Travellers applying for their India visa should be aware that a new ruling from the Indian high commission has come into place which states that for tourist visa holder, a gap of 2 months must be kept between visits. This ruling comes into place following security concerns after the Mumbai terrorist attacks. The ruling basically states that is you wish to renter India on your visa within 2 months, then you must keep this gap.
This ruling does not apply to those who have either a business visa or a long term visa.
For those that are using India as a hub to travel to surrounding countries, e.g Nepal, Sri Lanka, Bhutan or Tibet, then you will still be able to apply for an India visa and use this for your journey. However when making your application you will need to submit your travel documents to prove your trip to the embassy. This might include flight tickets or train tickets that you may possess. If you are booking an organised tour, then your travel itinerary along with the inbound and outbound tickets will be needed for your India visa.
Can I expect this ruling to last for long?
It is difficult to tell, however this new ruling has been introduced indefinitely for the moment, which has a risk on the potential tourism economy of India. For the moment there is no end, however it is likely to be reviewed in a year’s time.
I have a multi entry India visa – can I still use this?
Yes you can use this for another trip to India, however there must still be a 2 month gap between your visits. If there is not a 2 month gap and you continue to travel to India, then deportation on arrival is likely.
If you require more information on this new ruling then you are requested to speak to a visa consultant at the VFS India offices as soon as you can for clarification.
At rapid visas, we can assist in getting you the respective visa provided that you have the correct documents in place. We continue to provide an exceptional service with a 3 day, 5 day and standard 8 day service available for those that need either a tourist or India business visa. We are only a stones throw away from the embassy so have the facilities to provide a superior service.
