As India's economy continues to scale new heights, it has become an epicentre of global business interest. This vibrant economic growth is drawing a diverse array of foreign nationals, attracted by burgeoning employment prospects, expanding business avenues, and the country's rich cultural heritage. Understanding India's complex immigration and compliance requirements is imperative for these international professionals and the organizations behind them, especially when it comes to navigating specific visa protocols and essential on-arrival compliance procedures.
Delving deeper into India's visa framework reveals a myriad of categories tailored to various professional and personal pursuits. For a thorough understanding of the diverse visa options India offers, our detailed guide provides in-depth insights.
One of the critical compliance requirements for foreign nationals upon arrival in India is adherence to local registrations with authorities, which essentially encompass Form C registration followed by registration with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
What exactly is Form C?
In simple terms, there is an obligation on property owners or managers to notify authorities about the arrival and stay of foreign guests at their premises. This is achieved by submitting Form C to the authorities, along with the particulars of the foreign national. The process of submitting Form C is completely online and is required to be completed within 24 hours of the arrival of the foreign national. Failure to comply with the mandated regulations would be a violation under the Foreigners Act, 1946.
How is Form C different from FRRO registration required by expatriates?
As mentioned above, Form C serves as a notification to the authorities regarding the arrival and stay of foreign guests. This step is crucial for ensuring the safety and security of foreigners in India, as it aids in monitoring their movements within the country. Form C is a preliminary requirement and acts as a supporting document for the FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) registration. The FRRO registration is mandatory for expatriates planning to stay in India for more than 180 days.
Expatriates on long-term visas, such as employment, project, or student visas, must register with the FRRO within 14 days of their arrival. Similarly, business visa holders are required to undergo FRRO registration if their cumulative stay in India exceeds 180 days in a calendar year. The FRRO registration certificate provided to the expatriate also serves as address and identity proof, which is essential for various official purposes, including PAN applications, opening bank accounts, or obtaining a mobile connection.
To understand more about when an expatriate is required to apply for FRRO registration
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Form C - Application Process
The process for submitting Form C is entirely online. Every hotel, guest house, hostel owner, or individual house host needs to register themselves and apply Form C following the below steps:
- Log into the FRRO portal at https://indianfrro.gov.in/frro/FormC
- Create a new user account by uploading the necessary documents
- Once the account is activated, select 'Form C' to start inputting information about the foreign guests accommodated
- Fill in the details of the foreigner, including a photograph, passport, and visa specifics, with due diligence
- Enter comprehensive information such as the foreign national's permanent address, travel history, exact arrival time and date in India, details of accommodation, purpose of visit, and contact information in Form C.
After submission, retain a copy of the e-Form C generated through the portal for record-keeping purposes and provide a copy to the foreign guest.
Did You Know?
The obligation to submit Form C extends beyond hotels and guest houses to include medical institutions. Hospitals treating foreign patients who require inpatient care are also required to complete and submit Form C. This regulation was spotlighted in 2013 when a doctor and a medical administrator at a hospital in Pune were arrested. The arrest was due to their failure to notify the authorities and submit Form C after treating a foreign national for a bullet injury.
India's allure as a destination is not limited to employment and business opportunities or its rich cultural tourism; it's also a renowned hub for Medical Tourism. Hospital management are also required to comply with the Form C registration process for foreign nationals admitted for treatment.
Intimation upon departure of foreigner
It is standard practice to submit Form C twice during a foreigner’s stay: firstly at check-in and again at check-out. While there is no specific deadline set for the submission of Form C at the time of check-out, it is generally advisable to complete this process within 24 hours of the guest's departure. This ensures ongoing compliance with the regulatory requirements.
Expat Orbit provides support in planning and executing expatriate assignments in India, catering to the needs of multinational corporations and their expatriates in India. Should you have inquiries about expatriate management or need assistance, please contact us at [emailprotected]. To discuss your requirements further and explore how we can assist, schedule a discovery call with our experts here.
