Goa proposes 'Visa on Arrival' facility to boost international tourism

Goa is one of prime beach destinations in India. It is known for its vibrant nightlife, and amazing cuisine, welcoming people and culture. Every year, the state attracts lakhs of national as well as international tourists. However, when it comes to foreign tourists, they often face several issues and challenges while trying to reach Goa, as per PTI report. As of now, foreign visitors to the state still require government assistance to make it more accessible. So, in a bid to make things easier and approachable, the state government has now proposed a “visa on arrival” scheme to encourage more foreign visitors. The state is also pushing for better air connectivity to attract international tourists. In a statement, the state tourism department highlighted the importance of charter flights from key international markets, such as Moscow, London, Ekaterinburg, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, which help boost foreign arrivals. Additionally, a Polish charter flight is scheduled to arrive in Goa on November 8. This international interest is not just limited to Goa’s famous beaches, but also includes the state’s scenic hinterlands, such as Dudhsagar Falls. The government is working on improving air links by collaborating with airlines to expand flight routes. However, establishing stronger international connectivity requires further support from the central government, according to a spokesperson for Goa’s tourism department. This support is seen as vital to making Goa a more attractive and accessible destination for global travelers. The spokesperson noted that after the disruptions caused by the pandemic, international tourism in Goa is rebounding, with over 450,000 foreign arrivals in 2023. This is in addition to the over 8 million domestic visitors recorded in the same year.Despite the positive trends, Goa still faces significant challenges, particularly with limited direct international flights. To overcome this, the state government is working closely with the central government to increase the number of direct flight routes and secure additional seat entitlements for international travellers.Goa with its beaches and scenic landscape continues to attract people from all over the world.Now, with these efforts, Goa hopes to further enhance its appeal as a globally connected tourism destination.