India has expanded its electronic tourist visa program to 166 countries, compared to 156 last year, which represents a new impetus for receptive tourism. Discreetly updated by the Ministry of Tourism in January 2026, the measure continues India’s recovery until it reaches the numbers of foreign visitors before the pandemic and supports its ambition to receive 20 million international tourists by 2028.
In India, one of the favorite places of foreign tourists is the Taj Mahal – one of the New 7 Wonders of the World.
The expansion adds 10 new eligible countries, expanding almost global access to the e-visa system, which covers multiple categories, including tourism, business, medicine and conferences. Applicants receive approval within 72 hours and can enter through 29 airports and five seaports.
For companies and event organizers, the extension of eligibility requirements facilitates short-time travel and is expected to boost MICE travel, especially during the high conference season in India, from October to March.