India Extends Visas 30 Days, Waives Overstay Penalties for War-Stranded Foreigners

India has announced temporary visa relief measures for foreign nationals stranded in the country due to travel disruptions caused by the escalating tensions related to the US–Iran War 2026 escalation and wider instability in West Asia. The Consulate General of India in Dubai issued a notification on March 13 stating that visas and e-visas that are expiring or about to expire will be extended by 30 days free of charge for affected travellers. These extensions will be processed by the Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs) on a case-by-case basis to help people who are unable to leave India because of disrupted international flights.

Authorities have also announced that overstay penalties will be waived for foreign nationals who remained in India beyond their permitted stay due to the crisis. According to the notification, travellers who overstayed after February 28, 2026, because of disruptions linked to the regional conflict will not face immigration penalties. Officials clarified that foreigners who cannot apply for visa extensions or exit permits during this period will not be treated as violating immigration laws. In addition, exit permits will be issued free of charge so that affected travellers can leave the country once normal flight operations resume.

Special provisions have also been introduced for passengers who arrive in India due to diverted international flights caused by the crisis. Foreign nationals landing under such circumstances will be granted Temporary Landing Permits (TLPs) at no cost. The measure aims to ensure that travellers who are forced to land in India because of emergency diversions can legally enter the country and arrange onward travel without facing additional financial burdens.

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These relief measures come as tensions involving Iran, Israel, and the United States have disrupted aviation routes across West Asia. Drone and missile strikes linked to the conflict have affected infrastructure and security conditions in the region, prompting several countries to impose airspace restrictions. As a result, airlines have rerouted or suspended flights, leaving many international travellers stranded.

Meanwhile, Indian missions abroad continue to assist citizens and monitor the situation. The Embassy of India in Doha recently said that nearly 500 Indian nationals travelled from Doha to various destinations including India on Qatar Airways flights, with some services operating to cities such as Kochi and Mumbai. However, authorities noted that Qatar’s airspace remains only partially open, meaning flight operations are still limited as the region gradually restores air connectivity.

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