Officials of Manohar International Airport (MIA), Goa, also known as Mopa Airport, issued a statement yesterday announcing that the airport is now an authorized Immigration Check Post (ICP) for the entry of individuals holding e-visas.
“In an effort to ensure a seamless and hassle-free experience for international travellers, MIA has achieved the esteemed status of an authorized ICP for the entry of individuals possessing e-visas. These e-visas are granted to foreigners with intentions such as leisure, visiting friends or relatives, medical treatment and business purposes within India,” the statement said.
Individuals holding e-visas are granted entry into India exclusively through designated international airports and seaports. With the e-visa facility now operational at Mopa Airport, international travellers can expect an effortless entry process.
CEO of GMR Goa International Airport Ltd (GGIAL), RV Sheshan, added, “The introduction of the e-visa facility marks another remarkable milestone for MIA. Our airport is now equipped with world-class infrastructure, including essential e-visa, immigration and customs services, to facilitate international travel. The demand for enhanced air connectivity from Goa to new international destinations is paramount. Establishing connections with additional international destinations will not only boost tourism in Goa, but also catalyze socio-economic development in the region.”
Manohar International Airport (MIA), Mopa, North Goa, was inaugurated on December 11, 2022. While domestic operations began at the airport in January 2023, international flights commenced a few months later, on July 21, 2023, with the arrival of the first international flight from London’s Gatwick Airport.
And, while the e-visa facility was available at the Dabolim International Airport, Mopa Airport lacked the same.
There were also reports that immigration officials at Mopa Airport would deport any passenger back on the same flight if found arriving at the airport with an e-visa.
This was a cause for concern for international travellers, and Fatorda MLA Vijai Sardesai had brought up the issue in the recent monsoon session of the Goa Legislative Assembly, held in July-August 2023.
Sardesai had also suggested that the international flight operations be shifted back to Dabolim Airport, where the e-visa facility was available.