Government adds 14 seaports for e-visa entry, significantly widening immigration access
The Union Home Ministry has designated 14 additional seaports as immigration check posts for foreign nationals holding e-visas, significantly expanding India's immigration access. This brings the total number of seaports with e-visa facilities to 37, out of 114 total immigration check posts across various routes including air, sea, land, rail, and river. E-visa facilities have been operational since March 19 at several seaports across Gujarat, Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, and Odisha. E-visas are available to citizens of 207 countries (excluding China, Pakistan, Yemen, and Iran) for various categories like tourist, business, medical, and student, with validity ranging from one month to five years. The Ministry also revised modalities for granting tourist visas to Chinese nationals and resumed direct flights between India and China after a five-year gap.
Key Points
- The Union Home Ministry has designated 14 new seaports for e-visa entry, increasing the total to 37 seaports with e-visa facilities.
- India now has 114 immigration check posts (ICPs) across air, sea, land, rail, and river routes for international traffic.
- E-visa facilities are available to citizens from 207 countries, excluding China, Pakistan, Yemen, and Iran, covering various categories and validities.
- The government has also liberalized tourist visa guidelines for Chinese nationals and resumed direct flights between India and China after a five-year hiatus.
- The expansion aims to boost tourism and business, reflecting a strategic move to ease international travel and engagement.
Exam Facts
- Union Home Ministry designated 14 new seaports for e-visa.
- Total seaports with e-visa facilities: 37.
- Total immigration check posts (ICPs): 114.
- E-visa available to citizens of 207 countries (excluding China, Pakistan, Yemen, Iran).
- Direct flights between India and China resumed on October 2, 2025, after a five-year gap.
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