India delays implementation of ‘online ECNR registration’ for Non-Resident Indians

A few weeks back, the Indian government had issued an advisory which said citizens living and working in 18 nations, including Qatar, should register themselves on an online platform beginning January 1, 2019.

The mandatory online registration was for Indian citizens holding Non-Emigration Check Required (non-ECR or ECNR) passports.

However, it had caused widespread confusion among Indian expatriates. The Indian government has finally heeded to the calls and temporarily suspended the programme’s implementation, reported Gulf Times.

India’s Ministry of External Affairs conveyed the decision through a notice posted on the portal, www.emigrate.gov.in, yesterday.

“With reference to Ministry of External Affairs Advisory dated the 14th November, 2018 on the above subject, it is informed that the Ministry has been receiving representations from various quarters, including Non-ECR passport holders already employed in ECR countries, regarding difficulties faced by them in registration on www.emigrate.gov.in,” MC Luther, Joint Secretary & Protector General of Emigrants, was quoted as saying in the notice by The Peninsula.

“The Indian Missions in those countries have also forwarded representations received by them from the local Indian community. In view of the above, the Competent Authority has decided to keep this Advisory, regarding registration of Non-ECR passport holders, in abeyance until further orders,” he added.

However, if a person wants to register voluntarily, he or she is free to do so.

The earlier order had advised people leaving to the 18 countries for work to register themselves at least 24 hours before departure or risk being stopped at the airport.