Visa Information for India
Visa Information for India
Most foreign nationals travelling to India need a valid passport and an Indian visa before departure. Visa requirements depend on your nationality, purpose of travel, and length of stay. Some travelers may be exempt under specific arrangements, so check the rules that apply to your passport before booking. Government of India visa portal
For tourism, you can apply for either a regular Tourist Visa or, if eligible, an Electronic Tourist Visa (e-Tourist Visa). Each traveler is responsible for obtaining the correct visa. A visa is issued by the Government of India, and approval is not guaranteed.
Choose the right tourist visa
Regular Tourist Visa
Apply for a regular visa through the Government of India’s official portal and follow the instructions for the Indian Mission, Post, or visa application centre responsible for your place of residence.
Apply for a regular Tourist Visa
Electronic Tourist Visa
Travelers whose nationality and trip meet the e-Visa requirements may apply online. Check the current eligibility list, visa conditions, and permitted entry points on the official e-Visa website before applying.
Apply for an Electronic Tourist Visa
An e-Tourist Visa is intended for eligible short-term visits such as sightseeing, recreation, or casual visits to friends and relatives. If you plan to work, study, conduct business, or undertake another activity, check which visa category applies instead.
Apply separately for every traveler
Each traveler must have their own valid passport and visa. Children and infants also need individual travel documents and applications; they cannot be included on a parent’s passport for an e-Visa application. A parent or guardian should complete a child’s application where appropriate. Official e-Visa instructions
Before you apply
Check the official instructions for your visa type and nationality. For an e-Visa application, the Government of India currently requires the passport to have at least six months’ validity at the time of application. Applicants must upload a recent photograph and the passport page showing their personal details. Additional documents may be required depending on the application.
Enter your details exactly as they appear in your passport. Review the application carefully before submitting it, and use the official government portal to apply and pay the applicable fee. Fees vary by nationality and visa type; e-Visa fees are non-refundable, including when an application is not approved. Official e-Visa instructions and FAQs
Apply in advance and check your status
The official portal allows eligible travelers to apply for an e-Tourist Visa up to 120 days before arrival. It says applications must be submitted at least four days before the intended arrival date. Processing times can vary, so apply as early as possible and do not assume that an application or payment means the visa has been granted.
Check your application status on the official portal. Before travelling, confirm that your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) shows “GRANTED.” The Government of India does not authorize agents or intermediaries to charge extra fees for emergency or express e-Visas. Check e-Visa status and guidance
Before departure and on arrival
If your e-Visa is granted:
- Carry a copy of your ETA while travelling.
- Travel with the passport used for your application. If you have a new passport after receiving your ETA, check the official instructions and carry the relevant old passport as directed.
- Confirm that your planned arrival point is authorized for e-Visa entry.
- Follow the conditions printed on your visa or ETA, including its validity and permitted stay.
A visa does not guarantee entry; final admission is determined by Indian immigration authorities. e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible, and do not permit visits to certain protected, restricted, or cantonment areas without additional permission. Official e-Visa conditions
e-Arrival Card
The e-Arrival Card is a separate arrival-information form, not a visa. Check the Government of India portal for the current requirement and timing. The official portal says eligible foreign nationals and OCI cardholders can submit it within 72 hours before arrival. Government of India visa portal
Important reminder
Visa rules, eligibility, fees, and entry requirements may change. Always confirm the latest information with the official Government of India visa portal or the Indian Mission responsible for your place of residence. Agora Voyages shares this information as general travel guidance; each traveler is responsible for applying for the correct visa and carrying valid documents.
Official application links