Major Rule Changes Starting January 1, 2025: GST, Visas, Mobile Data, And Much More | Details Inside

As 2024 draws to a close, preparations for 2025 are already underway. With the new year, several significant changes (Rule Changes from January 1) will come into effect across the country, impacting households, professions, travellers, and finances. These adjustments cover a range of topics, including data charges, visa processes, and GST.

Here's a preview of the major changes that will affect your budget and planning starting from January 1, 2025:

Key Changes in GST Compliance

Several important changes in GST compliance will take effect from January 1, 2025, which will impact businesses in India:

1. Mandatory MFA (Multi-Factor Authentication): MFA will be mandatory for all taxpayers to enhance security on GST portals.

Preparation: Update mobile numbers for OTPs, train employees, enable MFA early, and ensure IT system compatibility.

2. E-Way Bill Restrictions: E-Way Bills (EWBs) can only be generated for base documents not older than 180 days.

Preparation: Align invoicing and logistics with the 180-day rule, automate EWB reminders, and coordinate inventory with supply chain teams.

These changes aim to streamline processes and combat fraud.

Thailand's E-Visa System Launch

Starting January 1, 2025, visitors from any country will be able to apply for a Thailand e-Visa through the official website, www.thaievisa.go.th. Previously, the e-Visa system was available only to travellers from specific regions.

This expansion simplifies the process, allowing applicants from all countries to complete the visa application procedure online. This change will make it easier for international visitors, particularly Indians, to travel to Thailand.

New US Visa Appointment Rules to Reduce Wait Times, Provide Relief for Indians in 2025

• US Visa Relief for Indians: From January 1, 2025, the US Embassy in India will allow non-immigrant visa applicants to reschedule appointments once without incurring additional fees. Any further rescheduling will require reapplication and payment of the fee.
• H-1B Visa Overhaul: Starting January 17, 2025, new Department of Homeland Security (DHS) rules will aim to modernise the H-1B process, offering greater flexibility for employers and smoother transitions for Indian F-1 visa holders.
• Long Wait Times Persist: Visa appointment wait times in India remain high, with B1/B2 visas averaging over 400 days.

ITC Hotels Demerger to Take Effect from January 1, 2025

ITC, the Kolkata-based conglomerate, has announced that the demerger of ITC Hotels will take effect on January 1, 2025, once all necessary permits are obtained.

Key Rule Changes for Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL Users from January 1, 2025

The Department of Telecommunications released the Telecommunications (Right of Way) Rules, 2024, commonly known as RoW rules, on 19 September 2024. These regulations will come into effect on January 1, 2025, governing the construction, use, and maintenance of underground communications facilities on public property. The new rules will enable telecom providers such as Jio, Airtel, Vodafone, and BSNL to improve their services and expand mobile tower installations.

WhatsApp to Stop Working on Older Android Phones from January 1, 2025

WhatsApp will no longer support many Android phones running older versions of the operating system, starting from January 1, 2025. This includes popular models from brands such as Samsung, LG, Sony, HTC, and Motorola.

Affected phone models include:

• Samsung: Galaxy S3, Galaxy Note 2, Galaxy Ace 3, Galaxy S4 Mini
• HTC: One X, One X+, Desire 500, Desire 601
• Sony: Xperia Z, Xperia SP, Xperia T, Xperia V
• LG: Optimus G, Nexus 4, G2 Mini, L90
• Motorola: Moto G, Razr HD, Moto E (2014)

WhatsApp will no longer support these devices, so it's essential to back up any data or chats you have on them before the deadline. To accommodate newer features, including Meta AI, the app requires more advanced technology, leading to regular updates in its requirements.