The Union Home Ministry of India has notified amendments to the Immigration and Foreigners Rules, 2025, introducing significant changes for foreigners seeking longer stays in the country. The new rules, known as the Immigration and Foreigners (Amendment) Rules, 2026, came into effect on June 1, 2026, and alter registration timelines, emergency provisions, and the appeals mechanism.
Key Change in Registration Timeline
Under the amended rules, foreigners arriving in India on a visa valid for 180 days or less who wish to stay beyond that period must now register themselves any time before the expiry of the 180-day period. This replaces the earlier requirement, which allowed registration within 14 days after the 180-day period expired. Late registration beyond the 180-day period will now only be permitted under emergent circumstances.
Relief for Children of Mixed Citizenship
The new rules also provide relief for children born to parents where either or both parents are foreigners. Previously, parents were required to electronically notify the registration officer within 30 days of the child's birth to avail visa services, including new visas and exit permissions, via the designated online portal or mobile app. The fresh notification states that this sub-rule will not apply if either parent is an Indian citizen and wishes to retain Indian citizenship for the child.
However, if the child later acquires citizenship of a foreign country while in India, either parent must inform the registration officer within 30 days of the child acquiring foreign citizenship.
The amendments are part of the government's ongoing efforts to streamline immigration procedures and enhance compliance with visa regulations. Authorities have emphasized that the changes aim to provide clarity and flexibility for foreigners while ensuring national security and legal adherence.
