Visa On Arrival For 40 More Countries May Be A Reality Soon

Planning Minister Rajeev Shukla had also expressed hope last month that the proposal would be through soon as only Home Ministry's last and final nod was required for the purpose.

"Home Ministry's clearance would be last and final approval required for this proposal as it has already been approved by other ministries and departments like External Affairs, Tourism and Prime Minister's Office," the Minister had said.

The countries for which visa on arrival facility are proposed to be extended include Canada, Brazil, the UAE, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy, Sweden, the Netherlands, Switzerland, Spain, Belgium, Austria, Denmark, Poland, Norway and Ireland.

Under the visa-on-arrival system, India has agreement with various countries, including Japan, Finland, Singapore, Indonesia, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Cambodia, Vietnam, the Philippines, Laos and Myanmar.

Besides seeking to extend visa on arrival for 40 more countries, the Commission had also stressed on making India a more tourist friendly destination, which includes simplifying online visa and attracting senior citizen foreign visitors.

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