India Visa & Policy Updates
India has transitioned to a fully digital immigration system by replacing paper arrival cards and physical OCI booklets with mandatory electronic versions. The e-Visa program now includes 88 entry points, while OCI eligibility has expanded to sixth-generation descendants. Travelers must still register with the FRRO within 14 days for long stays, and remote workers must comply with new mandatory AI content labeling rules.
India replaces printed OCI booklets with digital cards Sept. 22
Overseas Citizen of India cardholders can now present digital e-OCI cards on mobile devices and update passport details online without ordering physical booklets.
India adds 11 land and air entry points to e-Visa program
India has expanded its e-Visa entry network to 88 total locations, including nine new land border crossings and two regional airports. This update provides more flexibility for travelers and nomads entering from neighboring countries or flying into secondary hubs.
India maintains 14 day FRRO registration rule for long stay visas
Foreigners on visas valid for more than 180 days must register with the FRRO within 14 days of arrival. Claims that India scrapped the grace period and limited extensions to emergencies do not appear on official portals.
India shifts Overseas Citizen of India rules to digital platform on April 30
India has notified new Citizenship Amendment Rules that transition all Overseas Citizen of India services to a digital platform, including the issuance of electronic OCI cards. The update introduces stricter compliance for minors with dual passports and mandates the physical surrender of cards upon renunciation of status.
India Expands Overseas Citizen (OCI) Eligibility to Sixth-Generation Descendants
India has expanded Overseas Citizen of India eligibility to sixth-generation descendants and eliminated the six-month residency requirement for in-country applications. Travelers must now update passport details digitally or face a $25 penalty to ensure compatibility with new border e-gates.
India Eases OCI In-Country Filing Rules but Tightens Background Verification
India is removing the 6-month stay requirement for in-country OCI applications and expanding eligibility to sixth-generation descendants. However, travelers face a new $25 fine for failing to update passport details within 3 months of renewal.
India's e-Arrival Card Is Mandatory Now , No Paper Option Left
On April 8, 2026, the U.S. Embassy in India issued a message reminding U.S. citizens (and by extension other foreigners) to use the new Indian Electronic Arrival Form (introduced October 2025). Travelers must submit it within 72 hours before arrival via the official website or Su-Swagatam app (free). Paper forms will soon no longer be an option; this is presented as an active enforcement reminder in the specified window. A valid visa is still required separately.
India Updates Digital Content Rules for AI Labeling
Remote workers and digital marketers operating in India must now navigate strict AI labeling requirements and faster content moderation timelines to remain compliant with local IT laws.