MHA updates visa manual, does away with dual approval process

India's Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) has streamlined its visa process by eliminating the dual approval requirement for certain foreign nationals. Previously, individuals from specific countries, including Afghanistan, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan, and China, along with stateless persons and those of Pakistani origin, needed separate Prior Reference Category (PRC) clearance even after receiving security clearance.

This dual process has now been done away with. Foreign nationals who have already obtained security clearance through the central Security Clearance Portal (SCP) will no longer require a separate PRC clearance. The SCP is a centralized web application designed to simplify security clearances for categories managed by the MHA, allowing ministries and government departments to apply for foreign nationals attending events in India.

“

Certain amendments have been made in the existing Visa Manual recently, including dispensing with the requirement of separate PRC clearance for foreign nationals who have been granted security clearance on SCP portal. This removes the dual process.

Officials stated that amendments to the Visa Manual also incorporate previously unaddressed visa-related services, such as visa extensions and conversions. Additionally, provisions for multiple entries on various e-Visas have been included. India currently offers e-Visas to citizens of 172 countries, a move intended to facilitate easier travel and engagement.

“

The provision of multiple entries on various visas granted under the e-Visa platform has also been included.