India is implementing significant regulatory changes affecting taxation and international travel, scheduled to take effect throughout 2025. The changes represent a major shift in the country’s approach to digital security and identity verification, particularly in its tax administration system.
In the realm of GST compliance, new security measures will be implemented through a phased rollout of mandatory Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) for GST portal access. Starting January 1, 2025, businesses with Annual Aggregate Turnover exceeding Rs 20 crore must implement MFA. The requirement extends to businesses with turnover exceeding Rs 5 crore from February 1, and to all remaining taxpayers from April 1, 2025. The implementation follows growing concerns about cybersecurity in tax administration systems, with similar initiatives being considered in other South Asian countries.
The GST framework also introduces revised conditions for Input Tax Credit claims. Buyers must now ensure several criteria are met, including proper e-invoice documentation, confirmation of goods receipt, and verification that the supplier has both declared the supply in their GST return and remitted the applicable tax to the government. The changes are part of India’s broader push toward digital transformation in tax administration and electronic Know Your Customer (eKYC) verification systems.
For international travel, Indian citizens face new visa requirements across multiple destinations. Thailand will require e-visas for Indian visitors starting January 1, 2025, replacing the current visa-free entry system. The United Kingdom is increasing financial requirements for visa applicants, with Indian students and skilled workers needing to demonstrate 11 percent higher savings for visa applications. The changes come as countries worldwide are implementing enhanced digital travel credentials and e-passport systems with advanced security features.
U.S. visa processing introduces a free appointment rescheduling option for non-immigrant visa applicants. Current processing times for B1/B2 visas exceed 400 days, necessitating advance planning for travelers. The development occurs as global border control systems increasingly integrate digital identity verification technologies and biometric authentication methods.
Sources: India.com
Sources: The Economic Times
Sources: India TV News
Sources: The Economic Times
Sources: Times Now News
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