India modifies visa norms; Afghans can travel only on e-Visa

The decision has been taken in view of the prevailing security situation in Afghanistan and for streamlining of the visa process since the introduction of the e-Emergency X-Misc visa.

Amid the ongoing crisis in Afghanistan, Indian on Wednesday asked the Afghan nationals, who want to come to India, to travel only on an e-Visa. 

The decision has been taken in view of the prevailing security situation in Afghanistan and for streamlining of the visa process since the introduction of the e-Emergency X-Misc visa.

Keeping in view some reports that certain passports of Afghan nationals have been misplaced, previously issued visas to all Afghan nationals, who are presently not in India, have been invalidated immediately 

The ministry also asked the Afghan nationals wishing to travel to India to apply for e-Visa at www.indianvisaonline.gov.in. 

After President Ashraf Ghani fled the country and the Taliban seized Kabul on August 15, thousands of Afghans have been making a beeline for the Hamid Karzai International Airport seeking to leave the country wary of an uncertain future. 

New Delhi has established a dedicated Afghanistan Special Cell in the external affairs ministry to coordinate the stranded Indians and Afghans who want to come to India.

The home ministry also launched the e-emergency visa for Afghan nationals. Initially, the visa was being given for six months. It will be reviewed at a later stage on the basis of the prevailing security situation in Afghanistan.