37 more nations can avail India e-visa

Now India can boast of being a preferred tourist destination as the Modi government has extended the E-Tourist Visa (ETV) facility to 37 more countries, including South Africa, Switzerland, Greece, Tajikistan, to be effective from February 26, fulfilling its promise to enable as many as 150 countries avail the e-tourist visas for a hassle-free visit to the country.

The move comes in the backdrop of the government’s decision announced during the 2015-16 Budget Session that it was committed to extend the scheme to 150 countries by March 26.

The 37 countries who can avail this facility beginning Friday also include Albania, Austria, Liberia, Iceland, Zambia, Zimbabwe, Madagaskar , Zimbabwe besides others. The decision of the government, cleared by the Union home ministry , is aimed at attracting maximum foreign tourists and making India a global hotspot for tourists.

The government sources said the fresh decision to extend the facility to 37 countries reflects the seriousness of the government towards boosting its tourism sector and ensuring it meets deadlines.

According to the government estimates, on an average 3500 e-tourist visas are being granted daily to foreign nationals.

Currently, India was offering this facility to tourists from 113 countries. In November 2014 , the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) facility became operational for citizens of over 40 eligible countries, including those who are eligible for visa on arrival. The list was then expanded to 113 countries in August 2015 . The ETA is issued for tourism, visits to family, short duration medical treatment and and so on. The scheme was renamed to e-Tourist Visa on April 15, 2015.