How Many e-Visas Did the Centre Grant in 5 Years?
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Synopsis
The Indian government has granted an impressive 96,44,567 e-visas since 2020, with a rise in eligible countries from 171 to 181. This report highlights the government's initiatives to support pilgrims and improve international travel.
Key Takeaways
- 96,44,567 e-visas issued from 2020 to 2025.
- Increase in e-visa eligible countries from 171 to 181.
- Support initiatives for Indian pilgrims include medical assistance and consular services.
- Average Haj quota for Indian pilgrims: 1,75,025.
- Pakistan charges $20 per pilgrim for Kartarpur visits.
New Delhi, July 31 (NationPress) The Union government announced on Thursday that a staggering 96,44,567 e-visas have been issued from 2020 to July 20, 2025, as per official reports.
The number of nations eligible for e-visa has grown from 171 in 2020 to 181 in 2025, as stated by Minister of State (MoS) for External Affairs Kirti Vardhan Singh in a written response during a Rajya Sabha session.
Foreigners arriving at Ahmedabad and Surat have received a total of 3,26,183 and 107 e-visas, respectively, as per the Minister's statements.
“The number of e-Visa eligible countries has risen from 171 in 2020 to 181 in 2025 at Ahmedabad Airport. The Surat Airport was designated as an e-Visa enabled airport on May 26, 2025, with currently 181 countries permitted as ports of arrival,” MoS Singh commented.
The Union government has introduced various initiatives aimed at supporting Indian pilgrims traveling internationally.
These initiatives encompass administrative oversight, consular assistance, coordination with local authorities, and medical facilities.
“The government plays a crucial role in ensuring the seamless execution of the Haj pilgrimage for Indian nationals, collaborating closely with the Ministry of Minority Affairs, Haj Committee of India, and Saudi authorities to provide thorough support throughout the pilgrimage process,” the Union Minister elaborated.
This support includes a range of services such as medical assistance, accommodation, transportation, catering, sanitation, and utilities via its Consulate in Jeddah.
The Consulate ensures the smooth arrival and departure of pilgrims and offers consular aid to Indian pilgrims during their stay in Saudi Arabia, in collaboration with Saudi officials.
Each year, Saudi authorities announce a Haj quota for India, which has averaged 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims in recent years.
The Union Minister also mentioned that the government has repeatedly urged Pakistan to refrain from imposing any fees on pilgrims visiting Gurudwara Darbar Sahib Kartarpur through the Sri Kartarpur Sahib Corridor.
“However, Pakistan continues to charge $20 for each pilgrim per visit. The validity of this agreement was extended for another five years in October 2024. Currently, operations of the Kartarpur corridor have been suspended since Operation Sindoor,” said MoS Singh.
Point of View
It is essential to recognize the Union government's initiatives in enhancing international travel through e-visas and supporting pilgrims. The increase in eligible countries reflects a proactive approach to facilitating global movement, demonstrating India's commitment to international relations and cultural exchange.
NationPress
21/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the total number of e-visas granted by the Indian government?
The Indian government has granted a total of 96,44,567 e-visas from 2020 to July 20, 2025.
How many countries are eligible for e-visas now?
The number of countries eligible for e-visas has increased to 181 as of 2025.
What measures are taken for Indian pilgrims traveling abroad?
The government provides various services such as administrative oversight, consular assistance, and medical facilities to support Indian pilgrims.
What is the Haj quota for Indian pilgrims?
The Haj quota for India has been set at an average of 1,75,025 Indian pilgrims in recent years.
What is the status of the Kartarpur corridor?
Currently, operations of the Kartarpur corridor have been suspended since Operation Sindoor, and Pakistan continues to levy a fee of $20 on each pilgrim.
