The Jammu and Kashmir Tourism Directorate has issued an advisory requiring hotels, lodges, homestays, universities, hospitals, hostels, and other institutions to submit details of foreign guests within 24 hours of providing accommodation. The directive, citing Section 7 of the Foreigners Act, 1946, mandates the submission of Form C online. Non-compliance could result in penalties, including imprisonment of up to five years and fines under Section 14 of the Act.
Accommodation providers must furnish details such as arrival and departure dates, photo ID proof, passport and visa information, purpose of visit, Indian reference contact, and further travel plans. This applies to all paid accommodations, including those hosting tourists, business travelers, medical visitors, and individuals on research or journalist visas. Additionally, hosts are required to maintain accurate visitor registers recording foreign guests’ arrival and departure dates.
The measure aims to enhance the tracking and monitoring of foreign visitors, ensuring compliance with national security protocols while facilitating smoother tourism operations in the region.
