India Advances Registration Deadline for Foreign Visitors Seeking Longer Stay
New Delhi: The Union Government has introduced significant changes to India’s immigration framework, advancing the registration timeline for foreign nationals who plan to remain in the country beyond their permitted stay period.
Under the revised provisions notified by the Ministry of Home Affairs, visitors holding visas that allow a stay of up to 180 days must now complete mandatory registration before reaching the end of that 180-day period if they intend to continue their stay in India.
The move marks a departure from the earlier system, which permitted registration within two weeks after completing 180 days in the country.
Government Aims to Strengthen Immigration Monitoring
Officials said the amendment is intended to improve oversight of foreign nationals residing in India and enhance the efficiency of immigration tracking mechanisms.
The revised rule will also apply to visa holders whose documents remain valid for longer durations but restrict each individual stay to a maximum of 180 days. Such travellers will now be required to complete registration in advance if they seek permission to extend their stay beyond the prescribed limit.
Authorities have indicated that approvals for extended stays will be considered only under exceptional circumstances, signalling a stricter approach to long-term residency requests.
Relief for Families With Indian Citizen Parent
The updated regulations also introduce changes affecting children born in India to foreign nationals.
Previously, parents were required to notify registration authorities within a specified period after the birth of a child to access immigration-related services such as visas and exit permits.
Under the new framework, this reporting requirement will not apply when one parent is an Indian citizen and chooses to retain Indian citizenship for the child.
However, if the child later acquires citizenship of another country while living in India, authorities must be informed within 30 days of that change in status.
Medical Institutions Face Updated Compliance Requirements
The government has also revised administrative obligations for hospitals, nursing homes and healthcare facilities that provide accommodation to foreign nationals during treatment.
While the broader responsibilities of such institutions remain unchanged, the notification updates reporting and compliance procedures under the Immigration and Foreigners Rules, 2025.
The latest amendments form part of a broader effort by the Centre to modernise immigration administration, tighten compliance requirements and create a more streamlined monitoring system for foreign visitors residing in India.
