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MHA Mandates ID Proof for Travelers Between India, Nepal, and Bhutan
Sentiment: NeutralHigh Priority
What Happened?
The Ministry of Home Affairs has updated immigration rules, requiring Indian, Nepalese, and Bhutanese citizens to present specific identity documents when traveling between these countries. This change follows an amendment to the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order, 2025.
Key points
- Indian citizens must present specified identity documents when entering or exiting Nepal or Bhutan.
- Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens are also required to show identity documents when traveling to or from India.
- Travelers from Nepal or Bhutan who have transited through China, Macau, Hong Kong, or Pakistan must possess a valid passport and visa.
- Certain exemptions apply for military personnel, registered Sri Lankan Tamil nationals, and specific minority communities from neighboring countries.
- The amendment was issued under the powers of the Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.
Key insights
- The requirement for ID proof may lead to longer wait times at border crossings.
- Travelers may need to prepare documentation in advance to avoid delays.
- The rules could affect tourism and cross-border trade between these countries.
Why it matters
These new rules could impact the ease of travel for citizens of India, Nepal, and Bhutan.
Source
Times Now
