India Eases Travel Rules for Select Foreign Nationals

Nov 6, 2026

72 min

Nov 6, 2026 05:31

India eases passport and visa rules for select foreigners, including Pakistan nationals

## New Travel Regulations Announced

India has introduced relaxed passport and visa regulations for certain foreign nationals, including some Pakistani citizens. The changes, announced by the Union Ministry of Home Affairs, aim to simplify travel for specific groups residing in India.

## Exemptions for Pakistani Nationals

Pakistani nationals who entered India on or before December 31, 2009, with the intent to settle permanently, may be exempt from renewing their passports if they lack a Computerised National Identity Card from Pakistan. Conditions apply, such as not having married or acquired property in Pakistan.

## Religious Minorities and Other Groups

The new rules also benefit religious minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan who arrived in India by December 31, 2024, due to persecution fears. Sri Lankan Tamils who sought refuge by January 9, 2015, and certain Tibetan nationals are also included.

## Changes for Indian, Nepalese, and Bhutanese Citizens

Travel documentation requirements have been revised for Indian, Nepalese, and Bhutanese citizens traveling directly between these countries. Specified identification documents can now be used instead of passports for direct travel by land or air.

## Additional Exemptions

Indian armed forces personnel on official duty and foreign military crew members aboard visiting vessels are also exempt from passport requirements under certain conditions.

## Visa Requirements Remain

Despite these exemptions, foreign nationals must still obtain the appropriate visa to reside in India. The revised order outlines specific conditions based on nationality and travel history.

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