India announces travel restrictions

India yesterday announced a revised travel advisory as safeguard measures over the coronavirus pandemic.

All existing visas, except diplomatic, official, UN/international organisations, and employment project visas, stand suspended till 15 April. This will come into effect from 1200 GMT on 13 March at the port of departure.

Visas of all foreigners already in India remain valid. They may contact the nearest FRRO/FRO through e-FRRO module for extension/conversion of their visa or grant of any consular service if they choose to do so.

Visa free travel facility granted to OCI card holders is kept in abeyance till 15 April. This will come into effect from 1200 GMT on 13 March at the port of departure.

Any foreign national who intends to travel to India for compelling reason may contact the nearest Indian Mission.

All incoming travellers, including Indian nationals, arriving from or having visited China, Italy, Iran, Republic of Korea, France, Spain and Germany after 15 February shall be quarantined for a minimum period of 14 days. This will come into effect from 1200 GMT on 13 March at the port of departure.

Incoming travellers, including Indian nationals, are advised to avoid non-essential travel and are informed that they can be quarantined for a minimum of 14 days on their arrival in India.

Indian nationals are strongly advised to avoid all non-essential travel abroad. On their return, they can be subjected to quarantine for a minimum of 14 days.

International traffic through land borders will be restricted to designated check posts with robust screening facilities. These will be notified separately by the Ministry of Home Affairs.