) to avoid fraudulent third-party sites. It is generally recommended to apply at least four days before your departure, though the window for applications opens 120 days in advance for most categories. Even with the expanded list of entry points, it is vital to remember that you can only enter India through a designated e-visa port. You cannot arrive at a non-listed airport, seaport, or land border with an e-visa. Before booking flights or finalising your travel plans, always double-check that your intended port of arrival is on the official, updated list provided by the Bureau of Immigration. While entry is restricted to these 88 ports, you can typically exit India from any of the authorised Immigration Check Posts across the country.
