Plan to grant long-term visa to Bangladeshis under examination

Kiren Rijiju said concerns of the stakeholders, including the state governments and security agencies, will be duly considered before taking a final decision in the matter

A proposal to grant long-term tourist visa to Bangladeshi nationals above 65 years of age is under examination of the Home Ministry, Lok Sabha was informed on Monday.

"A proposal to grant multiple entry long-term tourist visa for a period of 5 years to Bangladeshi nationals above the age of 65 years is under consideration in consultation with all stakeholders," Minister of State for Home Kiren Rijiju said replying to a written question.

The Minister said concerns of the stakeholders, including the state governments and security agencies, will be duly considered before taking a final decision in the matter.

Ahir, however, said there is no proposal to grant visa free-entry to Bangladeshi nationals under the age of 18 years and above the age of 65 years.

The Minister said at present, e-tourist visa scheme is available to nationals of 150 countries at 16 international airports in India.

"Inclusion of more countries in e-tourist visa scheme is a continuous process which is done after due consultation with the stakeholders," he said.