Freely crossing borders: India streamlines travel requirements for Nepal and Bhutan

India has announced new cross-border travel regulations for citizens of Nepal and Bhutan, effective September 2, 2025. The Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025, consolidates India's immigration framework, replacing older legislations like the Passport (Entry into India) Rules, 1950, and the Foreigners Order, 1948.

Under the new regulations, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan can enter India without passports or visas when arriving directly from their home countries. This relaxation applies strictly to direct entry from Nepal or Bhutan. A passport is mandatory if citizens of these countries travel via any other nation.

Tibetan refugees are not exempt from these changes. They must hold valid registration certificates based on their time of entry. Alternative identity documents that can be presented include a valid Nepalese or Bhutanese passport (if available), citizenship certificate, voter ID card, or a photo ID issued by the Nepalese or Royal Bhutanese Mission in India.

Foreign nationals, including those from Nepal and Overseas Citizens of India (OCIs), must comply with the new immigration regulations. Institutions like hotels, hospitals, and universities are required to report foreign guests or students. Non-compliance could invite fines up to INR 3 lakh or three years in jail.

Children below 10 years are not required to show any ID at all. For minors aged 10-18 years, a school photo ID signed by the principal is acceptable if they are traveling with parents carrying valid documents.

Registered Sri Lankan Tamils who arrived by January 9, 2015, have also been granted similar relief. The directive also exempts persecuted minorities from Afghanistan, Bangladesh, and Pakistan (including Hindus, Sikhs, Buddhists, Jains, Parsis, and Christians) who entered India on or before December 31, 2024, from the requirement of holding valid passports or visas.

In Uttar Pradesh's border districts, the Bureau of Immigration (BOI) has been empowered to investigate immigration frauds, deport illegal migrants, and manage a centralized database. However, there is no information in the search results identifying a specific government agency that issued these new travel regulations for Nepalese and Bhutanese citizens on September 2, 2025.

It is essential for travellers to familiarise themselves with these new regulations to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. The changes aim to streamline the immigration process while maintaining security and order.