India shifts foreign visitor registration to before 180 days

Foreign nationals seeking to extend their stay in India beyond the permitted 180 days of their visa must now complete mandatory registration before that period expires, according to revised rules notified by the Union Home Ministry. The change, which took effect on Monday, advances the registration deadline and is part of broader updates to the Immigration and Foreigners Rules, 2025.

Previously, eligible foreign visitors could register within 14 days after their first 180 days in the country. The new notification amends the rule, requiring registration "any time before the expiry of the said period of 180 days." This adjustment applies to two categories: foreigners on visas valid for 180 days or less who wish to stay longer, and those holding visas for more than 180 days but with a condition that no single stay exceeds 180 days. For the latter group, registration is now required before the 180-day limit if they intend to stay beyond it on any single occasion or cumulatively within a calendar year.

Officials stated the amendment is aimed at strengthening oversight of foreign nationals and streamlining immigration monitoring. The government has also clarified that permission for...