Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) Scheme

Why in News?

Recently, Prime Minister approved the continuation of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) Scheme for another five years (2026–2031).

• Aim – To modernize and upgrade immigration, visa issuance, and foreigners’ registration services by building a world‑class immigration ecosystem and to strengthen national security.
• Type – Central sector scheme (100% funded by Union Government).
• Launched in – May 2010. 
• Nodal Ministry – Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA).
• Implementing Agency – National Informatics Centre (NIC) in collaboration with MHA.
• Objectives – Integration of immigration posts, Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO)s, and Foreigners Registration Offices.
• Adoption of emerging technologies (mobile apps, kiosks, e‑gates).
• Strengthen monitoring of foreigners and address illegal migration.
• Boost tourism, business, and medical travel.
• Benefits - Faster visa processing
• Reduced passenger clearance time
• Boosts tourism, aviation, hospitality, and ease of doing business.
• Strengthens national security through integrated tracking.
• Key Components for Travellers & Hosts
• e-Visa System - A streamlined online process for tourists, business travellers, and medical patients.
• Fast Track Immigration (FTI-TTP): A Trusted Traveller Programme using automated e-gates at 13 major airports, reducing clearance time to approximately 30 seconds for enrolled Indian nationals and OCI cardholders.
• Foreigner Registration - Mandatory for certain visa types (e.g., Student, Employment, Research) if staying longer than 180 days; registration must typically be done within 14 days of arrival via the official FRRO portal.
• Form C- A legal requirement for anyone hosting foreign nationals (hotels, guest houses, or private individuals) to report the guest's arrival through the Bureau of Immigration portal.

References

1. PIB | IVFRT
2. The Hindu | IVFRT