OVERVIEW

The entry, stay, and exit of foreign nationals in India is regulated primarily under the Foreigners Act, 1946, and the Passport (Entry into India) Act, 1920, along with visa rules and procedures administered jointly by the Ministry of Home Affairs and Ministry of External Affairs. Visas are issued in several categories, including tourist, business, employment, student, medical, and long-term visas, each with distinct eligibility requirements, permissible duration, and conditions of stay. An employment visa, for instance, generally requires sponsorship by a registered Indian entity, evidence of relevant qualifications or expertise, and a minimum salary threshold, while a business visa permits activities such as attending meetings or exploring business opportunities but does not authorize employment.

Foreign nationals residing in India for a continuous period exceeding 180 days are generally required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO), and must report any change of address or extension of stay within the prescribed timelines. The e-Visa system allows nationals of eligible countries to apply for certain visa categories online prior to arrival, subject to conditions on permitted duration and number of entries. Overstaying beyond the permitted visa period, or engaging in activities inconsistent with the visa category held, can result in penalties under the Foreigners Act, including fines, blacklisting, and restrictions on future entry into India. Citizenship-related matters — including registration, naturalization, and renunciation — are governed separately under the Citizenship Act, 1955.

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