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A… B… C…’s OF ENTRY VISA IN INDIA

Shashank Kumar

 

India, with its rich cultural tapestry, scenic wonders, and thriving economy, beckons travellers from around the world. To cater to the diverse and unique needs of foreign visitors, India offers an Entry Visa (Type X) that accommodates a wide range of circumstances.

EXTRY X-1 AND X-2 VISA

Individuals of Indian origin who do not possess an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card may be granted an ‘X-1’ visa. This visa allows for multiple entries and is typically valid for five years at a time.

The spouse and children of Indian citizens, Persons of Indian Origin, or OCI cardholders (other than those registered as OCI cardholders) may be granted an ‘X-2’ visa. This visa, like the X-1, is generally valid for five years with multiple entry provisions.

After 5 years from the date of issuance of the X-1 or X-2 visa for further extension

  1. Refer to the Ministry of Home Affairs by the concerned Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
  2. The Ministry of Home Affairs may grant an extension for one year after the initial five-year period.

 

ENTRY X-3 VISA

Those who intend to join the Auroville Foundation, a unique international township in India, may be issued an ‘X-3’ visa. This visa is granted under various categories, including:

    • Long Duration Visa:
      1. Duration: 5 Years
      2. Visa application should be accompanied by a recommendation from the Secretary of Auroville Foundation.
      3. The FRRO, Chennai, has the authority to grant two additional entries if recommended by the Secretary of Auroville Foundation.
    • Short Duration Visa:
      1. Foreign nationals such as interns, consultants, or those on probation receive a one-year X-3 visa with three entries per year.
      2. It requires a recommendation from the Secretary of Auroville Foundation.
    • Short Duration Visa for Volunteers:
      1. Volunteers coming to Auroville Foundation for non-commercial purposes, such as conducting courses or training are granted a for three months,
      2. It is based on the recommendation of the Secretary of Auroville Foundation.
      3. It is single-entry and non-extendable.

However, there are few different more conditions and procedures to be followed in cases including and not limited to Foreign Nationals Joining Temples for Spiritual Training, Foreign Nationals Joining Sri Aurobindo Ashram, Puducherry, Foreign Buddhist Monks Joining Monasteries, Foreign Nationals Joining Missionaries of Charity, Kolkata

ENTRY X-4 VISA

Foreign nationals who own property in India can apply for an X-4 visa.

  1. Validity: 1 years
  2. Entries: Multiple Entries
  3. Documentary proof of permission from the Reserve Bank of India for property purchase and property registration.
  4. X-4 visa can be extended yearly up to a maximum of five years from the date of the initial visa issuance.

ENTRY X-5 VISA

  1. Diplomats and officials visiting India for personal purposes can be granted an ‘X-5’ visa for an apt duration, determined based on the purpose of their visit.
  2. Dependents of diplomats and officials assigned to India shall receive an ‘X-5D’ visa for a suitable duration.

ENTRY X-SP VISA

Participants in international sports events and their accompanying officials, excluding those engaged in commercial sports events in India on contract with remuneration for ex. players of IPL, ISL etc.

ENTRY X-Misc

In cases where the purpose of visit does not align with any specific visa category, foreign nationals may be granted an ‘X-Misc’ visa.

  1. Entries: Single Entry
  2. If the stay exceeds 180 days, the foreigner must register with the FRRO or FRO
  3. The ‘X-Misc’ visa is non-extendable.
  4. It cannot be converted to any other type of visa.

In conclusion, India’s Entry Visa is a dynamic category designed to cater to a multitude of unique travel intentions. The scenarios outlined above offer a glimpse into the flexibility and inclusivity of India’s visa system, ensuring that travellers with diverse purposes are welcomed and accommodated. However, it’s essential to stay updated with the latest visa regulations and consult with the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country to ensure that your specific situation aligns with the Entry Visa requirements.

Contact us with your situation-specific requirements for opting for an appropriate Visa while entering India.

-Shravani Sharma

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