In-Country FRRO/FRO Procedures

The FRROs/FROs are responsible for the registration, visa extensions, visa conversions, and other official matters related to foreign nationals residing in India.

Key Procedures:

Registration: Foreign nationals holding specific types of visas (e.g., student, employment, research) must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days of their 1^st arrival in India if their stay exceeds 180 days.
Visa Extension: Visa extensions must be applied for by foreign nationals before the current visa expires. The application can be filed online through the FRRO portal by uploading the requisite supporting documents.
Change of Address: If a foreign national changes his/her residence within the same FRRO/FRO jurisdiction and does not plan to return to this address for a continuous period of 8 weeks or more, the FRRO/FRO must be informed by submitting an online application throug the FRRO portal.
Change in Visa Category: Foreign nationals who need to change their visa type (e.g., from student visa to research visa) must apply for a conversion through the FRRO/FRO. This process usually involves providing detailed documentation and justification for the change.
Exit Permit: In the event where a foreign national’s visa has expired or if they have overstayed, they must obtain an exit permit from the FRRO/FRO before leaving India.
Repatriation Process: It is important to report to the FRRO/FRO of any foreign national’s departure from the country upon completion of the assignment.
Special Permissions: In certain cases, such as working in restricted areas or engaging in specific activities, foreign nationals must obtain special permission from the FRRO/FRO.

FAQs

Who needs to register with the FRRO/FRO?

Foreign nationals holding visas with a duration exceeding 180 days must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival in India.

How do one apply for visa extension, and can it be done while in India?

Visa extension applications can be made online through the e-FRRO portal by uploading required documents. It is important to submit the application well in advance before the visa expiration date. The foreign national must remain present in India while submitting any application with the FRRO/FRO and while the application is under process.

What should I do if I change my address?

You must report the change of address by providing the necessary proof of the new address to the FRRO/FRO if you do not intend to return to that address for a period of 8 weeks or more.

What happens if my work location is changed to another city outside the current FRRO jurisdiction?

You will then need to apply for a transfer order with the respective FRRO/FRO and upon receiving the transfer order, re-register with the new FRRO/FRO.

What happens if I overstay my visa?

Overstaying is a legal offense. Any overstay must be reported to the FRRO/FRO and an exit permit be obtained to leave the country.

Do I need to visit the FRRO/FRO in person?

Most services can be completed online through the e-FRRO portal. However, in some cases, a personal visit to the FRRO/FRO may be required.

What happens if my visa extension is denied?

If your visa extension is denied, you may be required to leave India before your current visa expires. In some cases, you may be given a specific time frame within which you must exit the country.

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