getting india travel visa

A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an India Tourist Visa (for U.S. Citizens)

Traveling to India as a U.S. citizen has become more accessible post-pandemic, with streamlined visa processes. In this comprehensive step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to show you how to get your Indian visa if you’re a U.S. citizen. Understanding the visa application process is essential for a smooth journey and with that out of the way, you can focus on your India trip planning .

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Table of Contents: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an India Tourist Visa (for U.S. Citizens)

• 0.1 Differences between a regular Indian visa and Indian e-visa?
• 0.2 What is the official India Visa application website?
• 0.3 What documents do I need for an India tourist visa?
• 1.0.1 1. Getting a regular India Tourist Visa in the U.S. (paper or sticker)
• 1.0.2 Regular India Tourist Visa (Paper Application)
• 2.0.1 The Indian eVisa Application process is easy
• 2.1.1 What are the Photo Upload Requirements?
• 2.1.2 Which internet browser should I use for applying for my India tourist visa?
• 2.1.3 Listing References for your India Tourist Visa
• 2.1.4 What are the India Tourist Visa Photo Requirements
• 2.1.5 What profession should you list on your visa application?
• 2.1.6 Do I need an India visa for layovers in India?
• 2.2 Related Posts on India Trip Planning
• 3 Watch India Travel Guides for Solo Travelers!

Differences between a regular Indian visa and Indian e-visa?

There are two ways to apply for your Indian Tourist Visa: the regular paper India visa application and the Indian e-Visa. Both options offer the same visa types and durations.

But the differences end there. Determining which to get is based upon how you wish to use it in entry points and how much cost and processing time you can afford. From a tourist standpoint, the only caveat to getting a regular paper India visa is that you will have more flexibility with entry points as they are not only limited to airport access, but sea and land as well. When I was researching how to do an overland passage to India after my group adventure in Pakistan , crossing the Wagah-Attari border into Amritsar required the regular Indian tourist visa .

With the regular India tourist visa, the price is also more expensive with the VFS mail-in/courier process and processing time can be much longer, especially if there is an issue with your application or documents. The paper Indian tourist visa is a process you will need to start well over a month in advance of your travel dates .

Meanwhile, the Indian e-Visa can be done online and you’ll get it lickety-split and for tons cheaper. It’s almost as if the Indian government prefers for tourists to just get the Indian e-Visa. The drawback is that  you can only enter India via the airport. Land and sea is not allowed.

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What is the official india visa application website.

Both regular and eVisa can be accessed through the Indian Visa Online website at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in

Although the India eVisa is a bit tricky and it is in a sub section of the website and they do not link to it (duh!). You won’t be able  access the Indian evisa easily unless you Google it or so I’ve listed it here. Note: There are other India visa sites that you’ll find on the internet, but this is the official one. I don’t believe the other sites are scams, but you may end up paying more to get it expedited through one of the other visa sites.

What documents do I need for an India tourist visa?

Gather these following documents for a successful application:

• A copy of your passport bio page with at least 6 months’ validity.
• How to remember dates and countries you’ve been? Check your passport for immigration stamp dates!
• Previous India visa details (if applicable). If  you traveled to India in the past, you will need to know your last visa number and the date it was authorized . Again, check in your passport or in your email if you still have the information. I found my passport had all the dates I needed.
• Current citizenship details
• Your visa application form
• Reference contact in India. This can also mean your tour operator/friend/family you’re staying with or hotel information. I list my hotel information at Booking.com

How to Apply for a regular Indian Visa for U.S. Citizens

In the past, getting an Indian tourist visa was complex. After the pandemic, requirements changed and they made it much easier to get a tourist visa, a long term visa (i.e. 5 year and 10 year) and multiple entry.  But there’s still aspects that can be confusing to U.S. travelers.

Read Essential trip planning tips for India

1. getting a regular india tourist visa in the u.s. (paper or sticker).

Applying for the regular India Tourist Visa (paper or sticker) in your home country is a time consuming route because it is a mail-in service and India uses a third party service to facilitate this process.

Regular India Tourist Visa (Paper Application)

• Application process: Requires mailing the application and using a third-party service.
• Processing time: Up to 15 days, potentially  30-60 days if scrutiny is needed.
• Visa validity: Starts on the issuance date. So you might not want to apply too far in advance if you want to use the most of your allowance stay.
• Application link: The Indian Online Visa website is where you apply. It is confusing because it says says “ online ” which can feel like the same thing as e-visa .  Rest assured, this is it. The window opens to the process and you’ll see the photo below.
• Fill out the form and remember to keep your ID number. You will be able to save your form and return back to it in the case you cannot complete it in one sitting. But you will need your ID number. I forgot to keep mine the first time. But I was filling out the regular India visa; not the evisa, which I ultimately decided upon.
• When you’re complete with your form, download it and print it out to mail in.
• Indian Tourist Visa Application (Mail in process): Here’s where it gets a little extra. The outsourced service that handles the regular Indian tourist visa application for U.S. citizens is  VFS global website (2023) . 
• You may walk your application into a VFS center nearest you; otherwise, mail your application and passport in. VFS locations in the U.S.: Washington DC ,  New York ,  Chicago ,  Houston ,  San Francisco  &  Atlanta  .
• VFS Global Indian Visa Application Centre, 128 East, 32nd Street, 2nd Floor, New York, 10016.
• Email only for questions [email protected] , Helpline: +1-800-320-9693
•  They are very specific about the type of visa photo, application and packaging when mailing it in.  
• There is a 3.5% fee for the online payment convenience and another $18 for return courier service.

Cost and Duration of regular India Tourist Visa for U.S. Citizens, Entry   &   Fee

10 Years –   Single Entry $178 5 Years   –   Multiple Entry $178 6 Months – Multiple Entry $178

How to Apply for an Indian e-Visa for U.S. Citizens (Online Application)

Getting an Indian Tourist eVisa online is probably the easiest and fastest and cheapest method if you were ever in a hurry and you’re afforded the same amount of stay. But you can only enter through airport entry points.

The Indian eVisa Application process is easy

Getting a tourist eVisa for India is an easy online application through the official Government of India Online Visa website. The processing time is quick and easy, and takes around 10-15 minutes.  You want to apply at least four days before departure, as validity starts from date of arrival. Once your visa is processed, you will get your visa sent via email and you should print it out as well as have a copy of your visa snapshot on your mobile phone. Your email notification of a granted visa processed an granted IS NOT THE INDIA E-VISA. You must still log into your account and download the actual printable visa. I made this mistake where I thought the email saying that my visa was GRANTED was enough and when I arrived at the check-in gate, I was declined. Luckily, I was able to use the airport WiFi to access the India visa website with my account, where I could download my actual eVisa.

 A one year Indian tourist e-visa $40, a five-year Indian tourist visa $80. Expect an 2.5% online fee.

• Official India eVisa Website Application (you can see the ports of entry on this page)
• Entry points : Limited to major international airports in India. Applicant can arrive at 30 e-Visa designated airports i.e. Ahmedabad , Amritsar , Bagdogra , Bengaluru , Bhubaneshwar , Calicut , Chandigarh , Chennai , Cochin , Coimbatore , Delhi , Gaya , Goa (Dabolim), Goa (Mopa), Guwahati , Hyderabad , Jaipur , Kannur , Kolkata , Lucknow , Madurai , Mangalore , Mumbai , Nagpur , Portblair , Pune , Tiruchirapalli , Trivandrum , Varanasi , Vishakhapatnam and 5 designated seaports (i.e. Chennai , Cochin , Goa , Mangalore , Mumbai ) . However, he/she can depart from any of the authorized Immigration Check Posts in India.
• e-Visa is not allowed for employment, NGO activities and journalism purposes
• Avoid using any other websites that sell the Indian e-Visa. There are a lot of sites that masquerade as the Indian visa site, especially because the government website in the past did not look very official (the regular India visa website is still confusing to navigate; whereas the eVisa site is much easier)! While some of these other sites may legitimately get you an India visa, they are not the official website and the Indian consulate is very specific about that .
• This is a sample of the application
• Passport photos and passport bio page must be scanned for online upload.

Frequently Asked Questions about the India Tourist Visa Application Process

What are the photo upload requirements.

Ensure your visa photo meets these specifications and read carefully because the passport conditions are tricky if you’re submitting documents for an India eVisa.

• Visa Photo Format: JPEG, maximum 1 MB, 2 inches by 2 inches.
• Photo must show 80% of your face against a white background
• Scanned or photo of passport bio page in PDF format (for e-Visa applications). Size must be under 300kb!

To be honest, uploading your scanned bio page will take the most amount of time and is probably the trickiest aspect of the entire application process. I despise it.

First, you can scan or take a photo of your passport information page. Whatever you use, you want to make sure  the details are sharp, crisp and easy to make out.

Secondly, when you export your jpg or png photo to pdf, it will naturally uprez your photo. So your photo might be 300kb, but after exported into pdf, it can be 3 mb! This is the tricky part, because your image cannot be the regular size of your passport . It must be smaller to get through that upload gate keeper.

My settings were 72 dpi resolution but ultimately, I had to take the size below 500 dpi width. Yep, it’s small, when you view it on the application form but it is bigger when you open your pdf on your laptop. This is why you want to ensure your information is clear and easy to read.

Which internet browser should I use for applying for my India tourist visa?

The website is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer (Windows) version 9.0 and Android and iOS.

Listing References for your India Tourist Visa

Listing references for your stay in India is the part which trips up a lot of travelers applying for the Indian visa. This part forces you to lock itinerary details and long-term travelers, digital nomads and flexible travelers -like myself- like to keep part of their trip itinerary open-ended and loose. There are many travelers who visit India on an open backpacking trip and don’t have many solidified details such as hotels or departure dates, so you’re not alone.

If you’re not staying with an Indian friend or family, you can list your hotel or tour company as a reference. I like to use Booking.com. Check out my Ways to Show Proof of Onward Travel . I was inspired to write this article because of this India visa process!

What are the India Tourist Visa Photo Requirements

Read the website specifications for the passport photos you must send in. The trickiest part of this is not the visa photo but getting your passport bio data page down to under 500kb as a pdf (tip: it’s small)!

I always make extra copies of my passport photos, for future travel purposes and the fact, if you’re getting an Indian SIM card , you’ll need two photos for your application.

What profession should you list on your visa application?

Firstly, if you’re applying for a Tourist visa, then your sole reason for visiting should be Tourism .

If you’re a travel blogger on a press trip with the India tourism board, on a business trip to meet with clients, a travel writer, photographer, freelance/professional media, yoga student (going for yoga teacher certification ), etc… do not list these as your professions, unless you’re applying for a Journalist,  Business  or Student visa . These latter visas require more information and possibly professional credentials.

Acknowledging these professions or any other reason for being in India, outside of tourism, your visa will be under additional scrutiny and you may be declined or flagged.

I claim “Artist” or Salesperson or something standard to a tourist.  Even when I did my yoga teacher’s certification , I was told to not mention that unless I wanted the hassle of applying for a Student visa and being a yoga student in India is a casual and touristic thing. It is not the same as attending a Indian university.

Do I need an India visa for layovers in India?

If you have a layover in India, and do not plan to leave the airport terminal (and do not need to go past immigration), then you do not need an Indian visa or a transit visa.

However, if your baggage is not checked all the way through to your destination an you need to retrieve it and re-check it, you will need an Indian visa.

Hope this guide on how to apply for an India visa was helpful to you! Applying for an Indian visa can feel overwhelming but visiting India is so worthwhile. Hope you love India as much as I do.

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Here's how to get a visa to visit India

Dec 20, 2023 • 7 min read

From applying for an e-Visa to extending your stay, here's what you need to know about entry requirements for India © beavera / Getty Images

With its dense tapestry of cultures and landscapes, India feels like dozens of countries rolled into one, but a single visa will cover you for travel across more than 3 million sq km (more than a million sq miles) of territory, taking in everything from steamy jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.

Every Indian state is as large and diverse as a nation, so take your time navigating this enormous and fascinating country. The good news is that visas are easy to obtain and allow plenty of time for exploring.

Here’s everything you need to know about visa requirements for India, from the application process for e-Visas to overland travel and extending your stay.

You'll probably need a visa to go to India

Almost everyone needs a visa to visit India , but for most nationalities, tourist visas are easy to obtain online or through your local Indian embassy or consulate. Citizens of 166 countries – including most nations in the EU and EEA, the UK, the US, Australia and New Zealand, and many countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America – can apply for an e-Visa before traveling via a simple online form .

Applying online is a fairly painless process, and it will save you hours compared to applying in person at an embassy or through a visa agency (in countries where Indian embassies no longer issue visas directly). Tourist e-Visas are available with a validity of 30 days, one year or five years, with the one- and five-year visas allowing for multiple entries for a maximum stay of 180 days on each visit.

For one- and five-year tourist visas, applications are accepted up to 120 days in advance of travel. The 30-day visa allows two entries into India, which is handy if you’re planning a side trip to Nepal , and you can apply up to 30 days in advance of travel. All e-Visas take at least 72 hours to process, so be sure to apply in plenty of time (at least 4 days in advance is recommended).

Applying online is the most hassle-free way to obtain a visa

The Indian government’s online e-Visa portal can be used to apply for tourist visas, business visas, and visas for medical treatment and attending conferences. The cost and duration of the visa vary depending on your nationality, and you may need to show proof of return travel arrangements and sufficient funds to support yourself during your trip.

Rules for non-tourist visas can be complex. Business travelers usually need to provide letters of introduction from Indian companies and organizations that they plan to meet. Assuming you meet the requirements, business visas are usually valid for multiple entries over the space of one year.

Working for an Indian company is more complicated. You’ll need an employment visa and a work permit, and most people need a firm job offer and assistance from an Indian employer to complete the paperwork. As with all visa requirements, the situation is subject to change; contact your local Indian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Applying for a tourist e-Visa is fairly straightforward

To apply for an Indian e-Visa, visit the government’s official e-Visa portal . You’ll need to upload a digital passport-style photo and copies of your passport ID pages, and pay the visa fee, which varies depending on your nationality.

Your passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of entry, and you’ll need two spare pages for the visa, which will be physically stamped into your passport on arrival. Assuming your application is accepted – which is the case for most applicants – you’ll receive a digital Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which you should print out and carry with you when you travel, so you can present it to the immigration authorities on arrival. 

Enter India via air or sea on your e-Visa

E-Visas allow entry to India through 25 designated airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Bengaluru (Bangalore), Hyderabad, Kochi (Cochin), Goa, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Gaya, Jaipur, Lucknow, Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), Varanasi, Kozhikode (Calicut), Mangaluru (Mangalore), Pune, Nagpur, Coimbatore, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Chandigarh and Visakhapatnam.

They’re also valid for entry via the designated seaports at Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, New Mangalore and Mormugao (in Goa).

Apply for a visa before you travel to enter India overland

If you plan to enter India overland – for example, from Nepal or Pakistan – you’ll need a visa stamped into your passport before you leave home, which you’ll need to obtain from the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country, or through an approved visa application office.

If you plan to visit India and Nepal on the same trip, get a multiple-entry visa – it used to be possible to arrange a new Indian tourist visa through the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu , but the authorities may now insist on a two-month gap before issuing a new visa.

There’s no need to worry about applying for a visa for Nepal in advance – they’re available on arrival at border crossings (bring passport photos and US dollars to pay the fee).

If you can't apply for an e-Visa, get one in person in advance

Contact your local embassy or consulate to check the application process in your country; the Indian Ministry of External Affairs maintains a list of diplomatic missions online. It’s best to apply for a visa in your home country – obtaining an Indian visa from an embassy in another country can be tortuously slow, assuming it’s possible at all. Fees and the permitted duration of stay will vary depending on your nationality.

As an alternative to applying through an Indian embassy or consulate, you may be able to apply for a visa through a visa agency – however, this tends to be more expensive than applying directly. In practice, many of these agencies just collect together applications and then send over a staff member to the embassy to apply in person.

Student visas are available to those on full-time courses in India

Student visas are reserved for people enrolled in approved full-time educational courses in India (which can include training courses in yoga, meditation, and traditional Indian art forms). Student visas are valid for up to five years, depending on the length of the course, but the rules are strict, and you’ll need documentation from the institution where you are studying to apply. The Ministry of Home Affairs provides some information online, but contact your local Indian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date requirements.

Extending your stay in India is for exceptional circumstances only

E-Visas cannot be extended, but other types of visas can, though only in exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or theft of your passport. To apply, you’ll need to use the government’s special online portal , providing evidence of a valid reason for extending your stay in India (e.g., a letter from the hospital where you are being treated or a police report).

You may then be called in for an in-person interview at the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Delhi. If there is a fee, it will be made clear during the application process.

Some border areas in India require additional travel permits

Under a system carried over from British colonial rule, special permits (known as “protected area permits” or “restricted area permits”) are required to visit many areas close to India’s disputed external borders with China , Pakistan and other territories – a zone known as the “inner line.” Applying for these permits outside India is tricky, but you can apply locally in India without too much difficulty.

Permits are especially important for highly sensitive border areas (which tend to be off-limits to all travelers). Applications can be made through local government offices or local travel agencies; contact the state government offices for these regions to get the latest information. In some areas, you may need to register with the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office on arrival, but this is an easy process.

This article was first published Mar 12, 2022 and updated Dec 20, 2023.

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How To Apply & Get An Indian e-Visa Online

India has some amazing architecture and natural sights, with famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra, and snow capped mountains in the Himalayas.

Most nationalities (except for Bhutanese and Nepali citizens) will need a visa to visit India, which is given in the form of an electronic Indian visa (eVisa) since November 2014.

This guide explains everything about how to get an Indian tourist visa using the e-Visa India website! I wrote it in 2019 and last updated it in 2024.

I went through this process as a tourist, but the process on the e-Visa India website is very similar for the other visa categories as well.

What Is The India eVisa?

The Indian e-Visa is for visitors coming to India on a short term trip for sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, short term medical treatment or casual business related things.

The 5 eVisa types are as follows: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, or e-Conference.

The eVisa is valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years from the date of your arrival in India, and it’s a double entry visa (for e-Tourist or e-Business), single entry visa (e-Conference), or triple entry visa (e-Medical). It’s non-extendable and non-convertible.

You can apply and pay online anywhere from 4 to 120 days in advance of your date of arrival in India, but no later than 4 days prior to arrival, otherwise the application will not be processed.

The eVisa is valid for entry through 26 designated airports and 5 seaports in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Goa. The full list of airports and seaports permitted for the India eVisa can be found here (click the Instructions For Applicant link on the left side).  

Who Is The eVisa Available To?

The eVisa is available to US citizens and those of 170+ other places , and the fee depends on your country/territory.

The current fee for American citizens and other countries can be found in their full list of fees by country on the website .

An additional bank transaction charge of 2.5% may be applicable on the eVisa India online website.

The visa fee is non-refundable, even if for some reason your application is rejected.  

How Can I Get The India eVisa?

The visa process may sound complicated, but don’t worry, it’s actually pretty simple! Here it is broken down in 4 short steps:

• 1. Apply Online. You will need to submit an application with a personal photo and passport page.
• 2. Pay Visa Fee. Credit or debit cards (or Paypal) are accepted for online payment.
• 3. Receive e-Visa. The visa will be sent to you by email.
• 4. Visit India. You will need to print the India eVisa and carry it with you at the time of travel.

Before You Apply For The Indian e-Visa

It’s important to fill out your visa application completely and accurately, otherwise it may be rejected.

Before applying on the eVisa India website, make sure of the following:

• Passport Validity. Your passport should have >6 months validity
• Visa Pages. Your passport should have at least 2 blank visa pages for stamping
• Sufficient Funds. You should have enough money for your stay in India (this is rarely questioned), and also a return ticket or onward ticket.

You will also need to have the following items on your computer:

• Personal Photo. This should be a recent, clear photo of your face with a white background. JPEG format is required.
• Passport Photo. This should be your main passport page with your name, date of birth, nationality, etc. PDF format is required. If you need help changing your passport image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Note: If you’re applying for an e-Business or e-Medical visa, in addition to the above you will also need a copy of the business card (for the e-Business visa) or a copy of the letter from the hospital concerned in India on its letterhead (for the e-Medical visa).  

How To Apply For The India eVisa (Indian Tourist Visa)

When you’re ready to proceed, you can begin your visa application at the Indian government’s official eVisa website:

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

THIS IS IMPORTANT. There are other websites circulating on the internet that mimic this one or pretend to grant speedy visas, but those are often scams and they will take your money. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER WEBSITE.

I’ve provided some photos below as EXAMPLES to guide you through the application, but these are not from my actual eVisa submission. In other words, the addresses and other data I used in the images below are only examples. With that said, the pages you see in your visa application will resemble the ones shown in these images.

If anything has changed in the application process since this guide was written, please let me know in the comments at the bottom of this page and I will update the guide ASAP. I will do my best to keep this entire page up to date.

To begin your visa application, click the button circled in red that says Apply here for e-visa .

Visa Application Page 1

E-visa application.

Passport Type*:  Select Ordinary Passport Nationality*:  Select your country from the dropdown list Port Of Arrival*:  Select the airport you will be flying into Date Of Birth*: Email ID*: Re-enter Email ID*: Expected Date Of Arrival*: Visa Service*: Select from the list, and then choose an activity that best fits your trip to India Please Enter Above Text*: Enter the captcha code given

(Items above marked with  * are required.)

Page 1 of the Indian visa online application on the eVisa India website. Very straightforward.

After selecting continue, if you’re applying for the Indian tourist visa (e-Tourist), then a small message will appear: “The following documents are required to be submitted. 1) Photograph. 2) Passport.” Select OK.

(For some reason the photo dimensions here state 2″ x 2″ but when you come to the actual uploader, the correct minimum dimensions will be 350 x 350 pixels. You’ll use the latter. Side note: separate messages may appear for Business/Medical eVisa applications.)

You can ignore this message on the Indian visa application and click OK.

You have now arrived at the second page of the Indian visa online application form. It’s a good idea to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you have issues or need to come back to your application later.  

Visa Application Page 2

Applicant details form.

Surname: Exactly as in your passport Given Name*: Exactly as in your passport Have You Ever Changed Your Name?* If yes, click the box and give details Gender*: Date Of Birth: Automatically filled in Town/City Of Birth*: Country Of Birth*: Citizenship/National ID No*:  If not applicable, type NA Religion*: Visible Identification Marks*:  List any tattoos if you have them, otherwise put NONE Education*: Nationality:  Automatically filled in Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?* Select yours Have You Lived For At Least Two Years In The Country Where You Are Applying Visa?* Select yes or no  

Passport Details

Passport Number*: Place Of Issue*: Whatever nationality is on your passport Date Of Issue*: Date Of Expiry*: Any Other Valid Passport/Identity Certificate (IC) Held?* Yes or no. If yes, give details

Page 2 of the e-Visa India application form. Personal identification details.

Visa Application Page 3

Applicant’s address details.

House No./Street*: Village/Town/City*: Country*: State/Province/District*: Postal/ZIP Code*: Phone No.*: One phone number is required Mobile No.: Email Address: Automatically filled in Click Here For Same Address*: Click here if your permanent address is the same address as above, and then it will be applied.

Page 3 of the Indian visa online. Personal address details.

Visa Application Page 3 (continued)

Father’s details.

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality:  Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:  

Mother’s Details

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality: Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:

Applicant’s Marital Status:  Select whether you’re single or married. If married (or separated but not divorced), enter your spouse’s details. If divorced, just select single. Were Your Parents/Grandparents (Paternal/Maternal) Pakistan Nationals Or Belong To Pakistan Held Area?  Select yes or no  

Profession / Occupation Details Of Applicant

Present Occupation*:  Select your occupation from the dropdown list. If it’s something else, select ‘Others’ and then enter it. The image below gives an example. Employer Name/Business*: Designation: Address*:  Phone: Past Occupation, If Any: Are/Were You In A Military/Semi-Military/Police/Security Organization?* Select yes or no. If yes, a dropdown will appear asking for the following: Organisation, Designation, Rank and Place Of Posting.

Page 3 (continued). Family and occupation details for the Indian visa online.

Visa Application Page 4

Details of visa sought.

Type Of Visa:  Automatically filled in Visa Service:  Automatically filled in Places To Be Visited*: Enter any cities or areas (e.g. Delhi) you will be visiting in India Places To Be Visited Line 2:  Duration Of Visa:  Automatically filled in No. Of Entries:  Automatically filled in Port Of Arrival In India:  Automatically filled in Expected Port Of Exit From India*:  Select the correct airport from the dropdown  

Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details

Have You Ever Visited India Before?*  Select yes or no. If yes, enter the name and address of the place you stayed previously. Cities In India Visited*:  Enter details from previous visits Last Indian Visa No/Currently Valid Indian Visa*:  If your previous visit was with an eVisa, the number will be written on the stamp given in passport. If you don’t know the number, type unknown. Type Of Visa*:  Tourist Place Of Issue*:  United States (if it was a regular visa). Enter the airport name in India if it was an eVisa. Date Of Issue*:  The date it was issued. For an eVisa, you can use the date of entry from the stamp on your passport, or possibly in your email. Has Permission To Visit Or To Extend Stay In India Previously Been Refused?*  Select yes or no. Hopefully the answer is no  

Other Information

Countries Visited In Last 10 Years:  List any countries you’ve recently visited. I didn’t have room to list all of them, so I included a partial list. This field is not mandatory.  

SAARC Country Visit Details

Have You Visited SAARC Countries (Except Your Own Country) During Last 3 Years?*:  The list of SAARC countries can be found in the dropdown list.

Page 4 of the eVisa application. Your travel details.

Visa Application Page 4 (continued)

Reference Name In India*:  Your accommodation details will work Address*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on Google Maps or the listing at Booking.com or Agoda.com Phone*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on their website or on Google Maps Reference Name In Home Country*:  A relative or friend will work Address*:  Phone*: 

Page 4 (continued). Travel and reference details.

Visa Application Page 5

Additional question details.

• Have You Ever Been Arrested/Prosecuted/Convicted By Court Of Law Of Any Country?*  Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Refused Entry/Deported By Any Country Including India?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Human Trafficking / Drug Trafficking / Child Abuse / Crime Against Women / Economic Offense / Financial Fraud?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Cyber Crime / Terrorist Activities / Sabotage / Espionage / Genocide / Political Killing / Other Act Of Violence?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever By Any Means Or Medium, Expressed Views That Justify Or Glorify Terrorist Violence Or That May Encourage Others To Terrorist Acts Or Other Serious Criminal Acts?* Yes or no
• Have You Sought Asylum (Political Or Otherwise) In Any Country?* Yes or no

Page 5 of the Indian visa online application. Background questions.

Visa Application Page 6

Upload photograph.

At this point you will be asked to upload a personal photo.

If you need to come back and do this later, you can save and exit the application (but make sure to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you want to reuse your application later).

The photo format will need to be JPEG, with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 1 MB. Minimum dimensions are 350 pixels wide x 350 pixels high. The personal photo needs to be recent and front facing, with a white background.

The picture needs to be a clear photo of your face. You can get these done at places like Walgreens, for example. Unfortunately you cannot crop your passport photo to use for this, it needs to be a separate photo.

It’s important to follow all of these specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa India application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the photo you want to choose; then click upload photo .

After uploading the photo, you’re given an opportunity to crop the photo or upload it again if you’d like.

Page 6 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your personal photo.

Visa Application Page 7

Upload passport.

Next, you will be asked to upload a copy of your passport page.

This should be the photo page with personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiration date, etc. It should match the passport details entered in your eVisa application.

The file should be in PDF format with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 300 KB. If you need help changing your passport file from an image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Again, it’s important to follow all of the specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the PDF file you want to choose; then click upload document .

Page 7 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your passport.

Verification & Payment

After submitting your passport upload, the next page will ask you to confirm ALL of the previous details from your Indian e-Visa application.

Look these over thoroughly to make sure you entered everything correctly, because this will be your last chance to edit anything. Once you verify and continue, you will be brought to the visa payment page.

At this point, you can pay for the visa now or later. Follow the instructions on the page for either option. You should also write down the visa Application ID so you can access the application again.

You can pay with international credit or debit cards, or you can make your visa payment with Paypal. I used Paypal and I would recommend this. It was easy to process.

If you don’t have a Paypal account, then the next best option is probably using your card via the Axis option.  

After submission and payment, you will get an email from the Indian government saying that your Indian visa online application was submitted successfully and will take 72 hours for processing.

Generally you will hear back in much quicker time; in my case the Indian visa application was processed and granted in under 24 hours.

You MUST print the email you receive containing the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and present it to the immigration officer when you arrive in India. I would recommend printing and bringing at least two copies.

The government of India emphasizes that you should also track your application and make sure that the status says  granted on the official eVisa India website ( same link as above ) before making your journey to India.  

What If My India Visa Is Rejected?

If your India visa is rejected, don’t worry. You can apply again, and there’s no minimum amount of time you have to wait before re-applying for a visa. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then you can go ahead and do it when you’re ready.

However, it’s important to find out why you were rejected so you can fix it in your next application. Unfortunately a reason is not always given, but generally the most common reasons for India visas being rejected are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specifications.

When reapplying, you’ll be faced with this question: “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?”

How you answer this question will depend on why you were rejected in your first application. If it was a simple clerical error like a wrong date or wrong photo specifications, then I would answer no, because you weren’t actually refused a visa for visiting India due to being ineligible for some reason, you only made a minor mistake in the submission process that can easily be corrected.

Good luck and happy travels!

Best India Tours

More travel guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you were helped by this guide on how to fill out an Indian e-visa application.

While you’re waiting for your visa to be processed, don’t forget to check out the other travel guides on my blog!

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I’m very impressed by the quality of information on this website. There are a lot of good resources here. I’m sure I will visit this place again soon.

I have an extra copy of my passport photo. Although it is the same picture as in my passport it is not just a cropped version of the photo in the passport. Is this acceptable?

Hi Jeanne, I haven’t tried that myself but it should be okay as long as it meets the other requirements for the personal photo. Regards

I used my extra copy of my passport photo this past week for my India E-visa, and it worked!

Thank you, David, for providing the details regarding the E-visa information. It was really helpful and guided me as I entered the required fields in the application.

Good to hear. Thanks Esther!

why is it that when i filled the places to be visited form, it says invalid characters

What are you trying to enter there?

Once we receive ETA the first name and last name are shuffled is it the same for everyone?

Yes, it was the same on my ETA. No problem.

Hi David, thank you SO MUCH for this helpful post. I’m flying to India in a month and my e-visa application was just rejected (I traveled to India in early 2020 and had no issues at all) so I’m now going through the process of carefully re-applying… one question I’m hoping you can help me with: I just got married 2 weeks ago, do you expect it to be an issue to check the “married” box despite the fact my (USA & Israeli) passports say nothing about being married (or single, for that matter?) also -I can’t seem to find anything online about a minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying… any idea? Trying to minimize all odds of being rejected again. Thanks so much again, really appreciate your guidance.

Hi Abigail! Glad the post was helpful for you. Yes, it should be okay to put married on the application. Like you say, the marital status isn’t shown on the passport anyway, and spouse names aren’t always changed right away after marriage either, or sometimes they never change. So that should be fine. As far as I know, there’s no minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then I would go ahead and try again. Do you know why you were rejected the first time? I would figure that out before re-applying. Good luck!

Hi David! Another important question – for the “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?” question on page 4 – would my previous e-visa rejection quality as a “yes”?

For this question, I think it would depend on the reason why you were rejected on the first application. Was it a simple error like a wrong date, wrong photo specifications, etc? If so, I would answer no, you weren’t refused a visa for visiting India, your application was only rejected because of a minor mistake. This is different from refusing you a visa because you aren’t eligible for some reason.

My e-visa application just got rejected without any specific reason provided. All they mention in the remark is “You may apply for Regular/Official Visa at nearest Indian Mission/Embassy abroad”. I compared my application to yours and the only difference I see is that for “city/town” of birth I put down city and state as opposed to state only. Would you happen to know if this could have caused the rejection?

Hi Jan! That shouldn’t cause a rejection. I’ve heard of people doing it either way (city and state, or city only). Both are correct answers. Do you think there might be another issue on your application? The most common things are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specs.

Thanks so much. This is very helpful.

Question – on page 2 it asks if you ever changed your name. Am I correct in assuming that I put yes because I changed my name when I got married?

Hi Judy! If your passport still has your maiden name, I would use that name in the application and answer no to the question about name change. If your passport has your married name, I would use that name in the application and answer yes to the question about name change. However, I know of people who have applied successfully either way. It shouldn’t affect your application.

Thank you, this was very helpful. I have a question on section “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details”. I have traveled to India multiple times, but as an Indian citizen and held an Indian passport. Now I am no longer Indian citizen and applying for India Tourist visa for first time. What do I click in this “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details” section’s “Have you ever visited India before?”

Hi Sylvia, in that case you can answer “No” for the question “Have you ever visited India before?” because they’re asking if you’ve visited India on a visa before, and you haven’t. You were a citizen and resident, not a visitor. They should be able to understand this since you will list your country of birth as India on page 2 of the application, and also when they ask “Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?” you can put Naturalization.

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• Home ›   Consular Services ›   Visa Services ›   E-Visa

E – Visa

1. E-Visa has been made available by the Government of India to citizens of certain countries, including the United States of America. Details of the scheme are available on the dedicated website created for this purpose:  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

2. International travellers whose sole objective for visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine, business purpose, as attendant to e-Medical visa holder, attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop organized by a Ministry or Department of the Government of India, State Governments or UT Administrations etc. & their subordinate/ attached organizations & PSUs and no other purpose/activity, can apply for e-Visa.

3. e-Visa has 5 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa (for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa. A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.

4. For e-Tourist and e-Business visa, Applicants may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival.

5. For e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, Applicants may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 120 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept to 2nd Jan.

6. Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.

7. The revised fee structure for e-Tourist visa is as under:-

8. Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed.

9. e-Visa fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).Applicant should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel. Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey.

10. Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India. e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority.

11. The e-Visa fee payment status updation may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. In cases, where e-Visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on 'Verify Payment/Pay Visa Fee' tab or by clicking on the link Verify Payment.

12. Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries or travellers arriving from these countries must carry YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CARD at the time of arrival in India, otherwise they may be quarantined for 6 days upon arrival in India.

13. You must travel on the Passport which you have applied for eVisa. Entry will be allowed into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, however in such cases a traveler must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued.

14. The documents required for completing the eVisa application is indicated against each type of eVisa. Please keep all these documents ready at hand before beginning to fill your eVisa application. All documents including Business cards, Invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which the application would be liable for rejection. The entire process may take 10 to 15 minutes to complete the application and make the payment. Applicants must be fill eVisa application himself/herself and give correct information in each column and take responsibility for the correctness of information provided.

Helpful Information:

Passport used by the applicant should have at least six-months validity from the date of arrival in India. The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer on arrival.

The applicant must travel on the passport on which e-Visa has been applied. Entry into India will be allowed on a new passport even if the e-Visa has been granted on the old passport. However, in such cases, the traveler must also carry the old passport on which the e-Visa has been granted.

International Travelers should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.

International Travelers having a Pakistani Passport or are of Pakistani origin may please apply for regular Visa at the Indian Mission.

E-Visa is not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer travel document holders.

E-Visa is not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.

E-Visa is not available to International Travel Document Holders.

Applicants requiring help regarding e-Visa may call the 24X7 helpline number (+91-11-24300666) or send an email to [email protected] for any queries.

The e-Visa facility is in addition to the existing Visa services being provided through Indian Embassy and Consulates.

Advisory : The applicant may note that the Embassy/Consulate does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal. Service of e-Visa involves a completely online application for which no facilitation is required by any intermediary / agent etc. Applicants are, therefore, advised to be cautious and for any clarification, please contact [email protected] Applicants are also advised to be careful of fraudulent websites offering e-visa services for India and only use the Government of India portal which is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

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Your Essential Guide to Getting an E-Visa for India

Understanding India's New Electronic Visa Scheme (Updated)

All visitors to India require a visa , except for citizens of neighboring Nepal and Bhutan. Visitors must either apply for a regular visa or an e-Visa (citizens of Japan and South Korea can also get a visa on arrival at six major airports in India). The e-Visa is hassle-free to obtain, and will be suitable for most tourists. Here's what you need to know about it.

Latest News as of September 2019

Three types of e-Tourist visas are now available with validity of one-month, one-year and five-years. The one-month e-Tourist Visa permits two entries. The one-year and five-year e-Tourist visas allow multiple entries but are subject to limitations on length of continuous stay. The fee for the one-year e-Tourist Visa has been reduced, while the fee for the new one-month e-Tourist Visa is discounted during the off-peak summer season from April to September.

The Indian government introduced a tourist visa on arrival scheme on January 1, 2010. It was initially trialed for citizens of five countries. Subsequently, a year later, it was extended to include a total of 11 countries. And, from April 15, 2014 it was extended to include South Korea.

Effective November 27, 2014, this visa on arrival scheme was replaced by an online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme. It has been implemented in phases and progressively made available to more countries.

In April 2015, the scheme was renamed "e-Tourist Visa" by the Indian government, to remove confusion over the previous ability to get a visa on arrival without applying in advance.

In April 2017, the scheme was further extended to passport holders of 158 countries (up from 150 countries).

The Indian government has also widened the scope of the visa scheme to include short duration medical treatment and yoga courses, and casual business visits and conferences. Previously, these required separate medical/student/business visas.

The aim is to make getting an Indian visa easier, and to bring more business people and medical tourists into the country.

To facilitate this change, in April 2017, the "e-Tourist Visa" scheme became known as "e-Visa". Furthermore, it was divided into three categories:

• e-Tourist Visa
• e-Business Visa
• e-Medical Visa

Two additional categories—e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa—have since been added. Up to two e-Medical Attendant visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa.

The visa categories can be clubbed together. However, e-Conference visas are only permitted to be clubbed with e-Tourist visas.

Be sure to research the different types of Indian visas .

Who is Eligible for an E-Visa?

Passport holders of the following 165 countries: Albania, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Cayman Island, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Colombia, Comoros, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Cote D'lvoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, El Salvador, Eritrea, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger Republic, Niue Island, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Island, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, USA, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City-Holy See, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

However, do note that if your parents or grandparents were born in or lived in Pakistan, you will be ineligible to get an e-Visa even if you're a citizen of the above countries. You will have to apply for a normal visa.

What is the Procedure for Obtaining an E-Visa?

Applications must be made online at this website, no less than four days and no more than 30 days before the date of travel (for a 30-day tourist e-visa). A sample form with screen shots can be downloaded here .

As well as entering you travel details, you will need to upload a photograph of yourself with a white background that meets the specifications listed on the website, and the photo page of your passport that shows your personal details. Your passport will need to be valid for at least six months. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of e-Visa required.

Following this, pay the fee online with your debit or credit card. You will receive an Application ID and the ETA will be sent to you via email within three to five days (often earlier). The status of your application can be checked here . Make sure it shows "GRANTED" before you travel.

You will need to have a copy of the ETA with you when you arrive in India, and present it at the immigration counter at the airport. An immigration officer will stamp your passport with your e-Visa for entry into India. Your biometric data will also be captured at this time.

You should have a return ticket and enough money to spend during your stay in India.

What are the Fees?

The visa fees depend on the nature of the reciprocal relationship between India and each country. Citizens of some countries can get visas free of cost. There are also differing fees for e-Tourists visas and other types of e-Visas. The details can be found in this e-Tourist Visa Fee Chart and Fee Chart for Other E-Visa Types .

Citizens of the following countries are entitled to free visas:

• Argentina, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nauru, Niue Island, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uruguay and Vanuatu.

Citizens of all other countries, except Japan, now pay the same fees for e-Tourist visas. These are as follows:

• One-month e-Tourist Visa (April to June): $10.
• One-month e-Tourist Visa (remainder of the year) : $25
• One-year e-Tourist Visa : $40.
• Five-year e-Tourist Visa : $80.

Japanese citizens only pay $25 for one-year and five-year e-Tourist visas.

The fees for other types of e-Visas are as follows:

• $100 Citizens of US, UK, Russia, Ukraine and Mozambique.
• $80 : Citizens of the majority of countries including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
• $25: Citizens of Japan, Singapore and Sri Lanka.

In addition to the visa fee, a bank charge of 2.5% of the fee must be paid.

How Long is the Visa Valid For?

The one-month e-Tourist Visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India, with two entries permitted. One-year and five-year e-Tourist visas are valid for 365 days from the date the ETA is granted, with multiple entries permitted.

E-Business visas are valid for one year from the date the ETA is granted, with multiple entries permitted.

E-Medical and e-Medical Attendant visas are valid for 60 days from the date of arrival in India. E-Conference visas are only valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. Three entries are permitted on e-Medical visas and e-Medical Attendant visas. Only one entry is permitted on e-Conference visas. The visas are non-extendable and non-convertible.

How Long Can You Stay in India?

It's important to note that although your e-Tourist Visa may be valid for one year or five years, this doesn't mean you can stay in India continuously for the whole time. The length of continuous stay must not be longer than 90 days—except for citizens of US, UK, Japan and Canada. Citizens of these countries can stay for up to 180 days at a time.

Citizens of all countries can stay in India for up to 180 days continuously on an e-Business visa.

Which Indian Entry Points Accept E-Visas?

You can now enter at the following 28 international airports in India : Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kochi, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi, and Vishakhapatnam.

You can also enter at the following five designated seaports: Kochi, Goa, Mangalore, Mumbai, Chennai.

In addition, separate immigration desks and help counters have been set up to assist medical tourists at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad airports.

Once you have the e-Visa, you can leave India (and return) through any immigration point.

How Often Can You Get an E-Visa?

You can apply as often as you want. The limit on the number of times in a calendar year has been removed.

Visiting Protected/Restricted Areas with Your E-Visa

The e-Visa is not valid for entry into areas such as Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India, by itself. You'll need to obtain a separate Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP), depending on the requirements of the particular area. This can be done in India after you arrive, using your e-Visa. You don't need to hold a regular tourist visa to be able to apply for a PAP. Your travel or tour agent can take care of the arrangements for you. If you're planning on visiting Northeast India, you can read more about permit requirements here.

Need Help with Your Application?

Call +91-11-24300666 or email [email protected]

Important: Scams to be Aware of

When applying for your e-Visa, do be aware that a number of commercial websites have been created to look similar to the government of India's official website, and they claim to provide online visa services to tourists. These websites include but are not limited to:

• e-visaindia.com
• e-touristvisaindia.com
• indianvisaonline.org.in

The websites do not belong to the government of India and they will charge you hefty service fees.

Expediting Your E-Visa

If you do need to get your e-Visa in a hurry, iVisa.com offers 24-hour and 2-day processing times. However, this comes at a price— $100 for 24-hours, and $65 for 2-days. Their standard fee for a 4-day processing time is $35. These fees are all additional to the e-Visa fee. The company is legitimate and reliable though.

Visa Requirements for India

Visa Requirements for Australia

Visa Requirements For Thailand

Visa Requirements for the Netherlands

Visa Requirements for Cambodia

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Visa Requirements for Canada

Visa Requirements for Macao

Required Documents for Travel to China

Visa Requirements for Italy

Visa Requirements for Myanmar

How to Get a Shenzhen Visa in Hong Kong

Permits for North East India and What You Need to Know

Visa Requirements for Sweden

Visa Requirements for Norway

Visa Requirements for France

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• Home › Consular Services › Visa Services › FAQ’s on Visa

FAQ on Visa

Q.My old passport with ‘valid Indian visa’ is lost. How can I  get fresh visa on new passport?

A. Same category visa can not be re-issued,  even on different passport,  to  an applicant during the validity of existing visa .  Fresh  visa will be issued only when first visa  has  either expired or is lost (Police report of lost passport is required).

  Q. What is eligible criteria to get Indian Tourist Visa ?

A. Indian Tourist visa is granted to a foreigner whose sole objective of visiting India is recreation, sight seeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, short duration medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine etc. and no other purpose/ activity (Short term yoga programme means a yoga programme not exceeding 6 months duration and not issued with a qualifying certificate/ diploma etc.)

Q. How to apply for Indian Visa ? How much time it will take ?

A: Please follow these steps for Visa application :

a. Visit CKGS website ( https://www.in.ckgs.us ) and apply online.

b. Pay required fees online & Submit your application

c. Print your submitted application

d. Submit physical copy of application along with required documents to CKGS center by Walk in or Mail/Post :

CKGS (Visa / OCI / PIO / Renunciation of Indian Citizenship Department)

235 West 23rd Street, Level 2, New York, NY 10011.

Processing Time : If everything are in order (i.e documentation etc.) it will take 4-5 working days for US Passport holder (excluding VFS mailing time). 

Q. My Passport will be expiring soon/running out of pages which has valid Indian visa in it (and I already applied for my new Passport), Can I travel on valid visa on my old Passport ?

A: Yes, your Visa is valid till it expiry date, but while traveling you have to carry this old Passport with valid visa along with your new Passport.

  Q. While applying Visa online on CKGS website, they ask previous Visa number, which I have not remember, what should I do?

A: If you do not remember your previous visa number then skip that portion and complete the online application.

Q. I applied for Visa on CKGS website but not getting appointment, what should I do ?

A . If you are not getting appointment on desired date please select walk in option which is always open.

Q. I am US passport holder of Pakistani origin, applied for Indian Visa on CKGS website but not getting any update on my visa status, what should I do ?

A. In this case administrative process will take minimum 45 working days. Once concerned authority approved it we will intimate you accordingly.

Q. I am holding dual nationality (i.e. Pakistan & USA) & also holding two Passports (i.e Pakistan & USA), on which Passport I need to apply for Visa ?

A. Pakistani nationals holding dual nationality must apply only on their Pakistani Passports.

  Q. I am holding dual nationality (i.e. Pakistan & USA), but holding only one Passport (i.e. USA), which documents are required to apply Visa ?

A. USA passport holders of Pakistani origin must submit their visa application form along with:

a. Certificate of Renunciation of Pakistani Citizenship

b. US passport with valid Pakistani visa OR Copy of the Pakistan Overseas Card

Q. I am Pakistani Passport holder, Can I choose my entry port in India & book the flight tickets accordingly ?

A. No, you can not choose your entry Ports in India & book tickets until a visa decision has been made.

Q. I am Indian origin of US Citizen, Can I apply for emergency Visa ?

A. Yes, you can apply for Emergency Visa through CKGS website ( https://www.in.ckgs.us/visa ).

Q. I have applied Indian visa for my minor Son/Daughter and CKGS kept his/her application on hold due to lack of Parental authorization, what should I do ?

A. Parental authorization signed by both the parents is must, you have to submit this documents to CKGS to avoid further delay.

Q. I have applied for Indian visa for my minor Son/Daughter, Should my son/daughter needs to be present at VFS center for interview ?

A. No need for child to be present. Please submit notarized parental authorization signed by both parents along with other documents to process the visa.

Q. I have applied for E-visa and status is pending, could you please let me know the status of my E-Visa ?

A. E-visa is directly handled by authority in India, Consulate has no role in e-Visa, please do notcontact consulate for e-visa , for more details please visit : https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html . If you would like to apply for R egular V isa please visit (which is handled by consulate): ( https://www.in.ckgs.us/visa ).

  Q. What is authentic website of E-Visa ?

A. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

Q. What is the Processing timing for E-visa ?

A. E-visa is directly handled by authority in India, C onsulate has no role in E -Visa, please do not contact consulate for E -visa . For more details please visit : https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

Q. What is the Processing timing for Regular Visa through CKGS ?

A. Once we receive the visa application from CKGS and if everything is in order (i.e. documentation etc.) then processing time will be as per below (excluding CKGS processing time);

a. US passport holders (2-3 working days)

b. Passport holders of other countries (5-10 working days)

c. Pakistan Passport holder OR Pakistani origin of US passport holders(minimum 45 working days)

Q. I entered wrong name/data in CKGS online visa form, how to edit it ?

A. Please contact CKGS helpline : https://www.in.ckgs.us/feedback/ OR Phone : 516-206-1483 / 646-589-0088

Q. Can I book my Air Ticket before getting the visa?

A. No bookings or travel arrangements should be confirmed until a visa decision has been made. Consulate will not be responsible for any loss of bookings made in anticipation of obtaining a Visa.

Q. If my visa is issued, from when does the validity begin?

A. The validity of the visa begins from the date it is issued and not from the date of your departure mentioned on the application form.

Q. What are the Emergency Visas?

A. Please visit our website and follow these steps :

Home › Consular Services › Visa Services › Emergency Visa

Q. Can I send my visa application directly to Consulate ?

Q. I have only one blank page left in my passport, can I apply for visa ?

A . No, for Visa minimum two blank pages in passport is required.

Q. I want to visit Sikkim/Arunachal Prades in India, how to get Restricted/Protected Area Permission ?

Q. How to get Restricted/Protected Area Permission ?

A. Foreign nationals intending to visit a place falling in the Protected/ Restricted Area in India, may submit an application for the grant of Protected/Restricted Area Permit to Concerned offices in particular Indian states OR nearest Indian Mission/Post. This requirement is in addition to getting an Indian visa. It will take shorter time, if the traveler apply for RAP from Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) /Resident Commissioners of the Concerned State Govt. through nearest metropolitan City OR through travel/tour operators in India. If traveler apply in Indian Mission/Post abroad, it will take around 5-6 weeks to process. For more details please visit: https://mha.gov.in/PDF_Other/AnnexVII_01022018.pdf

Q. Is there any restrictions on Indian Tourist Visa holder to re-entry in India within 2 months ?

A. With effect from January 24, 2013, the gap of two months required between visits to India of a foreign national on a Tourist Visa would be applicable only in the case of nationals of Afghanistan, China, Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan, foreigners of Pakistan origin and Stateless persons.

Q. I am traveling to Nepal via Delhi, do I need Indian transit Visa ?

A. Transit visa is not required by a foreigner passing through, in direct transit by air, and traveling onward through India, provided he/she does not leave the specified precincts of the airport. A transit visa is not required by a foreigner who does not leave the ship while it halts at an Indian port.

Q. I am an Artist visiting India to Participate in Painting Exhibition or Music show on Charitable basis (not Paid performance), which visa should I apply ?

Entry Visa : Those going to India for Charitable performances e.g an artist going for painting exhibition, musician for musical shows etc on charitable basis have to apply for Entry Visa.

Business Visa : Those going to India for short term paid performances e.g an artist going for painting exhibition, musician for musical shows etc have to apply for Business Visa.

Employment Visa : Those going to India for long term paid performances e.g an artist going for painting exhibition, musician for musical shows etc have to apply for Employment Visa.

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How to Get Your India E Tourist Visa | Step-by-Step Guide

Find out how to get your India E Tourist visa in this step by step guide, which walks you through how, where and when to apply, evisa India FAQ’s, and everything about the India e visa service you need to know.

This post may contain compensated affiliate links. Please see my full disclosure here for more info .

Applying for your E Visa for India

Planning a trip to India can be an exciting and overwhelming process – but thankfully getting your Indian visa is not nearly as stressful as it used to be.

There are two types of visa for India – the regular sticker/paper visa that needs to be obtained in person, or, the E-visa. In this guide I’ll cover the ins and outs of getting an Indian E visa for tourism to India. There is no visa on arrival in India for the vast majority of nationalities.

The easiest way to apply for your Indian tourist visa is online, and from repeated personal experience, I’ve found the process to be simple, quick and relatively pain-free. You can forget about any visions of long queues at embassies – if you go the electronic visa for India route at least!

However, there are some important things to know when it comes to getting your e tourist visa India application submitted and accepted on time. In my India travel planning Facebook group , I see frequent questions about how to fill into the fields on the form correctly and when the right time is to apply for your tourist visa to India – I’ll cover all of these below, as well as troubleshooting some of the common issues.

Disclaimer: Soul Travel India are not visa agents and do not offer visa advice. This guide is solely to provide practical help with the filling E-visa forms based on my own personal experiences. Information relating to visas can change quickly; please validate with official sources such as your country’s government travel advice for India.

India Tourist Visa Update (March 2022)

In March 2020, all visas for foreigners travelling to India were suspended and an international flight ban was imposed in response to the pandemic. As of March 2022 , all tourism visas are being issued again, and previously issued multi-year tourist visas have been reinstated .

Once again, nationals of 156 countries are eligible to apply for tourism e-visas to India of up to 5 years (or 10 years for USA & Japan nationals), although unfortunately passport holders of the UK & Canada are still not eligible for E-visas to India for other reasons.

Where to Apply for your Visa for Visiting India

Option 1: The official India E Visa website is here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

I suggest you use this service. Unfortunately there are many agencies who try to make their websites look like the official Indian E-visa website but are not, and will charge you fees for processing your application and/or turn out to be less than reputable. Double-check the website you are landing on and ensure it ends with .gov.in.

Option 2: While I have personally never had problems using the above official Indian website, unfortunately many readers have had issues with it not loading, crashing, or not functioning as expected. If you can’t get the website to work, or you don’t want the hassle, an alternative is to use IVISA who are a reputable visa agency and offer a great service with visas for India. They charge a small handling fee, which you can get a 5% discount on when using this link to place your order .

What Types of India E Tourist Visa are there?

Unfortunately, E-visas are still not being issued to UK & Canada passport holders. UK & Canadian nationals need to apply for a paper/sticker visa via your Indian consulate – allow PLENTY of time for this process.

To check which counties can avail from the India E-visa option, you can find the full list here .

• 30 day E-visa (note that it’s 30 days not a calendar month!). Allows one single entry to India.
• 1 Year E-visa (allows multiple entries to India)
• 5 Year E-visa (allows multiple entries to India)
• 10 Year E-visa (US & Japan nationals only, allows multiple entries to India)

If you choose one of the longer visas to India, you will still be restricted as to how long you can stay in India at one time. For most nationalities stays are restricted to 90 days, after which you’ll need to leave (you can come back later). For USA & Japan citizens, the maximum stay in India is 180 days at any one time.

Please note that some activities in India will require other types of visa than tourist. If you are volunteering, you will need a volunteer visa (which is not available as an E-visa). If you are travelling to India for business or are attending a conference, you should apply for an e-Business visa (available via the same portal). If you are attending an Ayurvedic retreat or coming to India for health treatments, you need to apply for a Medical visa instead (available as an E-visa via the same portal) and you will need to contact your retreat / doctor / hospital for a letter of invitation.

How Much is a Visa to India?

This depends on your country of nationality and the length and type of e tourist India visa you’re applying for.

You can find the table of prices for all tourist e-visas to India here . Prices are quoted in USD and there is a ~2.5% payment fee charged in addition to this fee.

At time of writing a 30 day India visa from USA cost $25 USD and a 5 year tourist Indian visa for USA citizens was $80 USD.

When Should I Apply for My India E Tourist Visa?

The best time to apply for your e-visa is usually 1-2 weeks ahead of your trip, so you’ll need to have booked your flights and most of your trip before you apply your visa. This can feel confusing (especially when instructions say not to book flights before hand), but unfortunately it’s the way things are currently set up. I don’t recommend waiting until your visa is issued to book flights, as these can get expensive at the last minute. You can read my general tips for planning your first trip to India here .

The only exception to this is if you have Pakistani parents or Grandparents (on either side) – this question is asked specifically in the Visa application form and can result in visa applications taking longer as additional background checks are performed. If you have Pakistani Parents or Grand Parents please factor additional time into your visa application.

Please note that – with the exception of the 30 day e-visa , which starts on your arrival in India, Indian e-visas start on the “grant” date, not the date of your landing in India. So, if you have a 1 year e-visa that’s granted on 1st July, your 1 year will start from 1st July, even if you enter India on 1st September.

Visa applications are processed within 72 hours of submission, my personal experience is that I’ve always had my visa returned the next day or day after.

Applying for a Visa to India – Step by Step

This guide assumes you are applying for a visa for India using the government website above. (If you are using IVISA, you can relax and they’ll let you know everything they need form you.)

You can find a sample visa application form here , and there’s also a list of general instructions here .

When logging on to indianvisaonline.gov.in, you’ll want to select the button for E-visas in the bottom centre of the screen:

On the next screen, you’ll want to select the button “apply here for e-visa” on the bottom left:

From here, your application form will open up and you will be directed to enter your nationality, select the type of visa you are applying for (e-tourist visa), your expected date of arrival in India.

• Type of passport – Select Ordinary unless you are travelling on a diplomatic or other special type of passport.

Once you press ‘continue’, you’ll be given a “temporary application number” which is shown at the top of the screen. Please note this down or take a screenshot , as you’ll need it if you want to save and come back to your application later at any point.

On the next page, proceed to fill in your details. This is all self explanatory.

• For Visible Identification Marks – you can put any birthmarks, easily visible tattoos or any other marks you have visibly should you wish, or else simply type NA

On the next page, continue to fill in the details requested, again this is mostly self-explanatory.

On the following page, you will be asked to enter your expected itinerary in India, as well as details of previous visits to India. There are a few things to note:

• Places to be visited – List the main places on your India itinerary (cities). It doesn’t have to mention every stop off. If you are backpacking and don’t have a fixed itinerary, enter some places you are likely to visit.
• Expected Port of Exit from India – This doesn’t commit you to leaving via a specific airport, however please note that immigration officials may ask you for proof of your onward travel out of the country (ie an onward flight confirmation).
• Previous visits to India – If you’ve visited India before, you’ll need to provide the address of (one of) your hotels, list some of the main cities you visited and provide your previous India visa number.

Continue down the page.

You’ll need to enter more information about your travel history and your ‘references’.

• Enter countries you have been to in the last 10 years . I generally start with the ones with stamps in my passport. If you’re a frequent traveller you may run out of space, the maximum number of countries is about 10.
• References – the first one is your hotel or accommodation which you must have booked prior to arrival in India . Put the hotel’s name, address and phone number, and carry a printed hotel confirmation with you when you travel in case immigration ask to see it. The second one is an emergency contact in your home country.

The following page has simple yes/no questions that ask you to confirm you have not been deported from India or any other country, have not been involved in terrorism, etc etc.

After that, you will reach the final section of the application, where you need to upload your photo you have taken (digital copy, no printed passport photo is needed) and a scan of the photo page of your passport. The specifications are as follows:

• Photo : Must be JPEG format, recommended size 350 x 350 pixels. Maximum size 1MB. If you have trouble making your photo small enough to meet the size requirements, on a Mac computer you can resize it in preview, or else use a free website such as Image resizer . When you upload your photo you’ll be directed to crop it to size – make sure all of your face remains visible.
• Passport Photo Page : Must be in PDF format (not JPEG) between 10KB – 300KB in size. This must be the passport you applied with and you must travel with this passport. If you have a JPEG (photo) file, convert it into a PDF using ‘save as PDF’ on rightclick, or else a free online converter such as this one .

You’re almost there!

The final steps of the India E tourist visa application process are to verify your application – you’ll see a summary screen, do a check to make sure all your details you’ve entered are correct.

On pressing submit, you will see a popup telling you your visa application ID – note this down – and it’ll also tell you what the visa fee to be paid is.

The final stage is to pay for your India evisa. The easiest way to pay via international card is via Paypal – select this option from the payment gateway. You’ll then be directed to an SBI payment gateway where you can select card or Paypal on the left hand side. Select ‘Paypal’ and proceed as with any Paypal payment.

I recommend taking a screenshot of your payment confirmation, and please note that it can take a few hours for the payment to go through / get updated in the visa system.

You should receive an email confirmation of your visa application, payment and then, within 72 hours an email about the status of your evisa application.

When granted (approved) you will receive an ETA which authorizes you to travel to India. Print this off for your journey to India, and on arrival proceed to the ‘E-visa’ gates to receive your E-visa stamp in your passport.

Happy travels!

Electronic Visa Application for India Frequently Asked Questions

What is the india e tourist visa processing time.

Generally, it’s 72 hours. All my applications have been granted within around 24 hours but it just depends on how busy they are. You’ll want to allow more time than 72 hours when applying to be on the safe side.

Is India Issuing Tourist Visas Again?

Yes! As per the announcement in March 2022, India has fully resumed granting e-tourism visas.

What is the India E Tourist Visa Cost?

It depends on your nationality – a full table of prices for Indian visas can be found at the link above in this article. The first 500,000 tourist visas are being offered for free to foreign tourists.

How Long Can I Stay in India on an E-Tourist Visa?

This depends on your nationality and type of visa. For most nationalities, e-visas are being issued for up to 5 years, with a maximum stay in the country of 90 days during any one trip.

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How to get a visa to India

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Thinking of visiting India ? From Maharashtrian capital Mumbai, to Kerala’s lush tropical landscapes, the country encompasses an epic diversity of cultures and experiences. But don’t get distracted when planning your trip — be sure to attend to important practical matters, like how to get a visa to India. Read on to find out how to do exactly that.

• Do I need a visa to go to India?

India tourist visa photo requirements

• Can I get help with getting the India visa?

How quickly will I get the India visa?

How long is an indian visa valid, how much does an indian visa cost, can i extend my visa while in india, travel ideas for india, created by local experts.

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The Holy City of Varanasi

The flat, sunburnt plains of the Ganges River are India's breadbasket: a densely populated area, it is home to many of the country's greatest sights. See Delhi and all its treasures, then fly to Varanasi, the most sacred stretch of the Ganges and one of India's most intense and atmospheric places.

Do I need a visa to go to India? 

Unless you’re an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder, you do need a visa to travel to India.

The only exceptions are nationals of Nepal and Bhutan , both of whom can enter India without a visa.

Given that India has several visa categories, you need to make sure you get the right visa for the purpose of your visit, and the duration of your trip.

UK citizens

UK citizens need a visa to enter India. The UK Government’s foreign travel advice for India recommends UK nationals consult the  eFRRO ,  Bureau of Indian Immigration  and  Ministry of External Affairs websites for up-to-date information. 

The UK Government advisory also points out that visitors intending to travel to India should check their passport is valid for at least six months from their date of entry into India. Passports should also be machine-readable and have two blank pages for the visa.

US citizens

As for UK citizens, US citizens need a visa to go to India. It’s recommended that travellers check the  website of the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C.  for the most current information. 

Mararikulam, Kerala, India © Shutterstock

Your best bet is the visit the India’s government’s online visa website to apply for a tourist e-visa. Nationals of 130+ countries are eligible to do this.

Other eligibility factors include having at least six months of validity on your passport at the time of applying for the visa. You also need a return ticket, or proof of your onward journey, along with sufficient funds to cover your stay in India.

The online visa website details several tourist e-visa options, depending on how long you plan to stay.

Lotus temple, New Delhi, India © Shutterstock

As part of the e-visa application process, you’re required to upload a digital photograph of yourself. 

This must be submitted as a jpeg that’s a minimum of 10 KB, and a maximum of 300 KB. In addition, the height and width of the photo must be the same size.

The photo must show the whole face from the front, and your eyes must be open, with your head centred in the frame, against a plain white or light background. 

If there are any shadows on your face, the photo is likely to be rejected.

Loktak Lake, Manipur, India © Shutterstock

Can I get help with getting the India visa? 

By using our tailor-made trip service you will be provided with invaluable information that’ll help you make the most of your time in India.

Aside from checking the India’s government’s online visa website , and your country’s official guidelines, you could take all the hassle out of planning your dream trip to India.

Victoria Memorial, Kolkata, India © Shutterstock

It will take at least 72 hours for your Indian tourist e-visa to be processed. You’ll be emailed about your visa status once it’s been processed.

When you apply for an Indian tourist e-visa, you must select how long you require it to be valid. Options are available for 30 days, one year, or five years.

Arambol beach, Goa, India © Shutterstock

The cost of an Indian visa varies, depending on the duration of the visa you’re applying for.

As a guide, for a 30-day tourist e-visa, you can expect to pay $27.50.

To extend your visa while in India, you will need to follow these steps: 1. Visit the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) - you can find the addresses on the Ministry of Home Affairs website or by asking at your hotel or local police station.

2. Fill out the visa extension application form.

3. Provide the necessary documents, such as your passport, current visa, and any supporting documents that may be required for your visa extension.

4. Pay the visa extension fee, which varies depending on the type and duration of your visa.

5. Submit your application and supporting documents to the FRRO or FRO office.

6. Await a decision on your visa extension application. This may take a few days or weeks, depending on the workload of the office.

7. If your visa extension is approved, you will receive a new visa sticker in your passport with the extended validity period.

Ullal beach, Mangalore, India © Shutterstock

For more inspiration, discover some of the best things to do in India , and start planning your trip with The Rough Guide to India . 

Daunted by the prospect of planning? No problem! Browse our customisable India itineraries , and talk to our local India travel experts .

Ready to travel and discover India?

Get support from our local experts for stress-free planning & worry-free travels.

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Guide to getting your India visa

Introduction.

India Visas can be somewhat daunting, but hopefully this step-by-step guide will help you negotiate getting a visa.

There are two main visa options which you should apply for, the new and simpler e-Tourist Visa (eTV) and alternatively the Regular Tourist Visa . The e-tourist visa can be applied for online and is by far the simplest, cheapest and quickest way to get a visa. Here are the main requirements to opt for the eTV:

• You must apply no less than four days before arrival into India, and no more than 30 days before arrival
• It is a flat US$60 fee that you pay on the website
• After approval you receive an ETA confirmation via email. Print this out and carry with you at all times
• It can be used a maximum of two times a year, and must have a two month gap between visits
• You must enter India at one of these airports: Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bangalore, Chennai, Cochin,

Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mumbai, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum & Varanasi

• You must be a national of the approved countries such as the UK, USA, Canada, Australia.
• It is only valid for 30 days in India
• It is not a multi-entry visa meaning if you are travelling onto Bhutan or Nepal and wanting to come back you will need to apply for a standard multiple entry visa.
• It is not applicable if you have any links to Pakistan such as your parents nationality or were born there.
• It is not applicable to Protected/Restricted areas such as Sikkim or the Andaman Islands

You apply through the eTV website –  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

The Regular Tourist Visa is valid for 180 days and is always multiple-entry. Regular Tourists visas are outsourced to VFS Global who have offices in London (Paddington, Goswell Road, Hounslow), Birmingham, Edinburgh, Manchester, Belfast, Bristol, Bradford, Newcastle, Cardiff, Liverpool, Leicester and Glasgow. You still apply online are required to book an appointment in one of the offices to submit your documents and passports. They will then send back your passport with the visa included in the post by special delivery (or you can get in again and pick it up). The process usually takes about 3 working days to process. You can also send in the application by post (to the London Hounslow office), and expect this to take 2-3 weeks to process and return your passport. The cost of the visa £109.44 plus any charges for special delivery. Please also note that there are additional documents required if you are travelling as a family – see here for what is required – http://www.vfsglobal.com/India/UK/Tourist.html

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/

There are also options to use a visa service . You will still need to complete the online application form and send to the visa service who will go into the office for you. Costs are approximately £246 per person. A good company is CIBT ( http://cibtvisas.co.uk )

When going to the main India Visa site ( https://indianvisaonline.gov.in ) sure you select either the Regular Tourist Visa on the left hand side in orange or the e-tourist visa (eTV) on the right hand side in blue.

If you are applying the the Regular Tourist Visa the form will look like this (note it says Online Visa Application instead of E-Tourist Visa) and you will need to select which Indian Mission you need to apply for, as well as the type of Visa. Note that if you want to apply for any office in Birmingham, Leicester, Manchester, Liverpool, Bradford and Newcastle you should select UK-Birmingham. If you want to apply for London, Bristol, Cardiff or Belfast you should select UK-London. If you are applying for Edinburgh or Glasgow select UK-Edinburgh. Also note that if you live in many counties in the Midlands you have to apply to Birmingham – see this link for more information – http://www.vfsglobal.com/India/UK/how_to_apply.html

Should you be applying for the E-Tourist Visa the form will look like this, where you have to select your passport type (select Ordinary) and the Port of Arrival:

Once you proceed you will now come to the main visa form which is identical for both Regular Tourist Visas and E-TV Visas. Please write down the Temporary Application ID shown in red and you can retrieve the application should you want to continue the form later on.

Here are some frequently asked questions about the form. The information you put down on the form should match your passport identically.

Surname: Surname is the same as Family Name or Last Name. (The spelling must be exactly the same as the last name in the applicant’s passport)

Given Name: On the Indian Visa application Form, Given Name is the same as First Name and Middle Name; please type in the First Name and any Middle Name(s) here. (The name must be exactly as it is in the applicant’s passport)

For example, if John Edward Smith is the traveler:

      Surname: Smith

      Given Name: John Edward

Have you ever changed your name? If the applicant’s name is different from when they were born, click the “yes” box and enter the Surname/Last Name and Given Name/First and Middle Name(s) that were previously used.

Country of birth: Select the country where the applicant was born. This must match the information on the passport.

Email Address: Even though this is not a mandatory field on the online form, some Consulates do in fact require your email address. Please enter an email address.

Citizenship/National Id No.: If you do not have an additional National ID issued type NA

Religion: Select the religion of the applicant. If the applicant’s religion is not listed, select “OTHERS” and type in the religious information in the field directly below the pull down menu.

Visible identification marks: If the applicant has a visible identification mark (such as birthmark or tattoo) please type in the information here. Otherwise, type “NONE”.

When selecting occupation , be very careful about selecting the following (which will always need more documentation and delays to the process often requiring a signed letter from your employer saying you are going to India for tourism only: Air Force, Cameraman, Charity/Social Worker, Diplomat, Film Producer, Media, Journalist, Military, Navy, Missionary, Reporter, Writer. If in doubt, just put Business Person!

Uploading your photo

This is possibly the most technical element to the process and the detailed guide on how to do this can be found here – https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/VSS_IMAGE.pdf

The good news is that you can use a camera phone to take the photo and as long as you follow the guidelines it usually works. They will email you if the photo doesn’t meet their standards and you can then retry.

You can then move to the final ‘Confirm Details’ page. There will be another Application ID which you should take a note of (this will be different to the temporary ID you wrote down at the start). You can then pay for the visa and select Print Acknowledgment. You will then get an email which says that the application has been successful and will take 72 hours for processing.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK Government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in India set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the  High Commission of India in London or another Indian consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering India.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India.

Your passport must also: - have 2 blank pages for your visa

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

Apply for the right type of visa for the purpose of your travel.

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder.

India has a number of visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel.

Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation. This may also include not being allowed to enter India in the future.

For latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the  e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office), the  Bureau of Indian Immigration website  and  Indian Ministry of External Affairs website .

Applying for a visa or e-visa

Find out how to apply for a visa from the Indian Bureau of Immigration Depending on your requirements you may be able to apply for:

• regular (paper) visa
• e-visa (make sure to check the website’s ‘FAQs’ for restrictions on airports and seaports of entry)

Check your eligibility and any restrictions before you apply and allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.

More information is available from the website of High Commission of India in London .

Applicants of Pakistani origin

If you are of Pakistani origin, a British-Pakistan dual national, or holding a National Identity Card for overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), the visa processing time will be substantially longer than other visa applications. More information is available from the High Commission of India in London .

If you are a British-Pakistan dual national, you must apply for an Indian visa on your Pakistani passport. If you have renounced your Pakistani nationality or cancelled your Pakistani passport, you will need to submit documentary proof of this.

Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders

If you hold a valid Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card, you can use this, along with your valid British passport to visit India. You do not need a visa. If you have a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card, you will need to convert it to an OCI card. More information is available from the  High Commission of India in London  and the  Indian Bureau of Immigration .

Arrival, registration, and extensions

If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days and do not hold an OCI card, register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) . You could be denied permission to leave if you do not do this. Check if you are required to register your arrival on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website and FRRO .

Overstaying in India on a visa is an offence. Make sure you leave the country before your visa expires or get an official extension if needed. More information is available on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you’re hospitalised

If you or someone you’re travelling with has a short-term Tourist Visa and is hospitalised, you may be able to extend or ‘convert’ to a Medical Visa .

Exit requirements

You will pass through immigration as you depart India. Officials will check when you entered the country. If you do not have an entry stamp, for example if you have a newly issued passport, you will need to apply for special exit visa before you travel. This must be done online and can take between five and fifteen working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights. For further information see the  e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office).

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• yellow fever

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also provides  vaccination guidance and data .

Accommodation

By law, hotels, hostels and other accommodation providers must register the stay of foreign guests with the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) using a “C Form”.  Please ask your accommodation provider to ensure they have done so.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of India . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Satellite phones and listening devices

It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India without a licence. British nationals have been arrested for bringing them into the country without prior permission. You can contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication to request a licence .

You may also need prior permission from the Indian authorities to bring equipment like listening or recording devices, radio transmitters, powerful cameras, or binoculars into India. You can ask the High Commission of India in London for advice.

Taking money into India

There are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India. Visitors, including residents and tourists, should follow Reserve Bank of India guidelines .

If you’re visiting India, you can bring cash, travellers’ cheques (in pounds sterling or another foreign currency) or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees once in India.

You must declare any amount above 5,000 US dollars in notes, or 10,000 US dollars in notes and travellers’ cheques combined.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

India Visa on Arrival for Tourists in 2023: A complete guide

Published: April 26, 2023

This article is a complete guide to obtaining India Visa on Arrival as a tourist. You can learn everything about India Visa on Arrival requirements, eligibility, documents needed, fee and the application procedure at the airport.

India Visa on Arrival is available for the purpose of tourism, business, medical or attending conferences. Visa on Arrival can be obtained at six major airports in India. 

Prior to the pandemic, about a handful of countries were eligible for obtaining Visa on Arrival in India. But currently, only three countries are eligible for Visa on Arrival. In my opinion, India is looking to fade away its Visa on Arrival facility in the coming future.

Table of Contents

India visa on arrival requirements for tourists.

Who is eligible for India Visa on Arrival?

Citizens of the following 3 countries are eligible to obtain India Visa on Arrival.

• South Korea
• United Arab Emirates (only if you held an India e-Visa or India consular visa previously)

What is the validity of India Visa on Arrival?

India Visa on Arrival is valid for 60 days from the day of arrival. Visa on Arrival cannot be extended or converted to another type of visa. For stays longer than 60 days, you must opt for India e-Visa or consular visa from the Indian embassy. 

How many days can you stay in India on Visa on Arrival?

You are allowed to stay up to 60 days in India using Visa on Arrival. 

How many times can you enter India on Visa on Arrival?

India Visa on Arrival is a double entry. That means, after you have obtained your Visa on Arrival and returned from India, you can enter India one more time using the same Visa on Arrival that you have obtained previously. The second entry must be made within the validity of your Visa on Arrival. 

Getting your Visa on Arrival itself constitutes an entry, so you can reuse your India Visa on Arrival to enter India one more time. Each time, you will receive 60 days of entry.

Here is an example.

• You obtained Visa on Arrival in India on 01 June 2023
• Your Visa on Arrival validity is from 01 June 2023 to 30 July 2023 (60 days)
• You can stay in India for up to 60 days between 01 Jun 2023 and 30 Jul 2023
• Your first entry: You entered India on 01 June 2023 (the day on which you obtain VOA) and left India on 05 July 2023
• Your second entry: You left India on 05 July 2023 and your VOA is valid till 30 Jul 2023. You can enter India again anytime before 06 July 2023 and 30 July 2023 to get another 60-day entry. 

In which airports or land borders in India you can get Visa on Arrival?

India Visa on Arrival is currently available only at the following 6 international airports. 

Airports (6)

Seaports (0), land border (0).

NOTE India Visa on Arrival is available at the above 6 international airports only. India Visa on Arrival is NOT available at land borders or seaports. 

What is the minimum passport validity required for India Visa on Arrival?

In order to obtain Visa on Arrival, your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the day of arrival. 

What are the documents needed for India Visa on Arrival?

The following documents are needed for obtaining Visa on Arrival.

• Original passport
• Completed Visa on Arrival form ( download here or grab one at the airport)
• Completed Arrival Card for Passengers (will be given by your flight staff or grab one at the airport)
• Cash in Indian rupees or any major currency for visa fee
• Return or onward flight ticket
• Proof of financial solvency such as cash, cards or bank statements

What is the India Visa on Arrival fee?

The India Visa on Arrival fee is 2,000 INR payable in cash in Indian Rupees or its equivalent in any other major currency. 

INDIA E-VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

How to apply for india visa on arrival.

Applying for India Visa on Arrival at the airport is a straightforward process. It takes about 10 minutes but can take longer depending on the crowd. 

After exiting your flight, follow the signs and walk toward the Visa on Arrival section. At the Visa on Arrival section, grab an application form and fill it out. To save time at the airport, you can download and complete the India Visa on Arrival application form called Annexure 1 prior to your trip. 

Your airline staff or hostess might have given you an arrival card. If not, grab one at the Visa on Arrival section. Complete your arrival card. 

Present your completed Visa on Arrival form, arrival card and passport at the Visa on Arrival counter. Pay the fee in Indian rupees or its equivalent in any major currency. If asked, provide additional documentation such as your return ticket or financial proof. 

Collect your passport and verify the validity dates on your India Visa on Arrival stamp. If everything looks good, you can exit Visa on Arrival and head to the immigration section. 

How to fill India Visa on Arrival application form

Download and print the India Visa on Arrival application form . Then complete the form with the following information.

• Date [ Comment: Enter today’s date or the date on which you will obtain VOA ]
• Flight No. [ Comment: Enter the code and number of the flight on which arrive in India ]
• Name of Applicant [ Comment: Enter your full name as per your passport ]
• Date of Birth [ Comment: Enter your date of birth as per your passport ]
• Nationality [ Comment: Enter your nationality as per your passport ]
• Passport No. [ Comment: Enter your passport number ]
• Father’s Name [ Comment: Enter your father’s name as per your passport ]
• Father’s Nationality [ Comment: Enter your father’s current nationality ]
• Mother’s Name [ Comment: Enter your mother’s name as per your passport ]
• Mother’s Nationality [ Comment: Enter your mother’s current nationality ]
• Marital Status [ Comment: Enter your marital status as per your passport ]
• Spouse Name [ Comment: Enter your spouse’s name as per your passport ]
• Spouse Nationality [ Comment: Enter your spouse’s current nationality ]
• Applicant’s Previous Nationality (if any) [ Comment: You can skip this. Enter only if you held a different nationality previously ]
• Whether holding other nationality/Dual Nationality (specify)  [ Comment: You can skip this. Enter only if you hold dual nationality ]
• Whether Applicant’s parents/grandparents are of Pakistan origin? (specify names) [ Comment: You can skip this. Enter only if your parents/grandparents are/were Pakistani citizens or residents ]
• Purpose of Visit [ Comment: Enter the purpose of your visit ]
• Occupation [ Comment: Enter your current occupation ]
• Address in India [ Comment: Enter your hotel address here ]
• Permanent Address Abroad [ Comment: Enter your residential address from your country ]
• Email Address [ Comment: Enter your email address ]
• Contact Nos. (in India & Abroad) [ Comment: Enter your mobile phone number from your country ]
• References in India (Name and complete addresses with phone numbers) (Where ever applicable) [ Comment: Enter your hotel name and address here ]
• Date of return/onward journey [ Comment: Enter the date on which you will return from India ]
• Flight No. [ Comment: Enter the code and number of your flight on which your return from India ]
• Final Destination [ Comment: Enter your next destination after India. Enter your home country if returning back or a country where you will spend more than 24 hours. Do not enter any stop-overs ]
• Place [ Comment: Enter the city name in India where you are/will be obtaining your Visa on Arrival ]
• Date [ Comment: Enter the date on which you are/will be obtaining your Visa on Arrival ]
• Signature of Applicant [ Comment: Sign in this box ]

How to fill India arrival card for passengers

Before landing in India, your airline staff or hostess will give you an arrival card. If not, you can grab one at the Visa on Arrival section. Complete your arrival card with the following information in CAPITAL letters.

• Name (as in passport) Leave one box blank after every part of the name/initial [ Comment: Enter your full name as per your passport. Leave one box for space between names ]
• Date of Birth (DD/MM/YYYY) [ Comment: Enter your date of birth as per your passport in DD/MM/YYYY format ]
• Passport Number [ Comment: Enter your passport number ]
• Flight Number [ Comment: Enter the flight number on which you arrived ]
• Date of Arrival (DD/MM/YYYY) [ Comment: Enter the current date, i.e your date of arrival ]
• Countries visited in last six days [ Comment: Enter the names of the countries that you visited in the last six days of vising India ]
• Telephone Number [ Comment: Enter your hotel phone number here ]

After entering the above information, sign in the signature box.

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

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• Home > Emergency Visa

Emergency Visa

Embassy of India

Washington DC

The Emergency Visa service is only for US passport holders of Indian origin and their family members required to visit India due to a genuine family emergency, such as critical illness or death of a family member. Documentary evidence will need to be provided and the applicant will be charged an emergency service fee.

The non-emergency visa applicants can apply for a regular Entry Visa through VFS Global, without submission of any emergency documentation or reason for travel to India, subject to eligibility conditions. Processing of such applications will be as per normal procedures.

Applicants residing within the CONSULAR JURISDICTION of the Embassy of India, Washington DC requiring Emergency Visa may go through the documents check list for Emergency services available at: https://services.vfsglobal.com/one-pager/india/united-states-of-america/visa-services/#emergency . After completion of visa applications and attaching supporting documentation, the applicants may submit their applications:

On Weekdays (Monday- Friday 9 AM-4 PM):

The application for emergency visa on a weekday/working day will be submitted in-person at the VFS Office at the following address:

VFS Global India Consular Application Center,

1025 Vermont Ave, N.W.

Suite 302, 3rd Floor,

Washington, DC 20005.

General Helpline: +1-800-320-9693.

On Saturday/Sunday/Public Holidays (9 AM-4 PM):

On a weekend/public holidays, the applicant should call the VFS Emergency Visa Contact numbers (+ 1-202-666-8585 and +1-929-866-2770) for online submission/processing of emergency visa application. 

In addition, applicants may contact the Embassy on its Emergency Visa Helpline (weekends and holidays only) at +1-202-258-8819.

It may be noted that Emergency Visa will be granted subject to submission of complete documentation and the Embassy may seek additional documentation in certain cases. Applicants are also advised not to finalize their travel arrangements prior to issuance of visa. Emergency Visa will be issued for a maximum six-month duration.

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New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

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Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

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India Tourist Visa for UK citizens: Apply for your India Visa now

As a UK citizen, you'll need an India Visa to enter the country. Don't worry; we've got you covered! This guide will take you through the requirements and application process, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free experience.

Get ready to discover the wonders of India by applying for your India Tourist eVisa now.

Do UK citizens need a visa for India?

Yes, to embark on your Indian adventure and explore its captivating wonders, as a UK citizen, you need to apply for an Indian Visa before entering the country.

There are a few types of Indian eVisa available for UK citizens. The type of visa you choose will depend on the purpose of your trip.

India visa for UK citizens: Available types

Here are the Indian visas available for UK citizens:

The Tourist Visa is for those visiting India for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting friends and family, or attending cultural events.

You’ll need a Business Visa if traveling to India for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or trade fairs.

The Medical Visa : This visa is for those seeking medical treatment in India. It's issued to the patient and two attendants and is sometimes called the e-medical attendant visa.

What is the India Tourist Visa for UK citizens?

The India Tourist Visa (also known as the India e-tourist visa or India e-visa) for UK citizens is an electronic travel document that allows British citizens to visit India for tourism and recreational purposes. It grants permission to explore India's incredible attractions, historical sites, cultural heritage, and natural beauty.

How long is the India Tourist Visa valid For UK nationals?

There are three different types of tourist eVisas . Each has a different validity period. Your options for a tourist visa are:

The 30-day Double-Entry India Tourist Visa

The 1-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

The 5-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

This blog on Indian visa validity and allowed stay has detailed information on the specifics of each type of visa.

Note : All Indian e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible.

Who is eligible to get an India Tourist Visa in the UK?

The eligibility criteria for an Indian Tourist Visa in the UK are as follows:

Nationality : You must be a British citizen. All UK passport holders are eligible to apply for an Indian Tourist Visa.

Purpose : The visa is for tourism and recreational activities in India. It is not applicable for business purposes or employment.

Valid passport : Applicants must possess a valid UK passport with at least six months of validity remaining from the date of arrival in India.

Application process : UK citizens can apply for the India Tourist Visa with us.

Supporting documents : The application requires supporting documents such as a recent passport-size photograph, proof of accommodation in India, a travel itinerary, proof of financial means to cover the trip, and a return ticket or onward travel details.

It's essential to note that the final decision on granting the India Tourist Visa rests with the Indian authorities. Meeting the eligibility criteria doesn't guarantee approval, and it's advisable for British passport holders to carefully follow the application guidelines and provide accurate information to increase the chances of a successful visa application.

India Tourist Visa application: How to apply in the UK

The process is simple with our services and can be completed in just three easy steps. Here's how:

Step 1 : Visit our website and complete the online form. Provide your general information and select the type of visa you wish to apply for.

Step 2 : Review the information you provided to ensure its accuracy. Choose the processing option that best suits your requirements.

Step 3 : Pay the service fee using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit or debit card. Upload the necessary documents, including a passport photo and a scanned copy of your passport.

Once you've completed these three steps, simply submit your application and sit back while we handle the rest! You can expect to receive your e-visa in your email inbox within your selected timeframe.

Remember to carry both a printed and electronic copy of your Tourist eVisa during your travels. This will allow immigration officers to verify your e-Visa India status upon arrival quickly.

We recommend installing the iVisa app on your mobile phone for your convenience. With this app, you can keep track of your documents digitally, monitor the status of your application, and receive real-time alerts.

Necessary documents for the India Tourist Visa for UK citizens

A valid UK passport with a minimum of six months validity remaining from the intended arrival date in India.

Completed India Tourist Visa application form with accurate and up-to-date information.

Recent passport-size photograph (2x2 inches) with a white background.

Travel itinerary specifying the intended travel dates, places to be visited, and accommodation arrangements.

Proof of financial means to cover the expenses during your stay in India, such as bank statements or traveler's checks.

Proof of return or onward travel , such as a confirmed flight ticket.

Need more information?

If you need more info about traveling to India for tourism, medical assistance, or business, please contact us via online chat or WhatsApp .

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The Secretary of State, following consultations with the Department of Homeland Security, has determined that the following categories of interview waivers are in the national interest.  Changes based on that determination are implemented by consular officers, who now have the authority and discretion to waive the in-person interview for:

• First time H-2 visa applicants (temporary agricultural and non-agricultural workers); and
• Were previously issued a nonimmigrant visa in any classification, unless the only prior issued visa was a B visa; and
• Are applying within 48 months of their most recent nonimmigrant visa’s expiration date.

In all cases, applicants must meet certain legal requirements to qualify for an interview waiver.  Implementation of this authority begins January 1, 2024, and will be reviewed annually.  This authority is in place until further notice.

As a reminder, applicants renewing a nonimmigrant visa in the same classification within 48 months of the prior visa’s expiration date continue to be eligible for interview waiver until further notice. 

To be eligible for an interview waiver, applicants must also meet certain criteria, including that they:

• apply in their country of nationality or residence.
• have never been refused a visa (unless such refusal was overcome or waived).
• have no apparent or potential ineligibility.

Consular officers may still require in-person interviews on a case-by-case basis or because of local conditions.  We encourage applicants to check embassy and consulate websites for more detailed information about visa application requirements and procedures, and to learn more about the embassy’s operating status and services. 

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Visa Processing Time

Upon receipt of the Visa Application through Indian Visa Application Center or directly, the Indian Mission/ Post requires a minimum of three working days to process the case and issue a visa depending upon the nationality and excluding special cases.