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India e-Visa Fees 2024

When planning a trip to India, one of the most crucial steps is understanding the visa fee and payment methods for the Indian e-Visa. This article provides a comprehensive guide on how to navigate this process.

What is an Indian e-Visa?

The Indian e-Visa is an official document permitting entry into and travel within India. It is an electronic alternative to visas issued at Indian missions and at the border checkpoints.

Indian e-Visa Fees

India's Ministry has updated visa fees and categories to encourage more international visits. This revamped system includes varied fees for different visa types like e-Tourist Visa (eTV) / Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), business visa, and more, based on the applicant's country and tourist season.

The Indian government is at the epicenter of the country’s tourism sector by promoting the visitors coming regardless of the specific reason for visiting India. These international travelers are looking to explore India either for tourism excursions, for business reasons, for conference attendance, for medical attendance or in pursuit of medical treatment reasons and they can apply online for the Indian Visa. For that, you need to fill the online application form with your personal information as per requirement, submit it and pay the Indian e-visa fees accordingly.

There are two types of India visa fees: -

• Indian Government Visa Fee
• Visa processing charges

Indian Government e-Visa Fee

Indian e-tourist visa ( etv ) / eta fee & categories;.

• e-Tourist Visa - 30 days e-TV (April to June)
• e-Tourist Visa - 30 days e-TV (July to March)
• e-Tourist Visa - 01 year e-TV
• e-Tourist Visa - 05 years e-TV

Indian e-Business Fee & categories;

India e-medical, e-medical attendant, e-ayush, e-ayush attendant and e-conference visa fee;, visa processing charges.

India e-visa processing fee is the amount of money that the applicant is required to pay in advance for the visa at the time of filling the online Indian visa application . This India visa cost surrounds checking your document and verification by the officer as well as making the decision whether to approve or reject the application.

On your part, this process starts with the filling the online form requiring the personal information, uploading proper documents as per requirements, submitting fees and waiting for the feedback.

Given that the process is online, you cannot make cash payments. Rather, you will be required to use your credit/debit card (ensure it is acceptable) as well as PayPal.

Below, we give a breakdown of the India visa cost

Additional Fee

Processing time.

• Normal process and lower fee: For normal e-Visa applicants get it, within 3 to 5 business days.
• Urgent process but highest fee: Applicants who are looking for urgent visa, get it within 1 to 3 days. Note that , the processing does not start until you pay for the Indian e-visa fees.

India visa extension Fee

To complete the process of your online India visa extension, you may be required to pay visa extension fees. The Indian government extension visa fee is usually dependent on the country and type of extension-visa. You can pay with a credit or debit card (MasterCard, Visa or UnionPay).

• Service Fee
• Government Fee

The Government could apply an additional penalty in case of longer stay than authorised or not returning to their / third country. The penalty will be calculated after submission of application .

The penalty fee will need to be paid after submission of visa extension application if any.

Apply for India Visa Extension

If your visa is about to expire. you are looking to apply of visa extension India. All foreign visitors can extend their Indian visa through online services. It is a completely online process and you do not need to visit the FRRO/FRO office. And no need to make an appointment to visit the our office. Go through to apply Indian visa extension .

How to Pay for Your Indian e-Visa

Once you have filled out your e-Visa application form, you will be directed to the payment page. Here, you can select your preferred payment method and proceed with the transaction. Ensure that you have all the necessary details of your chosen payment method at hand to avoid any delays.

Payment Methods for Indian e-Visa

• Credit Cards (Visa, MasterCard, American Express, Discover)
• Debit Cards displaying the Visa or MasterCard.
• Pre-Paid credit card or gift card displaying the Visa or MasterCard.
• PayPal, Safe & Secure Express Check Out

Some people are concerned with whether they can make cash payments or not. Well, since the e-visa is online, then it is not possible to pay by cash. However, if you are applying for your normal visa at the consulate, then you can make cash payments.

Before starting the e-visa application process, confirm the best payment method to use to that you can proper arrangement prior.

Important Note

Indian e-visa fees are non-refundable – whether your visa is approved or not. If it was a mistake you made while filling the form or uploading the documents, you will pay afresh for the reapplication. Therefore, prepare well and be flawless in filling the forms and submitting the appropriate documents.

Secure Transactions for Your Peace of Mind

The Indian e-Visa payment process is secure and trusted worldwide. The government has implemented robust security measures to ensure that all transactions are safe and that your personal and financial information is protected.

Understanding the payment methods for the Indian e-Visa is an essential step in your travel planning process. With multiple payment options available, you can choose the one that is most convenient for you. Remember, the key to a smooth application process is being prepared and having all the necessary information at your disposal.

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A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an India Tourist Visa (for U.S. Citizens)

Traveling to India as a U.S. citizen has become more accessible post-pandemic, with streamlined visa processes. In this comprehensive step-by-step guide, I’ll walk you through the steps to show you how to get your Indian visa if you’re a U.S. citizen. Understanding the visa application process is essential for a smooth journey and with that out of the way, you can focus on your India trip planning .

This post contains affiliate links. I never leave home without travel insurance- I use World Nomads  but here’s a  trip insurance finder tool   to find a plan that matches your budget. Read more about  coverage options for U.S. travelers.

Table of Contents: A Step-by-Step Guide to Applying for an India Tourist Visa (for U.S. Citizens)

• 0.1 Differences between a regular Indian visa and Indian e-visa?
• 0.2 What is the official India Visa application website?
• 0.3 What documents do I need for an India tourist visa?
• 1.0.1 1. Getting a regular India Tourist Visa in the U.S. (paper or sticker)
• 1.0.2 Regular India Tourist Visa (Paper Application)
• 2.0.1 The Indian eVisa Application process is easy
• 2.1.1 What are the Photo Upload Requirements?
• 2.1.2 Which internet browser should I use for applying for my India tourist visa?
• 2.1.3 Listing References for your India Tourist Visa
• 2.1.4 What are the India Tourist Visa Photo Requirements
• 2.1.5 What profession should you list on your visa application?
• 2.1.6 Do I need an India visa for layovers in India?
• 2.2 Related Posts on India Trip Planning
• 3 Watch India Travel Guides for Solo Travelers!

Differences between a regular Indian visa and Indian e-visa?

There are two ways to apply for your Indian Tourist Visa: the regular paper India visa application and the Indian e-Visa. Both options offer the same visa types and durations.

But the differences end there. Determining which to get is based upon how you wish to use it in entry points and how much cost and processing time you can afford. From a tourist standpoint, the only caveat to getting a regular paper India visa is that you will have more flexibility with entry points as they are not only limited to airport access, but sea and land as well. When I was researching how to do an overland passage to India after my group adventure in Pakistan , crossing the Wagah-Attari border into Amritsar required the regular Indian tourist visa .

With the regular India tourist visa, the price is also more expensive with the VFS mail-in/courier process and processing time can be much longer, especially if there is an issue with your application or documents. The paper Indian tourist visa is a process you will need to start well over a month in advance of your travel dates .

Meanwhile, the Indian e-Visa can be done online and you’ll get it lickety-split and for tons cheaper. It’s almost as if the Indian government prefers for tourists to just get the Indian e-Visa. The drawback is that  you can only enter India via the airport. Land and sea is not allowed.

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What is the official india visa application website.

Both regular and eVisa can be accessed through the Indian Visa Online website at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in

Although the India eVisa is a bit tricky and it is in a sub section of the website and they do not link to it (duh!). You won’t be able  access the Indian evisa easily unless you Google it or so I’ve listed it here. Note: There are other India visa sites that you’ll find on the internet, but this is the official one. I don’t believe the other sites are scams, but you may end up paying more to get it expedited through one of the other visa sites.

What documents do I need for an India tourist visa?

Gather these following documents for a successful application:

• A copy of your passport bio page with at least 6 months’ validity.
• How to remember dates and countries you’ve been? Check your passport for immigration stamp dates!
• Previous India visa details (if applicable). If  you traveled to India in the past, you will need to know your last visa number and the date it was authorized . Again, check in your passport or in your email if you still have the information. I found my passport had all the dates I needed.
• Current citizenship details
• Your visa application form
• Reference contact in India. This can also mean your tour operator/friend/family you’re staying with or hotel information. I list my hotel information at Booking.com

How to Apply for a regular Indian Visa for U.S. Citizens

In the past, getting an Indian tourist visa was complex. After the pandemic, requirements changed and they made it much easier to get a tourist visa, a long term visa (i.e. 5 year and 10 year) and multiple entry.  But there’s still aspects that can be confusing to U.S. travelers.

Read Essential trip planning tips for India

1. getting a regular india tourist visa in the u.s. (paper or sticker).

Applying for the regular India Tourist Visa (paper or sticker) in your home country is a time consuming route because it is a mail-in service and India uses a third party service to facilitate this process.

Regular India Tourist Visa (Paper Application)

• Application process: Requires mailing the application and using a third-party service.
• Processing time: Up to 15 days, potentially  30-60 days if scrutiny is needed.
• Visa validity: Starts on the issuance date. So you might not want to apply too far in advance if you want to use the most of your allowance stay.
• Application link: The Indian Online Visa website is where you apply. It is confusing because it says says “ online ” which can feel like the same thing as e-visa .  Rest assured, this is it. The window opens to the process and you’ll see the photo below.
• Fill out the form and remember to keep your ID number. You will be able to save your form and return back to it in the case you cannot complete it in one sitting. But you will need your ID number. I forgot to keep mine the first time. But I was filling out the regular India visa; not the evisa, which I ultimately decided upon.
• When you’re complete with your form, download it and print it out to mail in.
• Indian Tourist Visa Application (Mail in process): Here’s where it gets a little extra. The outsourced service that handles the regular Indian tourist visa application for U.S. citizens is  VFS global website (2023) . 
• You may walk your application into a VFS center nearest you; otherwise, mail your application and passport in. VFS locations in the U.S.: Washington DC ,  New York ,  Chicago ,  Houston ,  San Francisco  &  Atlanta  .
• VFS Global Indian Visa Application Centre, 128 East, 32nd Street, 2nd Floor, New York, 10016.
• Email only for questions [email protected] , Helpline: +1-800-320-9693
•  They are very specific about the type of visa photo, application and packaging when mailing it in.  
• There is a 3.5% fee for the online payment convenience and another $18 for return courier service.

Cost and Duration of regular India Tourist Visa for U.S. Citizens, Entry   &   Fee

10 Years –   Single Entry $178 5 Years   –   Multiple Entry $178 6 Months – Multiple Entry $178

How to Apply for an Indian e-Visa for U.S. Citizens (Online Application)

Getting an Indian Tourist eVisa online is probably the easiest and fastest and cheapest method if you were ever in a hurry and you’re afforded the same amount of stay. But you can only enter through airport entry points.

The Indian eVisa Application process is easy

Getting a tourist eVisa for India is an easy online application through the official Government of India Online Visa website. The processing time is quick and easy, and takes around 10-15 minutes.  You want to apply at least four days before departure, as validity starts from date of arrival. Once your visa is processed, you will get your visa sent via email and you should print it out as well as have a copy of your visa snapshot on your mobile phone. Your email notification of a granted visa processed an granted IS NOT THE INDIA E-VISA. You must still log into your account and download the actual printable visa. I made this mistake where I thought the email saying that my visa was GRANTED was enough and when I arrived at the check-in gate, I was declined. Luckily, I was able to use the airport WiFi to access the India visa website with my account, where I could download my actual eVisa.

 A one year Indian tourist e-visa $40, a five-year Indian tourist visa $80. Expect an 2.5% online fee.

• Official India eVisa Website Application (you can see the ports of entry on this page)
• Entry points : Limited to major international airports in India. Applicant can arrive at 30 e-Visa designated airports i.e. Ahmedabad , Amritsar , Bagdogra , Bengaluru , Bhubaneshwar , Calicut , Chandigarh , Chennai , Cochin , Coimbatore , Delhi , Gaya , Goa (Dabolim), Goa (Mopa), Guwahati , Hyderabad , Jaipur , Kannur , Kolkata , Lucknow , Madurai , Mangalore , Mumbai , Nagpur , Portblair , Pune , Tiruchirapalli , Trivandrum , Varanasi , Vishakhapatnam and 5 designated seaports (i.e. Chennai , Cochin , Goa , Mangalore , Mumbai ) . However, he/she can depart from any of the authorized Immigration Check Posts in India.
• e-Visa is not allowed for employment, NGO activities and journalism purposes
• Avoid using any other websites that sell the Indian e-Visa. There are a lot of sites that masquerade as the Indian visa site, especially because the government website in the past did not look very official (the regular India visa website is still confusing to navigate; whereas the eVisa site is much easier)! While some of these other sites may legitimately get you an India visa, they are not the official website and the Indian consulate is very specific about that .
• This is a sample of the application
• Passport photos and passport bio page must be scanned for online upload.

Frequently Asked Questions about the India Tourist Visa Application Process

What are the photo upload requirements.

Ensure your visa photo meets these specifications and read carefully because the passport conditions are tricky if you’re submitting documents for an India eVisa.

• Visa Photo Format: JPEG, maximum 1 MB, 2 inches by 2 inches.
• Photo must show 80% of your face against a white background
• Scanned or photo of passport bio page in PDF format (for e-Visa applications). Size must be under 300kb!

To be honest, uploading your scanned bio page will take the most amount of time and is probably the trickiest aspect of the entire application process. I despise it.

First, you can scan or take a photo of your passport information page. Whatever you use, you want to make sure  the details are sharp, crisp and easy to make out.

Secondly, when you export your jpg or png photo to pdf, it will naturally uprez your photo. So your photo might be 300kb, but after exported into pdf, it can be 3 mb! This is the tricky part, because your image cannot be the regular size of your passport . It must be smaller to get through that upload gate keeper.

My settings were 72 dpi resolution but ultimately, I had to take the size below 500 dpi width. Yep, it’s small, when you view it on the application form but it is bigger when you open your pdf on your laptop. This is why you want to ensure your information is clear and easy to read.

Which internet browser should I use for applying for my India tourist visa?

The website is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, Internet Explorer (Windows) version 9.0 and Android and iOS.

Listing References for your India Tourist Visa

Listing references for your stay in India is the part which trips up a lot of travelers applying for the Indian visa. This part forces you to lock itinerary details and long-term travelers, digital nomads and flexible travelers -like myself- like to keep part of their trip itinerary open-ended and loose. There are many travelers who visit India on an open backpacking trip and don’t have many solidified details such as hotels or departure dates, so you’re not alone.

If you’re not staying with an Indian friend or family, you can list your hotel or tour company as a reference. I like to use Booking.com. Check out my Ways to Show Proof of Onward Travel . I was inspired to write this article because of this India visa process!

What are the India Tourist Visa Photo Requirements

Read the website specifications for the passport photos you must send in. The trickiest part of this is not the visa photo but getting your passport bio data page down to under 500kb as a pdf (tip: it’s small)!

I always make extra copies of my passport photos, for future travel purposes and the fact, if you’re getting an Indian SIM card , you’ll need two photos for your application.

What profession should you list on your visa application?

Firstly, if you’re applying for a Tourist visa, then your sole reason for visiting should be Tourism .

If you’re a travel blogger on a press trip with the India tourism board, on a business trip to meet with clients, a travel writer, photographer, freelance/professional media, yoga student (going for yoga teacher certification ), etc… do not list these as your professions, unless you’re applying for a Journalist,  Business  or Student visa . These latter visas require more information and possibly professional credentials.

Acknowledging these professions or any other reason for being in India, outside of tourism, your visa will be under additional scrutiny and you may be declined or flagged.

I claim “Artist” or Salesperson or something standard to a tourist.  Even when I did my yoga teacher’s certification , I was told to not mention that unless I wanted the hassle of applying for a Student visa and being a yoga student in India is a casual and touristic thing. It is not the same as attending a Indian university.

Do I need an India visa for layovers in India?

If you have a layover in India, and do not plan to leave the airport terminal (and do not need to go past immigration), then you do not need an Indian visa or a transit visa.

However, if your baggage is not checked all the way through to your destination an you need to retrieve it and re-check it, you will need an Indian visa.

Hope this guide on how to apply for an India visa was helpful to you! Applying for an Indian visa can feel overwhelming but visiting India is so worthwhile. Hope you love India as much as I do.

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Your Essential Guide to Getting an E-Visa for India

Understanding India's New Electronic Visa Scheme (Updated)

All visitors to India require a visa , except for citizens of neighboring Nepal and Bhutan. Visitors must either apply for a regular visa or an e-Visa (citizens of Japan and South Korea can also get a visa on arrival at six major airports in India). The e-Visa is hassle-free to obtain, and will be suitable for most tourists. Here's what you need to know about it.

Latest News as of September 2019

Three types of e-Tourist visas are now available with validity of one-month, one-year and five-years. The one-month e-Tourist Visa permits two entries. The one-year and five-year e-Tourist visas allow multiple entries but are subject to limitations on length of continuous stay. The fee for the one-year e-Tourist Visa has been reduced, while the fee for the new one-month e-Tourist Visa is discounted during the off-peak summer season from April to September.

The Indian government introduced a tourist visa on arrival scheme on January 1, 2010. It was initially trialed for citizens of five countries. Subsequently, a year later, it was extended to include a total of 11 countries. And, from April 15, 2014 it was extended to include South Korea.

Effective November 27, 2014, this visa on arrival scheme was replaced by an online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme. It has been implemented in phases and progressively made available to more countries.

In April 2015, the scheme was renamed "e-Tourist Visa" by the Indian government, to remove confusion over the previous ability to get a visa on arrival without applying in advance.

In April 2017, the scheme was further extended to passport holders of 158 countries (up from 150 countries).

The Indian government has also widened the scope of the visa scheme to include short duration medical treatment and yoga courses, and casual business visits and conferences. Previously, these required separate medical/student/business visas.

The aim is to make getting an Indian visa easier, and to bring more business people and medical tourists into the country.

To facilitate this change, in April 2017, the "e-Tourist Visa" scheme became known as "e-Visa". Furthermore, it was divided into three categories:

• e-Tourist Visa
• e-Business Visa
• e-Medical Visa

Two additional categories—e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa—have since been added. Up to two e-Medical Attendant visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa.

The visa categories can be clubbed together. However, e-Conference visas are only permitted to be clubbed with e-Tourist visas.

Be sure to research the different types of Indian visas .

Who is Eligible for an E-Visa?

Passport holders of the following 165 countries: Albania, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Cayman Island, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Colombia, Comoros, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Cote D'lvoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, El Salvador, Eritrea, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger Republic, Niue Island, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Island, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, USA, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City-Holy See, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

However, do note that if your parents or grandparents were born in or lived in Pakistan, you will be ineligible to get an e-Visa even if you're a citizen of the above countries. You will have to apply for a normal visa.

What is the Procedure for Obtaining an E-Visa?

Applications must be made online at this website, no less than four days and no more than 30 days before the date of travel (for a 30-day tourist e-visa). A sample form with screen shots can be downloaded here .

As well as entering you travel details, you will need to upload a photograph of yourself with a white background that meets the specifications listed on the website, and the photo page of your passport that shows your personal details. Your passport will need to be valid for at least six months. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of e-Visa required.

Following this, pay the fee online with your debit or credit card. You will receive an Application ID and the ETA will be sent to you via email within three to five days (often earlier). The status of your application can be checked here . Make sure it shows "GRANTED" before you travel.

You will need to have a copy of the ETA with you when you arrive in India, and present it at the immigration counter at the airport. An immigration officer will stamp your passport with your e-Visa for entry into India. Your biometric data will also be captured at this time.

You should have a return ticket and enough money to spend during your stay in India.

What are the Fees?

The visa fees depend on the nature of the reciprocal relationship between India and each country. Citizens of some countries can get visas free of cost. There are also differing fees for e-Tourists visas and other types of e-Visas. The details can be found in this e-Tourist Visa Fee Chart and Fee Chart for Other E-Visa Types .

Citizens of the following countries are entitled to free visas:

• Argentina, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nauru, Niue Island, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uruguay and Vanuatu.

Citizens of all other countries, except Japan, now pay the same fees for e-Tourist visas. These are as follows:

• One-month e-Tourist Visa (April to June): $10.
• One-month e-Tourist Visa (remainder of the year) : $25
• One-year e-Tourist Visa : $40.
• Five-year e-Tourist Visa : $80.

Japanese citizens only pay $25 for one-year and five-year e-Tourist visas.

The fees for other types of e-Visas are as follows:

• $100 Citizens of US, UK, Russia, Ukraine and Mozambique.
• $80 : Citizens of the majority of countries including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
• $25: Citizens of Japan, Singapore and Sri Lanka.

In addition to the visa fee, a bank charge of 2.5% of the fee must be paid.

How Long is the Visa Valid For?

The one-month e-Tourist Visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India, with two entries permitted. One-year and five-year e-Tourist visas are valid for 365 days from the date the ETA is granted, with multiple entries permitted.

E-Business visas are valid for one year from the date the ETA is granted, with multiple entries permitted.

E-Medical and e-Medical Attendant visas are valid for 60 days from the date of arrival in India. E-Conference visas are only valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. Three entries are permitted on e-Medical visas and e-Medical Attendant visas. Only one entry is permitted on e-Conference visas. The visas are non-extendable and non-convertible.

How Long Can You Stay in India?

It's important to note that although your e-Tourist Visa may be valid for one year or five years, this doesn't mean you can stay in India continuously for the whole time. The length of continuous stay must not be longer than 90 days—except for citizens of US, UK, Japan and Canada. Citizens of these countries can stay for up to 180 days at a time.

Citizens of all countries can stay in India for up to 180 days continuously on an e-Business visa.

Which Indian Entry Points Accept E-Visas?

You can now enter at the following 28 international airports in India : Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kochi, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi, and Vishakhapatnam.

You can also enter at the following five designated seaports: Kochi, Goa, Mangalore, Mumbai, Chennai.

In addition, separate immigration desks and help counters have been set up to assist medical tourists at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad airports.

Once you have the e-Visa, you can leave India (and return) through any immigration point.

How Often Can You Get an E-Visa?

You can apply as often as you want. The limit on the number of times in a calendar year has been removed.

Visiting Protected/Restricted Areas with Your E-Visa

The e-Visa is not valid for entry into areas such as Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India, by itself. You'll need to obtain a separate Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP), depending on the requirements of the particular area. This can be done in India after you arrive, using your e-Visa. You don't need to hold a regular tourist visa to be able to apply for a PAP. Your travel or tour agent can take care of the arrangements for you. If you're planning on visiting Northeast India, you can read more about permit requirements here.

Need Help with Your Application?

Call +91-11-24300666 or email [email protected]

Important: Scams to be Aware of

When applying for your e-Visa, do be aware that a number of commercial websites have been created to look similar to the government of India's official website, and they claim to provide online visa services to tourists. These websites include but are not limited to:

• e-visaindia.com
• e-touristvisaindia.com
• indianvisaonline.org.in

The websites do not belong to the government of India and they will charge you hefty service fees.

Expediting Your E-Visa

If you do need to get your e-Visa in a hurry, iVisa.com offers 24-hour and 2-day processing times. However, this comes at a price— $100 for 24-hours, and $65 for 2-days. Their standard fee for a 4-day processing time is $35. These fees are all additional to the e-Visa fee. The company is legitimate and reliable though.

Visa Requirements for India

Visa Requirements for Australia

Visa Requirements For Thailand

Visa Requirements for the Netherlands

Visa Requirements for Canada

Visa Requirements for Vietnam

Visa Requirements for Cambodia

Visa Requirements for Macao

Required Documents for Travel to China

How to Get a Shenzhen Visa in Hong Kong

Visa Requirements for Myanmar

Visa Requirements for Italy

Permits for North East India and What You Need to Know

Visa Requirements for France

Visa Requirements for Norway

Visa Regulations for Asian Countries

How To Apply & Get An Indian e-Visa Online

India has some amazing architecture and natural sights, with famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra, and snow capped mountains in the Himalayas.

Most nationalities (except for Bhutanese and Nepali citizens) will need a visa to visit India, which is given in the form of an electronic Indian visa (eVisa) since November 2014.

This guide explains everything about how to get an Indian tourist visa using the e-Visa India website! I wrote it in 2019 and last updated it in 2024.

I went through this process as a tourist, but the process on the e-Visa India website is very similar for the other visa categories as well.

What Is The India eVisa?

The Indian e-Visa is for visitors coming to India on a short term trip for sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, short term medical treatment or casual business related things.

The 5 eVisa types are as follows: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, or e-Conference.

The eVisa is valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years from the date of your arrival in India, and it’s a double entry visa (for e-Tourist or e-Business), single entry visa (e-Conference), or triple entry visa (e-Medical). It’s non-extendable and non-convertible.

You can apply and pay online anywhere from 4 to 120 days in advance of your date of arrival in India, but no later than 4 days prior to arrival, otherwise the application will not be processed.

The eVisa is valid for entry through 26 designated airports and 5 seaports in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Goa. The full list of airports and seaports permitted for the India eVisa can be found here (click the Instructions For Applicant link on the left side).  

Who Is The eVisa Available To?

The eVisa is available to US citizens and those of 170+ other places , and the fee depends on your country/territory.

The current fee for American citizens and other countries can be found in their full list of fees by country on the website .

An additional bank transaction charge of 2.5% may be applicable on the eVisa India online website.

The visa fee is non-refundable, even if for some reason your application is rejected.  

How Can I Get The India eVisa?

The visa process may sound complicated, but don’t worry, it’s actually pretty simple! Here it is broken down in 4 short steps:

• 1. Apply Online. You will need to submit an application with a personal photo and passport page.
• 2. Pay Visa Fee. Credit or debit cards (or Paypal) are accepted for online payment.
• 3. Receive e-Visa. The visa will be sent to you by email.
• 4. Visit India. You will need to print the India eVisa and carry it with you at the time of travel.

Before You Apply For The Indian e-Visa

It’s important to fill out your visa application completely and accurately, otherwise it may be rejected.

Before applying on the eVisa India website, make sure of the following:

• Passport Validity. Your passport should have >6 months validity
• Visa Pages. Your passport should have at least 2 blank visa pages for stamping
• Sufficient Funds. You should have enough money for your stay in India (this is rarely questioned), and also a return ticket or onward ticket.

You will also need to have the following items on your computer:

• Personal Photo. This should be a recent, clear photo of your face with a white background. JPEG format is required.
• Passport Photo. This should be your main passport page with your name, date of birth, nationality, etc. PDF format is required. If you need help changing your passport image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Note: If you’re applying for an e-Business or e-Medical visa, in addition to the above you will also need a copy of the business card (for the e-Business visa) or a copy of the letter from the hospital concerned in India on its letterhead (for the e-Medical visa).  

How To Apply For The India eVisa (Indian Tourist Visa)

When you’re ready to proceed, you can begin your visa application at the Indian government’s official eVisa website:

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

THIS IS IMPORTANT. There are other websites circulating on the internet that mimic this one or pretend to grant speedy visas, but those are often scams and they will take your money. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER WEBSITE.

I’ve provided some photos below as EXAMPLES to guide you through the application, but these are not from my actual eVisa submission. In other words, the addresses and other data I used in the images below are only examples. With that said, the pages you see in your visa application will resemble the ones shown in these images.

If anything has changed in the application process since this guide was written, please let me know in the comments at the bottom of this page and I will update the guide ASAP. I will do my best to keep this entire page up to date.

To begin your visa application, click the button circled in red that says Apply here for e-visa .

Visa Application Page 1

E-visa application.

Passport Type*:  Select Ordinary Passport Nationality*:  Select your country from the dropdown list Port Of Arrival*:  Select the airport you will be flying into Date Of Birth*: Email ID*: Re-enter Email ID*: Expected Date Of Arrival*: Visa Service*: Select from the list, and then choose an activity that best fits your trip to India Please Enter Above Text*: Enter the captcha code given

(Items above marked with  * are required.)

Page 1 of the Indian visa online application on the eVisa India website. Very straightforward.

After selecting continue, if you’re applying for the Indian tourist visa (e-Tourist), then a small message will appear: “The following documents are required to be submitted. 1) Photograph. 2) Passport.” Select OK.

(For some reason the photo dimensions here state 2″ x 2″ but when you come to the actual uploader, the correct minimum dimensions will be 350 x 350 pixels. You’ll use the latter. Side note: separate messages may appear for Business/Medical eVisa applications.)

You can ignore this message on the Indian visa application and click OK.

You have now arrived at the second page of the Indian visa online application form. It’s a good idea to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you have issues or need to come back to your application later.  

Visa Application Page 2

Applicant details form.

Surname: Exactly as in your passport Given Name*: Exactly as in your passport Have You Ever Changed Your Name?* If yes, click the box and give details Gender*: Date Of Birth: Automatically filled in Town/City Of Birth*: Country Of Birth*: Citizenship/National ID No*:  If not applicable, type NA Religion*: Visible Identification Marks*:  List any tattoos if you have them, otherwise put NONE Education*: Nationality:  Automatically filled in Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?* Select yours Have You Lived For At Least Two Years In The Country Where You Are Applying Visa?* Select yes or no  

Passport Details

Passport Number*: Place Of Issue*: Whatever nationality is on your passport Date Of Issue*: Date Of Expiry*: Any Other Valid Passport/Identity Certificate (IC) Held?* Yes or no. If yes, give details

Page 2 of the e-Visa India application form. Personal identification details.

Visa Application Page 3

Applicant’s address details.

House No./Street*: Village/Town/City*: Country*: State/Province/District*: Postal/ZIP Code*: Phone No.*: One phone number is required Mobile No.: Email Address: Automatically filled in Click Here For Same Address*: Click here if your permanent address is the same address as above, and then it will be applied.

Page 3 of the Indian visa online. Personal address details.

Visa Application Page 3 (continued)

Father’s details.

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality:  Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:  

Mother’s Details

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality: Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:

Applicant’s Marital Status:  Select whether you’re single or married. If married (or separated but not divorced), enter your spouse’s details. If divorced, just select single. Were Your Parents/Grandparents (Paternal/Maternal) Pakistan Nationals Or Belong To Pakistan Held Area?  Select yes or no  

Profession / Occupation Details Of Applicant

Present Occupation*:  Select your occupation from the dropdown list. If it’s something else, select ‘Others’ and then enter it. The image below gives an example. Employer Name/Business*: Designation: Address*:  Phone: Past Occupation, If Any: Are/Were You In A Military/Semi-Military/Police/Security Organization?* Select yes or no. If yes, a dropdown will appear asking for the following: Organisation, Designation, Rank and Place Of Posting.

Page 3 (continued). Family and occupation details for the Indian visa online.

Visa Application Page 4

Details of visa sought.

Type Of Visa:  Automatically filled in Visa Service:  Automatically filled in Places To Be Visited*: Enter any cities or areas (e.g. Delhi) you will be visiting in India Places To Be Visited Line 2:  Duration Of Visa:  Automatically filled in No. Of Entries:  Automatically filled in Port Of Arrival In India:  Automatically filled in Expected Port Of Exit From India*:  Select the correct airport from the dropdown  

Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details

Have You Ever Visited India Before?*  Select yes or no. If yes, enter the name and address of the place you stayed previously. Cities In India Visited*:  Enter details from previous visits Last Indian Visa No/Currently Valid Indian Visa*:  If your previous visit was with an eVisa, the number will be written on the stamp given in passport. If you don’t know the number, type unknown. Type Of Visa*:  Tourist Place Of Issue*:  United States (if it was a regular visa). Enter the airport name in India if it was an eVisa. Date Of Issue*:  The date it was issued. For an eVisa, you can use the date of entry from the stamp on your passport, or possibly in your email. Has Permission To Visit Or To Extend Stay In India Previously Been Refused?*  Select yes or no. Hopefully the answer is no  

Other Information

Countries Visited In Last 10 Years:  List any countries you’ve recently visited. I didn’t have room to list all of them, so I included a partial list. This field is not mandatory.  

SAARC Country Visit Details

Have You Visited SAARC Countries (Except Your Own Country) During Last 3 Years?*:  The list of SAARC countries can be found in the dropdown list.

Page 4 of the eVisa application. Your travel details.

Visa Application Page 4 (continued)

Reference Name In India*:  Your accommodation details will work Address*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on Google Maps or the listing at Booking.com or Agoda.com Phone*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on their website or on Google Maps Reference Name In Home Country*:  A relative or friend will work Address*:  Phone*: 

Page 4 (continued). Travel and reference details.

Visa Application Page 5

Additional question details.

• Have You Ever Been Arrested/Prosecuted/Convicted By Court Of Law Of Any Country?*  Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Refused Entry/Deported By Any Country Including India?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Human Trafficking / Drug Trafficking / Child Abuse / Crime Against Women / Economic Offense / Financial Fraud?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Cyber Crime / Terrorist Activities / Sabotage / Espionage / Genocide / Political Killing / Other Act Of Violence?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever By Any Means Or Medium, Expressed Views That Justify Or Glorify Terrorist Violence Or That May Encourage Others To Terrorist Acts Or Other Serious Criminal Acts?* Yes or no
• Have You Sought Asylum (Political Or Otherwise) In Any Country?* Yes or no

Page 5 of the Indian visa online application. Background questions.

Visa Application Page 6

Upload photograph.

At this point you will be asked to upload a personal photo.

If you need to come back and do this later, you can save and exit the application (but make sure to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you want to reuse your application later).

The photo format will need to be JPEG, with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 1 MB. Minimum dimensions are 350 pixels wide x 350 pixels high. The personal photo needs to be recent and front facing, with a white background.

The picture needs to be a clear photo of your face. You can get these done at places like Walgreens, for example. Unfortunately you cannot crop your passport photo to use for this, it needs to be a separate photo.

It’s important to follow all of these specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa India application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the photo you want to choose; then click upload photo .

After uploading the photo, you’re given an opportunity to crop the photo or upload it again if you’d like.

Page 6 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your personal photo.

Visa Application Page 7

Upload passport.

Next, you will be asked to upload a copy of your passport page.

This should be the photo page with personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiration date, etc. It should match the passport details entered in your eVisa application.

The file should be in PDF format with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 300 KB. If you need help changing your passport file from an image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Again, it’s important to follow all of the specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the PDF file you want to choose; then click upload document .

Page 7 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your passport.

Verification & Payment

After submitting your passport upload, the next page will ask you to confirm ALL of the previous details from your Indian e-Visa application.

Look these over thoroughly to make sure you entered everything correctly, because this will be your last chance to edit anything. Once you verify and continue, you will be brought to the visa payment page.

At this point, you can pay for the visa now or later. Follow the instructions on the page for either option. You should also write down the visa Application ID so you can access the application again.

You can pay with international credit or debit cards, or you can make your visa payment with Paypal. I used Paypal and I would recommend this. It was easy to process.

If you don’t have a Paypal account, then the next best option is probably using your card via the Axis option.  

After submission and payment, you will get an email from the Indian government saying that your Indian visa online application was submitted successfully and will take 72 hours for processing.

Generally you will hear back in much quicker time; in my case the Indian visa application was processed and granted in under 24 hours.

You MUST print the email you receive containing the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and present it to the immigration officer when you arrive in India. I would recommend printing and bringing at least two copies.

The government of India emphasizes that you should also track your application and make sure that the status says  granted on the official eVisa India website ( same link as above ) before making your journey to India.  

What If My India Visa Is Rejected?

If your India visa is rejected, don’t worry. You can apply again, and there’s no minimum amount of time you have to wait before re-applying for a visa. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then you can go ahead and do it when you’re ready.

However, it’s important to find out why you were rejected so you can fix it in your next application. Unfortunately a reason is not always given, but generally the most common reasons for India visas being rejected are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specifications.

When reapplying, you’ll be faced with this question: “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?”

How you answer this question will depend on why you were rejected in your first application. If it was a simple clerical error like a wrong date or wrong photo specifications, then I would answer no, because you weren’t actually refused a visa for visiting India due to being ineligible for some reason, you only made a minor mistake in the submission process that can easily be corrected.

Good luck and happy travels!

Best India Tours

More travel guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you were helped by this guide on how to fill out an Indian e-visa application.

While you’re waiting for your visa to be processed, don’t forget to check out the other travel guides on my blog!

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I’m very impressed by the quality of information on this website. There are a lot of good resources here. I’m sure I will visit this place again soon.

I have an extra copy of my passport photo. Although it is the same picture as in my passport it is not just a cropped version of the photo in the passport. Is this acceptable?

Hi Jeanne, I haven’t tried that myself but it should be okay as long as it meets the other requirements for the personal photo. Regards

I used my extra copy of my passport photo this past week for my India E-visa, and it worked!

Thank you, David, for providing the details regarding the E-visa information. It was really helpful and guided me as I entered the required fields in the application.

Good to hear. Thanks Esther!

why is it that when i filled the places to be visited form, it says invalid characters

What are you trying to enter there?

Once we receive ETA the first name and last name are shuffled is it the same for everyone?

Yes, it was the same on my ETA. No problem.

Hi David, thank you SO MUCH for this helpful post. I’m flying to India in a month and my e-visa application was just rejected (I traveled to India in early 2020 and had no issues at all) so I’m now going through the process of carefully re-applying… one question I’m hoping you can help me with: I just got married 2 weeks ago, do you expect it to be an issue to check the “married” box despite the fact my (USA & Israeli) passports say nothing about being married (or single, for that matter?) also -I can’t seem to find anything online about a minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying… any idea? Trying to minimize all odds of being rejected again. Thanks so much again, really appreciate your guidance.

Hi Abigail! Glad the post was helpful for you. Yes, it should be okay to put married on the application. Like you say, the marital status isn’t shown on the passport anyway, and spouse names aren’t always changed right away after marriage either, or sometimes they never change. So that should be fine. As far as I know, there’s no minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then I would go ahead and try again. Do you know why you were rejected the first time? I would figure that out before re-applying. Good luck!

Hi David! Another important question – for the “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?” question on page 4 – would my previous e-visa rejection quality as a “yes”?

For this question, I think it would depend on the reason why you were rejected on the first application. Was it a simple error like a wrong date, wrong photo specifications, etc? If so, I would answer no, you weren’t refused a visa for visiting India, your application was only rejected because of a minor mistake. This is different from refusing you a visa because you aren’t eligible for some reason.

My e-visa application just got rejected without any specific reason provided. All they mention in the remark is “You may apply for Regular/Official Visa at nearest Indian Mission/Embassy abroad”. I compared my application to yours and the only difference I see is that for “city/town” of birth I put down city and state as opposed to state only. Would you happen to know if this could have caused the rejection?

Hi Jan! That shouldn’t cause a rejection. I’ve heard of people doing it either way (city and state, or city only). Both are correct answers. Do you think there might be another issue on your application? The most common things are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specs.

Thanks so much. This is very helpful.

Question – on page 2 it asks if you ever changed your name. Am I correct in assuming that I put yes because I changed my name when I got married?

Hi Judy! If your passport still has your maiden name, I would use that name in the application and answer no to the question about name change. If your passport has your married name, I would use that name in the application and answer yes to the question about name change. However, I know of people who have applied successfully either way. It shouldn’t affect your application.

Thank you, this was very helpful. I have a question on section “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details”. I have traveled to India multiple times, but as an Indian citizen and held an Indian passport. Now I am no longer Indian citizen and applying for India Tourist visa for first time. What do I click in this “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details” section’s “Have you ever visited India before?”

Hi Sylvia, in that case you can answer “No” for the question “Have you ever visited India before?” because they’re asking if you’ve visited India on a visa before, and you haven’t. You were a citizen and resident, not a visitor. They should be able to understand this since you will list your country of birth as India on page 2 of the application, and also when they ask “Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?” you can put Naturalization.

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Here's how to get a visa to visit India

Dec 20, 2023 • 7 min read

From applying for an e-Visa to extending your stay, here's what you need to know about entry requirements for India beavera / Getty Images

With its dense tapestry of cultures and landscapes, India feels like dozens of countries rolled into one, but a single visa will cover you for travel across more than 3 million sq km (more than a million sq miles) of territory, taking in everything from steamy jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.

Every Indian state is as large and diverse as a nation, so take your time navigating this enormous and fascinating country. The good news is that visas are easy to obtain and allow plenty of time for exploring.

Here’s everything you need to know about visa requirements for India, from the application process for e-Visas to overland travel and extending your stay.

You'll probably need a visa to go to India

Almost everyone needs a visa to visit India , but for most nationalities, tourist visas are easy to obtain online or through your local Indian embassy or consulate. Citizens of 166 countries – including most nations in the EU and EEA, the UK, the US, Australia and New Zealand, and many countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America – can apply for an e-Visa before traveling via a simple online form .

Applying online is a fairly painless process, and it will save you hours compared to applying in person at an embassy or through a visa agency (in countries where Indian embassies no longer issue visas directly). Tourist e-Visas are available with a validity of 30 days, one year or five years, with the one- and five-year visas allowing for multiple entries for a maximum stay of 180 days on each visit.

For one- and five-year tourist visas, applications are accepted up to 120 days in advance of travel. The 30-day visa allows two entries into India, which is handy if you’re planning a side trip to Nepal , and you can apply up to 30 days in advance of travel. All e-Visas take at least 72 hours to process, so be sure to apply in plenty of time (at least 4 days in advance is recommended).

Applying online is the most hassle-free way to obtain a visa

The Indian government’s online e-Visa portal can be used to apply for tourist visas, business visas, and visas for medical treatment and attending conferences. The cost and duration of the visa vary depending on your nationality, and you may need to show proof of return travel arrangements and sufficient funds to support yourself during your trip.

Rules for non-tourist visas can be complex. Business travelers usually need to provide letters of introduction from Indian companies and organizations that they plan to meet. Assuming you meet the requirements, business visas are usually valid for multiple entries over the space of one year.

Working for an Indian company is more complicated. You’ll need an employment visa and a work permit, and most people need a firm job offer and assistance from an Indian employer to complete the paperwork. As with all visa requirements, the situation is subject to change; contact your local Indian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Applying for a tourist e-Visa is fairly straightforward

To apply for an Indian e-Visa, visit the government’s official e-Visa portal . You’ll need to upload a digital passport-style photo and copies of your passport ID pages, and pay the visa fee, which varies depending on your nationality.

Your passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of entry, and you’ll need two spare pages for the visa, which will be physically stamped into your passport on arrival. Assuming your application is accepted – which is the case for most applicants – you’ll receive a digital Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which you should print out and carry with you when you travel, so you can present it to the immigration authorities on arrival. 

Enter India via air or sea on your e-Visa

E-Visas allow entry to India through 25 designated airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Bengaluru (Bangalore), Hyderabad, Kochi (Cochin), Goa, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Gaya, Jaipur, Lucknow, Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), Varanasi, Kozhikode (Calicut), Mangaluru (Mangalore), Pune, Nagpur, Coimbatore, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Chandigarh and Visakhapatnam.

They’re also valid for entry via the designated seaports at Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, New Mangalore and Mormugao (in Goa).

Apply for a visa before you travel to enter India overland

If you plan to enter India overland – for example, from Nepal or Pakistan – you’ll need a visa stamped into your passport before you leave home, which you’ll need to obtain from the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country, or through an approved visa application office.

If you plan to visit India and Nepal on the same trip, get a multiple-entry visa – it used to be possible to arrange a new Indian tourist visa through the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu , but the authorities may now insist on a two-month gap before issuing a new visa.

There’s no need to worry about applying for a visa for Nepal in advance – they’re available on arrival at border crossings (bring passport photos and US dollars to pay the fee).

If you can't apply for an e-Visa, get one in person in advance

Contact your local embassy or consulate to check the application process in your country; the Indian Ministry of External Affairs maintains a list of diplomatic missions online. It’s best to apply for a visa in your home country – obtaining an Indian visa from an embassy in another country can be tortuously slow, assuming it’s possible at all. Fees and the permitted duration of stay will vary depending on your nationality.

As an alternative to applying through an Indian embassy or consulate, you may be able to apply for a visa through a visa agency – however, this tends to be more expensive than applying directly. In practice, many of these agencies just collect together applications and then send over a staff member to the embassy to apply in person.

Student visas are available to those on full-time courses in India

Student visas are reserved for people enrolled in approved full-time educational courses in India (which can include training courses in yoga, meditation, and traditional Indian art forms). Student visas are valid for up to five years, depending on the length of the course, but the rules are strict, and you’ll need documentation from the institution where you are studying to apply. The Ministry of Home Affairs provides some information online, but contact your local Indian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date requirements.

Extending your stay in India is for exceptional circumstances only

E-Visas cannot be extended, but other types of visas can, though only in exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or theft of your passport. To apply, you’ll need to use the government’s special online portal , providing evidence of a valid reason for extending your stay in India (e.g., a letter from the hospital where you are being treated or a police report).

You may then be called in for an in-person interview at the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Delhi. If there is a fee, it will be made clear during the application process.

Some border areas in India require additional travel permits

Under a system carried over from British colonial rule, special permits (known as “protected area permits” or “restricted area permits”) are required to visit many areas close to India’s disputed external borders with China , Pakistan and other territories – a zone known as the “inner line.” Applying for these permits outside India is tricky, but you can apply locally in India without too much difficulty.

Permits are especially important for highly sensitive border areas (which tend to be off-limits to all travelers). Applications can be made through local government offices or local travel agencies; contact the state government offices for these regions to get the latest information. In some areas, you may need to register with the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office on arrival, but this is an easy process.

This article was first published Mar 12, 2022 and updated Dec 20, 2023.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

India e-Visa for tourists in 2023: Requirements, eligibility and more

Updated: September 8, 2023

This article is a complete guide to obtaining India e-Visa as a tourist. You can learn everything about India e-Visa types, requirements, eligibility, documents needed, fee and application procedure.

India e-Visa is quite easy to apply. All you need is a photo, a scan of your passport ID page and a credit/debit card. It takes about 15 minutes to fill out the application and the processing takes about 72 hours. 

India e-Visas are issued for tourism, business and medical purposes. The e-Visa for tourism is called e-Tourist Visa. In this article, we will focus on e-Tourist Visa and we will refer to it as simply India e-Visa. 

Currently, about 166 nationalities are eligible to apply for India e-Visa online. Indian e-Visa can be double-entry or multiple-entry and can be valid from 30 days to 5 years.

Indian e-Visa is also sometimes unofficially referred to as “India visa online” or “online visa India”.

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INDIA E-VISA REQUIREMENTS FOR TOURISTS

Who is eligible to apply for India e-Visa?

The following 166 nationalities are eligible to apply for India e-Visa. 

• Afghanistan
• Anguilla (British Territory)
• Antigua and Barbuda
• Bosnia and Herzegovina
• Cayman Island (British Territory)
• Cook Islands
• Cote d’Ivoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Montserrat (British Territory)
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• North Macedonia
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• St Kitts and Nevis
• St Vincent and the Grenadines
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• South Korea
• Switzerland
• Timor-Leste
• Trinidad and Tobago
• Turks and Caicos Islands (British Territory)
• United Arab Emirates
• United Kingdom
• United States
• Vatican City

What is the validity of India e-Visa?

India e-Visas are valid for 30 days,1 year or 5 years. You can select the validity that works best for your purpose while filling out the e-Visa application.

To summarize, below are the various validity options available for Indian e-Visa. 

How many days can you stay in India on e-Visa?

On a 30-day e-Visa, you can stay up to 30 days. On a 1-year or 5-year e-Visa, you can stay up to 90 days from the day of arrival. 

Canada, Japan, UK and US nationals holding 1-year or 5-year e-Visas can stay up to 180 days on each visit.

Below is the summary of permitted stay for each of the available Indian e-Visas. 

IMPORTANT Irrespective of nationality, the total stay in India on an e-Visa cannot be more than 180 days in a calendar year.

How many times can you enter India on e-Visa?

30-day e-Visas are double-entry visas. That means you can enter India on a 30-day e-Visa twice. 

1-year and 5-year e-Visas are multiple entries, meaning you can enter India as many times as you want.

Keep in mind that your total stay in India cannot exceed 180 days in a given calendar year. 

Below is the summary of various e-Visas and their permitted entries. 

When can you enter India on e-Visa?

You can enter India anytime during the validity of your e-Visa. Depending on your nationality and e-Visa type, you will be given 30-day or 90-day entry (or 180-day entry if you are a Canada, Japan, UK or US national).

Even if you enter India on the last day of your visa validity, you will still be given 30 or 90 days of entry depending on the e-Visa type you hold.

When should you apply for India e-Visa?

For 1-year and 5-year e-Visas, you can apply up to 120 days in advance. For 30-day e-Visas, you can apply up to 30 days in advance. 

The latest you can apply is 4 days. So if you have less than 4 days, your application will not be accepted.

Below is the summary of various e-Visas and the earliest or latest you can apply for those visas. 

Which airports or land borders you can enter India from using e-Visa?

You can enter India on an e-Visa at the following 29 airports and 5 seaports. Details are below.

Airports (29)

• Bhubaneshwar
• Tiruchirapalli
• Visakhapatnam

Seaports (5)

Land border (0).

Currently, e-Visa holders are NOT ALLOWED to enter India via land borders. 

NOTE You cannot enter India via the land border using an e-Visa. But you can exit or depart from India from any airport, seaport or land border. 

IMPORTANT It is NOT MANDATORY to enter India from the airport or seaport that you have mentioned in your e-Visa application. You CAN enter India from any of the above 29 airports or 5 seaports using your e-Visa.

What is the minimum passport validity required for India e-visa?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your anticipated date of arrival in India. Add 6 months to your expected date of arrival in India to calculate the passport validity required for your e-Visa application.

Here is an example.

• Say today is May 01, 2023
• Your anticipated date of arrival in India is June 01, 2023
• To apply for your e-Visa, your passport must be valid at least until December 01, 2023

What are the documents needed for India e-Visa?

The following documents are needed for India e-Visa.

• Original passport
• Photo must be in JPG/JPEG format only
• Photo must be 2inch x 2inch in dimensions
• Photo must be less than 1MB in size
• Head must be centered with light background and no glasses
• Scan must be in PDF format only
• Scan must be larger than 10KB and smaller than 300KB
• Your credit or debit card must support international transactions in non-home currency

What are the India e-Visa photo requirements?

You need one digital photo for your India e-Visa application. The digital photograph must meet the following specifications.

• The photograph must be in JPG/JPEG format only
• The photo must be less than 1MB in size

What is the current India e-Visa fee?

The visa fee for India e-Visa varies depending on the visa type and country. Below is the general fee structure for various tourist e-Visa types.

Irrespective of the tourist e-Visa type, there is no visa fee for Argentina, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nauru, Niue Island, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uruguay and Vanuatu. The visa fee for these countries is gratis.

What is the current India e-Visa processing time?

The India e-Visa processing time is 72 hours. In most cases, the applications are processed within 48 hours. 

INDIA E-VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

How to apply for India e-Visa?

You can start your application process by filling out the online application on the India e-Visa portal . Make sure to keep all the required documents ready before starting the application.

Filling out the entire online application may take about 15 minutes. You can also save the partially filled application and come back to it at a later point in time. 

If you haven’t, check out the step-by-step guide on applying for India e-Visa for details on how to complete the online application, track the status and receive your approved e-Visa.

RELATED: How to apply for India e-Visa in 2023: A step-by-step guide

Word of caution on India e-Visa fake websites

If you search on the internet, you will see that there are many Indian e-Visa websites posing as “official websites”. There is ONLY one Indian e-Visa OFFICIAL website. The rest are all fake. The OFFICIAL website is below.

India e-Visa OFFICIAL website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/  

How to track India e-Visa application?

You can track your application status on the India e-Visa portal using your Application ID and passport number. 

On the application status page, your application will have one of the below two statuses. 

• SUCCESSFULLY RECEIVED: Your application is still in the process
• GRANTED: Your India e-Visa is approved

How to receive the approved India e-Visa?

When your India e-Visa is approved, you will be notified via email that your e-Visa has been granted. 

You can download your approved e-Visa from the India e-Visa portal using your Application ID and passport number. 

On the application status page, click on the “Print Status” button to download your approved e-Visa. 

You must print and carry your approved Inda e-Visa PDF when you travel. You can also download it as a PDF on your phone and show it to the airline staff or India immigration officer on your arrival. 

Is there a priority service for India e-Visa?

Unfortunately, there is no priority visa processing. The e-Visa process takes up to 72 hours. If you haven’t received your visa result even after 72 hours, you must contact the India e-Visa department at their email or phone listed below. 

How to contact India e-Visa customer service?

In case of questions on your visa status, you can contact the e-Visa department at their email and phone numbers.

EMAIL: [email protected] PHONE: +91 11 24300666

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

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05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from SafetyWing . Insurance from SafetyWing covers COVID-19 and also comes with a visa letter which you can use for your visas.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

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How much does an India Visa cost?

This guide is your resource for a clear breakdown of the India Visa fees. We aim to equip you with the necessary information for a smooth travel experience, ensuring you're ready to soak in all India offers.

India Visa Cost: A breakdown of the fees

India offers various visa categories to accommodate different travel purposes. The visa fees vary based on the visa type, duration, and applicant's nationality. Here’s a cost estimate of the common visa types.

1. Tourist Visa:

Up to 1 year (single or multiple-entry): Approximately US$90.

More than 1 year and up to 5 years (multiple-entry): Around US$177.

2. Business Visa:

Up to 1 year (single or multiple-entry): About US$106.

More than 1 year and up to 5 years (single-entry): Roughly US$221.

More than 1 year and up to 5 years (multiple-entry): Approximately US$266.

3. Student Visa: Valid for the course duration or up to 5 years (multiple-entry): About US$72.

4. Medical Visa & Medical Attendant Visa: Up to 6 months (single or multiple-entry): Roughly US$72. More than 6 months and up to 1 year (multiple-entry): Approximately US$107.

5. Conference Visa: Up to 6 months (single or multiple-entry): Around US$72.

6. Transit Visa: Up to 15 days (single or double-entry): Approximately US$19.

Learn more about the India visa validity and how long you can stay in the country. For the most accurate and current information, it’s always best to contact the nearest Indian embassy or consulate before applying for your visa.

How can I pay the India eVisa fees?

For eVisa applicants, the visa fee is payable online during the application process. The accepted payment methods are credit or debit cards (Visa & MasterCard) via the SBIePay payment gateway. PayPal is also an accepted channel for payment.

For embassy visa applicants, the visa fee is usually paid at an Indian embassy, consulate, or visa application center. The fee can be paid using cash, bank drafts, or credit cards.

Are India eVisa fees refundable?

India Visa fees, once paid, are typically non-refundable. This applies regardless of the outcome of your visa application – whether it is granted, rejected, or even if you decide to withdraw your application. The fees are charged for processing the application and are not based on the final decision of your visa.

This policy is standard for most visa types, including eVisas and traditional embassy-issued visas. It's important to be certain about your travel plans and visa requirements before making the payment, as you won't be able to get a refund once the fee is paid.

In special circumstances, such as technical errors during the payment process, there might be considerations for a refund. However, these cases are rare, usually require proof of the error, and are subject to the discretion of the immigration authority.

How to apply for an India Visa with us

India eVisas are only available to eligible countries, and they include: India e-Tourist Visa , India e-Business Visa , India e-Medical Visa , e-Conference Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa, and e-Emergency X-Misc Visa.

Use our Visa Checker Tool to find if you need an India eVisa.

Do you have questions about the India eVisa?

For more information, contact our customer support team via live chat or at help@iVisa.

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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK Government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in India set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the  High Commission of India in London or another Indian consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering India.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India.

Your passport must also: - have 2 blank pages for your visa

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

Apply for the right type of visa for the purpose of your travel.

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder.

India has a number of visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel.

Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation. This may also include not being allowed to enter India in the future.

For latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the  e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office), the  Bureau of Indian Immigration website  and  Indian Ministry of External Affairs website .

Applying for a visa or e-visa

Find out how to apply for a visa from the Indian Bureau of Immigration Depending on your requirements you may be able to apply for:

• regular (paper) visa
• e-visa (make sure to check the website’s ‘FAQs’ for restrictions on airports and seaports of entry)

Check your eligibility and any restrictions before you apply and allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.

More information is available from the website of High Commission of India in London .

Applicants of Pakistani origin

If you are of Pakistani origin, a British-Pakistan dual national, or holding a National Identity Card for overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), the visa processing time will be substantially longer than other visa applications. More information is available from the High Commission of India in London .

If you are a British-Pakistan dual national, you must apply for an Indian visa on your Pakistani passport. If you have renounced your Pakistani nationality or cancelled your Pakistani passport, you will need to submit documentary proof of this.

Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders

If you hold a valid Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card, you can use this, along with your valid British passport to visit India. You do not need a visa. If you have a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card, you will need to convert it to an OCI card. More information is available from the  High Commission of India in London  and the  Indian Bureau of Immigration .

Arrival, registration, and extensions

If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days and do not hold an OCI card, register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) . You could be denied permission to leave if you do not do this. Check if you are required to register your arrival on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website and FRRO .

Overstaying in India on a visa is an offence. Make sure you leave the country before your visa expires or get an official extension if needed. More information is available on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you’re hospitalised

If you or someone you’re travelling with has a short-term Tourist Visa and is hospitalised, you may be able to extend or ‘convert’ to a Medical Visa .

Exit requirements

You will pass through immigration as you depart India. Officials will check when you entered the country. If you do not have an entry stamp, for example if you have a newly issued passport, you will need to apply for special exit visa before you travel. This must be done online and can take between five and fifteen working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights. For further information see the  e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office).

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• yellow fever

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also provides  vaccination guidance and data .

Accommodation

By law, hotels, hostels and other accommodation providers must register the stay of foreign guests with the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) using a “C Form”.  Please ask your accommodation provider to ensure they have done so.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of India . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Satellite phones and listening devices

It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India without a licence. British nationals have been arrested for bringing them into the country without prior permission. You can contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication to request a licence .

You may also need prior permission from the Indian authorities to bring equipment like listening or recording devices, radio transmitters, powerful cameras, or binoculars into India. You can ask the High Commission of India in London for advice.

Taking money into India

There are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India. Visitors, including residents and tourists, should follow Reserve Bank of India guidelines .

If you’re visiting India, you can bring cash, travellers’ cheques (in pounds sterling or another foreign currency) or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees once in India.

You must declare any amount above 5,000 US dollars in notes, or 10,000 US dollars in notes and travellers’ cheques combined.

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India Tourist Visa for Malaysian Citizens: Apply for the India Visa Now

Are you a Malaysian citizen looking to explore the vibrant and culturally diverse country of India? Are you wondering how to get your India Tourist Visa?

Whether you're planning to visit iconic landmarks like the Taj Mahal or immerse yourself in the rich heritage of Rajasthan, our streamlined application process ensures a hassle-free journey. Apply for your India Visa now and embark on an unforgettable adventure in this enchanting land.

Are you still confused and filled with questions? Look no further. We're here to answer all your India Tourist Visa questions . Keep reading to find out everything you need to know.

Do Malaysian citizens need a Visa to enter India?

Yes, Malaysian citizens do need a valid visa when visiting India . An Indian Tourist Visa is mandatory if you plan to visit for tourism, business, or other purposes.

There are various types of Indian visas for Malaysia, depending on the purpose of their travel. Here are some of the regular visa options for Malaysians:

e-Tourist Visa : This visa is ideal for those planning to visit India for tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, or participating in short-term recreational activities.

e-Business Visa : If you're traveling to India for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or exploring business opportunities, a Business Visa or employment visa is required.

e-Medical Visa : For individuals seeking medical treatment in India that allows you to enter India to access healthcare services and undergo medical procedures.

Conference Visa for individuals who wish to attend conferences, seminars, workshops, or similar events in India

What is the India Tourist Visa for Malaysian citizens?

The India Tourist Visa for Malaysian passport holders is an electronic visa, commonly known as an eVisa, that allows Malaysian citizens to visit India for tourism purposes . With this eVisa, you can explore India's mesmerizing attractions, experience its rich culture, and create unforgettable memories.

The India Tourist eVisa for Malaysian citizens offers the convenience of an online application, eliminating the need to visit an embassy or consulate. At iVisa, we specialize in facilitating the India Tourist eVisa application process. Our user-friendly platform and expert support team ensure a smooth and efficient application experience. Apply for your India Tourist Visa now and prepare to embark on an incredible journey to India.

Am I eligible to get an India Visa for Malaysians?

The eligibility criteria for Malaysian citizens to get an Indian Tourist Visa are as follows:

Nationality : You must hold a valid Malaysian passport.

Purpose : The India Tourist Visa is for tourism purposes, including sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, and engaging in short-term recreational activities. It's not valid for business, employment, or long-term stays.

Entry points : You can enter India through designated airports and seaports. Please check the official guidelines or consult with our team to ensure your desired entry point is eligible.

Validity : Your passport should have a minimum validity of six months beyond your intended entry date into India.

Intended stay : The India Tourist Visa typically allows for a stay of up to 90 days. Ensure your travel plans align with the visa's validity and duration.

Previous travel : If you've traveled to certain countries designated by the government of India, additional requirements or restrictions may apply. It's advisable to check the latest guidelines or contact our team for further information.

How long is the India Tourist Visa valid for Malaysians?

The Indian eVisa depends on the type of visa you choose to apply for. We offer a:

Double-entry visa valid for 30 days after issued

Multiple-entry visa valid for 1 year after issued

Multiple-entry visa valid for 5 years after issued

Check out our blog for comprehensive information on India Tourist e-Visa validity and length of stay .

If you need to stay in India for more than 90 days, you can apply for an extension of your visa while in India. However, the extension is subject to approval by the Indian authorities and must be applied for before your visa expires. So, plan your trip accordingly and apply for your visa in time to make the most of your visit to India!

India Tourist Visa requirements for Malaysian citizens

You must be familiar with the India Tourist Visa requirements to complete the application process. We've compiled a detailed list of the necessary documents, passport requirements, and photo specifications to ensure a smooth visa application process. Read on to find out everything you need to know.

Necessary documents for the India Tourist Visa for Malaysian citizens

To apply for an Indian Tourist Visa, Malaysian citizens are required to submit the following supporting documents:

Valid passport

Completed application form : Fill out the India Tourist Visa application form accurately with all the required information.

Passport-style photo : Attach two recent, color passport-sized photographs per the specified requirements (mentioned separately below).

Proof of travel itinerary : Provide a copy of your confirmed travel itinerary, including flight details and hotel reservations.

Proof of sufficient funds : Submit evidence of adequate financial means to cover your expenses in India, such as bank statements or traveler's checks.

Proof of accommodation : Present proof of accommodation arrangements in India, such as hotel bookings or an invitation letter from your host (if applicable).

Previous visits : If you've traveled to India before, provide a copy of your previous visa or entry/exit stamps in your passport as supporting documentation. If it's in an old passport, provide copies of that too.

India Tourist Visa requirements for children of Malaysian citizens

If you're applying for an Indian Tourist Visa for a child (below 18 years) of Malaysian citizenship, the following additional documents are required:

Minors under 18 must have a separate passport and submit a separate visa application from their parents or legal guardians.

A copy of the child's birth certificate showing the names of both parents must be provided.

If only one parent is traveling with the child, a notarized letter of consent from the other parent is required.

India Tourist Visa passport requirements for Malaysian citizens

Your passport must:

have at least two blank pages for entry and exit stamps

not be damaged or tampered with in any way

have at least six months validity from the date of arrival in India

If your passport is nearing its expiry date, it's best to apply for a new passport before applying for a visa.

India Tourist Visa photo requirements for Malaysian citizens

Your photograph must:

be a recent passport-sized photograph in color with a white background is required

show your full face with a neutral expression

have no shadows , and the face must be visible

These requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your travel. To ensure your photograph meets all the criteria, use our Passport Photo Service to get recent, government-standard pictures from your home.

India Tourist Visa application: How to apply in Malaysia

At iVisa, our application process aims to be hassle-free. Simply follow these three easy steps to complete your Indian e-visa application online:

Step 1 : Start by completing the online form on our website. Provide general information about yourself and choose the type of visa you want to apply for.

Step 2 : Once you've completed the form, review your information to ensure everything is accurate. Then, select the processing option that best suits your needs.

Step 3 : Pay the service fee using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit or debit card, and upload any documents required, such as a passport photo and a photo scan of your passport.

After completing these three steps, submit your application and wait for your e-visa to arrive in your email inbox within your selected timeframe.

It's important to note that during your travels, you must carry both a printed and electronic copy of your Tourist eVisa to present to immigration officers upon arrival so that they can verify your Indian eVisa status.

We recommend all visa applicants download our iVisa app on their mobile device for added convenience. This will allow you to keep track of your documents and the status of your application electronically.

What is the India Tourist Visa processing time for Malaysian citizens?

There are three processing options, each with a different processing time and price depending on your travel needs and the type of visa. Here are the processing options we offer Malaysian applicants:

Standard Processing - This is the best option if you have more time to wait; it takes 4 days and is also the most economical.

Rush Processing - A little faster; it takes only 2 days to receive your visa.

Super Rush Processing - Your visa will be delivered in 36 hours . It's the fastest option, perfect for those in a hurry.

India Tourist Visa fee: Cost of the visa for Malaysian citizens

Different processing and visa types are priced differently . All prices for Indian visas include the Indian government visa levy and our service fees.

During the application process on our site, you can add services such as an iVisa Plus subscription, Premium Concierge Service, Embassy Registration, or Premium Photo Services.

We also offer iVisa Fee Protection , which allows us to process a new application for no additional processing fee if you're unable to make your trip, as well as the option to get a flight reservation or itinerary that's valid for two weeks and can be used to apply for a visa, as proof of return to show to immigration officers while traveling, for car rental purposes, etc.

All these additional services carry varying costs. Use our application form to check your application's total cost based on your circumstances and chosen services.

How to prepare for the India Tourist Visa interview as a Malaysian citizen?

As a Malaysian citizen applying for an Indian Tourist Visa, you may be required to attend an interview at the Indian Embassy or Consulate. The interview is an essential step in the visa application process, and proper preparation can increase your chances of a successful outcome. Here are some tips to help you prepare for the India Tourist Visa interview:

Gather required documents : Ensure you have all the necessary documents, including your completed application form, passport, photographs, travel itinerary, proof of accommodation, and financial records. Have them organized and readily accessible for the interview.

Understand the purpose of your visit : Familiarize yourself with the purpose of your trip to India, whether for tourism, visiting friends or relatives, or engaging in recreational activities. Be prepared to explain your itinerary and provide details about the places you plan to visit.

Research India : Gain knowledge about India's culture, traditions, and popular tourist attractions. Demonstrating your genuine interest in the country and its heritage is beneficial.

Be clear and concise : Answer questions confidently and concisely during the interview. Provide accurate and truthful information, avoiding inconsistencies. Be prepared to explain the duration of your stay, your accommodation arrangements, and your financial capability to cover your expenses.

Dress professionally : Dress appropriately for the interview, opting for formal or business attire. A neat and professional appearance will make a positive impression.

Practice common interview questions : Anticipate questions about your travel plans, the purpose of the visit, previous travel history, and financial capacity. Practice answering these questions beforehand to feel more comfortable and prepared during the interview.

Stay calm and confident : Maintain a calm and composed demeanor during the interview. Listen carefully to the interviewer's questions and respond thoughtfully. Confidence and clarity in your answers will showcase your sincerity and intention to abide by the visa regulations.

My India Tourist Visa application was denied. What should I do?

If you're an iVisa client and your India Tourist Visa application was denied, you can reapply for a new visa with us . As a professional visa agency, we have experience with visa applications for various countries, including India.

We'll help you review the reason for the denial , guide you on how to reapply, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

However, it's essential to note that the Indian Embassy or Consulate has the final say in the visa application process , and the decision to grant or deny a visa is at their discretion. At iVisa, we can't guarantee that your visa application will be approved, but we can assist you in navigating the process and give you the best chance of success.

Suppose your application is denied due to an error found in your application after our experts have reviewed it. In that case, we'll refund the processing fee you paid us as our experts strive to ensure no mistakes in your applications.

Note: Government fees won't be refunded.

Need more information?

If you need more info about traveling to India for tourism, medical assistance, or business, don't hesitate to contact our customer support team anytime via online chat or email at [email protected] .

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Australia doubles student visa fees to curb migration, Indians likely to be hit

The australian government has more than doubled international student visa fees from $710 to $1,600, effective july 1, to manage record migration. furthermore, to stop visa hopping, temporary visa holders, such as those on graduate or visitor visas, will no longer be able to apply for a student visa while in australia..

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• Australia doubles international student visa fees to AUD 1,600 from July 1
• Temporary visa holders can no longer apply for student visas within Australia
• New rules aim to curb migration and restore integrity to Australia's education system

The Australian government has significantly increased the fees for international students, more than doubling the cost from AUD 710 ($473) to AUD 1,600 ($1,068). This latest move by the Anthony Albanese government, effective from July 1, aims to curb migration that is at an all-time high and has put pressure on the housing market.

The move is likely to hit Indian students, who form the second-biggest cohort of international students in Australia.

Furthermore, temporary visa holders, such as those on Temporary Graduate, Visitor, and Maritime Crew visas, will no longer be eligible to apply for a student visa while they are in Australia. This change will impact thousands of Indian students currently residing in the country.

“The changes coming into force today will help restore integrity to our international education system, and create a migration system which is fairer, smaller and better able to deliver for Australia,” said Clare O’Neil, Minister for Home Affairs and Cyber Security of Australia.

The Australian government's crackdown aims to ensure that only genuine students are granted visas, thereby supporting the country's economic growth.

Official data released in March by the Australian Bureau of Statistics showed net overseas migration was 548,800 people during the year ending September 30, 2023.

According to government data, a significant number of Indian students—100,009 in 2022—were enroled in Australian institutions .

Additionally, 1.22 lakh Indian students were studying in Australia in the January-September 2023 period.

The fee increase makes applying for an Australian student visa significantly more expensive than in competitor countries like the US and Canada, where fees are approximately $185 and CAD 150 ($110), respectively, reported Reuters.

The government announced it is closing loopholes in visa regulations that allowed foreign students to repeatedly extend their stay in Australia. This decision follows a surge of over 30% in students on a second or subsequent student visa, reaching more than 150,000 in 2022–23.

The Australian government has also made changes to the savings requirement for student visas. Australia has increased the minimum savings needed for a student visa from AUD 24,505 ($16,146) to AUD 29,710 ($19,576). Published By: Girish Kumar Anshul Published On: Jul 1, 2024