VISA REGIME
IATO welcomes simplification of Indian visa regime
The Indian Association of Tour Operators has welcomed the government's efforts to simplify the visa process. The number of main visa categories has been reduced to enhance accessibility for international tourists. A new Visitor Visa is being introduced, allowing for multiple entries and covering various short-term activities. The Ministry of Home Affairs is expected to implement these changes by the end of 2026.
Number of main visa categories cut from 13 to 9: Move aimed at boosting arrivals of tourists, patients, students, researchers, investors
The Union home ministry has streamlined India's visa regime by reducing main visa categories from 13 to 9. Additionally, sub-categories have been decreased from 49 to 23 to improve accessibility. This rationalization aims to facilitate foreign tourist, student, and healthcare arrivals into India. Application forms have seen a significant reduction in required fields, enhancing the overall process efficiency. E-visas are now available for citizens of 172 countries, further easing travel.
Centre cuts visa categories from 13 to 9, reduces application form fields by up to 70%
India has announced changes to its visa regime by reducing the main categories from 13 to nine. The number of sub-categories has also been cut down significantly, streamlining the entire application process. Visa application forms will require 65-70% fewer fields to simplify the process for foreign nationals. This rationalization aims to enhance foreign tourist arrivals, students, and medical visitors in India.
Indian parents getting US residency? 6 financial implications to consider before applying
Investments in bank accounts, mutual funds, shares and other assets will have to be reviewed and modified. It is illegal under India’s FEMA to hold resident bank and demat accounts after moving abroad on a permanent resident status. All such accounts must be converted to non-resident, and FATCA forms disclosing the residential status abroad should be filled up.
After the US midterm rout of Trumpism, the world struggles to trust America again
In the wake of the midterm elections, Joe Reeve alongside other international observers share their skepticism about the integrity of American democracy. A dominant concern is the potential volatility in U.S. policy amidst Trump’s sway. There’s a strong call from world leaders for the U.S. to uphold its democratic values, as businesses start to feel anxious about impending changes in trade and immigration policies.
After the US midterm rout of Trumpism, the world struggles to trust America again
Joe Reeve, a London startup founder, expressed global concern over the uncertainty following the midterm elections. Many international observers doubt whether the election results will lead to significant policy changes. Political leaders and business owners are cautious about America's potential direction under continued Trump influence. The emotional aftermath of the elections enhances feelings of distrust in American governance worldwide.
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Reality check on Indo-Myanmar border fencing
The 1,643 km porous India-Myanmar border will be fenced at a cost of Rs 31,000 crore, and passes through Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland and Arunachal Pradesh. The free movement regime with Myanmar was scrapped in 2024. FMR allowed people residing close to the border to venture 16 km into each other's territory without a visa.
United Kingdom considers a new investor visa for wealthy foreigners ahead of the October budget
The UK government is considering a new investor visa to attract wealthy individuals and support economic growth. Proposals include various investment thresholds and conditions to encourage foreign capital. The previous investor visa was closed in 2022 due to concerns over financial security and misuse of funds. Immigration lawyers suggest that the existing visa system does not meet the needs of wealthy applicants.
Catch a bully by its horns: How India can turn the latest round of US visa curbs affecting Indian techies to its advantage
Visa restrictions imposed by the US on Indian IT companies may impact individuals working on temporary visas. Many Indian workers may now have to return to India due to these restrictions. Despite these challenges, returnees present opportunities for India in emerging technologies and industries. Additionally, India's relationship with the US requires strategic actions to maintain balance in trade and diplomacy.
Skyroot eyes funding boost; MDR deferment cheers D2C brands
Happy Thursday! Skyroot is eyeing a big funding round as it gears up to scale rocket production. This and more in today’s ETtech Morning Dispatch.
12,700 tech professional return from US in 9 months
The data sourced from staffing firm Xpheno shows that the numbers have been steadily going up, from 7,200 in 2023 and 9,800 in 2024. The figures track white-collar technology talent moving along the India-US corridor and are not limited to H-1B visa holders.
US green card freeze: TCS, Infosys, Wipro, HCLTech had just 61 certified PERM cases in FY26
HCL America recorded 59 certified cases and TCS only two. Infosys and Wipro had no recorded cases in the period and neither did US-headquartered Cognizant.
PERMafrost without bite: Indian IT must stop treating every US rule change as a crisis to be lobbied away, fix lies elsewhere
US Labour Secretary Keith Sonderling has suspended eight companies from the Permanent Labour Certification Programme, significantly impacting their operations. Companies primarily delivering services from India are affected, hindering their ability to hire foreign workers. This situation is anticipated to push Indian tech talent to consider alternatives, including returning to India. The decision may also disrupt ongoing trade discussions between the US and India regarding skilled labor mobility.
ETSA 2026: Not getting H-1B visas will boost our startup ecosystem, says Piyush Goyal
Speaking as guest of honour at the ET Startup Awards 2026, Goyal spoke about the Indian businessmen working in the US and asked what might have happened had they built their businesses and done their research in India.
The ET Startup Awards 2026 special
Entrepreneurs, investors and policymakers came together in a star-studded event to honour the best of Indian entrepreneurship at the ET Startup Awards 2026 in Bengaluru.
Why global investors are turning to Georgia for real estate opportunities in 2026
Alliance Group designates 2026 as a pivotal year for international stakeholders targeting Georgia's dynamic real estate landscape. The nation has witnessed substantial increases in residential property transactions, luring buyers from India and Europe. Tbilisi and Batumi stand out with impressive rental yields, while rising GDP and tourism profits bolster investment allure. Additionally, favorable policy adjustments cater to high-net-worth individuals keen on tapping into Georgian real estate opportunities.
Sitharaman sees a ‘plateau’, but India-US trade deal may not be at a dead end yet: GTRI
As India and the US engage in talks for a bilateral trade deal, uncertainties loom over tariff treatments. Finance Minister Nirmala Sitharaman mentioned that the scope for concessions is limited, indicating a plateau. Ajay Srivastava from GTRI cautioned against making unilateral concessions, stressing that additional tariffs might complicate trade relations. An effectively designed interim agreement is crucial for ensuring substantial benefits for India.
Foreign nationals don't have inherent right to seek entry into India: Delhi HC
Delhi High Court has ruled that foreign nationals do not have an inherent right to enter India. The court stated that holding a visa does not guarantee unconditional entry into the country. A woman's plea for entry was dismissed after concerns about her travel history were raised.
Astana International Financial Centre explores to partner with India's GIFT City
Astana International Financial Centre is exploring potential collaboration with India's GIFT city due to regional proximity. This partnership aims to enhance financial services and investment opportunities between Kazakhstan and India. AIFC has established itself as a leading financial hub in Central Asia since its launch in 2018. Initiatives from AIFC include developments in sustainable finance and digital assets.
UN General Assembly: Iran talks, Ukraine ceasefire and AI among key takeaways
World leaders gathered at the United Nations to discuss ongoing conflicts in Iran and Ukraine. Diplomatic talks between US and Iranian officials showed some progress amidst sharp rhetoric. Discussions focused on achieving limited ceasefires for grain exports and energy infrastructure. Attention shifted significantly from climate change to the rising concerns surrounding artificial intelligence. The future of the United Nations remains uncertain as key leadership transitions approach amid multiple global crises.
Govt disburses Rs 36,754 cr under PLI schemes as on June 30
The government has disbursed Rs 36,754 crore to beneficiary companies under the Production Linked Incentive schemes. These schemes have led to actual investment of Rs 2.58 lakh crore in manufacturing capabilities. While attracting investment, they have facilitated exports amounting to Rs 15.53 lakh crore and generated significant employment opportunities. In the pharmaceuticals sector, the scheme has recorded sales exceeding Rs 3.64 lakh crore.
US approves visas for top Iranian leaders to attend UN high-level meeting even with sides at war
The United States approved visas for Iran's core delegation to attend the UN General Assembly. This includes President Masoud Pezeshkian and Foreign Minister Abbas Araghchi. The delegation faces travel restrictions and prohibitions on certain purchases. This decision comes amid a protracted conflict and sanctions against Iran. The US also denied visas to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas and his delegation.
'Narendra's Ongoing Trump Appeasement': Congress' dig at Prime Minister on UPI move
Congress criticises the government for introducing charges on UPI transactions for merchants. This move is seen as appeasing United States demands and impacting local competition. The government stated that consumers will not face any charges for UPI payments. This policy change signals a significant shift for the UPI payment system. Opposition parties have voiced strong criticism regarding the new levy.
Indian citizens with select valid visas eligible for 30-day visa-free stay in Uzbekistan: Indian Embassy
Indian citizens holding specific multiple-entry visas can now enter Uzbekistan visa-free. This new rule allows eligible travelers a 30-day stay without an Uzbekistan visa. A confirmed return or onward air ticket is also a mandatory requirement for entry. This facilitation follows Uzbekistan President Shavkat Mirziyoyev's announcement last month.
Tighter US Visa isn't all that bad for India
Stricter visa regulations in foreign nations will intensify competition for India's skilled workforce. Additionally, numerous students are burdened with unmanageable debt due to the high costs of studying abroad. The imposition of job entry barriers in Western countries is hindering immigrant students, prompting universities to consider establishing more campuses overseas. As a result, India may see a reverse brain drain supported by the rise of global competency centers.
Cognizant PERM suspension raises talent retention concerns
Cognizant and US enterprise software company Cloudera’s PERM filings have been suspended, labour department inspector general Anthony D’Esposito said in an X post on Tuesday, citing an investigation into possible fraud and misuse of employment visa programmes.
New Zealand to open new Visa Application Centre in Tonga from September 14
New Zealand will open a new visa centre in Nuku’alofa, Tonga, on September 14, 2026. This centre will allow customers to access visa services locally and will be operated by VFS Global. All Recognised Seasonal Employer visa applications must be submitted through this new Tonga centre. Applicants can also have their passports scanned at the centre for a separate fee.
India-UAE agree on liberalized visa regime under newly inked FTA
Under the FTA, business visitors will get a 90-day visa, while contractual service suppliers can get 90-day visas that are extendable. Intra-corporate transferees will be able to get three-year visas.
Liberalised visa regime pact won't be inked at present: Interior Minister Rehman Malik
Pakistan said an agreement on a new liberalised visa regime with India will not be inked during the ongoing Home Secretary-level talks.
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