India to make visa applications easier for foreign travellers

India is planning major changes to its visa application process for foreign nationals, with the government proposing to reduce the number of fields in visa forms by nearly 70%. The changes, expected in 2027, aim to simplify applications across 22 visa categories and bring them in line with global standards.

The proposed reforms include removing unnecessary fields, relaxing local address requirements and making visa forms more user-friendly. The tourism industry has also called for easier e-Visa access, a uniform 120-day application window and simplified permits for protected and restricted areas.

The move comes as India seeks to revive foreign tourist arrivals, which remain below pre-pandemic levels. Watch to understand what could change for foreign travellers planning to visit India.