Govt may woo Asean nationals with long-term visas to boost tourism

NEW DELHI: Foreign nationals from Association of South East Asian Nations (ASEAN) regions such as Singapore, Myanmar, Cambodia, Laos and Brunei may soon avail multiple-entry long-term visas for 5-10 years.

The home ministry is considering the tourism ministry���s proposal, an official in the tourism ministry, who did not want to be named, said.

Introduction of visa-on-arrival to selected 18 countries such as the US, the UK, Germany, France and Japan is also under consideration of the home ministry, he said.

The move is aimed at boosting tourism sector which has seen a major drop in tourist arrival due to the global financial crisis. The sector was hit hard by the recent terror attacks in Mumbai.

���The home ministry does not have any major disagreement over allowing long-term visas to ASEAN countries. It is, however, apprehensive on granting visa-on-arrival due to security concerns,��� the official said.

The tourism ministry���s proposal to grant visa-on-arrival to 18 countries has long been pending with home ministry.

Citing security concerns and lack of infrastructure, home ministry has been deferring the proposal. It has, however, now agreed to allow visa-on-arrival to few countries on pilot-basis and reciprocity. He said that the issue would be resolved soon .

���Extraordinary situation requires extraordinary solution. The foreign tourist arrival has already started falling and the trend needs to be checked.���