India opens to tourists after 20 months: what changed for foreigners?

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India Reopens to Foreign Tourists After 20-Month Ban

India has reopened its borders to foreign tourists from countries with reciprocal visa arrangements, marking a significant shift after a 20-month ban implemented due to the Covid-19 pandemic. The initial restriction, which barred all foreign tourists from March 2020, was eased starting October 15 with the issuance of tourist visas for fully vaccinated individuals arriving on charter flights. This policy was further expanded on November 15 to include all other flights, allowing visitors from approved nations to obtain a tourist visa online and self-monitor their health for 14 days post-arrival.
Eased Entry for Vaccinated Travellers

The reopening allows fully vaccinated foreign tourists from countries with reciprocal agreements to enter India. Visitors can now secure their tourist visas through an online application process. Upon arrival, these travellers are only required to monitor their health for a period of 14 days, indicating a streamlined entry procedure compared to previous protocols. The initial rollout of this policy included the provision of the first half a million visas free of charge.
Additional Measures for Certain Nationalities

Travellers originating from specific regions, including Britain, the European Union, China, Brazil, and South Africa, are subject to more stringent entry requirements. These measures include mandatory Covid-19 tests upon their arrival in India. This tiered approach acknowledges the varying global Covid-19 situations and aims to manage potential risks associated with travellers from areas with higher infection rates or different vaccination statuses.
Cautious Optimism from Tourism Industry

Despite the border reopening, the Indian tourism industry anticipates a slow recovery in the immediate future. Tour operators have noted that demand remains sluggish, largely attributed to elevated air ticket prices and the continued presence of certain travel restrictions. Consequently, arrivals are projected to reach only approximately five percent of pre-pandemic levels in the coming months. However, there is optimism that if global conditions remain stable, tourist numbers could significantly increase by the October 2022 season.
Anticipated Influx in Popular Destinations

Specific tourist hubs are beginning to see the initial signs of recovery. Goa, a popular destination in southern India, is scheduled to receive its first charter flight from Britain on December 13. This event signifies a gradual return of international travel to key tourism sites, although the overall volume of visitors will depend on the factors influencing travel costs and remaining health protocols.

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India opens to tourists after 20 months: what changed for foreigners?

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