Change in registration deadline
According to the new rules, foreigners entering India on a visa valid for 180 days or less who intend to remain beyond that period must register “at any time before the expiration of the said period of 180 days”.
This adjustment replaces the previous requirement that registration be completed “within fourteen days after the expiry of one hundred and eighty days of arrival in India”.
The gazette notification released on Monday specifies that in Rule 12, the phrase “within fourteen days after the expiry of one hundred and eighty days of his arrival in India” has been changed to “any time before the expiry of the said period of one hundred and eighty days”.
Regulations for longer-stay visa
The amendment also affects foreign nationals holding visas valid for more than 180 days, which stipulate that “each stay shall not exceed 180 days”.
These individuals, who wish to extend their stay in India beyond 180 days on a single occasion or cumulatively during a calendar year, must register “anytime before the expiration of 180 days”.
The updated rules further indicate that such registration will be permitted “only in emergent circumstances”.
Provisions for children
The notification additionally modifies the conditions related to children born in India to foreign nationals.
Previously, parents were mandated to electronically notify the registration officer within 30 days of the child’s birth to access visa-related services, including the issuance of a new visa and exit permission via the designated online portal or mobile app.
With the new amendments, this obligation is waived if one parent is an Indian citizen and wishes to maintain the child’s Indian citizenship.
Nevertheless, if the child subsequently acquires the citizenship of another country while in India, either parent must notify the registration officer within 30 days of the child obtaining that foreign citizenship.
Revised hospital reporting requirements
The notification also updates reporting criteria and administrative procedures for hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical institutions providing medical, lodging, or sleeping accommodations on their premises.
(With input from agencies)
