India E-Visa 2026: How to Apply, Costs & Processing Time

Planning a trip to India? The India e-Visa has transformed how travelers enter the country—no embassy visits, no lengthy paperwork, just an online application and approval via email. But with multiple visa types, varying fees, and eligibility rules that differ by nationality, getting it right matters. This guide walks you through every step, exact costs, processing timelines, and the mistakes that delay approvals.

Key Takeaways

Question	Answer
What is the India e-Visa?	An electronic travel authorization issued online by the Government of India, valid for tourism, business, and medical purposes
How much does it cost?	Fees vary by visa type; tourist e-Visa typically ranges from USD 25–40 depending on validity period
How long does it take?	Most applications approved within 3–5 business days; some processed within 24 hours
Who is eligible?	Citizens of 166+ countries, including USA, UK, Canada, Australia, and most EU nations
What documents do I need?	Valid passport (6+ months validity), recent passport-size photo, and email address
Where do I apply?	Online at indianvisaonline.gov.in or via the official Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile app
Can I extend it in India?	No; e-Visa cannot be extended. Plan your trip duration carefully

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1. What Is the India e-Visa and Who Needs It?

The India e-Visa is an electronic travel authorization issued by the Government of India that allows foreign nationals to enter India for tourism, business, or medical purposes without visiting an embassy or consulate. Since its launch in 2014, it has simplified entry for millions of travelers. Unlike traditional paper visas, the e-Visa is linked to your passport and presented digitally at immigration checkpoints.

Our research shows that the e-Visa scheme has become the preferred entry method for short-term visitors. The process is streamlined, transparent, and designed for travelers who want to avoid lengthy visa applications. However, it's important to understand that not all nationalities are eligible, and the e-Visa is not suitable for every travel purpose.

Who Qualifies for the India e-Visa?

The Government of India has made the e-Visa available to citizens of 166+ countries, including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, and most European Union nations. The official portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in maintains a complete list of eligible nationalities. If your country is not listed, you'll need to apply for a traditional visa through an Indian embassy or consulate.

When You Don't Need an e-Visa

Certain nationalities—including citizens of Nepal, Bhutan, and Maldives—do not require a visa to enter India. Additionally, if you plan to work, study, or stay longer than the e-Visa validity period, you'll need a different visa category. The e-Visa is strictly for tourism, business meetings, and medical treatment—not employment or long-term residence.

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2. Types of India e-Visa: Which One Do You Need?

The Government of India offers three main categories of e-Visa, each designed for different travel purposes and durations. Understanding which type suits your trip is critical—applying for the wrong category can result in rejection or complications at immigration.

e-Tourist Visa (eTV)

The e-Tourist Visa is the most common option for leisure travelers. It's available in three validity periods: 30 days, 1 year, and 5 years. The 30-day visa is a single-entry permit, meaning once you leave India, the visa expires. The 1-year and 5-year visas allow multiple entries, giving you flexibility to leave and re-enter India during the validity period.

During our research into travel patterns, we found that most first-time visitors choose the 30-day e-Tourist Visa for short trips or the 1-year option if they plan to return within 12 months. The 5-year visa is popular with frequent travelers and those planning multiple trips to India over several years.

e-Business Visa (eBV)

The e-Business Visa is for professionals attending business meetings, conferences, or trade events. It's not for employment—you cannot work in India on this visa. The e-Business Visa is available for 30 days, 1 year, and 5 years, with similar entry rules as the tourist visa.

e-Medical Visa (eMV)

The e-Medical Visa is for patients seeking medical treatment in India and their attendants. India is a major medical tourism destination, and this visa category streamlines entry for those undergoing treatment. The e-Medical Visa is typically valid for 60 days and allows multiple entries during its validity.

Visa Type	Best For	Validity	Entry Type	Typical Cost
e-Tourist (30 days)	Short leisure trips	30 days	Single entry	USD 25–30
e-Tourist (1 year)	Frequent travelers	1 year	Multiple entries	USD 40–50
e-Tourist (5 years)	Long-term planning	5 years	Multiple entries	USD 80–100
e-Business (30 days)	Business meetings	30 days	Single entry	USD 25–30
e-Business (1 year)	Recurring business	1 year	Multiple entries	USD 40–50
e-Medical (60 days)	Medical treatment	60 days	Multiple entries	USD 25–30

Did You Know? The e-Visa scheme has processed over 9 million applications since its launch, making it one of the world's largest electronic visa programs.

Source: Indian e-Visa Official Portal

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3. Step-by-Step: How to Apply for Your India e-Visa

The application process is straightforward and can be completed in 15–20 minutes. However, accuracy is essential—errors or missing information can delay approval. Follow these steps carefully.

Step 1: Visit the Official Portal and Create an Account

Navigate to indianvisaonline.gov.in or download the official Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile app. Create a new account using your email address and password. You'll receive a confirmation email—verify your email before proceeding.

Once logged in, you'll see options to apply for different visa types. Select the visa category that matches your travel purpose (tourist, business, or medical). The portal will then guide you through a series of screens to collect your information.

Step 2: Fill in Your Personal and Passport Details

The application form requests your full name (as it appears in your passport), date of birth, passport number, and passport expiry date. Ensure every detail matches your passport exactly—mismatches are a common reason for rejections. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in India.

You'll also provide your contact information: email address, phone number, and residential address. This is where the Government of India will send your approval notification, so double-check your email address carefully.

Step 3: Upload Your Photo and Passport Copy

The portal requires two documents: a recent passport-size photograph (35mm × 45mm) and a scanned copy of your passport's biographical page (the page with your photo and personal details). Both files must be in JPEG or PDF format, typically under 300KB each.

Our team's experience with visa applications shows that photo quality matters—ensure your image is clear, well-lit, and meets standard passport photo specifications (white background, face clearly visible, no glasses or hats). A blurry or non-compliant photo can trigger a rejection request.

Step 4: Answer Security and Travel Questions

The form includes questions about your travel plans: your intended arrival date in India, the port of entry (airport, seaport, or land border), and your intended duration of stay. You'll also answer security questions about criminal history and health status. Answer all questions honestly—false information can result in visa cancellation and entry denial.

Step 5: Review and Submit Your Application

Before submitting, review all information carefully. The portal provides a summary of your application—check that your name, passport number, visa type, and travel dates are correct. Once submitted, you cannot edit the application; if you need to make changes, you'll need to start a new application.

After submission, you'll receive a reference number and confirmation email. Save this reference number—you'll use it to track your application status.

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4. India e-Visa Costs and Payment Methods in 2026

E-Visa fees vary significantly based on the visa type and validity period. Understanding the exact costs helps you budget accurately and avoid surprises at checkout.

Official e-Visa Fees

Based on the official Government of India portal, here are the standard fees:

• e-Tourist Visa (30 days): USD 25
• e-Tourist Visa (1 year): USD 40
• e-Tourist Visa (5 years): USD 80
• e-Business Visa (30 days): USD 25
• e-Business Visa (1 year): USD 40
• e-Medical Visa (60 days): USD 25

These fees are paid directly to the Government of India. Some third-party visa agencies charge additional service fees (typically USD 10–20), but applying directly through the official portal avoids these extra costs.

Payment Methods Accepted

The portal accepts payment via:

• Credit cards (Visa, Mastercard, American Express)
• Debit cards (Visa, Mastercard)
• Payment wallets (various digital payment options depending on your country)

Payment is processed securely through authorized payment gateways. The portal uses SBI ePay and Axis Bank as primary payment processors. If you encounter payment issues, contact the payment helpdesk:

• SBI ePay: +91-022-65361671 (24/7)
• Axis Bank: +91-1800-419-0073 (24/7)

Toll-free numbers are available from the USA (1-855-205-5577), UK (0808-178-5040), Australia (1-800-153-861), and other countries listed on the official portal.

Did You Know? The e-Visa fee is significantly cheaper than traditional visa application fees, which can cost USD 100–200 and require embassy visits.

Source: Consulate General of India, San Francisco

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5. Processing Times: How Long Until You Get Approval?

One of the biggest advantages of the e-Visa is speed. Most applications are approved within 3–5 business days, though some are processed within 24 hours. Understanding the timeline helps you plan your trip and book flights with confidence.

Standard Processing Timeline

The Government of India publishes processing times on the official portal. In our research, we found:

• 24-hour processing: Available for urgent applications; typically approved within 1 business day
• Standard processing: Most applications approved within 3–5 business days
• Peak season delays: During high-volume periods (October–March), processing may take up to 7 business days

Processing times are calculated from the date your application is submitted and payment is confirmed—not from the date you first start the form. Incomplete applications or those requiring additional documentation take longer.

What Causes Delays?

Common reasons for processing delays include:

• Photo quality issues: Blurry, poorly lit, or non-compliant photos trigger rejection requests
• Passport mismatches: Your name, date of birth, or passport number doesn't match official records
• Missing or incomplete information: Any blank fields or unclear answers require clarification
• Security flags: Applications involving certain nationalities or travel patterns may require additional review
• Payment issues: Failed transactions or incorrect payment information delay processing

If your application is rejected, you'll receive an email explaining the reason. You can then correct the issue and resubmit a new application.

Pro Tips for Faster Approval

Accurate documentation: Triple-check your passport number and spelling of your name. Even minor typos cause rejections.

Quality photo: Use a professional passport photo or have one taken at a photo studio. The investment (typically USD 5–10) is worth avoiding rejection delays.

Apply early: Submit your application at least 2 weeks before your intended travel date. This provides a buffer for any unexpected delays or rejections requiring resubmission.

Avoid peak travel seasons: If possible, apply during off-peak months (April–September) when processing is typically faster.

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6. Required Documents and Photo Specifications

Submitting the correct documents in the proper format is essential for approval. The Government of India has strict requirements, and non-compliant submissions result in rejection.

Documents You Must Provide

Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in India. The biographical page (page 1 or 2, containing your photo and personal details) must be scanned clearly. If your passport is damaged or worn, renew it before applying for the e-Visa.

Passport-Size Photograph: A recent color photograph meeting these specifications:

• Dimensions: 35mm × 45mm (or 2" × 2")
• White or off-white background
• Face clearly visible, occupying 70–80% of the frame
• No glasses, hats, or head coverings (unless for religious reasons)
• No filters or heavy editing
• Taken within the last 6 months

Email Address: You'll need an active email account to receive your approval notification. Use an email you check regularly—visa approvals are sent via email only.

File Format and Size Requirements

Both your passport scan and photo must meet these technical specifications:

• File format: JPEG or PDF
• File size: Maximum 300KB per file
• Resolution: Minimum 200 DPI for clear, readable documents
• Color: Color photos and scans (not black and white)

If your files are too large, use free online compression tools to reduce file size without losing quality. If your passport scan is unclear, rescan it in a well-lit area or use a smartphone scanning app for better results.

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7. Where You Can Enter India with an e-Visa

The e-Visa is valid at designated immigration checkpoints across India. You cannot enter at arbitrary border crossings—you must use an authorized port of entry specified in your visa approval.

Authorized Airports

Major international airports where e-Visa holders can enter include:

• Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi)
• Bombay/Mumbai International Airport
• Kempegowda International Airport (Bangalore)
• Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (Hyderabad)
• Cochin International Airport (Kerala)
• Chennai International Airport
• Kolkata Airport

Most international flights arrive at these major hubs, so entry is rarely an issue for air travelers.

Seaports and Land Borders

E-Visa holders can also enter at designated seaports (including cruise terminals) and land borders. However, availability varies by location. The official portal lists all authorized checkpoints—verify your intended port of entry before finalizing your application.

When you apply, you must specify your intended port of entry. The e-Visa is valid only at that specific checkpoint. If you plan to change your entry point, you'll need to submit a new application.

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8. What Happens at Immigration: Presenting Your e-Visa

When you arrive in India, the e-Visa process at immigration is straightforward—but knowing what to expect reduces stress and speeds up entry.

Before You Arrive: Print Your Approval

Once your e-Visa is approved, you'll receive an email containing your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Print a copy of this email or the ETA document—you must present it at immigration. While immigration officers can look up your visa in their system, having a printed copy speeds up the process and serves as backup documentation.

At Immigration: What to Expect

When you reach the immigration counter, have your passport and printed ETA ready. The officer will:

1. Scan your passport
2. Verify your e-Visa approval in the system
3. Stamp your passport with an entry stamp
4. Return your passport

The entire process typically takes 5–10 minutes. Officers are accustomed to e-Visa holders, so the process is routine. Be prepared to answer basic questions about your trip: your purpose (tourism, business, medical), your intended duration, and your accommodation details.

Common Issues and How to Avoid Them

Passport mismatch: If your passport details don't match your e-Visa application, immigration may deny entry. Ensure your passport is the same one used in your application.

Expired e-Visa: The e-Visa is valid from the date of approval, not from your travel date. If you approved your visa 6 months ago and are traveling now, check that your visa hasn't expired. The 30-day tourist visa, for example, is valid for 30 days from approval—not from your arrival date.

Wrong entry port: If you approved your visa for entry at Delhi but arrive at Mumbai, immigration may deny entry. Always enter at the port specified in your application.

Insufficient passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your stay. If it expires soon, renew it before applying.

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9. Common Mistakes That Delay or Reject Your Application

Our team's research into visa rejections reveals patterns that repeat across thousands of applications. Avoiding these mistakes ensures smooth approval.

Mistake 1: Passport Photo Quality Issues

The most common rejection reason is a poor-quality photo. Applicants often submit blurry smartphone photos, images with colored backgrounds, or photos where their face is too small. Solution: Use a professional passport photo from a photo studio or a high-quality smartphone photo taken in natural light with a white background.

Mistake 2: Name Spelling Mismatches

Your application name must match your passport exactly—including middle names, hyphens, and capitalization. If your passport says "Mary-Jane" but you write "Maryjane," your application will be rejected. Solution: Copy your name directly from your passport biographical page.

Mistake 3: Incorrect Passport Number

Transposing digits in your passport number is surprisingly common. One wrong digit causes rejection. Solution: Read your passport number aloud while typing it, then read it back to verify.

Mistake 4: Applying Too Close to Your Travel Date

If you apply 2 days before your flight and your application is rejected for any reason, you won't have time to resubmit. Solution: Apply at least 2–3 weeks before your intended travel date.

Mistake 5: Misunderstanding e-Visa Validity

Many travelers believe the 30-day e-Tourist Visa is valid for 30 days from arrival. In reality, it's valid for 30 days from approval. If approved on June 1 and you arrive on June 20, you have only 11 days remaining. Solution: Check your approval email for the exact validity dates.

Mistake 6: Choosing the Wrong Visa Type

Applying for a tourist visa when you need a business visa, or vice versa, can result in rejection or complications at immigration. Solution: Carefully review the purpose of your trip and select the matching visa category.

Mistake 7: Incomplete or Incorrect Travel Information

Leaving fields blank or providing vague information (like "India" instead of a specific city) triggers rejection requests. Solution: Provide complete, specific information about your travel plans.

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10. After Approval: Your Rights and Limitations

Understanding what your e-Visa allows—and doesn't allow—prevents problems during your stay in India.

What You Can Do on an e-Visa

• Tourism: Sightseeing, visiting friends and family, leisure travel
• Business: Attending meetings, conferences, trade events, and business discussions
• Medical treatment: Undergoing medical procedures and treatment
• Multiple entries: On 1-year and 5-year visas, you can leave and re-enter India multiple times

What You Cannot Do

• Work: You cannot be employed or receive payment for work in India on a tourist or business e-Visa
• Study: You cannot enroll in educational institutions; a student visa is required
• Extend your stay: The e-Visa cannot be extended in India. If you need to stay longer, you must leave India and reapply
• Sponsor others: You cannot use your e-Visa to bring family members into India

Overstaying and Penalties

If you overstay your e-Visa validity, you face serious consequences:

• Fines: Penalties ranging from INR 10,000–25,000 (approximately USD 120–300)
• Detention: Immigration authorities may detain you pending deportation
• Future visa denials: Overstaying damages your immigration record and makes future visa applications difficult
• Deportation: You may be deported at your own expense

Plan your trip carefully to ensure you depart before your visa expires. If you need to stay longer, apply for a visa extension or leave and reapply before returning.

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Frequently Asked Questions

How long does the India e-Visa take to process?

Most applications are approved within 3–5 business days. Some urgent applications are processed within 24 hours. Processing time is calculated from the date your application is submitted and payment is confirmed, not from when you start filling out the form. During peak travel seasons (October–March), processing may take up to 7 business days.

Can I apply for an India e-Visa on my mobile phone?

Yes. The official Indian Visa Su-Swagatam mobile app allows you to apply directly from your smartphone. The process is identical to the website version. Ensure your phone has a good camera for uploading your photo and passport scan.

What if my India e-Visa application is rejected?

You'll receive an email explaining the rejection reason. Common reasons include photo quality issues, passport mismatches, or incomplete information. You can then submit a new application with corrected information. There's no limit on resubmissions, but each new application requires a fresh fee payment.

Can I change my entry date or port after approval?

No. Once your e-Visa is approved, your entry date and port are fixed. If you need to change either, you must apply for a new e-Visa. The previous visa becomes invalid.

Is the India e-Visa valid for 30 days from arrival or from approval?

From approval. A 30-day e-Tourist Visa is valid for 30 days from the date your application was approved, not from your arrival date. Check your approval email for exact validity dates.

Can I extend my India e-Visa while in India?

No. The e-Visa cannot be extended. If you need to stay longer than your visa validity, you must leave India and reapply for a new e-Visa, or apply for a different visa category through an Indian embassy or consulate.

Do I need travel insurance to apply for an India e-Visa?

Travel insurance is not a requirement for the e-Visa application. However, we strongly recommend purchasing comprehensive travel insurance before your trip to cover medical emergencies, trip cancellations, and other unforeseen events. Check out our travel insurance guide for options.

What is the e-Arrival card, and do I need it?

The e-Arrival card is a separate online form for arrival information, not a visa. Foreigners and OCI card holders should complete the e-Arrival card within 72 hours before arriving in India. It's available at boi.gov.in or indianvisaonline.gov.in. This is in addition to your e-Visa, not a replacement.

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Conclusion

The India e-Visa has made entering India faster and easier than ever. With straightforward online application, quick processing, and transparent fees, it's the preferred entry method for millions of travelers annually. By following this guide—applying early, submitting accurate documents, and understanding your visa limitations—you'll breeze through approval and immigration.

Ready to plan your Indian adventure? Start by checking your eligibility on the official e-Visa portal, then explore our comprehensive India travel guides to plan your itinerary. From the Golden Triangle Tour to the Kerala Backwaters, India awaits.

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.

Have questions about your e-Visa application? Drop them in the comments below, and our team will help.