India plans group e-visas for cruise passengers to ease entry process at ports
NEW DELHI : India may offer group e-visas to cruise ship passengers from mid-2026 to smoothen the entry process at sea ports.
This is among the various initiatives under consideration as India aims to double cruise passenger traffic to one million by 2029. Other measures include simplified customs procedures, new itineraries and standard operating procedures to attract cruise liners.
Addressing an industry session at the recent India Maritime Week, joint director (Bureau of Immigration) Anoop Krishna said the contours of group cruise passenger visa are being defined. Global best practices are being studied to tailor-make the solution for India.
“The contours of the group cruise passenger visa are being defined. The goal is to create a seamless, tech-enabled entry experience for cruise passengers while maintaining security standards,” Krishna said.
The proposed system will allow cruise operators to apply for group e-visas collectively on behalf of their passengers, thereby reducing time and administrative burden at port arrival points. This will be complemented by digital pre-clearance mechanisms, similar to those used in major international cruise hubs, enabling faster turnaround times for cruise ships calling at Indian ports.
Officials said the initiative is part of a larger roadmap to make Indian ports more cruise-friendly and globally competitive. Among other measures being explored are:
Simplified customs and immigration procedures for cruise passengers and crew.
Development of new domestic and international cruise itineraries, connecting destinations along India’s west and east coasts.
Upgradation of port infrastructure, including dedicated cruise terminals, passenger lounges, and transport connectivity.
Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to streamline coordination between port authorities, immigration, and tourism agencies.
Industry experts have welcomed the move, noting that cumbersome entry formalities have been a key deterrent to cruise lines adding India to their itineraries. The group e-visa system, they say, could significantly enhance India’s appeal in the global cruise circuit.
India currently handles around 500,000 cruise passengers annually, both domestic and international, across major ports such as Mumbai, Cochin, Mormugao, Chennai, and Vizag. With several new terminals under development and growing interest from global cruise operators, the introduction of a group e-visa is expected to act as a major enabler for the sector’s next phase of growth.
Officials also hinted that the new e-visa framework could later be extended to river and coastal cruises, further integrating India’s tourism and maritime infrastructure.
As India’s maritime sector aligns with the government’s “Dekho Apna Desh” and “Atithi Devo Bhava” initiatives, the group e-visa policy represents a major step toward creating a smooth, secure, and tourist-friendly entry ecosystem for global cruise travelers.
Source : BL