How Do I Get A Travel Visa To India?

Navigating the Indian visa application process can feel overwhelming, but with the right information and guidance, it’s entirely manageable. TRAVELS.EDU.VN provides a comprehensive guide to simplify the process of securing your Indian travel visa, ensuring a smooth journey. We offer expert advice and support to help you understand the various visa types, eligibility criteria, and application procedures.

1. What is the Eligibility for E-Visa Services?

To be eligible for Indian e-Visa services, you must be a national of a country listed on the official e-Visa website, and your primary reason for visiting India must align with permitted purposes. According to the Bureau of Immigration, eligible purposes include recreation, tourism, casual visits to friends or relatives, short-term yoga programs, medical treatment, business, or attending conferences.

  • Nationality: You must be a citizen of a country listed on the official e-Visa website.
  • Purpose of Visit: Your visit must be for one of the following reasons:
    • Recreation and sightseeing
    • Casual visit to meet friends and relatives
    • Attending short-term yoga programs or courses (lasting no more than 6 months, without a formal certificate or diploma) in local languages, music, dance, arts, crafts, cooking, medicine, etc.
    • Voluntary work of short duration (maximum one month, without monetary payment)
    • Medical treatment (including Indian systems of medicine)
    • Accompanying an e-Medical visa holder
    • Business purposes
    • Attending a conference/seminar/workshop
  • Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of application and have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps. A re-entry permit may be required based on your country’s laws.
  • Financial Stability: You should possess a return or onward journey ticket and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India.
  • Exclusions:
    • Individuals of Pakistani origin or holding a Pakistani passport are ineligible for e-Visas. Those who are not Pakistani nationals but whose parents or grandparents were born or permanently resided in Pakistan must apply for a regular visa at an Indian Mission.
    • Diplomatic/official passport holders or laissez-passer/international travel document holders are not eligible.
    • Individuals endorsed on a parent’s/spouse’s passport must have their own separate passport.

2. What is the Procedure for Applying for E-Visa?

The procedure for applying for an Indian e-Visa involves visiting the official website, completing the online application form, uploading necessary documents, and paying the visa fee. Further details are available on the official e-Visa website.

  • Visit the Official Website: Go to the official e-Visa website.
  • Complete the Application Form: Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
  • Upload Documents: Upload a digital photograph and a scanned copy of your passport.
  • Pay the Fee: Pay the e-Visa fee using a credit card, debit card, or other payment methods specified on the website.
  • Receive Confirmation: After submission, you will receive an email confirming the submission of your application.
  • Check Visa Status: You can check the status of your application online. Processing typically takes 72 hours or more.
  • Receive E-Visa: If your application is approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email.
  • Print ETA: Print the ETA and carry it with your passport when you travel to India.

3. Is There Any Other Website Apart From The Government Website To Apply For The E-Visa Application?

No, the only official website for applying for the Indian e-Visa is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/. Be cautious of unofficial websites and intermediaries claiming to offer expedited services, as these may be fraudulent. Always use the official portal to protect your personal information and ensure a legitimate application.

  • Official Website: The only legitimate source for e-Visa services is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/.
  • Online Process: The e-Visa process is entirely online and does not require assistance from intermediaries or travel agents.
  • Beware of Fraud: Be wary of unofficial websites or individuals claiming to expedite the e-Visa process for a fee.
  • Protect Your Information: Do not share your personal information with unauthorized websites, as this may lead to data leakage.
  • Contact Information: For any clarifications, you can email indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in or call +91 827808 7808 or +91 11 24300666.

4. Is There Any Fee Other Than The Processing Fee?

No, the only fee required for the Indian e-Visa application is the processing fee, which is non-refundable. The fee amount varies depending on your country of origin. To find the specific fee for your country, visit the official e-Visa website.

  • Single Fee: The processing fee is the only charge for e-Visa applications.
  • Non-Refundable: This fee is non-refundable, regardless of the outcome of your application.
  • Country-Specific: The fee amount varies by country.
  • Check the Website: Visit the official e-Visa website to determine the fee for your country.

5. When Should I Apply?

The application timeline for an Indian e-Tourist Visa depends on the visa type. For e-Tourist Visas (01 year / 05 years), e-Business Visas, e-Medical Visas, e-Medical Attendant Visas, and e-Conference Visas, you can apply online a minimum of 4 days before your arrival date, and up to 120 days in advance. For the e-Tourist Visa (30 days), you should also apply at least 4 days in advance, but no more than 30 days before your intended travel date.

  • E-Tourist Visa (1 year / 5 years), E-Business, E-Medical, E-Medical Attendant, E-Conference: Apply a minimum of 4 days and a maximum of 120 days before your arrival.
  • E-Tourist Visa (30 days): Apply a minimum of 4 days and a maximum of 30 days before your arrival.

6. Do I Get a Confirmation of Submission of My E-Visa Application?

Yes, you will receive an immediate confirmation of your e-Visa application submission via email after completing the application and payment process. This confirmation is sent to the email address you provided in the application form.

  • Immediate Confirmation: You will receive an email confirmation immediately after submitting your application.
  • Email Notification: The confirmation will be sent to the email address provided in your application form.

7. When Will My E-Visa Be Issued And How Will I Be Informed About It?

Your e-Visa application may take 72 hours or more to process. You will be notified of your visa status (approved or rejected) via email at the address you provided in the application.

  • Processing Time: Allow at least 72 hours for processing.
  • Email Notification: You will receive an email indicating whether your visa has been granted or rejected.

8. Can I Check the Status of My E-Visa Application?

Yes, you can check the status of your e-Visa application online by visiting the official website and clicking on the ‘Check your Visa Status’ tab. This allows you to monitor the progress of your application.

  • Online Tracking: Visit the official e-Visa website.
  • Check Visa Status Tab: Click on the ‘Check your Visa Status’ tab to monitor your application.

9. What is the Validity of E-Visa?

The validity of your Indian e-Visa varies based on the type of e-Visa you applied for. For e-Tourist Visas (01 year / 05 years), the validity is 365 days / 5 years from the date of grant, permitting multiple entries, with a maximum stay of 180 days per calendar year. For e-Tourist Visas (30 days), the validity is 30 days from the date of first arrival in India, allowing double entries. The e-Business Visa is valid for 365 days from the date of grant, allowing multiple entries, with each visit not exceeding 180 days. The e-Conference Visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival, allowing a single entry. Both e-Medical and e-Medical Attendant Visas are valid for 60 days from the date of first arrival, permitting triple entries.

  • e-Tourist Visa (1 year / 5 years): Valid for 365 days / 5 years from the date of ETA grant, multiple entries, maximum stay of 180 days per calendar year.
  • e-Tourist Visa (30 days): Valid for 30 days from the date of first arrival, double entries allowed.
  • e-Business Visa: Valid for 365 days from the date of ETA grant, multiple entries, each visit not exceeding 180 days. Registration with FRRO/FRO is required if staying more than 180 days.
  • e-Conference Visa: Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival, single entry.
  • e-Medical Visa: Valid for 60 days from the date of first arrival, triple entries allowed.
  • e-Medical Attendant Visa: Valid for 60 days from the date of first arrival, triple entries allowed.

10. Can I Convert My E-Visa to Any Other Visa?

No, Indian e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. If you require a different type of visa, you must apply for it separately.

  • Non-Extendable: E-Visas cannot be extended beyond their original validity.
  • Non-Convertible: E-Visas cannot be converted to another type of visa.

11. Can I Change the Port of Arrival/Departure?

You can arrive at 31 designated airports and 5 designated seaports with an Indian e-Visa. These airports include Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa (Dabolim), Goa (Mopa), Guwahati, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaipur, Kannur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi, and Visakhapatnam. The designated seaports are Cochin, Goa, Mangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai. You can depart from any authorized Indian Immigration Check Post (ICP).

  • Designated Airports: 31 airports, including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and others.
  • Designated Seaports: 5 seaports: Cochin, Goa, Mangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai.
  • Departure: You may depart from any Indian Immigration Check Post (ICP).

12. I Have Not Received Any Intimation Even After 72 Hours of Submission of My E-Visa Application. What Should I Do Now?

If you have not received any communication regarding your e-Visa application after 72 hours, you can contact the e-Visa support team at (+91) 82 7808 7808 or (+91) 11 24300666, or email them at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in for assistance. Be cautious of unauthorized entities offering help. Ensure you promptly provide any additional information requested to avoid rejection.

  • Contact Support: Call (+91) 82 7808 7808 or (+91) 11 24300666, or email indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in.
  • Beware of Unauthorized Entities: Be cautious of unscrupulous agents or intermediaries.
  • Provide Requested Information: Respond quickly to requests for additional details to avoid application rejection.

13. I Am Applying E-Visa for Myself and My Son/Daughter Who Is a Minor. Do I Need to Apply for a Separate E-Visa for My Minor Child?

Yes, each individual, including minors, requires a separate e-Visa to travel to India. Ensure that your child’s passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India.

  • Separate E-Visa Required: Each traveler, including minors, needs their own e-Visa.
  • Passport Validity: The child’s passport should be valid for at least six months from the arrival date.

14. I Have Submitted My E-Visa Application and Paid the Processing Fee. If I Cancel My Proposed Visit to India, Will the Fees Be Refunded?

No, the e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable once submitted, regardless of whether the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is granted or rejected. The fee covers the cost of processing the application.

  • Non-Refundable Fee: The e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable.
  • Processing Cost: The fee covers the cost of processing the application, irrespective of the outcome.

15. Do I Have to Pay Anything Else at the Airport for E-Visa (Other Than the Processing Fee Paid by Me Online)?

No, you do not have to pay any additional fees at the airport if you have already paid the e-Visa processing fee online. Be wary of anyone asking for extra payments, as this may be a scam.

  • No Additional Fees: No extra fees are required at the airport if you have paid the processing fee online.
  • Beware of Scams: Be cautious of individuals demanding extra payments.

16. I Want to Submit My Liquor Permit Application Along with My E-Visa Application How Can I Do This?

Liquor permits are managed by the customs department and are separate from the e-Visa application process. You will need to follow the procedures set by the customs department to obtain a liquor permit.

  • Separate Process: Liquor permits are handled by the customs department.
  • Customs Procedures: Follow the customs department’s procedures for obtaining a liquor permit.

17. What Should I Do If the Payment Is Not Accepted by the E-Visa Website?

If your payment is not accepted by the e-Visa website, clear your browser history and cookies and try again. If the problem continues, try using a different browser. If you have attempted payment more than three times, you may need to resubmit the entire application. Contact payment support for assistance.

  • Clear Browser Data: Delete browser history and cookies.
  • Try Different Browser: Use an alternative browser.
  • Resubmit Application: If payment fails after multiple attempts, resubmit the application.
  • Payment Support: Contact Axis Bank Technical support at ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com or SBI ePay payment support at +91-22-2753-5773.

18. How Can I Get the Invoice/Receipt of the E-Visa Payment?

To obtain an invoice or receipt for your e-Visa payment, visit the official website and click on ‘Verify Payment/ Pay e-Visa fee’.

  • Visit Official Website: Go to https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/.
  • Verify Payment: Click on ‘Verify Payment/ Pay e-Visa fee’ to access your invoice.

19. What Are the Necessary Documents Required to Apply for an E-Business Visa Other Than the Passport?

In addition to your passport, you must upload a business card and details of the Indian firm/company you intend to associate with for business activities. For sports-related activities, refer to the instructions for the applicant page for a list of required documents.

  • Business Card: Upload your business card.
  • Company Details: Provide details of the Indian firm/company you will be associated with.
  • Sports-Related Activities: Check the instructions for applicants for specific document requirements.

20. What is a Business Card?

For the e-Business Visa, a business card refers to a card provided to you by your company, or an invitation letter from the company in India. The invitation letter should include the company’s information, address, and phone number in India.

  • Company-Issued Card: A card provided by your company.
  • Invitation Letter: An invitation letter from the Indian company, including their contact details.

21. What Are the Necessary Documents Required for E-Medical Visa Other Than the Passport?

Apart from your passport, you need to provide a copy of a letter from the concerned hospital in India on its letterhead. This letter should include your name, nationality, passport number, and the tentative date of admission/treatment.

  • Hospital Letter: A letter from the Indian hospital on its letterhead.
  • Patient Details: The letter should include the patient’s name, nationality, passport number, and tentative dates of treatment.

22. What Are the Necessary Documents Required for E-Conference Visa Other Than the Passport?

For an e-Conference Visa, you need to provide an invitation from the organizer, political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, and event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (if required).

  • Organizer Invitation: An invitation from the conference organizer.
  • Political Clearance: Political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs.
  • Event Clearance: Event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs (if applicable).

23. I Got a New Passport but My ETA Was on Old Passport and It Is Still Valid. How Can I Proceed Now?

You may be allowed entry into India with your new passport, even if the ETA was issued on your old passport, provided that you carry both the new and old passports with you.

  • Carry Both Passports: Bring both your new and old passports.
  • ETA on Old Passport: Ensure the ETA was issued on the old passport.

24. Can I Enter India Using Land Border Even If I Am Having Valid E-Visa for Any Other Airport or Seaport Which Is Not Listed for the E-Visa?

No, you can only enter India through the designated airports and seaports listed on the e-Visa website. Entry via land borders is not permitted with an e-Visa.

  • Designated Entry Points: Only enter through specified airports and seaports.
  • No Land Border Entry: Land border crossings are not allowed with an e-Visa.

25. How Can I Fill Previous Visa Details Inside the E-Visa Application Form?

You must provide your previous visa details in the e-Visa application form. If you do not remember the details, you can write “NA,” “Not Available,” or “Not Applicable” in the relevant fields.

  • Mandatory Field: Previous visa details are required in the application form.
  • Use “NA” if Unknown: If you don’t remember the details, use “NA,” “Not Available,” or “Not Applicable.”

26. Can I Get Visa on Arrival(VoA) at Indian Airports/Seaport?

Visa on Arrival (VoA) is available only for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and UAE (for UAE nationals who have previously obtained an e-Visa or regular visa for India). Nationals of other eligible countries must apply for an e-Visa online and wait for confirmation before traveling to India.

  • Limited VoA: VoA is available only for citizens of Japan, South Korea, and certain UAE nationals.
  • E-Visa Required: Other eligible nationalities must apply for an e-Visa in advance.

27. Can I Get a Refund for the Rejected E-Visa Application?

No, the e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is granted or rejected. The fee covers the cost of processing the application.

  • Non-Refundable Fee: The processing fee is non-refundable.
  • Processing Cost: The fee is for processing the application, regardless of the outcome.

28. Can I Use E-Visa to Enter in India by Cruise Ship?

Yes, entry by cruise ship is allowed with an e-Visa through five designated seaports: Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa, and Mangalore.

  • Designated Seaports: Enter via Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa, or Mangalore seaports.
  • ETA Required: Ensure you have an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

29. What is ‘Visible Identification Mark’?

A ‘Visible Identification Mark’ refers to easily noticeable physical traits such as moles, birthmarks, or permanent scars that can be identified by Indian Immigration authorities if required.

  • Physical Traits: Moles, birthmarks, or permanent scars.
  • Identification Purpose: Used for verification by immigration authorities.

30. Who Have to Carry the ‘Yellow Fever Vaccination Card’?

All travelers arriving in India within six days of departure from a yellow fever endemic country must possess a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. A list of yellow fever endemic countries is available on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.

  • Recent Travel: Required for those arriving within six days of departure from a yellow fever endemic country.
  • Valid Certificate: Must possess a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
  • Check the List: Refer to the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website for a list of yellow fever endemic countries.

31. We Got the ETA, but Have Discrepancy in the Name, Nationality, Passport Number and Date of Birth in the ETA?

Applicants must verify all details, including name, nationality, passport number, date of birth, and photograph, before submitting the e-Visa application. The applicant is responsible for any discrepancies. If a discrepancy is found on the ETA, contact the e-Visa Support Centre for assistance at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in or (+91) 82 7808 7808 or (+91) 11 24300666 at least 24 hours before the journey date.

  • Verify Details: Check all information before submission.
  • Contact Support: If there are discrepancies, contact e-Visa Support Centre.

32. Is the E-Visa Facility Allowed for Employment Visa?

No, e-Visas are not permitted for employment purposes. You must apply for a regular Employment Visa through the appropriate channels.

  • Not for Employment: E-Visas cannot be used for employment.
  • Apply for Regular Visa: Apply for a regular Employment Visa.

33. Is the E-Visa Allowed for Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Activities and Journalism Purposes?

E-Visas are not allowed for NGO activities or journalism purposes. However, voluntary work of short duration (up to one month, without monetary compensation) is permitted.

  • Not for NGO/Journalism: E-Visas cannot be used for NGO activities or journalism.
  • Short-Term Voluntary Work: Voluntary work of up to one month without pay is allowed.

34. How Many Attendants Can Come with a Patient?

Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa (for the patient).

  • Two Attendants: Only two attendants are allowed per e-Medical Visa holder.

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  • Expert Guidance: Our team offers up-to-date information on the latest visa requirements, application procedures, and any changes in regulations.
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Don’t let the complexities of visa applications deter you from exploring the wonders of India. Trust TRAVELS.EDU.VN to guide you through every step, ensuring your journey starts on the right foot. Contact us today to learn more about how we can assist you with your Indian visa needs.

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Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Travel Visas

Question Answer
What is the best type of Indian visa for tourism? The e-Tourist Visa is often the best choice for tourism, offering flexibility and ease of application.
How early should I apply for my Indian e-Visa? Apply at least 4 days before your intended travel date but no more than 120 days in advance for most e-Visa types, or 30 days for the 30-day e-Tourist Visa.
Can I extend my e-Visa while in India? No, e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. If you need to stay longer or change the purpose of your visit, you must leave India and apply for a new visa.
What if my e-Visa application is rejected? If your e-Visa is rejected, you will need to apply for a regular visa through an Indian embassy or consulate. The e-Visa fee is non-refundable.
Can I use my e-Visa to enter India for a film shoot? No, e-Visas are not permitted for film shoots. You will need to apply for a regular visa that specifically allows for film-related activities.
What should I do if I lose my passport while in India? Report the loss to the local police and obtain a police report. Then, contact your embassy or consulate for assistance with obtaining a new passport and necessary documentation to exit India.
Are there any health requirements for entering India? Depending on your country of origin or recent travel history, you may need to provide proof of certain vaccinations, such as yellow fever. Check the latest health advisories from the Indian Ministry of Health before your trip.
Can I work remotely in India on an e-Tourist Visa? The e-Tourist Visa is intended for tourism and recreational purposes only. Engaging in any form of employment, including remote work, is not permitted.
What are the customs regulations regarding bringing electronics into India? You can bring personal electronics such as laptops, cameras, and mobile phones into India, but they must be declared at customs if their value exceeds a certain limit. Ensure you are aware of the current customs regulations to avoid any issues upon arrival.
What if I overstay my e-Visa in India? Overstaying your e-Visa can lead to serious consequences, including fines, detention, and a ban from future travel to India. Always ensure you depart before your visa expires.

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