Prelims: Current events of national and international importance | Internal Security
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
- PIB | IVFRT
- The Hindu | IVFRT
