Due to the ongoing conflict in the Middle East, India on Friday (March 13) has extended the visas of affected foreign nationals for 30 days. Along with this, it was also announced to waive the fine imposed on foreign nationals for overstaying the stipulated time.
The Indian Consulate in Dubai made this announcement through a post on Twitter on Friday evening. These relaxations given in the rules are applicable to all types of visas – regular visa and e-visa. This announcement comes amid the crisis in the Middle East caused by the attack on Iran by the US and Israel, which gave rise to a major conflict in the region.
what was said in the announcement
Visa extension and penalty waiver will also apply to other foreign nationals including Gulf countries. The Indian Consulate in Dubai said that all types of visas and e-visas whose validity is expiring or soon to expire will be extended by one month for the affected citizens. This extension will be given by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on a case-to-case basis.
The fine imposed on affected foreign nationals for overstaying after February 28, 2026, has also been waived. Indian authorities have announced relaxation in exit permits and temporary landing permits to stranded foreign nationals without any charge.
‘Exit permits will be made free’
The Consulate further announced that exit permits would be made free to the affected foreigners. In this case, foreigners not applying for exit permit and getting visa extended will not be considered a violation of the law. Apart from this, India has also announced to give Temporary Landing Permit (TLP) to a foreign national coming to India due to diversion of flights.
Soon after the conflict began, on March 1, India asked foreign nationals present in the country to contact the relevant authorities for visa extensions. The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) issued an advisory appealing to foreign nationals to contact the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if they require assistance in visa extension.
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