India has introduced a new digital business visa to boost production and investment-related activities.
The visa, called the e-B4 (e-Production Investment Business Visa), is aimed at facilitating smoother business travel, especially for manufacturing and industrial collaboration.
This move is expected to support India’s growing production sector and attract faster business participation from overseas companies.
What is the e-B4 Visa?
The e-B4 visa will come into effect from January 1, 2026.
It can be applied for completely online, without visiting the Indian embassy or using agents.
The visa has been introduced due to rising demand for business travel to India, particularly for production-linked activities.
Chinese businesses can apply for this visa for specific and approved business purposes.
Processing Time and Validity
The e-B4 visa is expected to be issued within 45 to 50 days.
Once approved, it allows the visa holder to stay in India for up to six months.
This visa is meant for senior management and executives involved in key operational roles.
These include installation and commissioning of machinery, quality inspections, essential maintenance, production activities, IT and ERP setup, training, and vendor onboarding.
How Indian Companies Can Apply
Indian companies that wish to invite Chinese nationals under the e-B4 visa can submit applications through the DPIIT’s National Single Window System (NSWS) portal.
The process is fully digital and designed to reduce delays while ensuring proper monitoring of business-related travel.
India–China Cultural Engagement Continues
Alongside business cooperation, cultural ties are also being highlighted.
Indian Consul General in Shanghai, Pratik Mathur, recently visited the historic Tiger Hill Pagoda in Suzhou.
The visit marked the inauguration of the exhibition “Light and the Lotus: Relics of Awakened,” which was opened in India by Prime Minister Narendra Modi.
The exhibition showcases sacred Buddhist antiquities and reflects India’s deep cultural heritage.
Why This Visa Matters
The launch of the e-B4 visa signals India’s focus on easing business operations, supporting manufacturing growth, and strengthening controlled international collaboration.
With a clear purpose, digital process, and defined timelines, the new visa is expected to improve ease of doing business and attract long-term investment interest.
