Essential Visa Information for Traveling to India

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

Every Indian state is diverse, so take your time navigating this enormous and fascinating country. Fortunately, obtaining a visa is straightforward and allows ample time for exploration.

Do You Need a Visa to Enter India?

Almost everyone requires a visa to visit India. For most nationalities, tourist visas are easily obtainable online or through an Indian embassy or consulate. Citizens from 166 countries, including many in the EU, the US, Australia, and several nations across Asia, Africa, and Latin America, can apply for an e-Visa through a simple online form.

The online application process is relatively hassle-free and saves considerable time compared to applying in person at an embassy. Tourist e-Visas are available with varying validity periods, including 30 days, one year, or five years, allowing multiple entries for a maximum stay of 180 days on each visit.

For one- and five-year tourist visas, applications can be submitted up to 120 days in advance. The 30-day visa permits two entries into India, which is beneficial for side trips. All e-Visas require at least 72 hours for processing, so it’s wise to apply at least four days ahead of your travel date.

How to Apply for an Indian Visa

The Indian government’s online e-Visa portal facilitates the application for various visa types, including tourist and business visas. The visa’s cost and duration depend on your nationality. Applicants might need to show proof of return travel arrangements and sufficient funds for their stay.

For business travelers, additional documentation such as letters of introduction from Indian companies may be required. Generally, business visas are valid for multiple entries over one year.

Applying for a Tourist e-Visa Made Easy

To apply for an Indian e-Visa, visit the government’s e-Visa portal. You’ll need a digital passport photo and copies of your passport ID pages, along with payment of the visa fee, which varies by nationality.

Your passport should be valid for six months beyond your planned entry date, and you must have at least two spare pages for the visa stamp upon arrival. If accepted—most applications are—expect to receive a digital Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which should be printed for presentation to immigration authorities upon entry.

Entering India: Air and Sea Options

E-Visas allow entry to India through designated airports and seaports. Airports include major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Chennai, among others. The designated seaports include Mumbai, Chennai, and Kochi.

Overland Entry into India

If you plan to enter India overland from countries like Nepal or Pakistan, applying for a visa in advance is essential. Obtain a visa stamped in your passport beforehand from the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country or through an approved visa application office.

If e-Visa is Unavailable, What are Your Options?

Contact your local embassy or consulate to confirm the application process in your area, as the procedures can differ. Obtaining an Indian visa directly from your home country is generally more efficient than applying overseas.

Student Visas for Full-Time Educational Programs

Student visas are granted to those enrolled in approved full-time educational programs in India, which may cover yoga and traditional art courses. The validity of student visas can extend up to five years, depending on the course length, but strict documentation from your institution is necessary.

Extension of Stay in India

E-Visas cannot be extended, but other visa types may be extended in exceptional cases like medical emergencies. To apply, use the government’s special online portal, providing valid reasons for your extension request.

Special Travel Permits for Border Areas

Special permits are required to visit sensitive border areas due to historical regulations. Applying for these permits can be complex outside of India, but local applications in India are typically more straightforward. Contact local government offices for accurate information regarding permissions in specific areas.

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