(TAN): The Indian government has extended the visa of foreigners who are stranded in the country in the wake of the travel restrictions caused by the coronavirus outbreak, reports said.
Foreign nationals whose regular visas, e-visas or stay stipulation were to expire between February 1 and April 30, will now be able to stay in India until the end of this month after their visas are extended on gratis basis upon applying online, as per reports.
“Regular visa, e-visa or stay stipulation of such foreigners stranded in India due to travel restrictions by Indian Authorities and whose visas have expired/would be expiring between February 1 (midnight) and April 30 (midnight) would be extended till April 30 (midnight) on gratis basis, after online application by foreigners,” the Ministry of Home Affairs was quoted by Hindustan Times as saying.
Several foreigners visiting India are stranded after the nationwide lockdown was announced to slow the spread of the virus in March.
“In order to remove confusion in public, it is informed that MHA (Ministry of Home Affairs), on March 28, had granted consular services to foreign nationals presently residing in India due to travel restrictions reg. COVID-19, till April 30,” the ministry wrote on Twitter.
India’s tourism ministry launched a portal called “strandedinindia.com” to identify and help foreigners who are now stuck in various parts of the country after domestic and international flights were cancelled.
“The world is facing an unprecedented situation tody. The Ministry of Tourism is with you in these difficult times. We are truly committed towards the safety of one and all. If you are a foreign traveller stranded anywhere in India due to the COVID-19 pandemic, we can help you get in touch with the concerned authorities,” the portal said.
