18th January, 2010

The Indian government has released official clarification on the much talked about new rule for Indian Tourist visas, which now require a two month gap between visits to India.  The Ministry of Home Affairs has confirmed that the new rule will apply to all India Tourist visa categories.  The new restrictions imposed on 4th November 2009 bar those with Tourist visas from returning to the country within two months of leaving.  However, tourists who have documentation that proves they are just using India as a base in which to visit neighbouring countries as part of their vacation are able to visit India up to three times without being subjected to the two month gap in between visits rule.

According to the Indian government the new strict measures have been put in place to curb misuse of Tourist visas in India and until now, the new restrictions had created confusion among travellers as nothing had been confirmed.

Smooth Migration offers visas for UK and non UK nationals for trips to India and Goa for tourism, business, conferences and transit purposes. For more information and assistance with an India visa contact the Smooth team on 0845 644 1871.