Immigration update: India | Travel and visa restrictions related to COVID-19

The Indian Government has extended the precautionary restriction measures until 31 January 2022.

Who will be affected?

• All residents in India
• Regular visa, e-visa or stay stipulation (All foreign nationals)

Implementation

• The authorities have extended the restriction on the International commercial passengers till 31 January 2022 (2359 hrs IST)
• ‘Vande Bharat’ scheme and Air Transport Bubble arrangements enables inward/outward movement of international passengers (both Indian and foreigners).
• Singapore and Bangladesh removed from the list of ‘at risk’ countries.
• The list of ‘at risk’ countries comprise: Europe, including the UK, South Africa, Brazil, Botswana, China, Ghana, Mauritius, New Zealand, Zimbabwe, Tanzania, Hong Kong and Israel.
• These instructions are in addition to the travel restrictions/ advisories already issued and under implementation.

Standard Operating Protocol (SOP) for travel on Vande Bharat and Air Transport Bubble flights

1. Persons keen to travel to India on Vande Bharat flights, will register themselves with the Indian Missions in the country where they are stranded/ residing, along with necessary details as prescribed by MEA.
2. Registration may not be required on flights operating under Air Transport Bubbles arrangements.
   • Vande Bharat Mission: https://www.mea.gov.in/vande-bharat-mission-list-of-flights.htm
   • Air Transport Bubbles Arrangement: https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/about-air-transport-bubbles
   • SOP for travel on Vande Bharat Scheme and Air Transport Bubble Arrangement: https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/MHASOP_22082020.pdf

Santa Fe Analysis

Santa Fe will update about any relevant immigration update arising considering the scenario is continuously changing.

For employers, it is advised to keep assignment start dates flexible for affected travellers.

Check in with your closest Indian Mission for guidance on travel to India

Santa Fe Relocation provides full range of Immigration Services.

Should you have any questions, please contact the following:

Roshni Ramachandran
Immigration Manager-India
Santa Fe Relocation
Mumbai, India
D: +91 22 450 24527
E: roshni.ramachandran@santaferelo.com

Paolo Longo
Regional Immigration Director–India, Middle East & Africa
Santa Fe Relocation
Johannesburg, South Africa
D: +27 (0) 10 595 2337
M: +27 (0) 83 677 7949
E: paolo.longo@santaferelo.com

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