FRRO Offices to Be Set Up in All States by 2027: Amit Shah

Union Home Minister Amit Shah has called for the expansion of Foreigners Regional Registration Offices (FRROs) across the country, directing that every state capital should have an FRRO by 2027.

At present, FRRO facilities are operational in 20 states. The Centre is working to extend the network to the remaining states, including Bihar, Jharkhand, Goa, Madhya Pradesh, Himachal Pradesh, Uttarakhand, Arunachal Pradesh, Manipur and Meghalaya.

According to the Union Home Ministry, the growing number of foreign visitors arriving in India for tourism, medical treatment and educational opportunities has made it essential to strengthen the registration and support system for foreign nationals.

The proposed expansion aims to make immigration-related services more accessible, improve regulatory compliance and enhance coordination between central and state authorities. It is also expected to make India a more welcoming destination for international visitors.

Through FRROs, eligible foreign nationals can access essential services such as visa extensions, visa conversions and post-arrival registration. These offices also oversee the lawful stay of foreign visitors and residents by issuing Registration Certificates (RCs) and Residential Permits (RPs), wherever applicable.

The Centre believes that expanding the FRRO network will improve administrative efficiency, strengthen local-level monitoring and provide better assistance to foreigners visiting or residing in India.