India immigration rule changes

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI): India simplified the OCI re-issuance process for change of passport — re-issuance now no longer required for adult OCI holders changing passports, only for children up to age 20 and the 50-year milestone. Major friction reduction for diaspora.

India Business Visa: India expanded the list of nationalities eligible for e-Business Visa and increased the validity for some categories to 5 years with multiple-entry. The e-BV system at indianvisaonline.gov.in updated to streamline applications with faster processing targets of 3-5 business days.

India Employment Visa: India FRRO switched to fully online e-FRRO registration system, eliminating in-person FRRO visits for Employment Visa registration. Applicants now register at indianfrro.gov.in with digital document upload. Processing time approximately 5-10 working days.

India Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card: The Government of India amended OCI regulations to require OCI cardholders to obtain prior permission from the Ministry of Home Affairs for certain activities including research, missionary work, journalism, and mountaineering in protected areas. Ordinary residence, tourism, employment in the private sector, and study were unaffected.

Overseas Citizen of India (OCI): MHA issued clarification narrowing OCI rights of access to certain restricted protected areas (Andaman, parts of NE India, Sikkim) — OCI holders now require additional permits previously not needed.