The Union Ministry of Home Affairs on October 22 announced graded relaxation of travel restrictions after it had curtailed inward and outward movement of international passengers since February amid the COVID-19 pandemic.
According to the new guidelines, the government will restore all existing visas except electronic visa, tourist visa and medical visa with immediate effect.
"Foreign nationals intending to visit India for medical treatment can apply for a medical visa including for medical attendants," the MHA said. "If the validity of visas has expired, fresh visas of appropriate categories can be obtained from Indian missions," the MHA informed.
Under this, the government may permit all OCI and PIO cardholders and all other foreign nationals intending to visit India for any purpose, except on a tourist visa to enter by air or water routes through authorized airports and seaport immigration check posts.
It includes flights operated under the "Vande Bharat" mission, air transport bubble arrangements and commercial flights as allowed by the ministry of civil aviation.
"All travellers will however have to strictly adhere to the guidelines of the ministry of health and family welfare regarding quarantine and other COVID-19 related issues," it said.
This decision will enable foreign nationals to come to India for various purposes such as business, conferences, employment, studies, research, medical purposes etc.
