Planning a quick trip to Nepal or Bhutan? There is a change in India's immigration rules that could make your travel preparations a little easier. The Ministry of Home Affairs has amended the Immigration and Foreigners (Exemption) Order, 2025. The new amendment was published in the Official Gazette.
Under the revised rules, Indian citizens travelling directly to Nepal or Bhutan by road or air do not need to carry a passport. However, they must show an identity document specified in the government's Visa Manual to immigration officers. Officers can also ask for additional information to verify their identity.
There is one condition travelers should not overlook. This exemption is only for journeys between India and Nepal or Bhutan. Indians travelling to another country through these borders, or returning from a third country, must carry a valid passport and use designated immigration checkpoints. The amendment also covers citizens of Nepal and Bhutan travelling to and from India, with specific conditions.
For Indian travelers, this change offers more flexibility when planning trips to two neighbouring countries. However, checking the accepted identity documents before departure is important to avoid problems at immigration.
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