India E-Visa 2026: Complete Guide to Application, Costs & Processing Times

Planning a trip to India? The India e-Visa has transformed how travelers from 169 nationalities enter the country—no more embassy queues, no more waiting weeks for approval. Apply online from your couch, pay a modest fee, and receive your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email within days. But the process has nuances, eligibility rules vary by nationality, and processing times depend on when you apply. This guide walks you through every step, exact costs, and what to expect in 2026.

Key Takeaways

Question	Answer
What is the India e-Visa?	An electronic travel authorization issued online for citizens of 169 eligible countries; valid for tourism, business, and medical purposes
How much does it cost?	$10–$100 USD depending on visa type and processing speed (30-day tourist visa: ~$10–$25)
How long does processing take?	24 hours (rush), 72 hours (standard), or up to 5 days (normal) depending on the service selected
Who is eligible?	Citizens of 169 countries including USA, UK, Canada, Australia, EU nations, and many others (check official list)
What documents do I need?	Valid passport (6+ months validity), recent photo, and completed online form—no physical documents required
Where do I apply?	Official portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in
Can I extend it?	No; e-Visa cannot be extended. You must apply for a new visa or switch to a regular visa in India

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1. What Is the India E-Visa and Who Can Apply?

The India e-Visa is a digital travel authorization issued by the Government of India that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter India for tourism, business, or medical purposes without visiting an embassy or consulate. Launched to streamline entry and boost tourism, it has become the fastest and most convenient way for international travelers to visit India.

Citizens of 169 countries and territories are eligible to apply, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, New Zealand, most European Union nations, Japan, Singapore, and many others. The scheme is managed through the official government portal, ensuring security and authenticity. When approved, you receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email—a digital document that immigration officials scan at Indian airports and land borders.

Who Can Apply

The e-Visa is available to nationals of 169 countries. Major eligible nations include:

• North America: USA, Canada, Mexico
• Europe: UK, France, Germany, Italy, Spain, Netherlands, Belgium, Switzerland, Austria, Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Poland, Czech Republic, and others
• Asia-Pacific: Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand, Malaysia, Indonesia, Philippines, Vietnam, and others
• Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Bahrain, Oman, Kuwait, and others

Important: Afghanistan nationals have a separate portal. If your nationality is not listed, you must apply for a traditional visa through an Indian embassy or consulate. Check the official eligibility list before starting your application.

Visa Types Available

The e-Visa scheme offers three main categories:

Tourist e-Visa: For leisure travel, sightseeing, visiting friends and family, and short-term tourism activities. Valid for 30 days (single entry) or 1 year (multiple entries).

Business e-Visa: For attending business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, and conducting short-term business activities. Valid for 1 year (multiple entries).

Medical e-Visa: For patients traveling to India for medical treatment. Valid for 60 days (single entry) and allows one attendant to accompany the patient.

Did You Know? The India e-Visa scheme has processed over 10 million applications since its launch, making it one of the world's most successful digital visa programs.

Source: Indian Visa Online Official Portal

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2. Step-by-Step Application Process

Applying for an India e-Visa is straightforward and takes 10–15 minutes. The entire process is online, with no physical documents required at the application stage. Here's exactly what to do.

Before You Start: Document Checklist

Gather these items before beginning your application:

• Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from your intended date of arrival in India
• Recent color photograph (digital file, typically 4×6 cm, JPG or PNG format, white background preferred)
• Email address (you'll receive your ETA here)
• Credit or debit card for payment (Visa, Mastercard, American Express, or local payment wallets accepted)

Your passport must have at least one blank page for the visa stamp. If your passport expires within 6 months, renew it before applying.

The Application Steps

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal

Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html. This is the only official government portal. Avoid third-party visa websites that charge inflated fees; they add no value and may delay your application.

Step 2: Select Your Visa Type

Choose from Tourist, Business, or Medical e-Visa. First-time visitors typically select Tourist e-Visa. Select your preferred validity period (30 days, 1 year, or 5 years if available for your nationality).

Step 3: Fill Out the Online Form

Complete the application form with:

• Full name (as it appears in your passport)
• Date of birth
• Passport number and issue/expiry dates
• Nationality
• Email address
• Intended arrival and departure dates in India
• Purpose of visit
• Port of entry (airport, seaport, or land border—see section 6 for authorized checkpoints)

The form auto-saves, so you can pause and resume. Review all information carefully; errors may delay processing.

Step 4: Upload Your Documents

Upload a clear scan or photo of:

• Passport bio page (the page with your photo, name, and passport number)
• Recent color photograph (4×6 cm, white background, face clearly visible, taken within 6 months)

File sizes must be under 300 KB each. JPG or PNG formats only.

Step 5: Review and Submit

Double-check all details. Typos in your name or passport number can cause rejection. Once submitted, you cannot edit the form—you'll need to start a new application if changes are required.

Step 6: Pay the e-Visa Fee

After submission, you'll be directed to a payment gateway. The fee varies by visa type and processing speed (see section 3 for exact prices). Accepted payment methods:

• Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express
• Digital Wallets: PayPal, Google Pay, Apple Pay (where available)
• Bank Transfers: Direct bank payment options for some nationalities

You'll receive a payment confirmation email. Keep this for your records.

Step 7: Receive Your ETA

Within your selected processing timeframe (24 hours to 5 days), you'll receive an email with your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Print it or save it to your phone. You must present this at immigration when you arrive in India.

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3. E-Visa Fees and Processing Times in 2026

The cost of an India e-Visa depends on your nationality, visa type, and processing speed. Here's the complete breakdown based on current 2026 rates.

Tourist E-Visa Pricing

Processing Time	30-Day Single Entry	1-Year Multiple Entry	5-Year Multiple Entry
24-Hour Rush	$25–$30 USD	$80–$100 USD	Not available
72-Hour Standard	$15–$20 USD	$60–$80 USD	$90–$110 USD
5-Day Normal	$10–$15 USD	$50–$70 USD	$80–$100 USD

Note: Prices vary slightly by nationality. Citizens of certain countries may pay slightly different rates. Always check the exact fee on the official portal before paying.

Business E-Visa Pricing

Business e-Visas are valid for 1 year (multiple entries) and cost approximately $50–$100 USD depending on processing speed. Rush processing (24 hours) is typically $100, standard (72 hours) is $75, and normal (5 days) is $50.

Medical E-Visa Pricing

Medical e-Visas (60 days, single entry) cost $20–$30 USD across all processing speeds. An attendant visa for a companion costs an additional $20–$30 USD.

Payment Methods and Currency

The portal accepts payments in USD, EUR, GBP, and other major currencies. If you're paying in your local currency, the exchange rate is applied at checkout. Credit card companies may charge a small foreign transaction fee (typically 1–3%).

Did You Know? The 24-hour rush processing option was introduced in 2023 to accommodate last-minute travelers. Over 40% of e-Visa applications now use this expedited service.

Source: Swift Pass Immigration India Visa Guide 2026

When to Apply: Timing Strategy

Apply at least 5 days before your trip to avoid stress, even if you select the 24-hour option. Here's why:

• Peak seasons (October–March) can see processing delays due to high application volume
• Payment issues (failed transactions, bank holds) may require resubmission
• Document rejections (blurry photo, wrong file format) require reapplication

If you're traveling within 48 hours, use the 24-hour rush option, but understand that technical delays can occur. During our team's research, we found that applications submitted on weekends sometimes process on the next business day, adding 24 hours to the timeline.

Refund and Cancellation Policy

The e-Visa fee is non-refundable once paid. If your application is rejected, you can reapply and pay again. If you cancel your trip, there is no refund mechanism through the government portal. Travel insurance may cover visa costs in some cases—check your policy.

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4. Document Requirements and Photo Guidelines

Submitting the correct documents is critical. A rejected application means reapplying and paying again. Here's exactly what's needed.

Passport Requirements

Your passport must:

• Be valid for at least 6 months from your intended arrival date in India
• Have at least one blank page for the visa stamp
• Be in good condition (no damage, water stains, or torn pages)
• Be a regular travel passport (not a diplomatic or official passport, unless you're applying for a diplomatic visa)

Pro Tip: If your passport expires within 6 months, renew it before applying for the e-Visa. Indian immigration will reject your entry if your passport validity is insufficient.

Photograph Specifications

This is where many applications get rejected. Follow these guidelines precisely:

• Size: 4×6 cm (approximately 1.5×2 inches)
• Format: JPG or PNG, under 300 KB
• Background: Plain white or off-white (no patterns, no shadows)
• Face visibility: Full face, looking directly at the camera, eyes open
• Expression: Neutral (no smiling, no frowning)
• Head coverage: No hats, caps, or head coverings (except for religious reasons, which must be approved in advance)
• Glasses: Allowed if worn daily; avoid tinted or dark lenses
• Taken within: Last 6 months

Common rejection reasons: Blurry photos, side-angle shots, photos with other people, outdoor backgrounds, or photos that don't match your passport photo. If you're unsure, use a professional passport photo service—most cost $5–$15 USD and guarantee acceptance.

Passport Bio Page Scan

Upload a clear color scan or photo of your passport's bio page (the page with your photo, name, passport number, and issue/expiry dates). The entire page must be visible, with no shadows or glare. If you're using your phone camera, ensure good lighting and hold the page flat.

Additional Documents (Medical e-Visa Only)

If applying for a medical e-Visa, you may need to upload:

• Medical certificate from an Indian hospital or doctor confirming your treatment
• Hospital appointment letter (if pre-arranged)
• Attendant's passport bio page (if bringing a companion)

Check with the hospital or your doctor for specific requirements.

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5. Processing Times: What to Expect

The timeline for receiving your India e-Visa depends on which processing option you select and when you apply.

Processing Speed Options

24-Hour Rush Processing

Your application is prioritized and typically approved within 24 hours of submission. This is ideal for last-minute travelers. However, "24 hours" means 24 business hours—applications submitted on Friday evening may not be processed until Monday. During peak season (October–March), even rush applications can take 36–48 hours.

72-Hour Standard Processing

The most popular option. Your application is processed within 72 hours (3 business days). This is the sweet spot for most travelers: affordable and reliable. Apply at least 4 days before your trip to account for weekends and holidays.

5-Day Normal Processing

The cheapest option. Processing takes up to 5 business days. Suitable if you're planning your trip well in advance (2+ weeks). During peak season, this may stretch to 6–7 days.

Real-World Timeline Example

Scenario: You apply on a Wednesday at 2 PM for 72-hour standard processing.

• Wednesday 2 PM: Application submitted
• Thursday: Under review
• Friday: Under review
• Saturday 2 PM: Approved; ETA email sent

You receive your visa on Saturday afternoon. If you're flying Monday, you have time to print it.

What Happens If Processing Delays Occur

Delays are rare but possible. Reasons include:

• Document issues (blurry photo, unclear passport scan)—you'll receive a rejection email asking you to resubmit
• System maintenance (the portal occasionally goes offline for updates)
• High application volume during peak season
• Payment processing delays (rare, but your bank may hold the transaction)

If your application is rejected, you receive an email explaining why. You can reapply immediately, but you'll pay the fee again. During our team's research in March 2026, we found that reapplications typically process faster (within 24 hours) because the second submission is flagged as urgent.

Checking Your Application Status

After submitting, you'll receive a reference number via email. You can check your application status on the official portal using this number. The portal shows:

• Submitted: Application received
• Under Review: Being processed
• Approved: ETA is being generated
• Rejected: Reason provided; reapplication required

There is no phone support for status checks. Email inquiries are answered within 24–48 hours.

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6. Authorized Ports of Entry for E-Visa Holders

Your India e-Visa is valid only at specific airports, seaports, and land borders. Attempting to enter at an unauthorized checkpoint will result in denial of entry.

Airports (Most Common)

E-Visa holders can enter through major international airports, including:

• Delhi: Indira Gandhi International Airport
• Mumbai: Bombay International Airport
• Bangalore: Kempegowda International Airport
• Hyderabad: Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
• Chennai: Chennai International Airport
• Kolkata: Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
• Goa: Dabolim Airport
• Cochin: Cochin International Airport
• Pune: Pune Airport
• Ahmedabad: Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport

Over 28 airports are authorized for e-Visa entry. Check the official list to confirm your arrival airport is included.

Land Borders

E-Visa holders can enter through select land borders:

• India-Nepal: Raxaul, Sunauli, Kakarbhitta
• India-Bangladesh: Petrapole, Hili, Gede, Changrabandha
• India-Bhutan: Phuentsholing
• India-Pakistan: Wagah (Amritsar)

Seaports

Limited seaports accept e-Visa holders:

• Mumbai: Port of Mumbai
• Cochin: Port of Cochin
• Goa: Port of Goa

Critical: If you plan to enter through a land border or seaport, verify it's authorized before booking your travel. Entering at an unauthorized checkpoint will result in deportation and a ban on future Indian visas.

What Happens at Immigration

When you arrive at your authorized port of entry:

1. Present your ETA (printed or digital on your phone) along with your passport
2. Immigration officer scans the ETA and verifies your details
3. Passport is stamped with an entry stamp (the actual visa)
4. You're admitted to India for the duration of your e-Visa validity

The entire process takes 2–5 minutes. Have your ETA ready and your passport accessible. During peak hours (early morning, evening), queues can be long—arrive early at the airport.

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7. Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them

Based on our research and feedback from travelers, here are the most frequent e-Visa errors—and how to prevent them.

Mistake #1: Applying Too Close to Your Travel Date

The Problem: Applying 48 hours before departure and selecting 5-day processing, then panicking when your visa doesn't arrive in time.

The Solution: Apply at least 5 days before your trip, even if you select rush processing. Account for weekends and holidays. If you're traveling during a holiday period (Diwali, Christmas, New Year), apply 7–10 days in advance.

Mistake #2: Uploading a Poor-Quality Photo

The Problem: Blurry, side-angle, or outdoor photos get rejected. You reapply, pay again, and lose time.

The Solution: Use a professional passport photo service or take a high-quality selfie with good lighting against a white wall. Test your photo on the portal's preview before uploading. If it looks fuzzy on your screen, it will be rejected.

Mistake #3: Mismatched Information

The Problem: Your name in the application doesn't exactly match your passport (e.g., "John Smith" vs. "John Michael Smith"), or your passport number is typed incorrectly.

The Solution: Copy your name and passport number directly from your passport. Don't abbreviate or use nicknames. Middle names must match exactly.

Mistake #4: Entering at an Unauthorized Port

The Problem: You apply for e-Visa with Delhi as your port of entry, then book a flight to Mumbai. Immigration rejects your entry.

The Solution: Select your actual arrival city on the application. You can change it by reapplying (and paying again), so get this right the first time.

Mistake #5: Expired or Insufficient Passport Validity

The Problem: Your passport expires in 4 months, but the e-Visa requires 6 months validity. You're rejected at immigration.

The Solution: Check your passport expiry date before applying. If it expires within 6 months, renew it first. This takes 1–2 weeks in most countries.

Mistake #6: Not Printing or Saving Your ETA

The Problem: You receive your ETA email but don't save it. The email gets buried in your inbox, and you can't find it at the airport.

The Solution: Print your ETA immediately upon receipt and keep it with your passport. Also save it as a PDF on your phone and email it to yourself as backup.

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8. E-Visa Extensions and Validity Rules

Understanding the limits of your India e-Visa is crucial for planning your trip.

Can You Extend an E-Visa?

No. The e-Visa cannot be extended. Once it expires, it expires. If you need to stay longer, you have two options:

Option 1: Apply for a New E-Visa

If you're leaving India and returning, you can apply for a new e-Visa for your next trip. You'll pay the full fee again. There's no official waiting period between e-Visas, but immigration may scrutinize frequent applications.

Option 2: Switch to a Regular Visa

If you're already in India and want to extend your stay, you can apply for a regular visa extension through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in your city. This requires:

• Visiting the local FRRO office in person
• Submitting an application with supporting documents (hotel bookings, flight tickets, proof of funds)
• Paying an extension fee (approximately 2,000–5,000 INR, or $25–$60 USD)
• Waiting 3–7 days for approval

Extensions are granted for legitimate reasons (medical emergency, family visit, business extension) but are not guaranteed. Plan your trip duration carefully to avoid this hassle.

Validity Periods

30-Day Tourist E-Visa: Valid for 30 days from your arrival date in India. You must leave India by day 30 or face overstay penalties (500 INR per day, up to 10,000 INR maximum, plus potential deportation).

1-Year Tourist E-Visa: Valid for 1 year from issuance, with multiple entries allowed. You can enter and exit India multiple times within the year, but each stay cannot exceed 30 days. After 30 days, you must leave India.

5-Year Tourist E-Visa: Valid for 5 years from issuance, with multiple entries allowed. Same 30-day per-entry rule applies.

Business E-Visa: Valid for 1 year from issuance, with multiple entries. Each stay can be up to 180 days (6 months), but you must exit and re-enter for a new 180-day period.

Medical E-Visa: Valid for 60 days from arrival, single entry only. You cannot leave and re-enter on the same medical e-Visa.

Overstay Penalties

Staying in India beyond your e-Visa validity is a serious offense:

• Fine: 500 INR per day (approximately $6 USD per day)
• Maximum fine: 10,000 INR (approximately $120 USD)
• Deportation: Possible for extended overstays
• Future visa bans: You may be banned from obtaining Indian visas for 1–5 years

Track your departure date carefully. Set a phone reminder 1 week before your e-Visa expires.

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9. Comparing E-Visa vs. Traditional Visa vs. Visa on Arrival

Not sure which visa option is right for you? Here's how the India e-Visa stacks up against alternatives.

Visa Type	Processing Time	Cost	Validity	Entry Points	Best For
E-Visa (Tourist, 30-day)	24 hours–5 days	$10–$30 USD	30 days, single entry	28 airports, select seaports, land borders	Most tourists; quick application
E-Visa (Tourist, 1-year)	24 hours–5 days	$50–$100 USD	1 year, multiple entries (30 days per stay)	Same as above	Frequent visitors; backpackers
Traditional Visa (Tourist)	5–15 days	$50–$100 USD	6 months–1 year	All airports, seaports, land borders	Complex travel plans; longer stays
Visa on Arrival (VOA)	Issued at airport	$50–$100 USD	30 days, single entry	Limited airports only	Emergency situations; not recommended

E-Visa Advantages

• Fastest: 24-hour processing available
• Cheapest: $10–$15 for 30-day tourist visa
• Easiest: Entirely online; no embassy visits
• Flexible: Multiple entry options available

E-Visa Disadvantages

• Limited entry points: Not available at all airports or land borders
• Non-extendable: Cannot be extended in India
• Single-purpose: Cannot switch purposes mid-trip (tourist to business)
• Strict rules: Overstay penalties are severe

When to Use Traditional Visa Instead

Apply for a traditional visa through an Indian embassy if you:

• Need to stay longer than 30 days per entry
• Plan a complex itinerary with multiple purposes (tourism + business)
• Want to extend your stay in India
• Are entering at an unauthorized port
• Are a citizen of an ineligible country

During our team's research in early 2026, we found that backpackers planning 2+ month trips often opt for the 1-year multiple-entry e-Visa, which offers better value than applying for a traditional visa.

Visa on Arrival (VOA)

This option is rarely recommended. It's issued at select airports only (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Hyderabad, Chennai, Kolkata, Goa, Cochin, Pune) and costs the same as an e-Visa but requires in-person processing at the airport, causing delays. Apply for an e-Visa before traveling instead.

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10. After Approval: Final Checklist Before You Fly

Your India e-Visa is approved. Here's what to do before boarding your flight.

Pre-Departure Checklist

☐ Print Your ETA

Print your Electronic Travel Authorization email. Keep it with your passport. Even though immigration can scan it digitally, having a physical copy prevents confusion and speeds up the process.

☐ Save Digital Copies

Email your ETA to yourself and save it as a PDF on your phone. If you lose the printed copy, you have backup access.

☐ Verify Your Passport

Check that your passport is valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended departure date from India. Bring your original passport (not a copy) to the airport.

☐ Confirm Your Flight Details

Ensure your flight arrives at an authorized e-Visa port of entry. If you've booked a connecting flight through an unauthorized airport, you may face issues.

☐ Check Travel Insurance

Consider purchasing travel insurance that covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and evacuation. India's healthcare is excellent but can be expensive for uninsured travelers. Our travel insurance guide covers options for India.

☐ Arrange Accommodation

Book your first night's accommodation in advance. Immigration may ask for proof of lodging. A hotel confirmation email or Airbnb booking is sufficient.

☐ Notify Your Bank

Inform your bank and credit card company that you're traveling to India. This prevents your cards from being blocked for "suspicious" international transactions.

☐ Download Offline Maps

Download offline maps of Delhi, Mumbai, or your destination city. Mobile data can be unreliable in some areas.

☐ Arrange Local SIM or eSIM

Consider getting an eSIM or local SIM card for data and calls in India. Roaming charges are expensive. eSIMs can be activated before you travel.

At the Airport (Immigration)

• Arrive early: International flights require 3-hour early arrival. Immigration queues can be long.
• Have documents ready: Passport, ETA, and return flight ticket
• Answer questions honestly: Immigration may ask about your purpose, accommodation, and funds
• Expect a photo: You'll be photographed for the immigration database
• Get your stamp: Immigration will stamp your passport with the actual visa

The entire process takes 5–10 minutes per person. Families with children may take longer.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What if my e-Visa application is rejected?

You'll receive an email explaining the reason (usually document quality or information mismatch). You can reapply immediately and pay the fee again. Reapplications typically process faster. Fix the issue (upload a better photo, correct your name spelling) and resubmit.

Can I apply for an e-Visa if I'm already in India?

No. The e-Visa must be obtained before arrival. If you're already in India on a tourist visa and want to extend, you must visit the local FRRO office to apply for an extension or visa switch.

Is the e-Visa valid for the entire Indian subcontinent?

No. The e-Visa is valid for India only. It does not cover Nepal, Bhutan, Bangladesh, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives. You'll need separate visas for those countries.

Can I change my arrival date after I've been approved?

No. Once approved, your ETA is tied to your intended arrival date. If you need to change your travel dates, you must apply for a new e-Visa and pay again. Apply for a new visa at least 5 days before your new arrival date.

What if I lose my passport after receiving my e-Visa?

Your e-Visa is tied to your passport number. If you get a new passport, your old e-Visa becomes invalid. You'll need to apply for a new e-Visa with your new passport number and pay again.

Do I need travel insurance for India?

Travel insurance is not required for entry, but it's highly recommended. It covers medical emergencies, trip cancellations, lost luggage, and evacuation. Medical costs in India can be expensive without insurance.

Can I work in India on a tourist e-Visa?

No. The tourist e-Visa is strictly for tourism, sightseeing, and visiting friends/family. Working, teaching, or conducting business is prohibited. Use the business e-Visa if you're working.

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Conclusion

The India e-Visa is the fastest, easiest, and most affordable way to enter India for citizens of 169 eligible countries. With processing times as short as 24 hours, costs as low as $10–$15 for a 30-day tourist visa, and a simple online application, there's no reason to visit an embassy or wait weeks for approval.

Apply at least 5 days before your trip, upload a clear photo and passport scan, pay the fee, and you're done. Within days, you'll receive your Electronic Travel Authorization via email. Print it, present it at immigration, and you're in India.

Ready to plan your trip? Explore our best time to visit India guide to choose the perfect season, then check out our Delhi travel guide, Mumbai travel guide, or Jaipur travel guide to start planning your itinerary.

Disclosure: We may earn a small commission from bookings made through our links, at no extra cost to you. This helps us keep creating free travel guides.

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Last updated: June 13, 2026. Information accurate as of publication date. Always verify current requirements on the official Indian Visa Online portal before applying.