India announces visa relief for foreigners, no penalty on overstay amid US-Iran conflict

AMid the on-going run afoul in the midriff due east that has at present entered its second week, India on Friday announced a 30-day extension of all types of visas for affected foreign nationals.The Indian government also announced a waiver of penalty for any overstay by affected foreign nationals due to the ongoing war in the Middle East.The announced was made by the Consulate General of India in Dubai in a post on X on Friday evening. The relaxation of norms is applicable for all types of visas — regular visa and e-visa.Follow latest updates on US-Iran warThe announcement comes amid the crisis in the Middle East following the US-Israel attack in Iran, which in turn spiraled into a larger conflict in the region, with Tehran targeting US bases, oil facilities and airports in the region.Key announcement on visa extension, waiver of penaltyThe visa extension and waiver of penalty fees will be applicant for foreign nationals, including those from the Gulf states. The key announcements include:The Consulate General of India in Dubai said all types of visas and e-visa expiring or due for expiry soon would be extended for a month for affected nationals.The extension will be granted by the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) on case-to-case basis.The penalties for any overstay by affected foreign nationals have also been waived off after February 28, 2026.Also Read: First Air India, now IndiGo, and more: Airlines hike fares as West Asia war sets oil prices on fireRelaxation on Exit Permits and Temporary Landing PermitThe Indian authorities have also announced relaxation on Exit Permits and Temporary Landing Permit to stranded foreign nationals free of charge. The relaxation incudes:The Consulate further announced that Exit Permits to the affected foreigners would be provided free of charge.Non-application of Exit Permit and extension of visas by foreigners in the current case would not be treated as violation of migration legislation.Moreover, India has also announced granting Temporary Landing Permit (TLP) to a foreign national arriving in India due to diversion of flights.Soon after the conflict started, India on March 1 asked foreign nationals in the country to approach relevant authorities for visa extensions. In an advisory, the Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) had urged foreign nationals to contact their nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) if they require assistance with visa extensions or need to regularise their stay.