India e-Visa: Your Guide to Applying, Costs, and Entry Requirements

Dive Right Into

Key Takeaways

• Apply for the India e-Visa online at least 4 days to 120 days before travel (30 days for 30-day visas).
• Eligibility requires a valid six-month passport with two blank pages, a return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
• Fees range from $10 to $80 depending on visa type, with a 2.5% transaction fee; all fees are non-refundable.

The India e-Visa system makes it easier for people from around the world to visit India 🇮🇳 for tourism, business, medical treatment, or other short-term purposes. By allowing travelers to apply online, the process has become faster and more user-friendly. This guide will carefully explain how to apply for the India e-Visa, including its eligibility criteria, visa fees, and other essential details.

Who Can Apply for an India e-Visa?

India e-Visa: Your Guide to Applying, Costs, and Entry Requirements

To apply for an India e-Visa, you must meet several eligibility criteria:

Eligible Nationalities: Only citizens of specific countries listed on the official e-Visa website can apply. Make sure your country is on the list.
Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of applying. Additionally, the passport must have two blank pages available for stamps.
Travel Arrangements: You need to have a confirmed return or onward journey ticket.
Financial Requirement: Travelers must carry evidence of sufficient funds to cover their stay in India.

The India e-Visa is available for several types of trips, including leisure, medical treatment, short-term business, and attending short-term courses or conferences (up to 6 months).

How to Apply for an India e-Visa?

The application process for the India e-Visa is straightforward and should ideally be started well in advance of your travel date. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Online Application: Complete the application form available on the official India e-Visa website. Make sure to fill in accurate information.
Upload Required Documents: You will need to upload a digital photograph and a copy of the personal details page of your passport. For business or medical visas, additional documents like an invitation letter may be required.
Pay the Visa Fees: Fees vary depending on the type of visa and your nationality. You can pay the visa fees online using a credit card, debit card, or PayPal. Ensure your payment goes through, as the fees are non-refundable regardless of your application’s outcome.
Await the ETA: After submitting your application, you’ll receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email, usually within 72 hours. Keep this document ready for travel.
Travel to India: Print the ETA and carry it with you. Upon arrival in India, present it to immigration officers. Your e-Visa will then be stamped onto your passport.

Important Note: Make sure to apply for your India e-Visa at least 4 days before your travel but not more than 120 days in advance of your trip. However, for the 30-day e-Tourist Visa, the application can only be submitted 30 days before travel.

Types of e-Visas and Their Fees

India offers several e-Visa options depending on your reason for visiting. The visa fees vary based on the type of e-Visa and the traveler’s nationality.

e-Tourist Visa:
- 30 days (April–June): $10
- 30 days (July–March): $25
- 1-year validity: $40
- 5-year validity: $80
e-Business Visa: $80
e-Medical Visa: $80
e-Conference Visa (valid for up to 6 months): $63 for UK nationals

For certain nationalities, the fee structure is different. For instance, UK citizens will face higher fees:
– Tourist Visa (up to 1 year): £127
– Business Visa (up to 1 year): £189
– Entry Visa (up to 1 year): £127

Additionally, there is a 2.5% bank transaction fee applied to all payments. All visa fees are non-refundable, even if the application is denied.

Validity and Processing Time

Here’s an overview of how long each e-Visa remains valid:

30-Day e-Tourist Visa: Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India. Double entries are allowed on this visa.
1-Year and 5-Year e-Tourist Visas: Both these visas allow multiple entries. However, you may not stay in India for more than 180 days in one calendar year.
e-Business Visa: Valid for 1 year from the date of grant, with multiple entries allowed.

The standard processing time for an e-Visa is 72 hours. However, applicants should allow extra time for delays and potential issues.

Key Updates to the e-Visa System

The Indian government regularly updates the e-Visa system to make it more accessible. Below are a few of the recent updates:

Reduced Fees for 1-Year e-Tourist Visa: In 2023, the fee dropped from $80 to $40.
Seasonal Pricing Introduced: For off-peak months (April–June), the 30-day e-Tourist Visa is now much cheaper at $10.
New Visa Categories: The government introduced a new 30-day e-Tourist Visa to cater to short-term travelers.

Important Considerations Before Applying

When applying for the India e-Visa, keep these important points in mind:

Passport Restrictions: You must use the same passport for travel that you used when filing the e-Visa application. If your passport is renewed after receiving the e-Visa, you must carry both the old and the new passport during travel.
Language Requirements for Documents: All documents, including letters or business cards, must be in English.
Maximum Stay Restrictions: Even on a 1-year or 5-year tourist visa, your stay cannot exceed 180 days within one calendar year.
Non-Refundable Fees: Regardless of application approval or rejection, the visa fees and transaction charges will not be refunded.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

Can I extend my India e-Visa?
No, e-Visas cannot be extended. You must leave before the visa expires.
Can I apply for multiple e-Visas in the same year?
There is no specific limit for how many times you may apply. However, opting for a 1-year or 5-year e-Tourist Visa is more practical if you plan to visit India multiple times.
What should I do if my e-Visa application is rejected?
In such a case, you must apply for a regular visa through the Indian embassy or consulate in your country.
Can I work in India on an e-Visa?
No, the e-Visa does not permit employment. Specialized visas are available for work-related purposes.
What happens if I lose my passport after obtaining the e-Visa?
If this happens, you’ll need to apply for a new e-Visa using your new passport. Make sure to carry both passports when traveling if the old one is issued after the visa was granted.

Final Thoughts

The India e-Visa system serves as a convenient option for foreign nationals to enter India for short-term purposes without needing to visit an embassy. To avoid delays, double-check all your documents and meet the eligibility criteria. As VisaVerge.com highlights, staying updated on the latest rules and fees for the India e-Visa process ensures a smooth application experience. For the most accurate and official information, always refer to the Government of India e-Visa portal.

Learn Today

Eligibility Criteria → Requirements travelers must meet to qualify for the India e-Visa, such as nationality, passport validity, and financial proof.
Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) → A digital travel permit issued via email that allows travelers entry into India under the e-Visa scheme.
Non-Refundable Fees → Visa fees that cannot be returned, even if the application is unsuccessful or the visa is unused.
Seasonal Pricing → Adjusted visa fees based on travel periods, offering lower rates during off-peak months such as April–June.
Maximum Stay Restrictions → Limits stating the maximum number of days travelers can remain in India under specific e-Visa types.

This Article in a Nutshell

The India e-Visa simplifies travel for millions, offering quick online applications for tourism, business, or medical visits. Accessible to eligible nationals, it requires valid passports, funds proof, and travel plans. With fast processing (72 hours) and reduced fees, India’s e-Visa is a game-changer. Apply early for hassle-free adventures!
— By VisaVerge.com