India to expand e-tourist visas

India is planning to expand its e-tourist visas this year. Electronic visas for those travelling to the country for up to 30 days will be available to citizens of 150 countries by March 2015, up from the current 113. The country is also planning to extend the permit period from 30 days to 180 days.

"There was a demand from many quarters. We have been in talks with the Home Ministry for some time now to allow tourists multiple entry after obtaining e-visa once, and also extend its validity for a stay up to 180 days. Now, it’s up to the home ministry to make an official announcement; I think they will do it soon," Tourism and Culture Minister Mahesh Sharma told The Indian Express.