India Visa Guide
Everything you need to know about getting a visa for India -- from e-Visas to long-term permits.
Quick Facts
e-Visa Cost
$25 -- $80
Depends on duration
Processing Time
3 -- 5 days
e-Visa typical
Max Stay (e-Visa)
30 -- 180 days
By visa category
Visa on Arrival
Not Available
Must apply in advance
Visa Types for India
e-Tourist Visa
The easiest option for most travelers. India's e-Visa system allows citizens of over 160 countries to apply entirely online. You receive your visa approval via email, which you print and present at immigration.
30-Day e-Visa
$25 | Single/Double entry | Valid from arrival date
1-Year e-Visa
$40 | Multiple entry | 90 days per visit
5-Year e-Visa
$80 | Multiple entry | 90 days per visit
Regular Tourist Visa
Applied for at an Indian embassy or consulate (or via VFS Global/BLS International in many countries). This traditional visa is stamped in your passport and is a good choice if you plan longer stays or your nationality is not eligible for e-Visa.
- Duration: 6 months to 10 years depending on nationality
- Cost: varies by country ($50 -- $150+)
- Processing: 5 -- 15 business days at consulate
- Requires passport photos, itinerary, bank statements
Business Visa (e-Business)
For attending business meetings, trade fairs, or establishing ventures. The e-Business visa is available online for many nationalities. You will need a letter from the Indian company or an invitation from the trade fair organizer.
- Duration: 1 year (multiple entry)
- Max stay: 180 days per visit
- Requires: invitation letter, proof of business purpose
Other Visa Categories
e-Medical Visa
For medical treatment at recognized Indian hospitals. Requires a letter from the hospital. Up to 3 companions can apply for e-Medical Attendant visas.
e-Conference Visa
For attending conferences organized by government bodies or recognized organizations. Requires a conference invitation letter.
Student Visa
For studying at recognized Indian educational institutions. Applied at embassy with admission letter. Valid for course duration.
Yoga / Ayurveda Visa
India offers specific visas for those enrolling in yoga teacher training or Ayurveda courses. Applied at the embassy.
How to Apply for an India e-Visa (Step by Step)
Visit the Official Portal
Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in. This is the only official government website. Avoid third-party sites that charge extra fees.
Fill Out the Application Form
Enter your personal details, passport information, travel dates, and the port of arrival. You will need to upload a passport-sized photo (2x2 inches, white background) and a scan of your passport bio page.
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay online using a credit/debit card or PayPal. Fees range from $25 for a 30-day visa to $80 for a 5-year visa. The fee is non-refundable even if your visa is denied.
Wait for Processing
Most e-Visas are processed within 72 hours, though it can take up to 5 business days. Check your application status online using your Application ID.
Download and Print Your ETA
Once approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email. Print two copies -- one for immigration at arrival, one as a backup.
Arrive at a Designated Airport
e-Visas are accepted at 28 airports and 5 seaports in India. Major airports include Delhi (DEL), Mumbai (BOM), Bangalore (BLR), Chennai (MAA), Kolkata (CCU), and Hyderabad (HYD).
Requirements Checklist
Documents Needed
- ✓ Valid passport (min. 6 months validity, 2 blank pages)
- ✓ Digital passport photo (JPEG, 10KB -- 1MB, white background)
- ✓ Passport bio page scan (PDF, 10KB -- 300KB)
- ✓ Credit/debit card for fee payment
- ✓ Valid email address for ETA delivery
- ✓ Hotel address or reference in India
Important Tips
- ! Apply at least 4 days before travel (ideally 2 weeks)
- ! Your name must match your passport exactly
- ! e-Visa cannot be extended -- apply for a longer one if unsure
- ! Some restricted areas (parts of Kashmir, Sikkim, NE India) need extra permits
- ! Pakistan and Bangladesh nationals must apply at the embassy
- ! Keep a printed copy of your ETA -- digital alone may not be accepted
Special Permits
Some areas of India require additional permits beyond your visa. These are known as Protected Area Permits (PAP), Restricted Area Permits (RAP), or Inner Line Permits (ILP).
Inner Line Permit (ILP)
Required for Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, and Manipur. Indian citizens also need this permit. Apply online through the respective state government portals.
Sikkim Permit
Foreign tourists need a Restricted Area Permit for Sikkim. Easily obtained at Rangpo (road entry) or Bagdogra airport. Valid for 30 days with extensions available in Gangtok.
Andaman & Nicobar
No special permit needed for Port Blair and popular islands. However, visiting tribal reserve areas (North Sentinel, Nicobar Islands) is strictly prohibited.
Lakshadweep Islands
Foreign nationals need a special permit from the Lakshadweep Administration. Easiest to arrange through an authorized tour operator based in Kochi.