Number of main visa categories cut from 13 to 9: Move aimed at boosting arrivals of tourists, patients, students, researchers, investors

New Delhi: The Union home ministry on Wednesday said it has simplified its visa regime by reducing the number of main visa categories from 13 to 9 and the number of sub-categories from 49 to 23. This follows the previous rationalisation in October 2025, when the main visa categories were reduced from 22 to 13 and sub-categories from 63 to 49. The step is aimed at making the visa regime compact, coherent and responsive to the requirements of foreign nationals visiting India, MHA said in a statement.

Indian visa regime rationalisation is aimed at boosting foreign tourist arrivals, enhancing medical value travel and foreign student arrivals. Number of fields to be filled in the application forms for all 23 visa sub-categories have been reduced by 65-70%. Now, the application process is easier, faster, and more applicant-friendly, the statement added.

Changes reduce overlap between visa categories and make the framework easier to navigate for visitors, patients, students, researchers, investors and business professionals. The rationalisation intends to boost legitimate travel, education, healthcare and economic engagement with India through clearer, purpose-based visa options.

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E-visa is processed by electronic travel authorisation under 13 sub-categories. E-visa is currently available to nationals of 172 countries.