INDIA – Simplified Residence Permit and Visa Extension Procedures for Japanese Nationals
Effective immediately, two new developments are meant to simplify immigration procedures for Japanese nationals. Residence permits for Japanese nationals in India will now be automatically valid for the length of their visas. Additionally, Japanese nationals will no longer be required to appear in person at a Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) when applying for registration or to extend either a residence permit or visa. Alternatively, the Japanese national’s employer may appoint an official to apply at the FRRO on behalf of the Japanese national. However, it should be noted that Japanese nationals are still required to inform the FRRO if they plan to be away from their registered address for eight weeks or more, change their address, or actually leave India. While processing times may not be directly changed, it is expected that these changes will save time for Japanese nationals.