	Validity	Stay	Entries
Tourist eVisa	30 Days / 1 Year / 5 Years	30 Days / 60 Days	Double / Multiple
Business eVisa	1 Year	180 Days	Multiple
Medical eVisa	1 Year	60 Days	Triple

Table of Contents

Types of eVisas Available
Uploads
eVisa Rejection
Extending the Indian eVisa
Who Needs a Visa to India?
India Visa (mission) vs eVisa
Delivery of eVisa Document
Transit Passenger
Visa on Arrival
Frequently Asked Questions
Visa Policy

To provide a smooth travel experience while ensuring national security, India has instituted a clear entry policy. The introduction of the India e-Visa system has simplified the visa application process for short-term stays, although some nationalities might need to pursue traditional visas via local Indian embassies or consulates.

30 day, 1 year, and 5 year eVisas.

Printout of eVisa needed.

Processing Steps

Online Application

Form is received and reviewed for approval.

Receive Document

Receive the approved document via e-mail.

Arrive in India

Present the document upon arrival.

The India e-Visa is an official document required to enter and travel inside India. It is not required to meet with the Indian embassy or consulate at any time. People traveling for tourism, business, or medical reasons can apply for and receive a visa to India online. The process is straightforward and makes entering India smoother than ever before.

It takes a few minutes to apply for an eVisa to India and a few days to get it processed. Before long, travelers will have their visas in hand without ever surrendering their passports or standing in line. This online application has been designed to streamline the visa to India process, making it as easy as possible. Currently, travelers from over 160 countries are eligible to apply for a number of different electronic visas online.

Currently, the India eVisa is only to be used at approved entry ports, and the document must be printed out prior to departing to India.

India eVisa for Tourism

Foreign travelers can visit their friends and family, explore India’s culture and landscape, arrive in a cruise, and attend short-term yoga and Indian language courses with this visa. There are three types of India eVisas for tourism. Foreigners can apply for e-Tourist visas that are valid for one year, five years and 30 days. A 10-year visa is also available (not eVisa).

The India evisa for one year is valid for exactly 356 days from the date of issuance. Foreigners with this visa can enter and leave the country multiple times. They can also stay in the country for up to three months. The same goes for an e-Tourist visa with five-year validity.

However, USA, UK, Canada, and Japan citizens can stay consecutively for 180 days using this visa. International travelers holding an e-Tourist visa with one-month validity can enter India a maximum of two times before its expiry.

India eVisa for Business

Citizens of eligible countries can apply for an eVisa for business online. Travelers holding this visa can visit India to attend business conferences, seminars, and workshops. The validity of the visa is one year. This is a multiple-entry visa, and the applicants can stay up to 180 days at a time.

However, if they want to stay for more than 180 days, they will have to register with the FRRO (Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office).

India eVisa for Medical Visit

This eVisa is granted only for medical treatments in India. Treatments in India are comparatively cheaper, and healthcare services offered by hospitals are on par with that in many American and European nations. The visa policy for India in regard to medical treatments is lenient, and foreigners with certain ailments can get medical visas on priority.

The ailments on the priority list include heart problems, organ transplantation and joint replacements, neurological and renal issues, cosmetic surgeries, and ophthalmic and congenital disorders. However, the vetting process for this visa is stricter, and the applicants should be genuine visitors for medical treatment. The Indian medical visa is valid for only 60 days, and foreigners have to provide a letter of invitation from the hospital in India to apply for the visa.

They can enter and leave the country a maximum of three times and have to provide proof of funds to sustain themselves during the period of treatment.

India eVisa for Conferences

This visa is granted to foreigners planning to attend a conference, meeting, or workshop conducted by the Union government, state governments, educational institutions, or companies in India. This includes yearly events like the Indian International Film Festival, Pravasi Bharathiya Divas, and international seminars conducted by the Indian Institute of Science in Bangalore and other educational institutes of repute.

The visa validity is for the duration of the conference. However, they have the option to club this visa with a short-term tourist visa. The applicants need to provide a letter of invitation from the organizers of the meeting while applying for the visa.

If the agenda of the conference deals with socially, politically, and religiously sensitive issues, the visa can be denied. Also, foreigners may not get a visa to attend meetings organized in restricted areas of the country.

Uploading Passport

It is mandatory for applicants of an Indian eVisa to upload scanned copies of their passports, irrespective of the nature of their visit and their country of origin. Applicants can scan the document using a scanner or smartphone camera, provided images are not pixelated or blurry.

The scan copy should be clear, legible, and machine-readable. All four corners of the passport and details, including personal and passport information, should be visible and should not be blurry.

Note that indecipherable scan images can be a reason for visa rejection or delays. Applicants should scan the page that has details such as the name, gender, and date of birth of the applicants and the number, issuance, and expiry date of their passports.

The images can be uploaded in PDF, PNG, and JPG formats. The size of the scanned copy should not be more than 600 (height) pixels by 800 pixels (width). However, agents at Natvisa will resize the passport image uploaded so it is up to Indian government guidelines.

Uploading a Picture of Self

Applicants can get a professional’s help to take the image or use a smartphone. The photographs should be clear, concise, and plain. There should not be any glare or shadow. The tone quality must be continuous. The height and width of the image should be equal, and it should be a 2X2 size color image. The applicants’ full faces should be covered with eyes wide open.

The expression on the face should be natural. There should not be funny expressions. No head covering and spectacles are permitted. They must be careful if they use their smartphone cameras to take passport photographs. They should avoid taking pictures in colorful backgrounds, such as in a park or beach. Selfies with family members and friends are a strict no-no.

While taking the passport photographs, the applicant should stand in front of a plain wall. Remember, only white and off-white backgrounds are allowed. They need to stand up straight with their eyes open. The image should cover their full face from the top of the hair to the chin without distractions.

See full guide on image upload

Uploading Supporting Documents

Depending on the India eVisa type, applicants need to submit additional documents. Scanned copies of all these documents need to be uploaded during the visa application. The scan copies should be taken on A4 size papers and in color. Nothing should obstruct the copies, and they should be legible and clear.

Applicants need to gather all the documents in order and keep them in two groups- applicants’ and sponsors’ details. They should not staple it. They have to scan using a scanner and upload it. They can also use their smartphone cameras. Make sure that the scanned image is not pixelated or blurry. This can result in the denial of their India visa application.

What If the eVisa is Rejected

The eVisa can be rejected for various reasons. If the electronic visa is rejected, applicants can approach the nearest Indian mission to apply for a regular visa.

Incorrect Information: Providing incorrect or inconsistent details on the eVisa application can lead to rejection. It’s crucial to ensure that all the data, like the name, passport number, and date of birth, aligns perfectly with what’s on the passport.
Invalid Passport: The passport should have a validity of at least six months from the intended date of entry into India. If it expires before that period, the application may be rejected.
Wrong Passport Type: The India eVisa accepts only ordinary passports. Emergency passports are not accepted.
Country of Origin Issues: On rare occasions, diplomatic or political issues might cause visa rejections for citizens from certain countries.
Unacceptable Photo: If the uploaded photo does not adhere to the required specifications, such as background color or size, or if the face is not clearly visible, the eVisa application might be denied.

Avoid Multiple Visa Applications

One should not apply for their visa multiple times, as multiple visa applications may be rejected. Additionally, the application fee is non-refundable. It’s important for applicants to be aware of this before considering another submission. If an individual’s visa application is denied because of multiple applications, they should await an email from Natvisa outlining the necessary next steps.

Extending the Indian eVisa

As of now, Indian eVisas cannot be extended. The electronic visa is issued only for tourism, business, and medical purposes, and foreigners visiting on this visa should leave the country before the expiry of the validity. They also cannot visit restricted or prohibited areas.

Who Needs a Visa to India?

Citizens of all foreign nations (including minors) need a visa to enter India except in a few visa-free neighboring countries. There are two types of visas- eVisas and regular embassy visas. Citizens of eligible countries can apply for eVisas for short-term visits for the purpose of tourism, business, and medical treatment. Citizens of a few entitled foreign nations can obtain visas on arrival for short term visits that do not exceed 60 days for tourism, business, and medical treatments.

Travelers wanting to intern in India will also need a visa. Also, Pakistani citizens are not eligible for eVisa and will require a regular visa.

What is Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Cards?

Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cards are immigration authorizations issued to foreigners of Indian origin and their spouses who can stay and work in India indefinitely. At the moment, India does not allow dual citizenship and expects its citizens to renounce their citizenship if they want to move away from India permanently.

India Visa (mission) vs eVisa

An Indian eVisa is granted to the citizens of a few foreign countries for shorter visits. The application process is simpler, easier, faster, and online. There is an array of available eVisas travelers can pick from.

However, regular visas are issued to all foreigners. The application process has both online and offline steps. It is more expensive and issued for longer periods.

Delivery of Visa Document

Now that the applicant’s application has been approved, Natvisa will send the eVisa to the email used during the application process. It typically takes the team 3-6 business days to send the eVisa to the provided email. Once the applicant receives their eVisa, they need to print it out and place it with their other required travel documents.

Visiting Protected Sites

The Indian government has prohibited foreigners from visiting some areas of the country, like parts of Jammu and Kashmir, parts of Rajasthan, Mizoram, and Nagaland, due to various security reasons like extremism and terrorism.

However, international travelers with prior special permission are allowed to visit these areas. They should have genuine reasons like meeting their family members to get permission from the Indian home ministry. To promote tourism, the Indian government also grants Protected Area Permit (PAP)/ Restricted Area Permit (RAP) to foreign tourists who do not pose a threat to the country’s security.

The RAP is required to visit the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and part of Sikkim.

Entering India as a Transit Passenger

A transit visa, granted to foreigners traversing India en route to another destination, permits two entries within a single journey, each not exceeding a three-day stay. These visas, typically single-use and valid for 15 days post-issue, mandate a fresh issuance if the journey isn’t completed within the allotted time. Exceptions to extending the three-day visit limit are only made for emergencies like strikes, weather issues, or illness.

However, foreigners directly transiting by air or remaining onboard their ship at an Indian port don’t need a transit visa, provided they don’t leave the designated areas during their short Indian stay.

Getting a Visa on Arrival in India

India offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) facility for passport holders of select countries, simplifying the process of obtaining a visa and facilitating easier entry into India for eligible tourists. The Visa on Arrival is available for citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the United Arab Emirates. This visa category is designed to encourage tourism and ease of travel, particularly for short-term visits.

Visitors eligible for an India visa on arrival can obtain their visa upon arrival at designated Indian airports, eliminating the need to apply for a visa in advance at an Indian consulate or embassy. The VoA is typically valid for a single entry and permits a stay of up to 60 days in the country.

To obtain an India visa on arrival, travelers must present a valid passport, proof of onward or return travel, evidence of financial means to support their stay, and any other necessary documentation. Additionally, a visa fee is payable upon arrival, and travelers must comply with the conditions of the VoA during their stay in India.

This content has been reviewed.

The content on this page has undergone a thorough review by a Natvisa expert, ensuring its accuracy, relevance, and quality. Its important to always check with relevant authorities as entry policies can change.

See Natvisa content review process.

Do I need a visa to visit India?

Whether you need a visa to visit India depends on your nationality. Most foreign nationals require a visa, such as an eVisa or a regular visa, to enter India. However, citizens of Nepal and Bhutan can enter India without a visa.

What is the difference between an eVisa and a regular visa for India?

The difference between an eVisa and a regular visa for India lies in the application process. An eVisa is applied online and received electronically, making it faster and more convenient. A regular visa requires a physical application at an Indian embassy or consulate.

How do I apply for an Indian visa or eVisa?

To apply for an Indian eVisa, visit the Indian government’s official eVisa website, complete the online application form, and submit the required documents. For a regular visa, you must visit an Indian embassy or consulate, submit the necessary paperwork, and follow their specific application process.

How long does it take to process an Indian visa or eVisa application?

Processing times for Indian visas vary; eVisas typically take 3-5 business days, while regular visas can take 7-15 business days or longer, depending on the type of visa and the applicant’s nationality. It is advised to apply well in advance of your planned travel date.

What is the validity of an Indian tourist visa or e-Tourist visa?

Indian tourist visas and e-Tourist visas are generally valid for stays up to 60 days, with multiple entries allowed. The e-Tourist visa validity starts from the date of arrival in India. Always verify the validity and conditions specified on your visa before traveling.

Can I extend my stay in India beyond the visa duration?

In general, tourist visas and eVisas are non-extendable and non-convertible. However, in exceptional cases, such as medical emergencies, you may apply for an extension at the nearest Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India, providing relevant documents and reasons.

What are the requirements for a transit visa in India?

A transit visa is required for travelers passing through India en route to another country. It is valid for a single journey, allows a maximum stay of 3 days, and must be used within 15 days from the date of issue. Direct transit through an Indian airport without leaving the airport premises doesn’t require a transit visa.

What documents do I need to present when entering India?

When entering India, you must present a valid passport with at least six months of remaining validity, a valid visa or eVisa (depending on your nationality and purpose of visit), a return or onward travel ticket, and proof of sufficient funds for your stay. Additional documents may be required based on your visa type.

How can I apply for a work or student visa to enter India?

To apply for a work or student visa to enter India, visit the official website of the Indian consulate or embassy in your country. Complete the online application form, submit the required documents, pay the visa fees, and schedule an appointment for an interview or biometric data collection.

Can I get a visa on arrival in India, and who is eligible for it?

Yes, visa on arrival is available for eligible foreign nationals who want to visit India for tourism, short-term medical treatment, or to meet friends or relatives. However, it is recommended to apply for an e-Visa or regular visa beforehand to avoid any issues at the port of entry.

Indian Visa

See India Visa Policy for a more in depth explanation of the regular visa process. This may include different visa types, steps behind completing an application, and processing times.

India eVisa and Entry Policy Details

Processing Steps

Online Application

Receive Document

Arrive in India

India eVisa for Tourism

India eVisa for Business

India eVisa for Medical Visit

India eVisa for Conferences

Uploading Passport

Uploading a Picture of Self

Uploading Supporting Documents

What If the eVisa is Rejected

Avoid Multiple Visa Applications

Extending the Indian eVisa

Who Needs a Visa to India?

What is Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) Cards?

India Visa (mission) vs eVisa

Delivery of Visa Document

Visiting Protected Sites

Entering India as a Transit Passenger

Getting a Visa on Arrival in India

This content has been reviewed.

Do I need a visa to visit India?

What is the difference between an eVisa and a regular visa for India?

How do I apply for an Indian visa or eVisa?

How long does it take to process an Indian visa or eVisa application?

What is the validity of an Indian tourist visa or e-Tourist visa?

Can I extend my stay in India beyond the visa duration?

What are the requirements for a transit visa in India?

What documents do I need to present when entering India?

How can I apply for a work or student visa to enter India?

Can I get a visa on arrival in India, and who is eligible for it?

Indian Visa

Blog

India Embassies