How to Register with FRRO in India for Long-Term Stays
Foreign nationals staying in India for more than 180 days on most visa types must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival. You'll need your passport, visa, local address proof, and photographs to complete the registration process either online or in person.
- Check if you need to register. Registration is mandatory if you're staying more than 180 days on employment, business, student, research, or medical visas. Tourist visa holders staying over 180 days also need to register. Transit visa and diplomatic visa holders are exempt.
- Gather required documents. Collect your original passport with valid visa, 3 recent passport-size photographs, proof of local address (rental agreement, hotel booking, or letter from host), and a copy of your sponsor's documents if applicable.
- Register online first. Visit frroregistration.nic.in and create an account. Fill out Form C online with your personal details, visa information, and local address. Upload digital copies of all required documents. Save your application reference number.
- Book an appointment. Use your online application reference to schedule an appointment at your local FRRO office. Major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and Bangalore have dedicated FRRO offices. Smaller cities may require visiting the local police superintendent's office.
- Visit FRRO office. Arrive 15 minutes early with original documents and printouts of your online application. The officer will verify documents, take biometrics, and issue a registration certificate. The process typically takes 2-4 hours depending on crowds.
- Keep registration updated. Report any change of address within 14 days through the online portal. If extending your stay, update your registration before your current visa expires. Always carry a copy of your registration certificate with your passport.
- What happens if I register late?
- Late registration may result in fines between 200-10000 rupees depending on how late you are. Register as soon as possible and explain any valid reasons for delay to the FRRO officer.
- Can I register at any FRRO office?
- You must register at the FRRO office covering the district where you're staying. Delhi residents go to Delhi FRRO, Mumbai residents to Mumbai FRRO, etc. Check the jurisdiction on the FRRO website.
- Do I need to register again if I travel within India?
- No, but if you change your permanent address for more than 14 days, you need to update your registration online. Short trips and hotel stays don't require updates.
- What if my visa gets extended?
- Update your FRRO registration online within 14 days of visa extension approval. Upload the new visa pages and updated documentation through the web portal.