India Relaxes Passport And Visa Rules For Foreign National (Credits: iStock)
\n\nPlanning a trip to Nepal or Bhutan could become easier for Indian travellers, with the government introducing changes to passport and travel document requirements for certain cross-border journeys. The revised rules also extend exemptions to several categories of foreign nationals residing in India, including certain Pakistani citizens, minority refugees, registered Sri Lankan Tamils and Tibetans.
\n\nThe changes were introduced through the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) (Amendment) Order, 2026, published in the Official Gazette by the Ministry of Home Affairs. The amendment also incorporates the government's Visa Manual, which contains instructions concerning visas, immigration and related matters.
\n\nUnder the revised provisions, Indian citizens travelling to Nepal or Bhutan by land or air will not be required to carry a passport. Instead, they can produce any one of the identity documents specified in the government's Visa Manual before an Immigration Officer. Travellers must also provide any additional information requested by the officer.
\n\nThe relaxation is particularly relevant for people planning cross-border holidays, family visits or other journeys to these neighbouring countries. Similar exemptions apply to citizens of Nepal and Bhutan entering or exiting India. However, these relaxations come with conditions. Nepalese…
Original source: https://www.timesnownews.com/lifestyle
