The Indian Association of Tour Operators (IATO) has warmly welcomed the announcement by the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, regarding the simplification and rationalization of India’s visa regime, describing it as a significant and much-needed step towards making India a more accessible and visitor-friendly destination for international tourists.
IATO has expressed its sincere appreciation to the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism for this positive initiative, and considering IATO suggestions/feedback, which addresses one of the long-standing concerns of the inbound tourism industry.
Commenting on the announcement, Mr. Ravi Gosain, President, IATO, said, “We sincerely thank both the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Ministry of Tourism for their efforts in bringing about this much-needed simplification of India’s visa procedures. IATO has been consistently raising this issue at various government forums and meetings, as cumbersome visa procedures have often been a concern for international travellers and overseas tour operators. We have been pursuing this matter through regular interactions and follow-ups with both Ministries, and it is encouraging to see these efforts translating into a positive outcome.”
Under the revised framework, the main visa categories have been reduced from 13 to 9, while the subcategories have been brought down from 49 to 23. The number of application fields across various categories has also been reduced by approximately 65–70%. The existing Tourist Visa will be renamed the Visitor Visa, with the new V-1 category providing for 30-day multiple-entry visits and covering a wider range of eligible short-term activities. The V-2 category will offer longer validity. Medical and Business Visa categories are also being simplified.
IATO believes that these changes will help reduce procedural complexities, improve the overall visa application experience and encourage more international visitors to consider India for holidays, cultural experiences, business and other eligible purposes.
Mr. Ravi Gosain further stated, “Ease of obtaining a visa is an important factor in destination selection. In today’s competitive international tourism market, every step that makes travel easier can make a meaningful difference. We hope that the revised framework will be implemented smoothly and within the announced timeline so that its benefits reach international travellers at the earliest.”
The Ministry of Home Affairs has indicated that the necessary IT systems are being updated and that visas under the revised framework are expected to be issued by the end of 2026.
IATO looks forward to the continued support and cooperation of both Ministries in taking further measures to facilitate international travel to India. The Association remains committed to working closely with the Government to strengthen inbound tourism and contribute towards achieving India’s tourism potential.
