A Major Expansion for Easier Access
The Government of India has officially increased the number of designated entry points for foreign nationals holding an e-visa, bringing the total to 88. This expansion includes two new airports and nine land-based immigration checkpoints, a strategic
move aimed at enhancing the accessibility and appeal of the country's digital visa programme. The Ministry of Home Affairs confirmed the update, highlighting its commitment to simplifying India's visa regime while strengthening technological infrastructure to ensure security. This decision is set to have a wide-ranging impact, benefiting everyone from tourists and business travellers to those visiting family.
The Newly Added Entry Points
The 11 new gateways are a mix of air and land routes, significantly improving connectivity across the country. The two airports added to the e-visa network are Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh. The nine new land ports are primarily located along India's borders with neighbouring countries, facilitating regional travel. These include Attari (on the Pakistan border), Moreh (on the Myanmar border), and several crossings on the Bangladesh and Bhutan borders, such as Agartala, Gede, Haridaspur, Jaigaon, Dawki, Ghojadanga, and Darranga. This expansion means e-visa holders can now enter India through a total of 37 airports, 38 seaports, and 13 land ports.
What is the E-Visa System?
First introduced in 2014 for citizens of 43 countries, India's e-visa programme has grown substantially and is now available to nationals of 172 countries. It allows eligible travellers to apply for a visa online without having to visit an Indian embassy or consulate. The system covers various travel purposes, with 17 sub-categories that include tourism, business, medical treatment, student visas, and even mountaineering. Applicants receive an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) via email before their trip, which they must present upon arrival. The government reports that approximately 95% of e-visa applications are processed within 72 hours, and electronic visas now account for about 78% of all visas issued by India.
A Boost for Tourism and Regional Trade
This expansion is more than just a convenience for travellers; it's a strategic initiative to bolster India's economy. By opening more land borders to e-visa holders, the government is simplifying overland travel and encouraging regional tourism, particularly with neighbours like Bangladesh, Bhutan, and Myanmar. The inclusion of the Attari border crossing is a notable development for eligible travellers coming from Pakistan's direction. Furthermore, the addition of airports like Bhopal and Tirupati provides direct access to important cultural and religious tourism hubs. This wider network is expected to increase foreign tourist arrivals, support local economies, and facilitate smoother business and trade operations across the region.
What Travellers Need to Know
For those planning a trip to India, this is welcome news. If you are a citizen of an e-visa eligible country, you can now plan your entry through any of the 88 designated ports. It is crucial to remember that while the e-visa facility is widely available, it is not open to all nationalities; for example, Pakistani passport holders are generally required to apply for a regular visa through an Indian Mission. Travellers must apply for their e-visa online through the official government portal before their journey and carry a copy of their approved ETA with them. While you must enter through a designated e-visa port, you can exit India from any of the authorised Immigration Check Posts across the country.
