In News:

The Union Cabinet has approved the continuation of the Immigration, Visa, Foreigners Registration & Tracking (IVFRT) Scheme for the period 2026–2031, in line with evolving immigration needs and the recently enacted Immigration and Foreigners Act, 2025.

About IVFRT Scheme

The IVFRT Scheme is a technology-driven platform aimed at integrating and streamlining:

• Immigration processes
• Visa issuance
• Registration and tracking of foreigners in India

It was initially approved in 2010 and has undergone multiple phases of expansion to enhance efficiency and security.

Current Phase

• Duration: 1 April 2026 – 31 March 2031
• Budget Outlay: ?1800 crore

Objectives

• Create a secure, integrated immigration ecosystem
• Facilitate legitimate international travel
• Strengthen national security and foreigner tracking mechanisms
• Improve ease of doing business and tourism flows

Key Features

1. Emerging Technology Integration

• Adoption of mobile-based immigration services
• Deployment of self-service kiosks and e-gates
• Use of advanced digital platforms for seamless passenger movement

2. Transformation of Core Infrastructure

• Upgradation of:
  • Immigration Check Posts (ICPs)
  • Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs)
  • Data centres and backend systems
• Development of a resilient and scalable nationwide system

3. Technology & Service Optimization

• Introduction of unified digital platforms
• Revamping of core application architecture
• Strengthening of network systems for faster and efficient service delivery

Achievements of IVFRT System

• 100% faceless and contactless visa processing system
• Around 91% of e-Visas processed within 72 hours
• Reduction in immigration clearance time:

o          From5–6 minutes to 2.5–3 minutes

• Introduction of Fast Track Immigration–Trusted TravellerProgramme (FTI-TTP):

o          Clearance time reduced to ~30 seconds at e-gates

• Coverage:

o          117 Immigration Posts

o          15 FRROs

o          850 Foreigners Registration Offices (FROs)