India to extend visa of stranded foreign nationals

India will extend visa of foreign nationals including Bangladeshis -- whose visas have expired since February 1 or would expire on April 30 for being stranded in the country due to lockdown for coronavirus pandemic -- till April 30 free of cost.

The regular visa, e-visa or stay stipulation of such foreign nationals, who have been stranded in India due to travel restrictions imposed by Indian authorities and whose visas have expired or will be expiring between February 1 to April 30, would be extended till April 30 (midnight) free of cost after making online application by the foreigners, the ministry said in a statement.

There are an estimated 2,500 Bangladeshis stranded in India, reports our New Delhi correspondent.

Earlier this month, Bangladesh Foreign Ministry officials had said the stranded Bangladeshis would have to wait till the lockdown in India is lifted to return home.

The ongoing three-week lockdown across India is all set to be till April 30 as India grapples to slow down the spread of the contagion that has claimed 308 lives and affected 9,152 people.