India has just relaxed some of its border entry requirements for citizens of Nepal and Bhutan. A new directive eliminates the need for a visa and passport for those arriving from their countries by land or air.

This change, announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs on Tuesday, September 02, 2025, represents an important update for travellers between these neighbouring countries. It simplifies cross-border movement, which was previously more restrictive.

What the New Rule Means

The Ministry of Home Affairs clarified that citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not need a passport or visa to enter India when crossing the border. However, travelers must still carry some form of government-issued identification.

Accepted Travel Documents

Travellers from Nepal and Bhutan may present one of the following documents:

• A valid Nepalese or Bhutanese passport
• Citizenship certificate from Nepal or Bhutan
• Voter Identification Card issued by the Election Commission of Nepal or Bhutan
• A limited validity photo ID certificate issued by the Nepalese or Royal Bhutanese Missions in India, if warranted.

For young travellers aged 10 to 18, a photo ID signed by the school principal is acceptable if the children are travelling with parents who have valid travel documents. Children under 10 years old do not need any identity documents to enter India.

Passport Required for Entry From Other Countries

One key clause to note is that if a Nepal or Bhutan citizen comes to India from a place other than Nepal or Bhutan, a passport is still mandatory for entry. This means the eased entry rules only apply when crossing directly from Nepal or Bhutan.

Special Provisions for Tibetans

The directive also includes Tibetans who are already in India or trying to enter. They need to register with the designated authorities and have valid registration certificates.

This includes:

• Tibetans who entered India after 1959 but before May 30, 2003, using a Special Entry Permit from the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu
• Those who entered after May 30, 2003, with the new Special Entry Permit and through designated Indo-Nepal border posts

Why This Matters

India has long kept open borders with Nepal and Bhutan, making it easy for citizens to move across shared borders. This update supports that tradition and specifies the documents needed, particularly for children and travellers coming from other countries.

Final Thoughts

By simplifying entry protocols, India makes it easier for its neighbours. This change allows for more convenient visits and exchanges. Travellers can now prepare to have smoother access to India when coming directly from Nepal or Bhutan.

However, it is still important to carry one of the accepted IDs to prevent delays at checkpoints.