Immigration Reforms Extended: IVFRT Scheme (2026–2031)
Context
The Union Government has recently approved the continuation of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) programme for the period 2026–2031, ensuring sustained modernization of India’s immigration ecosystem.
Overview of the IVFRT Programme
Nature – A fully centrally funded initiative aimed at strengthening immigration infrastructure and digital governance.
Inception – Introduced in 2010 to digitize and integrate immigration services.
Administrative Control – Managed by the Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
Execution Partner – Implemented by the National Informatics Centre (NIC) along with MHA.
Core Purpose
Modernization Drive – Establish a globally competitive immigration framework with advanced digital systems.
Security Enhancement – Improve surveillance, tracking, and monitoring of foreign nationals.
Key Focus Areas
System Integration – Linking immigration checkpoints, FRROs, and registration systems into a unified platform.
Technology Adoption – Use of e-gates, mobile-based services, and automated kiosks.
Migration Control – Strengthening mechanisms to tackle illegal immigration and overstays.
Economic Facilitation – Supporting sectors like tourism, business travel, and medical tourism.
Major Advantages
Efficiency Gains – Faster visa approvals and reduced waiting time at airports.
Ease of Travel – Seamless passenger movement through automated clearance systems.
Economic Impact – Positive spillover on aviation, hospitality, and investment climate.
Security Boost – Real-time tracking and data integration improve national security.
Important Features for Users
e-Visa Platform – Enables online visa application for tourists, business visitors, and medical travellers.
Trusted Traveller Programme (FTI-TTP) –
Automated immigration clearance using biometric-enabled e-gates at major airports, cutting processing time to nearly 30 seconds.
Foreigner Registration Mechanism –
Mandatory registration for long-term visa holders (beyond 180 days), to be completed within a stipulated period via the FRRO system.
Form C Compliance –
Hotels, guest houses, and individuals must report details of foreign guests through the Bureau of Immigration portal, ensuring accountability.
Source : PIB