Updated registration deadline
According to the revised rules, foreigners entering India on a visa valid for 180 days or less who aim to remain longer must register themselves “any time before the expiry of the said period of 180 days”.
This adjustment replaces the previous stipulation that required registration to be completed “within fourteen days after the expiry of one hundred and eighty days of arrival in India”.
The gazette notification released on Monday indicates that, in Rule 12, the phrase “within fourteen days after the expiry of one hundred and eighty days of his arrival in India” has been replaced with “any time before the expiry of the said period of one hundred and eighty days”.
Extended-stay visa provision
The amendment is also relevant for foreigners holding visas valid for more than 180 days with a condition stating that “each stay shall not exceed 180 days”.
Individuals wishing to extend their stay in India beyond 180 days on either a single occasion or cumulatively within a calendar year must register “anytime before the expiry of 180 days”.
The newly revised rules specify that such registration will be granted “only in emergent circumstances”.
Update for children
The notification further modifies requirements for children born in India to either or both parents who are foreign nationals.
Previously, parents were obligated to notify the registration officer electronically within 30 days of the child’s birth to access visa-related services, including obtaining a new visa and exit permission via the designated online portal or mobile app.
With the amendments, this obligation will not apply if one parent is an Indian citizen and wants to retain the child’s Indian citizenship.
Nevertheless, if the child subsequently acquires the citizenship of a foreign country while in India, either parent must inform the registration officer within 30 days of the child obtaining that foreign citizenship.
Hospital reporting regulations
The notification also updates the reporting requirements and administrative procedures for hospitals, nursing homes, and other medical institutions that provide medical, lodging, or sleeping facilities on their premises.
(With input from agencies)
