UAE travellers to benefit as India simplifies visa rules, cuts requirements by 70%

India is moving to simplify visa issuance procedures for foreign visitors, including travellers from the UAE, by reducing application requirements by up to 70% and introducing new visa categories.

According to the Indian Ministry of Home Affairs, the changes are aimed at streamlining the application process and promoting tourism, medical treatment, education, investment and business activities.

In a statement, the Ministry said the relevant authorities are currently upgrading the technical systems required to implement the new framework. Visa issuance under the revised classifications is expected to begin by the end of 2026.

Reducing requirements by up to 70%

Under the new framework, the number of visa subcategories has been reduced from 49 to 23. In addition, the number of data fields and information requirements in application forms has been cut by 65% to 70%, depending on the subcategory.

The amendments include renaming the traditional Tourist Visa as the "Visitor Visa", with provisions covering short-term visits, tourism-related activities, business meetings, medical consultations, wellness programmes and short-term medical treatment.

The Visitor Visa category now comprises two main types: the V-1 visa, valid for 30 days with multiple-entry privileges, and the V-2 visa, which may be issued for one, five or 10 years, subject to eligibility criteria and approval.

Facilitations for medical and business travel

In the medical sector, India has reorganised its medical visa categories to cover both conventional medical treatment and traditional Indian medicine under the AYUSH system. Specific categories have also been introduced for accompanying individuals.

Medical visas, including e-visas, may be issued for up to one year with multiple-entry privileges, subject to applicable regulations.

The changes also cover business and study visas, introducing new classifications for commercial, investment and contractual activities. Separate provisions have been defined for students, researchers, faculty members and participants in academic exchange programmes.

Conditions based on nationality

The changes are particularly relevant to UAE-based travellers, given the diverse reasons for visiting India, ranging from tourism and family visits to medical treatment and business.

However, eligibility for these facilities and the specific requirements for obtaining a visa will depend on the applicant's nationality, as determined by their passport, and the type of visa sought, rather than solely on their UAE residency status.