Major policy and regulation changes effective from January 1, 2025

The year 2024 comes to end and preprations for 2025 are underway. Several significant rule changes are stet to kick in from 2025. These policies will impact households, professions, travellers, and finances. These adjustments cover a range of topics, including data charges, visa processes, and GST.

Major changes from January 1, 2025:

• Key Changes in GST Compliance: Several changes in GST compliance will take effect from January 1, 2025, which will impact businesses in India:
• Mandatory MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication): MFA will be made mandatory for all taxpayers for better security on GST portals. Update mobile numbers for OTPs, train employees, enable MFA early, and ensure IT system compatibility.
• E-Way Bill Restrictions: E-Way Bills (EWBs) can only be generated for base documents not older than 180 days. Align invoicing and logistics with the 180-day rule, automate EWB reminders, and coordinate inventory with supply chain teams.

The changes aim to streamline processes and tackle fraud.

Thailand's e-visa system launch starting January 1, 2025

Visitors from any country will be able to apply for a Thailand e-Visa through the official website, www.thaievisa.go.th. Earlier, the e-Visa system was available only to travellers from specific regions.

The expansion will simplify the process and will allow applicants from all countries to complete the visa application procedure online. This change will make it easier for international visitors, particularly Indians, to travel to Thailand.

New US visa appointment rules to reduce

From January 1, 2025, the US Embassy in India will allow non-immigrant visa applicants to reschedule appointments once without an additional fee. Further rescheduling will require reapplication and payment of the fee.

Further, starting January 17, 2025, new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rules will aim to modernise the H-1B process, offering greater flexibility for employers and smoother transitions for Indian F-1 visa holders.

Key rule changes for telecom users from January 1, 2025

The Department of Telecommunications released the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, commonly known as RoW rules, on 19 September 2024. These regulations will come into effect on January 1, 2025. It will govern the construction, use, and maintenance of underground communications facilities on public property.

The new rules will enable telecom providers such as Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL to improve their services and expand mobile tower installations.