e-Tourist visa extended to citizens of 161 countries: Government

The Union Government has extended the facility of e-Tourist Visa (e-TV) Scheme for citizens of 161 countries. It was announced by Tourism Minister Mahesh Sharma in a written reply to Rajya Sabha. The reply also mentioned that number of foreign tourist arrivals on e-TV during January to November 2016 was 9,17,446. This period registered a growth of 168.5% over same period of previous year. This indicates success of the e-TV Scheme. 

About E-Tourist Visa Scheme 

Union Government had launched e-Tourist Visa Scheme (as Tourist Visa on Arrival scheme) on November 27, 2014. The scheme facilitates pre-authorization of Visa i.e. electronic travel authorisation is given to foreigners prior to travel after applicant registers for visa online. After registration applicant receives an email authorising him or her to travel to India after it has been approved. The tourist can travel with a print-out of this authorisation. The scheme aims to tap the vast tourism potential of India which still remains untapped and explored.