India opens new e-Business visa channel for Chinese investors, easing entry for manufacturing-linked travel

India launched a new e-Production Investment Business Visa called the e-B-4 Visa for Chinese nationals.

• Why it matters now: The move signals a calibrated reopening of business travel channels amid cautious India-China economic engagement.

• What changes for people: Eligible Chinese business professionals can now apply fully online without visiting the Indian Embassy.

• Who is affected: Chinese investors, equipment suppliers, and Indian manufacturing and infrastructure sectors.

India has introduced a new digital visa pathway for Chinese nationals engaged in production-linked business activities, marking a notable shift in its approach to business travel with China. The e-B-4 Visa, launched on January 1, allows eligible Chinese businessmen to travel to India for specific investment-related purposes, including installation, commissioning, and servicing of equipment.

The policy was confirmed through a latest advisory issued by the Indian Embassy in Beijing, which clarified that applications for the new visa category can be submitted entirely online, without any in-person visit to the embassy or reliance on visa agents.

What is the e-B-4 Visa and who can apply

According to the embassy advisory, the e-B-4 Visa is a production investment-focused business visa designed for Chinese nationals involved in manufacturing-linked activities in India.

Key features include:

• Processing time of around 45 to 50 days

• Permission to stay in India for up to six months

• Online application through the official Indian visa portal

Officials said the visa is intended for genuine business travel tied to industrial projects, rather than general commercial or trading visits.