India Tourist Visa | Validity and How to Get

A visit to India offers something for every traveler. Whether tourists want to do yoga at an ashram or have pictures taken in front of the Taj Mahal, there is always another adventure in this beautiful, majestic country. All visitors need is an India tourist visa and access to the country can be theirs. Don’t let anyone miss out on visiting India because of the visa requirements. It’s usually an easy process to get permission to enter the country.

People from most countries can apply for their India tourist visa via this site. The main exception is Pakistan. If the traveler, his/her parents, or his/her grandparents were born in or lived in Pakistan, he or she will need to apply for a visa via the Indian consulate. This applies even if the traveler is currently a citizen of a different country. Applying online is not only the best way to get an India visa, but it may be the only way. India now requires citizens of most countries to have visas before they arrive. They can apply anywhere from 120 days to 4 days before arrival.

What is a Tourist Visa for India?

A tourist visa is a travel authorization granted to a foreign national by the Indian government to visit the sub-continent for tourism. 

The validity of a tourist visa for India differs based on the type of visa and nationality of the applicant. Citizens of the US, Canada, and Japan are sometimes issued a tourism visa with a validity of 10 years. 

Foreign tourists traveling in groups of more than four members can also get a group tourism visa in India, provided they are traveling with an agency approved by the government. The application process for group tourist visas can be done exclusively in online mode. An Indian tourist visa is non-convertible and non-extendable.

Validity of a Tourist Visa for India

The India eTourist Visa category allows you to enter India for recreational purposes only. This includes sightseeing, meeting friends and family, attending a yoga program, and holidaying.

Once the visa is approved, you can enter India as a tourist multiple times. The length of validity depends on the Validity Option selected on the application form. Currently, India eTourist offers 30 days (2 entries), one year (multiple entries), and five years (multiple entries).

How to Apply Online

Simply start an application online and make sure that every field is filled out. After the application is finished, pay the application fee. The amount depends on the traveler’s country of citizenship and the validity selected.

Once the visitor has completed their application, they will get a reference number, which they can use to look up the status of their application. Within 1-4 business days (this depends on the level of service selected), they should receive an email confirmation that their visa has been granted.

What Travelers Need for an Indian Tourist Visa

Travelers can start their India visa application right away. To complete it, they will need:

• A passport that is valid for at least six months from their date of arrival in India.
• Travel details.
• A photograph of the photo page in their passport that shows all personal details.
• A valid credit card to pay the India visa application fee.

What Will be Needed Upon Arrival in India

Upon arrival in India, travelers will also need to show:

• Proof of return or of continuing travel within the time frame of their Indian tourist visa.
• At least two empty pages in their passports.
• Proof of funds to cover their expenses while in India.
• Print out their approved India tourist visa.

Activities That are Not Allowed with the Tourist Visa 

Like every visa type, the Indian tourist visa has its limitations. Foreign nationals visiting the country on a tourist visa cannot engage in paid employment or business or attend study programs in Indian universities. This visa is issued strictly for recreational activities. 

International travelers are not allowed to visit some parts of the country categorized as prohibited/restricted areas, such as parts of Jammu and Kashmir, Andaman Nicobar Islands, and Sikkim. They need special permits issued by authorized government staff to visit these areas. They can enter/exit only through designated points.

Note that foreigners can enter the northeastern states of India only by air. However, they can hit national highways to travel between these states. International travelers arriving in India on a tourist visa cannot preach religion, make speeches in religious places, or show audio-visual religious content in the country. They can, however, visit religious places and attend religious discourses. 

Popular Destinations in India that Tourists Visit 

India is the land of diversity. Be it culture, cuisine, religion, language, or geography; there is much to explore. Some of the most popular tourist destinations in the country are as follows:

The Taj Mahal, Agra 

One of the seven wonders in the world, the Taj Mahal is a true tribute to the power of love etched in pristine white marble. Lore has it that the mausoleum was built by Emperor Shah Jahan in the loving memory of his wife, Mumtaz Mahal. It took around 20 thousand workmen close to 1650 days to build this marvel. Constructed in true Mughal architecture, the monument is a must place to visit for anybody traveling to India.

Northeast India

Northeastern India has many tourist attractions. From Assam to Arunachal Pradesh, this part of India is known for extremely rare flora and fauna, distinct wildlife, culture, and varied terrains. The gateway to the northeast, Guwahati has many tourist destinations like Kamakya Temple, believed to be the abode of the supreme female goddess Sati. Kaziranga National Park, Assam, is known as the home of a one-horned rhino and is one of the sought-after holiday destinations in India’s northeast area. 

Varanasi, UP  

Varanasi is one of the oldest and most sacred cities in India. A pilgrim center of Hindus, Varanasi is home to the river Ganga, one of the most prominent holy rivers of the religion. It is believed that taking a dip in the river Ganga washes away all the sins. Participating in Ganga Arati at Dasashvamedh Ghat and Assi Ghat is sure will be a life-changing experience.  

Kerala 

A state situated on the tropical Malabar coast of India, Kerala is famous for its geographical diversity. From the tropical rainforests to pristine beaches, travelers have much to explore in Kerala. Also, Kerala is home to Ayurveda, the holistic wellness treatment system of India.

Goa

The erstwhile Portuguese colony, Goa is one of the most favored destinations for both domestic and international tourists because of its beaches. The state also has a cuisine culture of its own.

Conclusion  

A visit to India promises a wealth of experiences for every traveler. Acquiring a tourist visa for India is a straightforward process, granting access to explore the country’s diverse culture, cuisine, and landscapes. From the iconic Taj Mahal to the serene beaches of Goa, India’s captivating beauty awaits all who venture to this mesmerizing land.