india tourist visa check

• Travel Advisories |
• Contact Us |
• MyTravelGov |

Find U.S. Embassies & Consulates

Travel.state.gov, congressional liaison, special issuance agency, u.s. passports, international travel, intercountry adoption, international parental child abduction, records and authentications, popular links, travel advisories, mytravelgov, stay connected, legal resources, legal information, info for u.s. law enforcement, replace or certify documents.

Before You Go

Learn About Your Destination

While Abroad

Emergencies

Share this page:

Travel Advisory July 23, 2024

India - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Updated to reflect information on the northeastern states.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.  Some areas have increased risk. 

Do not travel to:

• The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
• Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .
• Portions of Central and East India due to terrorism.
• Manipur due to violence and crime .

Reconsider travel to:

• The northeastern states due to terrorism and violence .

Country Summary:  Indian authorities report that rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has happened at tourist sites and other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning. They target tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas. These areas stretch from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal. U.S. government employees must get special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

• Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
• Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for India.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Do not travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Violence happens sporadically in this area and is common along the Line of Control (LOC) between India and Pakistan. It also occurs in tourist spots in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam.  The Indian government does not allow foreign tourists to visit certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan have a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official border crossing for non-citizens of India or Pakistan is in Punjab. It is between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan.  The border crossing is usually open, but check its current status before you travel. To enter Pakistan, you need a Pakistani visa. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise , apply for a Pakistani visa in your home country before traveling to India

Portions of Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large area of India that spans from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal. Attacks against officers of the Indian government continue to occur sporadically in the rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand that border with Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. Southwest areas of Odisha are also affected. The Naxalites have carried out many terrorist attacks, targeting local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, U.S. government employees are required to obtain permission prior to traveling to most areas in the states of Bihar, Jharkhand, Chhattisgarh, West Bengal, Meghalaya, and Odisha. Permission is not required if employees are traveling only to the capital cities of these states.

U.S. government employees also need approval to travel to the eastern region of Maharashtra and the eastern region of Madhya Pradesh

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .

Manipur -  Level 4: Do Not Travel

Do not travel to Manipur due to the threat of violence and crime.  Ongoing ethnic-based civil conflict has resulted in reports of extensive violence and community displacement. Attacks against Indian government targets occur on a regular basis.  U.S. government employees traveling in India require prior approval before visiting Manipur. 

Visit our website for  Travel to High-Risk Areas .  

Northeastern States – Level 3: Reconsider Travel

Ethnic insurgent groups occasionally commit acts of violence in parts of the northeast. These incidents include bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets. There have been no recent reports of violence in Assam, Nagaland, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Sikkim, or Tripura.

U.S. government employees traveling in India require prior approval before visiting the states of Sikkim, and Arunachal Pradesh, as well as when visiting any areas outside of the capital cities of Assam, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, and Tripura. 

Embassy Messages

View Alerts and Messages Archive

Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months beyond date of visa application to obtain a visa.

Two pages required.

Yes. Travelers must enter with a visa in their passport. The visa is valid for 10 years for U.S. citizens. Or they can use an e-tourist visa, which varies in validity. Note that the Indian authorities issue visas with dates in the DD/MM/YY format.

Travelers arriving from an infected area must have a yellow fever vaccination. Others are suggested.

You must declare currency over USD $5,000 at entry. Please check with the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C. if you are planning to carry a large amount of currency or gold into India.

Check local law for rules on reporting large amounts of foreign currency and Indian rupees when leaving.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy new delhi.

Shantipath, Chanakyapuri New Delhi - 110021 India Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000 Fax: +(91) (11) 2419-0017 [email protected]

The U.S. Embassy, New Delhi serves U.S. citizens in the Indian states of Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, the union territories of Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and the country of Bhutan.

U.S. Consulate General Mumbai C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex Bandra East, Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +(91) (22) 2672-4000   Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (22) 2672-4000   If you are calling from within India, but outside Mumbai, first dial 022.   Fax: 91-(0)22-2672-4786   [email protected]

The Consulate General in Mumbai provides consular services for the states of Goa, Gujarat, Chhattisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, and the union territory of Diu and Daman, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

U.S. Consulate General Kolkata 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani Kolkata - 700 071, West Bengal, India Telephone: +(91) (33) 3984-2400 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (33) 3984-2400 then dial "0" Fax: +(91) (33) 2282-2335 [email protected]

The United States Consulate General in Kolkata provides consular services for the states of Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Tripura, and Assam. .

U.S. Consulate General Chennai 220 Anna Salai at Gemini Circle Chennai, India 600006 Telephone: +(91) (44) 2857-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (0) 44-2857-4000. Ask for American Citizen Services. (Within India, but outside Chennai, first dial 044. From the United States, first dial 011-(91) (44)) Fax: +(91) (044) 2811-2020 [email protected]

The Consulate General in Chennai provides consular services for the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and the Union Territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Pondicherry, and the Lakshwadeep Islands. 

U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad Survey No. 115/1, Financial District, Nanakramguda Hyderabad, Telangana, 500032 Telephone:+(91) (40) 6932 8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: 4033-8300 and ask for American Citizen Services. (If calling from within India, but outside Hyderabad, first dial 040. From the United States, first dial 011-(91) (40))   Fax: 4033-8306  [email protected]

The Consulate General in Hyderabad provides services to U.S. citizens in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha. 

Destination Description

See the Department of State’s Fact Sheet on India for information on U.S.-India relations.

Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All U.S. citizens need a valid passport as well as a valid Indian visa or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card to enter and exit India for any purpose. India may deny entry to travelers without valid documents or the correct type of visa. Indian visa rules and instructions change often. They often do so with little warning. Travelers should check the  website of the Indian Embassy in Washington D.C. before any travel to India to review the most current information. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India cannot assist you if you arrive without proper documentation.

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India solely for tourist purposes for stays of less than 60 days may apply for an eVisa at least four days before their arrival. Please visit the  Indian government's website for electronic travel authorization for more information and to submit an application visit the Bureau of Immigration’s website.

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India as a tourist for longer than 60 days or for any other purpose must apply for a visa from an Indian embassy or consulate. The Government of India has appointed VFS Global to assist with visa services for individuals in the United States. Applicants may apply for Indian visas through the application link . Please exercise caution and check the correct website and as there are many fake webpages that will gather your personal information.

You can submit Diplomatic and Official visa applications directly to the Indian Embassy and Consulates. All U.S. government employees traveling on official orders, including military personnel, must get country clearance for travel to India. Once you have received your visa, check it carefully to ensure that the type of visa, validity dates, and number of entries is appropriate for your travel plans.

Keep copies of your U.S. passport data page, as well as the pages containing the Indian visa and Indian immigration stamps, with you at all times. Consider saving these documents to your mobile phone in case of emergency. If your passport is lost or stolen, copies will help you apply for a replacement passport and an exit permit from the Indian government. Replacing a lost visa, which is required to exit the country, may take several business days.  

U.S. citizens of Pakistani origin or descent are subject to administrative processing and should expect additional delays when applying for Indian visas.

Foreign citizens who visit India to  study, do research, work, or act as missionaries, as well as all travelers and residents planning to stay more than 180 days, are required to register their visit or residency within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO)  closest to where they will be staying, in addition  to having the appropriate visa  when they enter India. Similarly, if you are traveling to India to give birth, you must register your newborn’s birth within 14 days with the FRRO office. Failure to do so will result in fines, fees, and penalties. The FRRO has offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Lucknow, Calicut, Goa, Cochin, Trivandrum, and Amritsar. District Superintendents of Police serve as Foreigners Registration Officers (FROs) in all other places. We recommend all U.S. citizens review the entry requirements described on the  Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)  section on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you overstay your Indian visa or break Indian visa rules, you may need clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs to leave. In general, authorities will fine you and, in some cases, may even jail you for months. Visa violators seeking an exit permit must visit  the Foreigners Regional Registration Office portal  to submit the application and pay any levied fines. Processing an exit permit can take up to 90 days in these cases. Decisions will be made case by case.  

Possession of a satellite phone is strictly prohibited in India and may lead to detention or arrest.

For the most current information on entry and exit requirements, please contact the  Embassy of India’s Consular wing  at 2536 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 939-9806 or the Indian Consulates in  Atlanta ,  Chicago ,  Houston ,  New York , or  San Francisco . Outside the United States, you should inquire at the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.

General information regarding Indian visa and immigration rules, including the addresses and telephone numbers for the FRRO offices, can be found at the  Indian Ministry of Home Affairs Bureau of Immigration website.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS:  There are no disclosure requirements or restrictions for HIV/AIDS patients who enter India on a tourist visa. Disclosure regarding HIV/AIDS is required of anyone seeking a resident permit in India. Foreign residents found to be suffering from HIV/AIDS will be deported. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of India  before you travel.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

U.S. citizens should always practice good personal security and situational awareness. Be aware of your surroundings. This includes local customs and etiquette. Keep a low profile. Monitor local news reports, vary routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when visiting public places, including religious sites, and when choosing hotels, restaurants, and entertainment and recreation venues.

India intermittently experiences terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Some U.S.-designated terrorist groups are active in India, including Jaish-e-Mohammed and Lashkar-e Tayyiba. The U.S. government occasionally receives information regarding possible terrorist attacks that could take place in India, monitors such information to determine credibility, and advises U.S. citizens accordingly. Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive messages from the Embassy automatically.  

Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas. Attacks have taken place during the busy evening hours in markets and other crowded places but could occur at any time. Alerts are usually more frequent around major holidays. The Maoists (also known as “Naxalites”) are the most active insurgent group in India. The Naxalites typically attack Indian government officials, but have also derailed trains, targeted other government buildings such as police stations, and conducted other criminal activity. 

Demonstrations and general strikes, or “bandh,” often cause major inconvenience and unrest. These strikes can result in the stoppage of all transportation and tourist-related services, at times for 24 hours or more. U.S. citizens caught in such a strike may find they are unable to make flight and rail connections, as local transportation can be severely limited. Local media generally give an idea of the length and geographical location of the strike. You are urged to obey any imposed curfews and travel restrictions and avoid demonstrations and rallies as they have the potential for violence, especially immediately preceding and following political rallies, elections, and religious festivals (particularly when Hindu and Muslim festivals coincide). Tensions between castes and religious groups can also result in disruptions and violence. 

There are active "anti-conversion" laws in some Indian states, and acts of conversion sometimes elicit violent reactions from Hindu extremists. Foreigners suspected of proselytizing Hindus have been attacked and killed in conservative, rural areas in India in years past. In some cases, demonstrators specifically block roads near popular tourist sites and disrupt train operations in order to gain the attention of Indian authorities; occasionally vehicles transporting tourists are attacked in these incidents. You should monitor local television, print and social media, and Mission India’s American Citizens Services  Facebook page

Swimming:  You should exercise caution if you intend to swim in open waters along the Indian coastline, particularly during the monsoon season. Every year, people in Goa, Mumbai, Puri (Odisha), off the Eastern Coast in the Bay of Bengal, and other areas drown due to strong undertows. It is important to heed warnings posted at beaches and to avoid swimming in the ocean during the monsoon season. Several years ago, there were reports of fatal crocodile attacks in the Andaman Islands. Trained lifeguards are very rare along beaches.

Wildlife Safaris:  Many tour operators and lodges advertise structured, safe excursions into parks and other wildlife viewing areas for close observation of flora and fauna. However, safety standards and training vary, and it is advisable to ascertain whether operators are trained and licensed. Even animals marketed as “tame” should be respected as wild and extremely dangerous. Keep a safe distance from animals at all times, remaining in vehicles or other protected enclosures when venturing into game parks or safaris.

Trekking:  Trekking expeditions should be limited to routes identified for this purpose by local authorities. Use only registered trekking agencies, porters, and guides, suspend trekking after dark, camp at designated camping places, and travel in groups rather than individually. Altitudes in popular trekking spots can exceed 25,000 feet (7,620 m); please ensure you are fit to trek at these altitudes and carry sufficient medical insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.

Train Travel:  India has the third largest rail network in the world, and train travel in India is generally safe. Nevertheless, accidents and on-board fires are sometimes caused by aging infrastructure, poorly maintained equipment, overcrowding, and operator errors. Train accidents and fires have resulted in death and serious injury of passengers.

Areas of Instability: Jammu & Kashmir:  The Department of State recommends that you do not travel to the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir because of the potential for terrorist incidents as well as violent public unrest. A number of terrorist groups operate in the territory targeting security forces, particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating Indian and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, and those stationed in primary tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Foreigners are particularly visible, vulnerable, and at risk. In the past, serious communal violence left the territory mostly paralyzed due to massive strikes and business shutdowns, and U.S. citizens have had to be evacuated by local police. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC (see the section on Restricted Areas, below) and may require a travel permit to enter this area.

India-Pakistan Border:  The Department of State recommends that you do not travel to areas within ten kilometers of the border between India and Pakistan. Both India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Atari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open, but you are advised to confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise, you should apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Both India and Pakistan claim an area of the Karakoram Mountain range that includes the Siachen glacier. Travel or mountain climbing in this area is highly dangerous. The disputed area includes the following peaks: Rimo Peak; Apsarasas I, II, and III; Tegam Kangri I, II and III; Suingri Kangri; Ghiant I and II; Indira Col; and Sia Kangri. Check with the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi for information on current conditions.

Northeastern States:  Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur sporadically in the northeast. While U.S. citizens have not been specifically targeted, it is possible that you could be affected as a bystander. If you travel to the northeast, you should avoid travel by train at night, travel outside major cities at night, and crowds. U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to certain areas in the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without permission from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata. Restricted Area Permits are required for foreigners to visit certain Northeastern states (see the section on Restricted Areas, below.) Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata for information on current conditions.

East Central and Southern India:  Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in East Central India, primarily in rural areas. The Naxalites have a long history of conflict with state and national authorities, including frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials, and are responsible for more attacks in the country than any other organization through an ongoing campaign of violence and intimidation. Naxalites have not specifically targeted U.S. citizens but have attacked symbolic targets that have included Western companies and rail lines. While Naxalite violence does not normally occur in places frequented by foreigners, there is a risk that visitors could become victims of violence.

Naxalites are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive authorization from the U.S. Consulate responsible for the area to be visited, unless they are only visiting capital cities.

Restricted/Protected areas:  Certain states or portions of states require Restricted Area Permits. These include:

• The state of Arunachal Pradesh
• Portions of the state of Sikkim
• Portions of the state of Himachal Pradesh near the Chinese border
• Portions of the state of Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) near the Chinese border
• Portions of the state of Rajasthan near the Pakistani border
• Portions of the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir near the Line of Control with Pakistan and certain portions of the union territory of Ladakh
• The union territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
• The union territory of the Laccadives Islands (Lakshadweep)
• Portions of the state of Manipur
• Portions of the state of Mizoram
• Portions of the state of Nagaland

More information about travel to/in restricted/protected areas can be found from India’s  Bureau of Immigration .

Restricted Area Permits are available outside India at Indian embassies and consulates abroad, or in India from the Ministry of Home Affairs (Foreigners Division) at Jaisalmer House, 26 Man Singh Road, New Delhi. The states of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim maintain official guesthouses in New Delhi, which can also issue Restricted Area Permits for their respective states for certain travelers. While visiting Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) in Tamil Nadu, you should be aware that the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Center in Kalpakkam is located just south of the site and is not clearly marked as a restricted and dangerous area.

For the latest security information, travelers should enroll in  STEP  to receive updated security information and regularly monitor travel information available from the  U.S. Embassy in New Delhi  as well as the U.S. Consulates General in  Mumbai  ,  Chennai ,  Hyderabad , and  Kolkata .

Crime:  Violent crime, especially directed against foreigners, has traditionally been uncommon. Petty crime, especially theft of personal property (including U.S. passports), is common, particularly on trains or buses, at airports, and in major tourist areas. Pickpockets can be very skilled and travelers have reported having their bags snatched, purse-straps cut, or the bottom of their purses slit without their knowledge. If traveling by train, lock your sleeping compartments and take your valuables with you when leaving your berth. If you travel by air, be careful with your bags in the arrival and departure areas outside airports. Be cautious about displaying cash or expensive items to reduce the chance of being a target for robbery or other crime, and be aware of your surroundings when you use ATMs. Scammers have used ATM card scams to clone credit card details and withdraw money.

Individuals have reported cases of sexual assault, including rape, against U.S. citizens traveling throughout India.

The U.S. government cautions citizens, especially women, not to travel alone in India. Please observe stringent security precautions. When traveling without known and trustworthy companions, use public transport specifically designated for “women-only” travelers, which is a free service offered by the Indian government in many metropolitan cities including Delhi and Hyderabad. Please restrict evening entertainment to well-known venues and avoid isolated areas when traveling alone at any time of the day. Keep your hotel room number confidential and make sure hotel room doors have chains, deadlocks, and peep holes. Travel with groups of friends rather than alone. In addition, only hire reliable cars and drivers and avoid traveling alone in hired taxis, especially at night. Use taxis from hotels and pre-paid taxis at airports rather than hailing them on the street. If you encounter threatening situations, call “100” for police assistance (“112” from mobile phones). If you use app-based services like “Uber” or “Ola” share your ride information with a friend.

Travelers in India are advised to respect local dress and customs. Indian women typically wear conservative everyday dress. This is the norm throughout the country, and even more so in rural areas. They wear clothing that covers their legs and shoulders. Exceptions are vacation resorts catering to foreign clientele and some neighborhoods of major cities like New Delhi and Mumbai. Western women, especially those of African descent, continue to report incidents of verbal and physical harassment by individuals and groups of men. Known locally as “Eve-teasing,” these incidents of sexual harassment can be quite frightening and quickly cross the line from verbal to physical. Sexual harassment can occur anytime or anywhere, but most frequently has happened in crowded areas such as in marketplaces, train stations, buses, and public streets. The harassment can range from sexually suggestive or lewd comments to catcalls to outright groping.

The Government of India has focused more on addressing gender-based violence. One outcome has been more reports of sexual assault nationwide. Indian authorities report rape is one of India's fastest growing crimes.

If you find yourself in a life-threatening situation, you should call the police immediately and follow up with a call to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate. We can sometimes connect you with an Indian non-governmental organization that may be able to provide assistance.  

Please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

If you are victimized overseas, you may be entitled to receive compensation for counseling and/or other services such as relocation back to the United States. For further information, visit the U.S. Department of Justice page for violence against women.

Scams are common at major airports, train stations, popular restaurants, and tourist sites. Scam artists prey on visitors by creating distractions. Be careful of taxi drivers and others. This includes train porters. They solicit travelers with "come-on" offers of cheap transportation and/or hotels. Travelers who accept such offers are often the victims of scams. These include offers to help with "necessary" transfers to the domestic airport, overpriced hotel rooms, unwanted "tours," unwelcome "purchases," long cab rides, and even threats when the tourists decline to pay. Tourists have reported being lured and extorted for money in the face of threats of violence against the traveler and his/her family members. Be careful when hiring transportation and guides. Use only well-known travel agents to book trips.

Some vendors sell carpets, jewelry, and gemstones. These items may be expensive and not of the promised quality. Deal only with reputable businesses and do not hand over your credit cards or money unless you are certain that goods being shipped are the goods you purchased. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it is best avoided. Most Indian states have official tourism bureaus set up to handle complaints. Do not agree to transport any goods on behalf of strangers in exchange for money.

India-based criminals use the internet to extort money from victims abroad. In a common scam, the victim develops a close romantic relationship with an alleged U.S. citizen they meet online. When the “friend” travels to India, a series of accidents occur and the victim begins to receive requests for financial assistance, sometimes through an intermediary. In fact, the U.S. citizen “friend” does not exist; they are only online personas used by criminal networks. Victims have been defrauded of thousands of dollars in these schemes. Do not send money to anyone you have not met in person and carefully read the Department of State’s advice on   international financial scams . 

In another common scam, family members in the United States, especially older people, are asked for money. The scammers claim to be grandchildren or relatives who have been arrested or are without money to return home. Do not send money without contacting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General to confirm the other party’s situation. You can also call our Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 888-407-4747 (from overseas: 202-501-4444). Review our information on  emergency assistance to Americans abroad.

U.S. citizens have had problems with business partners, usually involving property investments. You may wish to seek professional legal advice in reviewing any contracts for business or services offered in India. The U.S. Embassy and consulates cannot give legal advice. They also cannot help U.S. citizens with Indian courts on civil or criminal matters. A list of local attorneys is available on the Embassy and Consulates General  websites .

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for more information on scams.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the local police, then inform the U.S. Embassy or local Consulate.

Report crimes to the local police by calling “100” or “112” from a mobile phone.  

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide information on victims’ compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

You should ask for a copy of the police report, known as a “First Information Report” (FIR), from local police when you report an incident. Local authorities generally can't act without a police report. 

If your passport is stolen, report the theft or loss right away. Report it to the police in the place where your passport was stolen. You need an FIR to get an exit visa to leave India. The Indian government requires it if the lost passport had your Indian visa. Although the Embassy or Consulate General is able to replace a stolen or lost passport, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) are responsible for approving an exit permit. This process usually takes three to four working days but can take longer.

In cases of sexual assault or rape, the Embassy or Consulates General can provide a list of local doctors and hospitals, if needed, to discuss treatment and prevention options for diseases and pregnancy. You should be aware that for evidence of an assault to be submitted in a court case, Indian authorities require that the medical exam be completed at a government hospital. Therefore, if a victim goes to a private hospital for treatment, the hospital will refer them to a government hospital for this aspect of the medical process. 

India has many resources for victims of rape and sexual assault. The specific toll-free Women’s Helpline Service number in Delhi is 1091; in Mumbai it is 103; in Kolkata, 1090; in Chennai, 1091 or 2345-2365; and in Hyderabad 1098.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in India is “100.” An additional emergency number, “112,” can be accessed from mobile phones.

Please see our  information for victims of crime , including possible victim compensation programs in the United States. 

Domestic Violence: U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy or Consulates for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur. Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field. In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities. First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment. U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance. See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. You may face arrest, imprisonment, and/or deportation if you violate local laws, even unknowingly.  

Furthermore, some activities are crimes under U.S. law and can be prosecuted in the U.S. regardless of whether they are allowed under local law. For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice website.

If police or prison officials arrest or detain you, immediately ask them to notify the U.S. Embassy. See our  webpage  for further information.

Alcohol: Each of India’s states has its own rules for buying and drinking alcohol. Legal drinking ages range from 18 to 25 and can vary by beverage type. Some states permit alcohol use for medicinal purposes only while others require you to hold a permit to buy, transport, or consume alcohol. Penalties for violation can be harsh.

Several U.S. citizens at Indian airports have been arrested for attempting to smuggle illegal drugs from India. Many claim that they did not realize they were carrying narcotics. Never transport or mail packages that do not belong to you and maintain direct control of your luggage at all times.

Beef and Cow Hide:  Several states in India impose various types of prohibition on beef. In some rural areas, cow protection vigilantes have attacked people they suspected of selling or consuming beef, or possessing items made with cow hide.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

Dual Nationality:  India does not permit its citizens to hold dual nationality. In 2006, India launched the "Overseas Citizens of India" (OCI) program, which does not grant Indian citizenship but is similar to a U.S. "green card" in that you can travel to and from India indefinitely, work in India, study in India, and own property in India (except for certain agricultural and plantation properties). If you are a U.S. citizen and obtain an OCI card you will not become a citizen of India; you will remain a citizen of the United States. An OCI card holder does not receive an Indian passport, cannot vote in Indian elections, and is not eligible for Indian government employment.

U.S. citizens of Indian descent can apply for OCI cards at the Indian Embassy in Washington or at the Indian Consulates in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Houston. Inside India, U.S. citizens can apply at the nearest FRRO office (please see “Entry/Exit Requirements” section above for more information on the FRRO). U.S. citizens must use a U.S. passport when traveling in and out of the United States.

Faith-based travelers and those participating in religious activities should refer to the Department of State's Report on International Religious Freedom. Indian law mandates that individuals engaging in religious proselytizing obtain a "missionary" visa. Immigration authorities have determined that engaging in certain activities, such as speaking at religious meetings open to the general public, could violate immigration law if the traveler does not possess a missionary visa. Foreigners with tourist visas who engage in missionary activity are subject to deportation and possible criminal prosecution. The states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh have legislation that regulates or places restrictions on conversion from one religion to another. If you plan to engage in missionary activity, you may want to seek legal advice to find out if Indian law permits the activities you plan to pursue.

Tourists should also mind restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment. These include Hindu temples, mosques, churches, and other sacred places to the local population. Many individual temples and mosques do not permit non-members to enter all or parts of the facilities, and may require the removal of shoes, the covering of the head, or have other specific requirements for appropriate attire.  

Customs rules are strict. Before traveling to or from India, inspect all bags and clothes well. Make sure they do not contain banned items. Airport security officials have arrested or detained several U.S. citizens after discovering loose ammunition (including spent individual bullets and casings) or weapons in their luggage. If authorities find loose ammunition or bullets (including empty bullet shells used in souvenirs) on your person or in your bags, they will charge you with violating the Indian Arms Act, and may incarcerate or deport you from India.

Additionally, Indian authorities have arrested and prosecuted U.S. citizens for possessing satellite phones, which is strictly prohibited in India.

Indian customs authorities enforce strict regulations. They cover temporary importation into or export from India of items like antiquities, electronics, currency, ivory, gold objects, and other banned materials. You need permission from the Government of India to bring in restricted items, even if you are only transiting through India. If you do not comply with these regulations, you risk arrest or fine or both and confiscation of these items. If Indian law enforcement charges you with any legal violations, make sure to have an attorney review any document before signing it. The Government of India requires the registration of antique items with the local police along with a photograph of the item. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of India in Washington or one of India's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. More information is available from the Indian Central Board of Excise and Customs.  

Indian customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the  U.S. Council for International Business , 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480, or  email USCIB  for details. Please see our section on  Customs Information  for more information.

Natural Disaster Threats:  Parts of northern India are highly susceptible to earthquakes. Regions of highest risk, ranked 5 on a scale of 1 to 5, include areas around Srinagar, Himachal Pradesh, Rishikesh and Dehradun, the northern parts of Punjab, northwest Gujarat, northern Bihar, and the entire northeast. Ranked 4 (high damage risk) is an area that sweeps along the north through Jammu and Kashmir, Eastern Punjab, Haryana, Northern Uttar Pradesh, central Bihar and the northern parts of West Bengal. New Delhi is located in zone 4. Severe flooding is common in hilly and mountainous areas throughout India. Flooding in 2013 in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and other areas left thousands of people presumed dead and temporarily stranded dozens of U.S. citizens.

Typhoons/cyclones and subsequent flooding are common along the Indian coasts, in particular the Eastern coastal states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal, and have at times resulted in massive loss of life. Tourists and residents in areas prone to these events should remain vigilant during severe weather, monitor local media for latest developments, and heed all municipal warnings. Residents in these areas should have contingency plans for loss of power and unavailability of goods and services, including supplies for multiple days after a severe weather event.

Accessibility:  Individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation in India very different than what you find in the United States. Despite legislation that all public buildings and transport be accessible for disabled people, accessibility remains limited. One notable exception is the Delhi metro system, designed to be accessible to those with physical disabilities.

Students:  See our  Students Abroad  page and  FBI travel tips.

LGBTQI+ Travelers: The Supreme Court of India decriminalized same-sex relationships in 2018. Since then, state and union governments have been directed to develop reforms that protect the rights of lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender, queer, and intersex (LGBTQI+) persons, including efforts to provide gender neutral bathrooms at schools and colleges and separate housing for gender-nonconforming and transgender persons in prison.

Although Indian law prohibits discrimination by state and nonstate actors based on sexual orientation, gender identity or expression, or sex characteristics, the government is inconsistent in implementing and enforcing these laws, and reports of widespread discrimination, harassment, threats, and violence against LGBTQI+ persons, particularly in rural areas or by local police, persist. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our  Human Rights  report for further details.

For emergency services in India, dial 112 from a cell phone; from a land line, dial 100 for police, 102 for ambulance (108 in parts of South India), and 101 for fire.

Ambulances are not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, and traffic does not yield to emergency vehicles. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. Most hospitals require advance payment or confirmation of insurance prior to treatment. Payment practices vary, and credit cards are not routinely accepted for medical care.

Zika, dengue, malaria, measles, and other diseases are present in India. See the Center for Disease Control’s website for more information.

The quality of medical care in India varies considerably. Medical care in the major population centers approaches and occasionally meets Western standards, but adequate medical care is usually very limited or unavailable in rural areas.

We do not pay medical bills.  Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. 

Make sure your health insurance covers care overseas. Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage. Visit the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention for more information on type of insurance you should consider before you travel overseas.We strongly recommend  supplemental insurance  to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of India to ensure the medication is legal in India. Always carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Pharmaceuticals: Exercise caution when purchasing medication overseas. Pharmaceuticals, both over the counter and requiring prescription in the United States, are often readily available for purchase with limited controls. Counterfeit medication is common and may prove to be ineffective, the wrong strength, or contain dangerous ingredients. When buying medication, consult with a medical professional and purchase from reputable establishments. Please visit the U.S. Center for Disease Control and Prevention website on counterfeit drugs for more information.

Water Quality: Water is a common vehicle for the transmission of disease. Impure drinking water can transmit serious diseases such as typhoid, cholera, hepatitis, and dysentery. You can make water safe for drinking by filtering/boiling, distilling, or using chemicals. Bottled water is generally safe for consumption. It is best to stick to the major brands. The water bottle seal or cap should be intact.

Vaccinations:  Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you are arriving in India from Sub-Saharan Africa or other areas with yellow-fever risk, Indian health regulations require that you present evidence of vaccination against yellow fever. If you lack such proof, authorities may immediately deport you or detain you in the yellow-fever quarantine center for six days. If you travel through any part of sub-Saharan Africa, even for one day, health authorities advise you to carry proof of yellow fever immunization.

Dogs and bats create a high risk of rabies transmission in most of India. Health authorities recommend vaccination for all prolonged stays, especially for young children and travelers in rural areas. It is also recommended for shorter stays that involve occupational exposure, locations more than 24 hours from a reliable source of human rabies immune globulin and rabies vaccine for post-exposure treatment, adventure travelers, hikers, cave explorers, and backpackers. Monkeys also can transmit rabies and herpes B, among other diseases, to human victims. Avoid feeding monkeys. If bitten, you should immediately soak and scrub the bite for at least 15 minutes and seek urgent medical attention.

Influenza transmission occurs from November to April in areas north of the Tropic of Cancer (north India) and from June through November (the rainy season) in areas south of the Tropic of Cancer (south India), with a smaller peak from February through April; off-season transmission can also occur. All travelers are at risk. During the flu season, health authorities recommend that all travelers get the influenza vaccine.

Outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1 virus) occur intermittently in eastern India, including West Bengal, Manipur, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Assam.

Malaria risk depends on time of year and area the traveler is visiting. Please consult the  CDC website for India for more information. Dengue fever presents significant risk in urban and rural areas. Health officials report the highest number of cases from July to December, with cases peaking from September to October. The CDC recommends taking daytime insect precautions, such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and mosquito repellent.

Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in India. Please visit the CDC website or more information.

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in India, and you should consult your doctor prior to travel and consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you. The air quality in India varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons. It is typically at its worst in the winter. Anyone who travels where pollution levels are high is at risk. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include: 

• Infants, children, and teens 
• People over 65 years of age 
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema 
• People with heart disease or diabetes 
• People who work or are active outdoors 

Current air quality data can be found on the  Department of State’s air quality page . The data on this site are updated hourly. 

Rh-negative blood may be difficult to obtain as it is not common in Asia. 

Medical Tourism:  Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. Companies offering vacation packages bundled with medical consultations and financing options provide direct-to-consumer advertising over the internet. Such medical packages often claim to provide high quality care, but the quality of health care in India is highly variable. People seeking health care in India should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations.  

Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and  refer to the information from the CDC . Persons traveling to India for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. Please check with the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for more information. 

Despite reports of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospitals, in general travelers should not delay or avoid treatment for urgent or emergent medical situations. However, health tourists and other travelers who may be contemplating elective procedures in this country should carefully research individual hospital infection control practices. 

Surrogacy:  Commercial surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in India, subject to complex local regulation. For additional information,  visit the Government of India’s official information on foreigner surrogacy .  

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India maintain lists of local doctors and hospitals, all of which are published on their respective websites under "U.S. Citizen Services." We cannot endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic. 

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Travel by road in India is dangerous. India leads the world in traffic-related deaths and a number of U.S. citizens have suffered fatal traffic accidents in recent years. You should exercise extreme caution when crossing streets, even in marked pedestrian areas, and try to use only cars that have seatbelts. Seatbelts are not common in three-wheel taxis (autos) and in back seats of taxis and rideshare vehicles. Helmets should always be worn on motorcycles and bicycles. Travel at night is particularly hazardous. 

On Indian roads, the safest driving policy is always to assume that other drivers will not respond to a traffic situation in the same way you would in the United States, including the use of driving lanes. Buses and trucks often run red lights and merge directly into traffic at yield points and traffic circles. Cars, autos, bicycles, and pedestrians behave only slightly more cautiously. Use your horn or flash your headlights frequently to announce your presence. It is both customary and wise. 

Inside and outside major cities, roads are often poorly maintained and congested. Even main roads frequently have only two lanes, with poor visibility and inadequate warning markers. On the few divided highways one can expect to meet local transportation traveling in the wrong direction, often without lights. Heavy traffic is the norm and includes (but is not limited to) overloaded trucks and buses, scooters, pedestrians, bullock and camel carts, horse or elephant riders en route to weddings, bicycles, and free-roaming livestock. 

Public Transportation:  Buses, patronized by hundreds of millions of Indians, are convenient in that they serve almost every city of any size. However, in some areas, they are often driven fast, recklessly, and without consideration for the rules of the road. Accidents are common. 

Traffic Laws:  Traffic in India moves on the left. It is important to be alert while crossing streets and intersections, especially after dark as traffic is coming in the "wrong" direction. Travelers should remember to use seatbelts in both rear and front seats where available, and to ask their drivers to maintain a safe speed. 

In order to drive in India, you must have either a valid Indian driver’s license or a valid international driver’s license. Because of difficult road and traffic conditions, you may wish to consider hiring a local driver. Your U.S. driver’s license will not work. 

If a driver hits a pedestrian or a cow, the vehicle and its occupants are at risk of being attacked by passersby. Such attacks pose significant risk of injury or death to the vehicle's occupants or risk of incineration of the vehicle. It could be unsafe to remain at the scene of an accident of this nature, and drivers may instead wish to seek out the nearest police station.      Protestors often use road blockage as a means of publicizing their grievances, causing severe inconvenience to travelers. Visitors should monitor local news reports for any reports of road disturbances. 

Please refer to our  Road Safety  page for more information. 

Emergency Numbers:  The following emergency numbers work in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata: 

• National Emergency 112 
• Police 100 
• Fire Brigade 101 
• Ambulance 102 

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT:  The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of India’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of India’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the FAA’s Safety Management page . Travelers are urged to use caution while booking private helicopters for travel, especially in the northeast.

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on X (formerly known as "Twitter") and Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

India was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  India . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

Travel Advisory Levels

Assistance for u.s. citizens, learn about your destination, enroll in step.

Subscribe to get up-to-date safety and security information and help us reach you in an emergency abroad.

Recommended Web Browsers: Microsoft Edge or Google Chrome.

Make two copies of all of your travel documents in case of emergency, and leave one with a trusted friend or relative.

Afghanistan

Antigua and Barbuda

Bonaire, Sint Eustatius, and Saba

Bosnia and Herzegovina

British Virgin Islands

Burkina Faso

Burma (Myanmar)

Cayman Islands

Central African Republic

Cote d Ivoire

Czech Republic

Democratic Republic of the Congo

Dominican Republic

El Salvador

Equatorial Guinea

Eswatini (Swaziland)

Falkland Islands

France (includes Monaco)

French Guiana

French Polynesia

French West Indies

Guadeloupe, Martinique, Saint Martin, and Saint Barthélemy (French West Indies)

Guinea-Bissau

Isle of Man

Israel, The West Bank and Gaza

Liechtenstein

Marshall Islands

Netherlands

New Caledonia

New Zealand

North Korea (Democratic People's Republic of Korea)

Papua New Guinea

Philippines

Republic of North Macedonia

Republic of the Congo

Saint Kitts and Nevis

Saint Lucia

Saint Vincent and the Grenadines

Sao Tome and Principe

Saudi Arabia

Sierra Leone

Sint Maarten

Solomon Islands

South Africa

South Korea

South Sudan

Switzerland

The Bahamas

Timor-Leste

Trinidad and Tobago

Turkmenistan

Turks and Caicos Islands

United Arab Emirates

United Kingdom

Vatican City (Holy See)

External Link

You are about to leave travel.state.gov for an external website that is not maintained by the U.S. Department of State.

Links to external websites are provided as a convenience and should not be construed as an endorsement by the U.S. Department of State of the views or products contained therein. If you wish to remain on travel.state.gov, click the "cancel" message.

You are about to visit:

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 highly recommend trip insurance on your adventures. Use this trip insurance finder tool to find an plan based on your budget! Check out affordable U.S. trip insurance.

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

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!

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.

Join my Responsible Group Adventures for Solo Travelers! Sign up to my Adventure group newsletter for the latest group trip and discounts.

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.

Related Posts on India Trip Planning

Getting an Indian SIM card Guide to Indian Trains What’s in my backpack for my India trip Trip Planning India: Popular Routes & Costs Top 5 travel tips for India

Watch India Travel Guides for Solo Travelers!

Quick india packing essentials :.

• International Multi plug Travel Adapter/Converter
•   Convertible Wheeled Backpack Carry-on – stay light and mobile
• Female Urinary Device – for squat toilet beginners
• Anti-theft Wrist Wallet – when shopping at local marketplaces
• Biodegradable Baby Wipes – clean up in the heat/public restrooms
• Probiotic Gummies – travel with a healthy gut
• Silk Liner – protection against bed bugs
• Large Pashmina Scarf – multipurpose
• Convertible Hiking/Adventure Pants – multipurpose
• Sun Bum Facial Sunscreen Stick Vegan & Reef-Safe – sun protection for face
• Kokua Sun Care Hawaiian SPF 50 Natural Zinc Sunscreen
• Female Safety Devices List
• Visit my Amazon Survival Essentials for more recommendations

   My India Adventure Survival Resources

• Internet Abroad : eSim to stay connected abroad. Activate it before your trip & have it upon arrival! Skyroam Solis 5G is Global wifi hotspot (take 10% off with referral code GRRRLTRAVELER )
• Trip Insurance Finder Tool f or insurance within your budget. I just get World Nomads trip insurance (they cover travel theft & is accepted by yoga schools)
• Deals : Expedia for great weekend trip package deals
• Book hotels   without a cancellation fee . Use this Hotel Comparison Tool to find low prices! India has chic hostels on Hostelworld (always read reviews!!!!)
• Book trains and buses : 12goAsia
• India Tour: Join or customize a GRRRLTRAVELER Adventure
• Yoga in India:   Experience an Indian Ashram,  a yoga retreat or training certification ( read my experience ) in India.
• How to Get your India Visa for U.S. Travelers

Related Posts

15 Unforgettable Towns: 3 Month Backpacking Itinerary for India

A Rajasthan Roadtrip (My 8 day itinerary) and Top Places in Rajasthan

My Udaipur Travel Guide: 18 Wanderlust things to do in Udaipur for a 3 day itinerary

Ultimate Guide to Pakistan-India Border: Everything to Know About the Pakistan side

Join a group adventure.

Solo Travel Survival Tools

KEEP ME ON THE ROAD

YouTube Coach & Mentoring

Latest Travel Gear Reviews

I'm Christine! I film my travels 100% alone, so get confident traveling alone too!

Travel Discounts We Love

70% OFF 3-year plan + 1 month FREE: Use code: GRRRLTRAVELER 

Copyright & Affiliate Link Disclosure

All content on is this site ©GRRRLTRAVELER. Artwork on this site from contributors have special permissions for our use.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to apply for India e-Visa: A step-by-step guide (with screenshots)

Updated: July 26, 2023

India e-Visa application is quite simple and easy to navigate. It only takes about 15 minutes to apply for India e-Visa online. Keep the necessary documents ready before you start the application. If you are missing something, it’s not a big deal as you can save the application and come back later to complete it.

There can be occasional hiccups with the visa fee payment. But nothing major. These payment issues can be fixed easily. I have provided all the details you need to know in this article.

If you haven’t already, check out the complete guide to India e-Visa for details on different tourist e-Visa types, eligible nationalities, fees, processing time, application status, etc.

Table of Contents

Documents needed to apply for india e-visa.

Before starting your India e-Visa online application, have these documents ready.

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your anticipated date of arrival in India
• 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

Steps for filling out the India e-Visa application

• Go to India e-Visa Portal
• Click on the Apply here for e-Visa button

You will be taken to the e-Visa application page.

02. e-Visa application

Enter the following details on the e-Visa application page.

• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your country of passport ]
• Passport Type [ Comment : Select “ORDINARY PASSPORT” from the options ]
• Port of Arrival [ Comment : Select the airport where you will be arriving ]
• Date of Birth [ Comment : Enter your date of birth as it appears in your passport in DD/MM/YYYY format ]
• Email ID [ Comment : Enter your email ID where you would like to receive your approved e-Visa ]
• Re-enter Email ID [ Comment : Re-enter your email ID ]
• Visa Service [ Comment : Select “e-TOURIST VISA”. If there is a 5-year option, select the 5-year option and then select “RECREATION/SIGHT-SEEING”. If you are not a tourist and applying for the e-Visa for some other purpose, select the appropriate purpose ]
• Expected Date of Arrival  [ Comment : Enter your anticipated date of arrival in India in DD/MM/YYYY format ]
• Please enter above text  [ Comment : Enter the captcha ]

Check the box for “I have read the instructions I have all the required documents in scanned pdf format and photograph in jpg/jpeg format”.

Click on the orange Continue button.

A small popup appears prompting you to make sure you have a colored digital photo and a scan of your passport ID page. 

Click on the Ok button on the popup. 

You will be taken to the Applicant Details Form .

03. Applicant Details Form (part 1)

Enter the following information in the Applicant Details section.

• Surname (exactly as in your passport) [ Comment : Enter your surname as it appears in your passport ]
• Given Name/s (exactly as in your passport) [ Comment : Enter your given name as it appears in your passport. If you have a middle name, enter your middle name followed by your first name in this field ]
• Have your ever changed your name? [ Comment : If you have legally changed your name in the past, check this box and enter the details. Ex: changed your surname after marriage ]
• Gender [ Comment : Select your gender from the options ]
• Date of birth [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your date of birth is populated automatically from the previous screen ]
• Town/City of birth [ Comment : Enter your place of birth as it appears in your passport ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Enter your country of birth ]
• Citizenship/National Id No. [ Comment : If you have a national Id, enter here. But do not enter SSN or something similar that’s confidential. In that case, just enter NA ]
• ZOROASTRIAN
• Visible identification marks [ Comment : Enter any visible identification marks such as permanent moles or scars preferably on the face ]
• BELOW MATRICULATION
• HIGHER SECONDARY
• MATRICULATION
• NA BEING MINOR
• POSTGRADUATE
• PROFESSIONAL
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your nationality is populated automatically from the previous screen ]
• Naturalization
• Have you lived for at least two years in the country where you are applying visa? [ Comment: Select “Yes”. If you haven’t lived more than two years in the country you are applying from, select “No” ]

Enter the following information in the Passport Details section.

• Passport Number [ Comment : Enter your current passport number that you will use for entering India ]
• Place of Issue [ Comment : Enter the place of issue as it appears in your passport ]
• Date of Issue [ Comment : Enter the date of issue as it appears in your passport ]
• Date of Expiry [ Comment : Enter the expiry date as it appears in your passport. Passport must have at least 6 months of validity from the anticipated date of entry ]
• Any other valid Passport/Identity Certificate(IC) held [ Comment : Select No. If you also hold a passport from another country, select Yes and enter the details ]

Click on the orange Save and Continue button. 

You will be taken to the Applicant Details Form second part.

How to save the application and come back later to complete

If you plan to continue filling out the application later, you can click on Save and Temporarily Exit button.

This will save your progress and exit the application. You will be asked to make a note of your application ID. 

You will also receive an email with your application ID. You will have 7 days to complete the application. Otherwise, the application will be deleted from the system and you will have to start over again.

Follow these steps to complete the partially saved application.

• Click on the Complete Partially Filled Application Form button

You will be taken to the Complete Partially Filled Form .

Enter the following information in the Complete Partially Filled Form .

• Temporary Application ID [ Comment : Enter your saved application ID. If you don’t remember, look in your email inbox ]
• Please enter above text [ Comment : Enter the captcha ]

Click on the orange Complete Partially Filled button.

You will be taken to the last saved point of your e-Visa application. You can continue filling in from there.

04. Applicant Details Form (part 2)

Enter the following information in the Applicant Address Details section.

Present Address

• House No./Street [ Comment : Enter your house number or street address where you live ]
• Village/Town/City [ Comment : Enter the city where you live ]
• Country [ Comment : Enter the country where you live ]
• State/Province/District [ Comment : Enter the state or province where you live ]
• Postal/Zip Code [ Comment : Enter your current address postal or zip code ]
• Phone No. [ Comment : Enter your current fixed-line phone number ]
• Mobile No. [ Comment : Enter your current mobile or cellphone number ]
• Email Address [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your email is populated automatically from the previous pages ]
• Click here for same address [ Comment : Check this box if your permanent address is the same as your current address. If not, enter your permanent address below ]

NOTE Enter your permanent address below if it’s different from your present address.

Permanent Address

• House No./Street [ Comment : Enter your permanent address house number ]
• Village/Town/City [ Comment : Enter your permanent address city ]
• State/Province/District [ Comment : Enter your permanent address state or province ]

Enter the following information in the Family Details section.

Father’s Details

• Name [ Comment : Enter your father’s full name including first, middle and last names ]
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your father’s nationality ]
• Previous Nationality/Region [ Comment : This is not a mandatory field, so leave it unselected. But if your father held any previous nationality, select the country from the list ]
• Place of birth [ Comment : Enter your father’s place of birth ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Select your father’s country of birth from the list ] 

Mother’s Details

• Name [ Comment : Enter your mother’s full name including first, middle and last names ]
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your mother’s nationality ]
• Previous Nationality/Region [ Comment : This is not a mandatory field, so leave it unselected. But if your mother held any previous nationality, select the country from the list ]
• Place of birth [ Comment : Enter your mother’s place of birth ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Select your mother’s country of birth from the list ] 

Enter the following information in the next (Marital Status) section.

Spouse’s Details

• Name [ Comment : Enter your spouse’s full name including first, middle and last names ]
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your spouse’s nationality ]
• Previous Nationality/Region [ Comment : This is not a mandatory field, so leave it unselected. But if your spouse held any previous nationality, select the country from the list ]
• Place of birth [ Comment : Enter your spouse’s place of birth ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Select your spouse’s country of birth from the list ] 
• Were your Parents/Grandparents (paternal/maternal) Pakistan Nationals or Belong to Pakistan held area? [ Comment: Select No. If you select Yes for any reason, give the details on your ancestory ]

Enter the following information in the Profession/Occupation Details of Application section.

• Present Occupation [ Comment : Select your current occupation/profession from the list. If you can’t find your occupation/profession in the list, such as NURSE, select OTHERS and enter your occupation/profession in the box that appears below ]
• Employer Name/business [ Comment : Enter your current employer/business name ]
• Designation [ Comment : Enter your current designation or title ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter your current employer/business address ]
• Phone [ Comment : Enter your current employer/business phone number ]
• Past Occupation, if any [ Comment : If you had any other occupations or professions in the past, select from the list ]
• Are/were you in a Military/Semi-Military/Police/Security Organization? [ Comment : Select No. If you are/were in defense, select Yes and enter the details ]

Click on the orange Save and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Visa Details Form .

05. Visa Details Form

Enter the following information in the Details of the visa sought section.

• Type of visa [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your visa type (e-Visa) will be automatically populated here ]
• Visa service [ Comment : Nothing to enter here too as the e-Tourist Visa option that you have selected earlier will be automatically populated ]
• Places to be visited [ Comment : List all the places that you will visit in India on this trip ]
• Places to be visited line 2 [ Comment : If the above text box is not enough, you can enter more places that you plan to visit in India here ]
• Have you booked any room in Hotel/Resort etc. through any Tour Operator? [ Comment : If you have already booked a hotel or tour, select Yes and enter the details here ]
• Duration of visa [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as the visa length that you have selected earlier will be automatically populated here ]
• No, of Entries [ Comment : This will also be auto-populated based on your selection in the previous pages ]
• Port of Arrival in India [ Comment : This will also be auto-populated based on your selection in the previous pages ]
• Expected Port of Exit from India [ Comment : Select the airport or seaport from which you plan to leave the country after your trip ]

IMPORTANT Your port of arrival and exit do not matter much. After your e-Visa is approved, you can enter from any airport/seaport and exit from any airport/seaport.

Enter the following information in the Previous Visa/Currently valid Visa Details section.

• Have you ever visited India before? [ Comment : If you have been to India before, select Yes and enter the details below. If this is your first time visiting India, select No and skip to the next section ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter the address of the house or hotel where you stayed during your last visit to India ]
• Cities previously visited in India [ Comment : List all the cities you have visited on your last visit to India ]
• Last Indian Visa No/Currently valid Indian Visa No. [ Comment : Enter your previous India visa number ]
• Type of Visa [ Comment : Select the type of your previous visa from the list ]
• Place of Issue [ Comment : Enter the place your previous India visa was issued. If it was e-Visa, then it would be your first port of entry in India. If it were a consular visa, then it would be the city abroad where it was issued ]
• Date of Issue [ Comment : Enter the date on which your previous India visa was issued ]
• Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused? [ Comment : Select No. If you were denied entry into India before select Yes and enter the details ]

Enter the following in the Other Information section.

• Countries Visited in Last 10 years [ Comment : Enter the list of countries that you have visited in the last 10 years ]

Enter the following in the SAARC Country Visit Details section. 

• Have you visited SAARC countries (except your own country) during last 3 years?  [ Comment : If you have visited any SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries in the last 3 years, enter them here ]

SAARC Countries SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. If you have visited any of these countries in the last 3 years, you must enter them for the above question. 

Enter the following in the Reference section.

• Reference Name in India [ Comment : Enter the name of a contact person in India. This can be a family, relative or friend who lives in India. If you do not know anyone, you can enter the hotel where you plan to stay ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter your India contact person’s address or hotel address ]
• State [ Comment : Select the state where your India contact person resides or your hotel is ]
• District [ Comment : Select the district where your India contact person resides or your hotel is ]
• Phone [ Comment : Enter an Indian phone number of your India contact person or hotel ]
• Reference Name in <your country> [ Comment : Enter the name of someone from your country as an emergency contact. This can be a family, relative or friend who lives in your country ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter your emergency contact person’s address ]
• Phone [ Comment : Enter your emergency contact person’s phone number ]

06. Additional Question Details

Answer the following question on this page.

• Have you ever been arrested/ prosecuted/ convicted by Court of Law of any country? [ Comment : Select No unless you have been arrested or prosecuted ]
• Have you ever been refused entry / deported by any country including India? [ Comment : Select No unless you have been refused entry or deported from any country in the past ]
• Have you ever been engaged in Human trafficking/ Drug trafficking/ Child abuse/ Crime against women/ Economic offense / Financial fraud? [ Comment : Select No ]
• Have you ever been engaged in Cyber crime/ Terrorist activities/ Sabotage/ Espionage/ Genocide/ Political killing/ other act of violence? [ Comment : Select 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? [ Comment : Select No ]
• Have you sought asylum (political or otherwise)in any country? [ Comment : Select No, unless you have sought asylum ]

Check the box for the self-declaration that all the above information is correct.

Then, click on the orange Save and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Upload Photograph page.

07. Upload Photograph

Click on the Choose File button to select the JPG/JPEG file of your photo.

After selecting the file, click on the orange Upload Photo button.

When the photo is uploaded, you will be asked to crop the photo. If necessary, you can crop the photo. If not, simply drag the outer edge of the crop highlight to select the entire photo.

Then, click on the orange Crop and Save button. 

Now, click on the orange Save and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Upload Document page.

08. Upload Document

Click on the Choose File button to select the PDF of your scanned passport ID page.

Once you select your PDF file, click on the orange Upload Document button.

Then, check the box for “I have verified that all the documents are uploaded as per the requirement”.

Click on the orange Confirm button.

You will be taken to the Confirm Details page.

09. Confirm Details

Review all the details you have entered so far. If you need to make any corrections, click on the Modify button.

If everything is looking good, click on the Verified and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Online VISA Fee Payment page.

10. Online VISA Fee Payment

On this page, your name and application ID are displayed along with the disclaimer and undertaking.

Select “Yes” for the undertaking and click on the Pay Now button. 

You will then be shown the below three available payment gateway options.

Select the payment gateway that you would like to use and click on the Continue button.

NOTE The Axis bank gateway is not reliable. Use Sbi e-pay when paying with a credit or debit card. 

You will be shown a popup notifying you that there may be some payment delays. Click on the Ok button on the popup to continue.

You will be taken to the payment gateway page to enter your credit or debit card details. 

On the Sbi e-pay gateway page, the Debit/Credit Card option will be selected by default. 

Enter the following information in the Debit/Credit Card form.

• Card number [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card number ]
• Expiry date/valid thru [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card expiry date ]
• CVV/CVC [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card CVV number ]
• Name of the cardholder [ Comment : Enter your name as it appears on your credit/debit card ]
• Use your GSTIN for claiming input tax [ Comment : Leave this check box as is ]

Click on the Pay Now button.

On the Axis bank gateway page, enter the following information.

• CARD NUMBER [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card number ]
• CARD NAME [ Comment : Enter your card issuer such as Visa, Master, etc. ]
• MONTH [ Comment : Enter the month of your credit/debit card expiry ]
• YEAR [ Comment : Enter the year of your credit/debit card expiry ]
• CVV CODE [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card CVV number ]

Click on the Submit button.

You will be taken to the Your Final Payment page of Axis bank.

India e-Visa payment success

If the payment is successful, you will be taken to the Payment Success page.

On this page, your name, application ID and passport number are deployed along with contacts of the e-Visa department for any assistance.

Click on the orange Generate Fee Receipt button to download a copy of the fee receipt. 

You will also receive an email that your application has been successfully submitted. 

India e-Visa payment failed

If your payment is failed, you will be taken to the Payment Failed page. 

On this page, the reason for the payment failure, such as the card declined, etc. is displayed. You cannot retry the payment from this page. To retry the payment, follow the below steps.

• Click on the Verify Payment/Pay e-Visa Fee button

You will be taken to the Pay Visa Processing Fee page.

On the Pay Visa Processing Fee page, enter the following details.

• Application Id [ Comment : Enter your saved 12-digit application Id. If you don’t remember, check your email ]
• Date of Birth [ Comment : Enter your date of birth as it appears in your passport ]

Click on the orange Check Payment button.

You will be taken to the Payment Report page.

On the Payment Report page, you will see your last failed payment attempt and the reason for the failure. 

Click on the orange Pay Visa Processing Fee button. 

You will be taken back to the Online VISA Fee Payment page. From here simply follow the steps outlined in “ 10. Online VISA Fee Payment ” above to try the payment again. 

Check your India e-Visa application status

To check the status of your India e-Visa process, follow the below steps.

• Click on the Check your Visa Status button

You will be taken to the Visa Status Enquiry page.

Enter the following on the Visa Status Enquiry page.

• Passport No. [ Comment : Enter your passport number ]

Click on the orange Check Status button.

On the next page, your visa status will be displayed. 

If the application status says “successfully received”, then your application is still in process. If the application status says granted, then your e-Visa is approved. 

Receive your approved India e-Visa

When your Indian e-Visa is approved, you will receive an email notifying you that your e-Visa has been granted. 

You can use this email as proof of your e-Visa approval or you can download your approved e-Visa from the India e-Visa Portal. 

To download your approved e-Visa, first follow the steps to check the visa status as outlined above in “ Check your India e-Visa application status “.

On the Visa Status Enquiry page, you will see that your application status is now “Granted”. 

Click on the orange Print Status button to download your approved e-Visa. 

Print and carry your approved India e-Visa PDF when you travel. Or download it as a PDF on your phone and present it to the airline staff or India immigration officer on your arrival. 

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.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

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.

RELATED POSTS

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

General Instructions for Registration & E Services

Important Notice

Applicants are advised not to submit multiple applications once they have received application id on successful submission of application. submission of multiple applications will delay clearance as each application will be examined before clearing., " vide mha o.m. no. 25022/24/2020-f.v/f.i(pt.) dated 29.06.2020. in respect of foreign nationals, whose regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period are expiring post 30.06.2020, such regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period shall be deemed to be valid until 30 more days from the date of resumption of normal international flight operations on 'gratis' basis without levy of overstay penalty.", vide mha o.m. no. 25022/24/2020-f.v/f.i dated 02.09.2021 1. existing instructions as contained in this ministry's o.m. of even number dated 04.06.2021 provide as follows:- "regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation of period of foreign nationals stranded in india due to covid-19 may be considered as deemed to be valid till 31.08.2021 on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty. such foreign nationals may not be required to submit any application to frro/fro concerned for extension of their visas. before exiting the country, they may apply for an exit permission, which would be granted by the frro/fro concerned on gratis basis without levy of any overstay facility." 2. the matter has been re-considered by the government in view of the present situation. it has accordingly been decided to extend the existing facility of deemed extension of the regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty granted to foreign nationals stranded in india due to covid-19 pandemic till 30th september 2021 . such foreign nationals may not be required to submit any application to frro/fro concerned for extension of their visas. before exiting the country, they may apply for an exit permission, which would be granted by the frro/fro concerned on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty. 3. if extension of visa is required beyond 30.09.2021, the foreign national concerned may apply for extension of visa on the online e-frro platform on payment basis, which would be considered by frro/fro concerned subject to the eligibility as per the provisions contained in the visa manual 2019. 4. afghan nationals living in india on any category of visa will be granted extension of visa by frro/fro concerned on gratis basis until further orders. they will not be granted exit or issued leave india notice by frro/fro concerned without prior approval of the ministry of home affairs. 5. these instructions shall come into force with immediate effect., important notice for covid 19, visa services granted on account of covid-19 are gratis..

In the backdrop of outbreak of COVID-19, no foreigners are allowed to visit the FRRO Office for OCI/Registrations and other Visa related services without prior appointment till further orders.

For appointment, contact respective FRRO Support Centres as given below:

• FRRO Delhi 011-26711384 [email protected]
• FRRO Delhi 011-26711443/ 011-26713851(24*7) [email protected]
• FRRO Mumbai 022-22620446/022-22621167 [email protected]
• FRRO Chennai 044-28251721 [email protected]
• FRRO Bengaluru 080-22218183 Fax No. 080-22218196 [email protected], [email protected]
• FRRO Ahmedabad 079-26306606 [email protected]
• FRRO Ahmedabad 079-26306606 [email protected]
• FRRO Amritsar 0183-2500464 [email protected]
• FRRO Hyderabad 040-29880374, 040-29880375 040-29881088 (OCI/PIO) [email protected]
• FRRO Kolkata 033-22818640 [email protected]
• FRRO Lucknow 0522-2432431 [email protected]
• FRRO Trivandrum 0471-2333515/2573512 Fax No. 0471-2333514, 2573514 [email protected]
• FRRO Kozhikode(Calicut) 0495-2323550 [email protected]
• FRRO Cochin 0484-2611652 [email protected]

Welcome to the Online e-FRRO Portal

Before you apply, kindly read all the instructions carefully. Foreigners are advised to apply at least 2 weeks in advance.

About e-FRRO

• How to Apply
• Already registered? Login here
• Frequently Asked Questions

Important Instructions

• Photo and Documents Requirement
• SBI Payment Related FAQ
• AXIS Payment Related FAQ

Technical Information

Useful web links, support centres.

e-FRRO involves completely online application submission and document upload, for which no facilitation is required by any intermediary / agents etc. The foreign nationals are required to apply online by themselves. It is advised not to believe or fall in trap of any middlemen/agent that claim speedy/express grant of e-FRRO and charge money for it. For any clarification or doubt, you may contact FRRO Support Centre.

Salient Features

• Services from comfort of your home.
• No need to visit FRRO/FRO office.
• Online Payment.
• Convenient and Time Saving.
• Exclusive Dashboard for User friendly experience.
• What is e-FRRO?
• Online FRRO Service delivery mechanism without requirement of visiting FRRO/FRO office. No requirement of taking appointment and visiting FRRO/FRO office unless specifically called upon by the FRRO/FRO.
• Web based application aimed to build centralized online platform for foreigners for visa related services. Its key objective is to provide Faceless, Cashless and Paperless services to the foreigners with user friendly experience.
• Using this application, foriegners are required to create their own USER-ID by registering themselves. Afterwards, they would apply online through registered user-id for various Visa and Immigration related services in India viz. Registration, Visa Extension, Visa Conversion, Exit Permit etc, without any hassle and obtain the service(s) without coming to FRRO office.
• The necessary immigration/Visa document e.g. Registration Permit/Certificate (RP/RC), Visa Extension Certificate etc will be sent by post on the address mentioned. It would also be electronically sent to the foreigner to his registered email ID.
• Foreigners would not be required to mandatorily visit FRRO/FRO office for grant of service. However, in certain exceptional cases, the foreigner will be intimated to visit the FRRO/FRO on scheduled date and time for interview.
• In case of exigency, the foreigner can visit the FRRO/FRO office directly for grant of service.

How to Apply?

User creation.

Create User-id/Password by registering online into our portal.

User Authentication

Valid Email ID and Mobile Number in India is mandatorily required for obtaining the One Time Password (OTP). Foreigners should register with their own email ID and provide valid Mobile Number in India for receiving OTP and other status updates/alerts at various stages of processing.

Login with Valid credentials

Once user-id/password is successfully created, the foreign national can submit online application by selecting the appropriate service and uploading the requisite documents.

Online Application Submission and Document Upload

The application form should be carefully filled and any errors should be avoided. Further, necessary documents and photograph should be uploaded online in the designated format. The application would not be successfully submitted unless the documents and photographs are uploaded online successfully.

Successful Submission of Application

The application would be scrutinized by Visa Officers only if the application has been successfully submitted. Upon scrutiny, necessary instructions with regard to application i.e. Fee Payment, Correction of Selected/desired Service, re-uploading of documents etc would be conveyed to the Foreigner through email/SMS alerts.

Online Fee Payment

The foreigner would be intimated to deposit the requisite fee, if any, for the service. The fee has to be deposited online through Bank Payment gateway available on the portal. Amount of fee would be intimated through email/sms alerts.

Status Updates/Alerts

The foreigner can track the status of the application through our portal. For any clarification, our Support Centre can be contacted.

Service Granted/Rejected

Upon Grant/Rejection of service, the same would be intimated to the foreigner. His/Her RC/RP etc would be sent through email or it can also be downloaded from our portal by signing in.

Exigency/Emergency Scenarios

The foreigner can approach the concerned Civil Authority i.e. FRRO/FRO office directly in case of exigency/emergency. Upon satisfaction of the case, the services can also be granted directly at the FRRO/FRO level. Make sure that services granted are electronic and not manual. You may face hurdles at the Immigration Check Posts in case of manual services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

e-FRRO is online FRRO/FRO Service delivery mechanism for foreigners without requirement of visiting FRRO/FRO Office.

• Who needs to apply for e-FRRO?

All foreigners who desire Visa and Immigration related services in India viz. Registration, Visa Extension, Visa Conversion, Exit Permit etc need to apply for e-FRRO.

• How to apply for e-FRRO?

Foreigners are required to create their own USER-ID by registering themselves online on e-FRRO portal. Afterwards, they are required to apply online through registered user-id for various Visa and Immigration related services in India viz. Registration, Visa Extension, Visa Conversion, Exit Permit etc, without any hassle and obtain the service(s) without coming to FRRO/FRO office.

• Do I need to visit FRRO/FRO office after applying through e-FRRO?

No requirement of taking appointment and visiting FRRO/FRO office unless specifically called upon by the FRRO/FRO concerned. Intimation would be sent through sms/email on the registered mobile/email-id.

• How to make payment?

Upon successful uploading of application and documents, the foreigner would be intimated to deposit the requisite fee online, if any, for the service. The fee has to be deposited online through Bank Payment gateway available on the portal. Amount of fee would be intimated through email/sms alerts.

• How would I get RC/RP?

RC/RP, Exit Permit etc would sent by post on the “Address in India” mentioned in the online application form.

• Do I need Endorsement on my Passport?

There would not be any requirement of endorsement on passport. In case, there is any such requirement, you would be intimated by the FRRO/FRO concerned to visit their office.

• What to do in emergency/exigency?
• What happens if there is delay in fee payment or document uploading?

Foreigner would be liable for prosecution/fines as per Indian laws, for any delay in fee payment/document upload/not attending interview etc.

• Do I need to use my own email-id for registration?

Yes. It is mandatory to use personal email ID. Foreigners should use their own email id to ensure data privacy and data security as important communication would be sent to your email.

• Can I apply for my family members through my own ID?

Yes. You can submit applications for your family members from same ID. However you would be required to submit/fill individual online forms for each member of your family.

• How would I know about status of my application?

At every stage of processing, the status of your application would be shared via SMS/Email. You can also track your status by logging into your dashboard through registered Email-ID/Password.

• e-FRRO is presently applicable for foreigners in the jurisdiction of FRROs: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru.
• e-FRRO is presently applicable for foreigners in the jurisdiction of 12 FRROs, 1 RRO and 4 FROs: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Amritsar, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Ahemdabad, Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Puducherry, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar.
• e-FRRO is now applicable for foreigners in the jurisdiction of all FRROs/FROs.
• e-FRRO is mandatory for availing services at the above FRROs/FROs.
• e-FRRO is mandatory for availing services at FRROs/FROs.
• Services would be granted at FRRO/FRO office only in case of exigency/emergency.
• The foreigner is required to appear for interview if any, at scheduled time/date, as intimated by FRRO through email/sms alerts.
• Foreigner should check their inbox daily for email alerts.
• Foreigner would be liable for prosecution/fines as per Indian laws, for any delay in fee payment/document upload/interview etc.
• This service is not applicable for diplomats/officials who are under jurisdiction of CPV Division, Ministry of External Affairs.
• Foreigners are encouraged to upload documents and photographs in good quality.
• Foreigners should use their own email id to ensure data privacy and data security as important communication would be sent to your email.
• Services rendered though e-FRRO can be cancelled by the Civil Authority any time, upon field enquiries and verification. Cancellation would be duly intimated to the foreigner and necessary action, as per Indian Laws, would be taken against the foreigner.
• Foreigners are advised to apply at least 2 weeks in advance.

Apply Visa online

All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad. All Individual visa seekers are requested to apply for the Indian Visa through Online application in order to make an application for getting the Indian visa. The duly signed physical copy of the application form completed in all respect and submitted successfully, is to be submitted at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to Indian Mission/Post, on the scheduled date of interview along with the requisite supporting documents. The instructions for filling the form and scheduling the appointment can be seen at Instructions for Online Visa Application. Important technical information for filling online Indian visa application can be referred at Technical Instructions.

Document Requirment

• Photo and Document(s) upload are mandatory.
• First use the Online Application Submission option then upload photo and required document(s).
• Photographs which are edited or modified by Photoshop or any other Software/ Mobile App will be rejected.
• Only one copy of each document type has to be uploaded.
• Scanned documents should be in PDF format.
• Size of pdf document must be less than 200 KB.
• Single supporting document can have multiple PDFs. The maximum size of each PDF should be 1 MB.
• Only completely filled application along with photo and document(s) is available for appointment.
• Only completely filled application along with photo and document(s) uploded to generate pdf.
• Only permanently saved application is available for Re-Printing.
• Format - jpg
• Size - Maximum 1 MB
• Photo should present Full face, front view, eyes open
• Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Background should be plain light colored or white background
• No shadows on the face or on the background
• Bring same photo along with application form.

SBI Payment: FAQ

• What is SBIePay?.

SBIePay is the Payment Aggregator service of State Bank of India which provides multiple payment options on a single payment page for the convenience of applicants. SBIePay has enabled Debit and Credit issued by MasterCard and VISA.

• What are all the payment modes available on SBIePay payment page?

SBIePay facilitates online payments all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.

• Are transactions on SBIePay secure?

SBIePay is certified with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ver 2.0 certified, which reinforces our promise of security. The payment system fully supports 3DSecure - Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code, wherever it is applicable. Further SBIePay is secured using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption which ensures that payment information never sent over the Internet unencrypted and cannot be viewed by unauthorised individuals.

• Can International payments be processed?

SBIePay has enabled international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D Secure authentication.

• How a customer/applicant can understand that payment has been made successfully?

The applicant after filling details on https://indianfrro.gov.in/ and clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to SBIePay payment page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Applicant enters his card details and clicks 'Proceed'. Then the applicant may see one of the two options: (i.) 3 D Secure page of the Card issuing page for inputing 3D Secure password/OTP (ii.) Transaction is processed without 3D Secure page. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianfrro.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

• How do I know that my Bank participates in 3D Secure transaction?

If an applicant is presented with a 3D Secure page prompting to enter a password/OTP, this means the Card issuing Bank participates in 3D Secure transaction. If the applicant does not have a transaction password/One time password, he/she should contact the card issuing Bank for support.

• What if a successful page on https://indianfrro.gov.in/ is not shown after completing the transaction?

The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund shall be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicants card account.

• How are Refunds processed?

If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount shall be refunded to the applicants card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction.

• What are the banking charges for LTV (Long Term Visa) fee?

The banking charge is 100 rupees(INR) applicable for LTV as a fee. This charge is charged to the applicant at the time of making online fee payment for LTV.

• What is the support available for the applicants ?

SBIePay provides technical support for all payment related transactions at 1800221401 (Timings : 10.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. on week-days and from 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. IST on Saturday)

• Can an applicant perform more than one transaction for same application number registered at https://indianfrro.gov.in/ ?

Yes. An applicant can perform more than one transactions for a single application ID.

An applicant can perform maximum of three transactions for a single application ID.

• What happens if all three transaction attempts of the applicant fail?

If the applicant cannot succeed in three attempts, a new application is required to be filled and transaction has to be carried out with new application ID.

• Can https://indianfrro.gov.in/ charge more than one time for an application ID ?

An applicant shall be charged for only once against an application ID. Any double/triple debit shall be refunded after due reconciliation within seven (7) days of transactions.

Axis Payment: FAQ

• What is Axis Bank Payment Gateway service?.

Axis Bank is world-class Internet Payment Gateway Solution allows you to accept payments on a 24 X 7 basis from around the world. It accepts all Visa and MasterCard issued in and outside India

• What are the various payment modes available on Axis Bank payment gateway page?

Axis Bank Payment Gateway services facilitates online payments all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.

• Are transactions on Axis Bank Payment Gateway secure?

Axis Bank Payment gateway services is compliant with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) standards. All transactions initiated at Axis Bank Payment Gateway services come with 128 bit security and two factor authentication via MasterCard Secure Code and Verified-by-Visa authentication is enabled.

Axis Bank Payment gateway accepts all international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D secure authentication.

The applicant after filling details on https://indianfrro.gov.in/ clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to Axis Bank payment gateway page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Cardholder enters his card number, expiry date, Name and CVV value and clicks 'Pay Now'. Incase cardholder Bank is enabled for 3D secure, then a page will appear for the cardholder to entire either his/her OTP/3D secure password. Else transaction would be processed. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianfrro.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

Incase Bank is participating for 3D Secure, during transaction a 3D secure page would appear and cardholder has to enter his/her password /OTP.

The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund will have to be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicants card account.

If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount will have to be refunded to the applicants card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction. In some cases, the fund still lies with the card issuing Bank, kindly get in touch with your Bank for such case.

Axis Bank provides technical support for all payment related transactions at +91-022-7131-2125/2126 (Timings : 09.30 a.m. to 7.00 p.m IST)

• This site is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Internet Explorer (Windows) version 9.0 and above.
• The applicant must also have Adobe Acrobat Reader version 7.0 or higher installed on your PC in order to download and print the completed application form.
• Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. Of India.
• Ministry of External Affairs, Govt Of India
• Ministry of Tourism, Govt Of India
• Bureau of Immigration, Govt Of India
• Incredible India, Govt Of India

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicin elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.

011-26711384

011-26711443/ 011-26713851(24*7)

[email protected]

frrodli[at]nic[dot]in

East Block-VIII, Level-2 Sector-1, R.K. Puram, New Delhi-110066

FRRO Mumbai

022-22620446

[email protected]

helpdesk[dot]mum-ivfrt[at]gov[dot]in

78/1, Badruddin Tayabji Marg, behind st.xevier collage, Dhobi Talao, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area Fort Mumbai, Maharashtra-400001

FRRO Chennai

044-28251721

[email protected]

chiochn[at]nic[dot]in

No 26, Haddows Road, Shastri Bhavan Annexe, Nungambakkam, Chennai-600006

FRRO Bengaluru

080-22218191/195, 22218183 Fax No. 080-22218196

080-22218183 Fax No. 080-22218196

[email protected], [email protected]

[email protected], [email protected]

frroblr[dot]feedback[at]nic[dot]in, frroblr-ka[at]nic[dot]in

5th Floor, 'A' Block, TTMC, BMTC Bus Stand Building, K.H. Road, Shantinagar, Bangalore - 560027

FRRO Ahmedabad

079-26306606

[email protected]

afrro-boi[dot]ahd[at]nic[dot]in

frroamd[at]nic[dot]in

Barrack No. 2, First Floor, Govt. Polytechnic Campus, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat-380015

Plot No.235, Ground Floor, HUDCO Bhawan, Ishwar Bhuwan Road, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat-380009

FRRO Amritsar

0183-2500464

[email protected]

frroasr[at]nic[dot]in

Bureau of Immigration, D-123, Ranjit Avenue, Amritsar - 143001

H.No. 208, Near Gobind Park, Basant Avenue, Amritsar

FRRO Hyderabad

040-27541022

040-29880374, 040-29880375

040-29881088 (OCI/PIO)

[email protected]

frrohyd[at]nic[dot]in

Foreigners Regional Registration Officer, Bureau of Immigration (MHA), Govt. of India, Room No. 301, 3rd Floor, CGO Towers, Kavadiguda, Hyderabad-500080

FRRO Kolkata

033-22900549

033-22818640

[email protected]

frrokol[at]nic[dot]in

237, A.J.C Bose Road, Kolkata

FRRO Lucknow

0522-2432431

[email protected]

frrolko[at]nic[dot]in

557, Hind Nagar, Kanpur Road Near Old Chungi, Lucknow-226012

FRRO Trivandrum

0471-2333515/ 2573512 Fax No. 0471-2333514, 2573514

[email protected]

frrotvm[at]nic[dot]in

T.C.14/1377, Vazhuthacaud opposite Ganpati temple, Thycaud. P.O, Trivandrum-14

AMRITH PLAZA, 1st Floor, TC No. 30/1398-3, Nalumukku, Pettah (P.O), Trivandrum-695024

FRRO Kozhikode(Calicut)

0495-2323550

[email protected]

frro-clt[at]nic[dot]in

20/1305, Castle View, Thiruvannur Road, Panniyankara,Kallai PO, Kozhikode,KERALA-673003

FRRO Cochin

0484-2611652

[email protected]

frro[dot]cochin[at]nic[dot]in

2nd Floor, Airlines Building, Cochin International Airport Ltd.,Airport PO, Cochin- 683111, Kerala

RRO Puducherry

0413-2275605

[email protected]

rro[dot]pon[at]nic[dot]in

Regional Registration Office, Bureau of Immigration, MHA No. 1,Second Main Road, 2nd Cross,Navasakthi Nagar, Vazhuthavur Road,Puducherry - 605009

Latest News

• PSP Division
• Passport Seva
• Passport Offices in India
• Mission/Post Abroad
• Citizens' Charter
• General Information
• Chief Passport Officer
• Passport Offices
• Vigilance Unit
• Visa Services
• Consular / Visa

Diplomatic/Official/UN Official Visa: Diplomats/Officials assigned to their countries Missions/Posts in India or Diplomatic/Official/UN passport holders working in UN or international organizations located in India and their spouses/children holding any type of passport are granted diplomatic/official visas.

Transit Visa: Transit visas valid for up to 15 days and up to two entries are issued to foreign nationals passing through India on their way to another country. The applicant should possess an air ticket for onward journey to a destination beyond India.

Entry Visa: Entry visa is issued to a Person of India Origin, foreign spouse of Indian national and to spouse/children of foreigners holding any type of visa other than tourist/transit visa.

Tourist Visa: Tourist visa is issued to foreigners who do not have a residence or occupation in India and whose sole objective of visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives etc.

Indian Missions/Posts abroad may issue multiple entry tourist visas for a maximum period of ten years to US nationals and five years to UK nationals, with the stipulation that stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days. However, should the visa holder desire to stay continuously for more than 180 days, he/she should register with the concerned FRRO/FRO within 180 days of arrival.

Indian Missions/Posts abroad may issue multiple entry tourist visas for a maximum period of five years to nationals of Argentina, Belgium, Brazil, Chile, Finland, France, Germany, Iceland, Japan, Luxembourg, Mexico, Netherlands, New Zealand, Norway, South Korea, Spain, Switzerland and Vietnam with the stipulation that stay during each visit shall not exceed 90 days.

In respect of foreigners holding multiple-entry tourist visas valid for 5/10 years, there should be a gap of at least two months between two successive visits.If a tourist visa holder needs to return to India within two months of his/her last departure from the country due to exigencies like death or serious illness in the family, non-availability of connecting flights to return to his/her country of origin or travel to another country using India as a transit point or any other exigent situation which can be duly justified with proper documentation to the satisfaction of an Indian Mission/Post abroad or immigration authorities in India, the condition of two month's gap can be waived. In all such cases, the foreign national should register with the FRRO/FRO concerned within 14 days of arrival.

Foreign nationals holding six month tourist visas valid for up to three entries would not be subject to the above condition of two month's gap between two visits if they submit their itinerary and confirmed air tickets for travel to neighbouring countries.

Travel agents of foreign travel agencies and foreign tourists visiting India frequently for genuine tourism may be granted multiple-entry tourist visa with the condition that stay on each visit should not exceed 180 days.

Tourist visa on arrival has been introduced on experimental basis for nationals of eleven countries viz. Finland, Japan, Luxembourg, New Zealand, Singapore, Myanmar, Indonesia, Philippines, Laos, Cambodia and Vietnam. Tourist visa on arrival is valid for 30 days with single entry facility and is granted by Immigration Officers at Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata international airports.

Tourist visa is neither extendable nor convertible into other type of visa except, in very exceptional circumstances.

Employment Visa: Employment visas valid for one year at a time are granted to foreigners provided the foreigner is a skilled and qualified professional or a person who is being engaged by a company, organization, industry or undertaking in India on contract or employment basis at a senior level, skilled position such as technical expert, senior executive, or in a managerial position. Proof of employment in the form of employment contract is necessary.

Project Visa: Project visa is a sub-set of employment visa and is granted to foreigners employed for executing Steel and Power Sector Projects.

Student Visa: Student visa valid up to five years or duration of course (whichever is less) is granted to a foreigner coming to India to pursue a course of regular and fulltime academic studies in a recognized institution. The applicant should furnish proof of admission in a recognized/reputed educational institution and evidence of financial support. In case of admission to a medical or para-medical course, a no objection certificate from the Ministry of Health must be furnished. Student visa valid for up to 6 months can be granted for exploring admission or for taking admission tests. There is no restriction on the number of courses of study that can be pursued or with respect to change of course or institute or both. The list of recognized institutions/universities is available on the website ( www.education.nic.in ).

Journalist Visa: Missions/Posts may issue Journalist visa valid for up to six months to professional journalists, press-persons, film-persons (other than commercial), representatives of radio and television organizations and similar personnel in the field of information such as travel writing, travel journalism, travel promotion/ photography, television production, advertising and those who write on fashion, costumes and sports. Holders of journalist visa are advised to contact on arrival in New Delhi, the External Publicity Division of M.E.A. and in other places, the Office of the GOI's Press Information Bureau, so that they could be given assistance in various matters including planning itineraries.

Business Visa: Valid for up to five years may be granted by Missions/Posts to foreign business persons to set up industrial/business venture or to explore possibilities to set up industrial/business venture in India or to buy/sell industrial/commercial products. Proof of financial standing and expertise in the field of intended business must be produced. For business visas valid up to one year, visa fee prescribed for one year business visa is charged even when the validity of visa issued is less than one year.

Missionary Visa: Visa to foreign missionaries, other than those holding No objection to return to India Endorsements, are granted only after clearance by concerned Ministry/Deptt in India.

Mountaineering Visa: Visa for mountaineering expeditions is granted only after clearance by concerned authorities in India.

Conference/Seminar Visa: Visas may be granted by Missions/Posts to foreign delegates to international conferences, seminars etc conducted by Government bodies, Public Sector Undertakings or Government aided bodies and NGOs provided necessary clearance by nodal Ministries/Departments of the Government of India/State Governments is in place.

Research Visa: Depending upon recognition/reputation of the research institution and eligibility of the applicant, Missions/Posts may grant research visa valid for up to three years or duration of research project, whichever is earlier, except scholars of certain nationalities or/and where research work involves visits to 'Restricted' or 'Protected' areas in India or areas affected by terrorism, militancy and extremism etc.

Medical & Medical Attendant Visa: After satisfying themselves, Indian Missions/Posts abroad may issue Medical Visa (MED) valid for one year or the period of treatment, whichever is less, to foreign nationals visiting India for medical treatment in reputed/recognized specialized hospitals/treatment centres in India. Visa is permissible for treatment under Indian system of Medicine also. Attendants/family members of patients coming to India for medical treatment shall be granted Medical Attendant visa (MEDX) co-terminus with the Medical visa of the patient. Attendants should be spouse/children or those having blood relations with the patient. Not more than two attendants are allowed.

Universal Visa: Universal visa is a multipurpose life-long visa which Indian Missions and Posts abroad or the Ministry of Home Affairs may grant to Foreigners holding Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card. The holder of universal visa can study, do business or take up employment in India and is exempt from the requirement of registration with FRRO/Police authorities for any length of stay in India.

Restricted/Protected Area Permits: Visas issued to foreigners are not valid for certain specified areas. Special permits viz. Restricted or Protected Area Permits are required to visit them. These permits are issued by Indian Missions/Posts abroad and MHA/State Governments in India. All Tibetan settlement are Restricted Areas.

Registration: Foreigners entering India on Student visa, Employment visa, Research visa, Missionary visa valid for more than 180 days are required to get themselves registered with the concerned Foreigners Registration Office within 14 days of their arrival in India. Foreigners holding any other type of visa valid for more than 180 days do not require registration if the period of their stay in India on each visit is less than 180 days. However, they must register themselves within 180 days of arrival if the period of their continuous stay exceeds 180 days. For more details, please access the website of MHA or Bureau of Immigration ( www.boi.gov.in ).

Pakistani Nationals and Foreigners of Pak Origin: Visa is granted to Pakistani nationals and foreigners of Pak origin only after clearance by concerned authorities. Pakistani nationals holding visitors visa are required to register themselves at the check post of entry within 24 hours of their reaching the specified places. Pak nationals are permitted to enter into and exit from India only through designated check posts.

Chinese Nationals: Only single entry Tourist and Business visas valid up to 3 months are granted to Chinese nationals. The visa may be extended up to 3 months by FRROs/Ministry of Home Affairs. All other types of visas fall in prior clearance category.

Extension of Visa: Extension of visa , while in India, is dealt by Foreigners Regional Registration Offices, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Gratis Visa: In view of the existing bilateral agreements/arrangements, all types of visas are issued gratis to the nationals of Afghanistan, Argentina(Tourist visa only), Bangladesh, Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Jamaica, Maldives, Mauritius, Mongolia, South Africa and Uruguay.

Diplomatic, official/service and ordinary passport holders of certain countries are exempt under bilateral agreements from visa requirement. A list of such countries is appended . (Appendix III)

Since 2006, a number of Indian Missions/Posts abroad have outsourced visa services. A list as on 1-4-2012 is appended (Appendix-IV). A few of the missions/posts have outsourced passport and consular services also.Details of Service Provider and visa procedure may be accessed at the website of concerned Mission/Post. The Missions/Posts abroad receive only the Visa Application Fee prescribed by the Govt. of India, through the Visa Outsourcing Agency which charges an additional fee from foreign nationals towards service rendered on account of collection of applications, travel documents and return of the same, after affixing visa by the Mission/Post. The Government of India, in no way, reaps any monetary benefit from outsourcing of visa services nor any funds from the Government exchequer are involved in setting up of visa outsourcing centres which are solely the responsibility of the Service Provider.

Cookies on GOV.UK

We use some essential cookies to make this website work.

We’d like to set additional cookies to understand how you use GOV.UK, remember your settings and improve government services.

We also use cookies set by other sites to help us deliver content from their services.

You have accepted additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

You have rejected additional cookies. You can change your cookie settings at any time.

Entry requirements

This information is for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK. It is based on the UK government’s understanding of India’s current rules 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

To enter India, your passport must have an ‘expiry date’ at least 6 months after the date you arrive and have at least 2 blank pages.

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

You must have a visa to visit 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 your travel.

You could be refused entry or deported for having the wrong visa. You could also be banned from entering India in the future.

For the latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the Indian Bureau of Immigration .

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 a:

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

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

Applicants of Pakistani origin

If you are of Pakistani origin, a British-Pakistani dual national or hold 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 . 

If you are a British-Pakistani 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 Citizen of India ( OCI ) cardholders

If you hold a valid Overseas Citizen 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 and the Indian Bureau of Immigration .

Extending your visa

It’s illegal to overstay your visa in India. Make sure you leave the country before your visa expires or get an official extension if needed. More information is available from the Indian Bureau of Immigration .  

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 .

Make sure you get your passport stamped.

Make sure the border control officer puts a stamp in your passport when you arrive in India. You’ll need to show it when you leave, so border control officers know you have not overstayed your visa.  

Registering with the authorities

Hotels, hostels and other accommodation providers must register foreign guests with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office . Make sure your accommodation provider registers you.

If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days and do not hold an OCI card, you must register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office . You could be denied permission to leave if you do not do this.

You may need to register your stay depending on the type of visa you hold, check if you need to.   

Exit requirements

When you leave 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 must apply for a special exit visa before you travel . This must be done online and can take between 5 and 15 working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights.   

Vaccine requirements

To enter India, you must have a certificate to prove you’ve had a:

• yellow fever vaccination if you’re coming from a country listed as a transmission risk
• polio vaccine if you’re coming from a polio-affected country

For full details about medical entry requirements and recommended vaccinations, see TravelHealthPro’s India guide .

Customs rules

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

Satellite phones and other 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. 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. Contact the High Commission of India for advice.

Taking money into India

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

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

Access permits in north-east India

You need a permit to travel to Sikkim , Arunachal Pradesh , Nagaland and parts of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands . Apply at least 3 months in advance.

In India, apply at the liaison office of the state for which you need a permit or the Foreigners Regional Registration Office ( FRRO ).

Permit regulations can change at any time. Contact the relevant state liaison office or the Indian Bureau of Immigration for the latest guidance.

If you’re travelling to Mizoram, you need to register online with the Superintendent of Police in Aizawl or state CID on the e- FRRO online portal .

If you are travelling to Mizoram, Meghalaya and Nagaland, check guidelines issued by local authorities. Blockades and protests may disrupt traffic along the national highways connecting them with each other and with Assam, particularly in border areas.

Related content

Is this page useful.

• Yes this page is useful
• No this page is not useful

Help us improve GOV.UK

Don’t include personal or financial information like your National Insurance number or credit card details.

To help us improve GOV.UK, we’d like to know more about your visit today. Please fill in this survey (opens in a new tab) .

Here's how to get a visa to visit India

Dec 20, 2023 • 6 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.

Explore related stories

Budget Travel

Sep 10, 2024 • 11 min read

India is one of the most affordable countries in the world to visit. Make your money go even further with these budget friendly tips.

Sep 10, 2024 • 12 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 8 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 13 min read

Sep 4, 2024 • 13 min read

Aug 30, 2024 • 12 min read

Aug 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 20, 2024 • 13 min read

Aug 12, 2024 • 12 min read

Most Searched

• Birth Certificate
• Driving Licence

e-Tourist Visa Scheme - Fly to India trouble-free

Tourism has grown leaps and bounds over the years in India, with each region contributing something to its splendor and exuberance. India's rich cultural diversity reflects through its people, languages, cuisine, traditions, customs, music, dance, religious practices and festivals, its holistic healing traditions, art and craft.

To make travel to India trouble-free and unforgettable for foreign tourists, the Government of India launched e-Tourist Visa scheme - External Website that opens in a new window on November 27, 2014 to 43 countries from nine designated Indian Airports. The Government extended this Scheme to the citizens of Guyana and Sri Lanka in January, 2015 and April, 2015, respectively. The e-Tourist Visa facility - External Website that opens in a new window was extended to the nationals of 31 countries in May, 2015. With more addition, the total number of countries under the scheme is 76. The scheme will be extended to more countries in a phased manner. The Government is aiming to extend this scheme to 150 countries to encourage and promote tourism in India.

e-Tourist Visa Facility - External Website that opens in a new window is currently available for holders of passport of following countries; Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Australia, Bahamas, Barbados, Belize, Brazil, Cambodia, Canada, Cayman Island, Chile, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Georgia, Germany, Grenada, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Jordan, Kenya, Kiribati, Laos, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Myanmar, Nauru, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niue Island, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Philippines, Republic of Korea, Republic of Macedonia, Russia, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Samoa, Singapore, Solomon Islands, Sri Lanka, Thailand, Tonga, Tuvalu, UAE, Ukraine, USA, Vanuatu, Vatican City-Holy See, Vietnam.

e-Tourist Visa Application

• Apply online
• Pay visa fee online
• Receive eTV Online
• Check visa status online
• Fly To India
• e-Tourist Visa Scheme

Apply online - External Website that opens in a new window

Upload Photo and Passport Page

Pay visa fee online - External Website that opens in a new window

Using Credit / Debit card

Receive eTV Online - External Website that opens in a new window

eTV Will be sent to your e-mail

Check visa status online - External Website that opens in a new window

Visa Status Enquiry can be used to know Visa Status, Payment Status and to Print e-Tourist Visa.

Fly To India - External Website that opens in a new window

Print eTV and carry at the time of travel

• International Travellers whose sole objective of visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, short duration medical treatment or casual business visit.
• Passport should have at least six months validity from the date of arrival in India. The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.
• International Travellers should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.
• International Travellers having Pakistani Passport or Pakistani origin may please apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.
• Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders.
• Not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.
• Not available to International Travel Document holders.

The documents required for e-Tourist Visa (eTV)

• Format -PDF
• Size : Minimum 10 KB ,Maximum 300 KB

The digital photograph to be uploaded along with the Visa application should meet the following requirements:

• Format - JPEG
• Size: a. Minimum 10 KB b. Maximum 1 MB
• The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
• Photo should present Full face, front view, eyes open.
• Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin.
• Background should be plain light colored or white background.
• No shadows on the face or on the background.
• Without borders

• Applicants of the eligible countries may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 30 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept. then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept. to 4th Oct.
• Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc. to be uploaded by the applicant. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded document and photograph are not clear/as per specification.
• e-Tourist Visa (eTV) - External Website that opens in a new window fee is US$ 60/- per passenger excluding interchange charge for credit/debit cards. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel filled by you otherwise application will not be processed.
• eTV - External Website that opens in a new window fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of VISA.
• Applicant should carry a copy of eTV - External Website that opens in a new window along with him/her at the time of travel.
• Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India.
• The validity of visa will be 30 days from the date of arrival in India.
• eTV - External Website that opens in a new window is valid for entry through 9 designated Airports i.e. Bengaluru, Chennai, Cochin, Delhi, Goa, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai & Trivandrum. However, the foreigner can take exit from any of the authorized Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) in India.
• This facility is in addition to the existing Visa services.
• eTV - External Website that opens in a new window is allowed for a maximum of two visits in a calendar year.
• eTV - External Website that opens in a new window once issued on arrival is Only single entry, non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas.
• Applicants can track the status of their application online by clicking visa status.
• Please be careful while making payment of the eTV - External Website that opens in a new window fee. If the number of unsuccessful attempts is more than three (03), then the application id would be blocked and the applicant would be required to apply afresh by filling the application form again and regenerating a new application id.
• Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 4 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. The payment status updating may take up to 4 hours.
• Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries must carry YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CARD at the time of arrival in India, otherwise they may be quarantined for 6 days upon arrival in India. Please visit the Ministry of Health & Family Welfare's latest guidelines regarding yellow fever countries - External Website that opens in a new window .
• For any assistance call 24x7 Visa support center at +91-11-24300666 or send email to indiatvoa[at]gov[dot]in

Useful Related Links

• Ministry of Home Affairs
• Ministry of External Affairs
• Ministry of Tourism
• Bureau of Immigration
• Incredible India
• FAQs-Payment Related - External Website that opens in a new window

Welcome to Embassy of India, Washington D C, USA

• Skip to main content
• Screen Reader Access

• List of Officers
• Departments
• List of Holidays
• Consulates in US
• Right to Information
• Embassy of India, Washington, DC Jurisdiction
• Emergency Contact Numbers
• A brief history of the Chancery building
• Former Ambassadors of India to U.S.
• Discontinuation of walk-in consular services
• Apply Indian Visa
• EMERGENCY VISA
• Visa for Diplomatic/Official and Laissez-Passer Passport Holders
• Passport Services
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card
• Conversion of PIO card to OCI card
• OCI Card Reissue Guidelines
• Miscellaneous-Attestation Services
• Renunciation of Indian Citizenship
• Global Entry Program (GEP) For Indian Nationals
• Emergency Travel Document (Emergency Certificate-EC)
• Consular Assistance
• VFS Helpline Numbers
• Brief on India-US Relations
• What's New/Press Releases
• Journalist Visas/Documentary Filming in India/Film Visa
• Events Gallery
• Arts/Culture
• Indian Council For Cultural Relations (ICCR)
• International Day of Yoga
• Contact point
• Education Wing
• Guidelines for Indian Students in the United States
• Registration of Indian Students in USA
• Orientation Session for University Students
• Inviting applications for 'International Hindi Course' by the Central Institute of Hindi, India
• Fulbright Scholarships
• The Quad Fellowship
• Guidelines for issue of No Objection Certificate / Visa for students proceeding to India on Fulbright Scholarship residing under the jurisdiction of Embassy of India, Washington D.C.
• Financial Terms and Conditions for Scholarships handled by ICCR.
• ICCR Scholarship
• Equivalency certificate of academic qualification
• Study in India
• Advisory/Information for students desirous of pursuing medical studies abroad
• Information on various aspects of US Legal system for incoming Indian students
• Public Notices/ Alerts
• How to address issues related to Marriages of Indian nationals to Overseas Indians
• Bill on NRI Marriages
• Procedure for sending/ forwarding Court Order/ Summons
• Legal and other provisions in foreign countries on Indian women cheated/abandoned/abused by Overseas Indian Spouses
• Officer-in-charge
• FAQs on Marital disputes involving NRI/PIO spouses
• प्रायः पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न : "भारतीय महिलाओं का विवाह

• Home > Restoration of Valid Long Duration (10 years) Regular (Paper) Tourist Visas

Restoration of Valid Long Duration (10 years) Regular (Paper) Tourist Visas

Embassy of India

Washington DC

Press Release

          The Government of India has decided to restore valid long duration (10 years) regular (paper) tourist visas for the nationals of USA with immediate effect. Fresh issue of regular (paper) long-duration (10 years) tourist visas has also been restored for US nationals.

In addition, e-Tourist visas under the two options (one year and five years), which remained suspended since March 2020, shall stand restored. Applications for fresh e-tourist visas for eligible nationalities can also be made at the Indian E-Visa Portal [ https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ]

The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (single entry of 30 days duration) on gratis basis will be discontinued w.e.f 1 st April, 2022.

Foreign nationals on tourist/e-tourist visas would be permitted to enter India only through designated Sea Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) or Airport ICPs  by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission or ‘air bubble’ scheme or by any flights as allowed by Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. In no case, the foreign nationals will be allowed to enter through land border or riverine routes on Tourist visa/E-Tourist visa.

Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India, available at :

https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf .

Washington DC March 28, 2022

  The Government of India has decided to restore valid long duration (10 years) regular (paper) tourist visas for the nationals of USA with immediate effect. Fresh issue of regular (paper) long-duration (10 years) tourist visas has also been restored for US nationals.

In addition, e-Tourist visas under the three options (one month, one year and five years), which remained suspended since March 2020, shall stand restored. Applications for fresh e-tourist visas for eligible nationalities can also be made at the Indian E-Visa Portal [ https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ]

The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (one month stay only) on gratis basis will also continue.

Foreign nationals on tourist/e-tourist visas would be permitted to enter India only through designated Sea Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) or Airport ICPs by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission or ‘air bubble’ scheme or by any flights as allowed by Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. In no case, the foreign nationals will be allowed to enter through land border or riverine routes on Tourist visa/E-Tourist visa.

Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India, available at : https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf .

March 15, 2022

Restoration of Long Duration (10 years) Regular (Paper) Tourist Visas

          The Government of India has decided to restore old valid long duration (10 years) regular (paper) tourist visas for the nationals of USA with immediate effect. Fresh issue of regular (paper) long-duration (10 years) tourist visas has also been restored for US nationals.

         In addition, e-Tourist visas under the three options (one month, one year and five years), which remained suspended since March 2020, shall stand restored. Applications for fresh e-tourist visas for eligible nationalities can also be made at the Indian E-Visa Portal [ https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ]

         The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (one month stay only) on gratis basis will also continue.

         Foreign nationals on tourist/e-tourist visas would be permitted to enter India only through designated Sea Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) or Airport ICPs  by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission or ‘air bubble’ scheme or by any flights as allowed by Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. In no case, the foreign nationals will be allowed to enter through land border or riverine routes on Tourist visa/E-Tourist visa.

       Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India, available at : https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf .

Washington, DC March 15, 2022

• Copyright policy --> Copyright policy
• Terms & Conditions --> Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy --> Privacy Policy
• Hyperlinking Policy --> Hyperlinking Policy
• Accessibility Option --> Accessibility Option

Chancery Address: 2107 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008

Consular Wing Address: 2536 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008

Disclaimer: The Embassy is not responsible for the information or content provided in any of the external links given in its Website.

Tel No. for all enquiries:(202) 939-7000 Embassy closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public holidays. Official working hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM EST

Page last updated on: September 19, 2024

© Embassy of India, Washington DC, USA 20008. All Rights Reserved. Ardhas Technology India Private Limited. -->

Government of India Indianvisaonline.gov.in

Online Portal for Visa Application to India

Visa Categories

Collapsible group item #1, collapsible group item #2, collapsible group item #3, transit visa + -->, tourist visa, medical visa, medical attendant visa, business visa, employment visa, project visa, intern visa, student visa, research visa, conference visa, mountaineering visa, missionary visa, journalist visa, diplomat visa, offical / miscellaneous visa, un diplomat visa, un offical visa, visa on arrival, long term visa, overseas citizen of india (oci), visitor (only for pakistan nationals), double entry (only for bangladeshi nationals).

Visa categories issued from indian government.

• e-Medical Attendant
• e-Confrenece

Select Your Language

Select your currency.

• AED United Arab Emirates Dirham
• AFN Afghan Afghani
• ALL Albanian Lek
• AMD Armenian Dram
• ANG Netherlands Antillean Guilder
• AOA Angolan Kwanza
• ARS Argentine Peso
• AUD Australian Dollar
• AWG Aruban Florin
• AZN Azerbaijani Manat
• BAM Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
• BBD Barbadian Dollar
• BDT Bangladeshi Taka
• BGN Bulgarian Lev
• BIF Burundian Franc
• BMD Bermudan Dollar
• BND Brunei Dollar
• BOB Bolivian Boliviano
• BRL Brazilian Real
• BSD Bahamian Dollar
• BWP Botswanan Pula
• BZD Belize Dollar
• CAD Canadian Dollar
• CDF Congolese Franc
• CHF Swiss Franc
• CLP Chilean Peso
• CNY Chinese Yuan
• COP Colombian Peso
• CRC Costa Rican Colón
• CVE Cape Verdean Escudo
• CZK Czech Republic Koruna
• DJF Djiboutian Franc
• DKK Danish Krone
• DOP Dominican Peso
• DZD Algerian Dinar
• EGP Egyptian Pound
• ETB Ethiopian Birr
• FJD Fijian Dollar
• FKP Falkland Islands Pound
• GBP British Pound Sterling
• GEL Georgian Lari
• GIP Gibraltar Pound
• GMD Gambian Dalasi
• GNF Guinean Franc
• GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
• GYD Guyanaese Dollar
• HKD Hong Kong Dollar
• HNL Honduran Lempira
• HTG Haitian Gourde
• HUF Hungarian Forint
• IDR Indonesian Rupiah
• ILS Israeli New Sheqel
• INR Indian Rupee
• ISK Icelandic Króna
• JMD Jamaican Dollar
• JPY Japanese Yen
• KES Kenyan Shilling
• KGS Kyrgystani Som
• KHR Cambodian Riel
• KMF Comorian Franc
• KRW South Korean Won
• KYD Cayman Islands Dollar
• KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
• LAK Laotian Kip
• LBP Lebanese Pound
• LKR Sri Lankan Rupee
• LRD Liberian Dollar
• LSL Lesotho Loti
• MAD Moroccan Dirham
• MDL Moldovan Leu
• MGA Malagasy Ariary
• MKD Macedonian Denar
• MNT Mongolian Tugrik
• MOP Macanese Pataca
• MUR Mauritian Rupee
• MVR Maldivian Rufiyaa
• MWK Malawian Kwacha
• MXN Mexican Peso
• MYR Malaysian Ringgit
• MZN Mozambican Metical
• NAD Namibian Dollar
• NGN Nigerian Naira
• NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
• NOK Norwegian Krone
• NPR Nepalese Rupee
• NZD New Zealand Dollar
• OMR Omani Rial
• PAB Panamanian Balboa
• PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
• PGK Papua New Guinean Kina
• PHP Philippine Peso
• PKR Pakistani Rupee
• PLN Polish Zloty
• PYG Paraguayan Guarani
• QAR Qatari Rial
• RON Romanian Leu
• RSD Serbian Dinar
• RUB Russian Ruble
• RWF Rwandan Franc
• SAR Saudi Riyal
• SBD Solomon Islands Dollar
• SCR Seychellois Rupee
• SEK Swedish Krona
• SGD Singapore Dollar
• SHP Saint Helena Pound
• SLL Sierra Leonean Leone
• SOS Somali Shilling
• SRD Surinamese Dollar
• SVC Salvadoran Colón
• SZL Swazi Lilangeni
• THB Thai Baht
• TJS Tajikistani Somoni
• TOP Tongan Pa anga
• TRY Turkish Lira
• TTD Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
• TWD New Taiwan Dollar
• TZS Tanzanian Shilling
• UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
• UGX Ugandan Shilling
• USD United States Dollar
• UYU Uruguayan Peso
• UZS Uzbekistan Som
• VND Vietnamese Dong
• VUV Vanuatu Vatu
• WST Samoan Tala
• XAF CFA Franc BEAC
• XCD East Caribbean Dollar
• XOF CFA Franc BCEAO
• XPF CFP Franc
• YER Yemeni Rial
• ZAR South African Rand
• ZMW Zambian Kwacha

India Tourist eVisa: Common issues and solutions

For many visitors, entering India requires a valid visa. Although the eVisa system is designed to make getting one easier, it's not without its challenges .

There are different eVisa types available for tourism, business, and medical visits. Selecting the right one and filling out the application accurately is essential for a smooth journey.

However, you can encounter issues that disrupt your travel plans if not addressed properly. This guide aims to address these common problems and provide effective solutions.

Common issues faced when applying for your India eVisa

Website navigation and technical glitches.

Website crashes or slow-loading pages, particularly during peak application times, are a top problem when applying for an Indian eVisa. To avoid this issue, make sure you're using a compatible browser such as Google Chrome or Firefox, which are known for their reliability with eVisa applications.

You can also clear your browser's cache and cookies to prevent loading errors and speed up the website response time. Applying during off-peak hours might reduce the likelihood of system overload. Switching devices or networks may also help solve this problem.

Photo and document upload challenges

When uploading your photograph and documents, such as the passport ID page, you might need to crop the photo to meet the specifications and ensure the document is in the correct format.

The eVisa system typically requires JPG/JPEG/PNG format for photos and PDF for documents. Make sure these are clear, legible, and within the specified file size limits. Preparing your files before starting the application process can save time and reduce stress.

Mistakes in application form

The application form can be detailed and requires accurate information in every field. For example, questions about past travel history or family background must be answered correctly. Forgetting to attach necessary documents like passport scans or photographs can also cause delays.

Before starting your application:

Read the requirements carefully and prepare all necessary digital copies in the correct format and size.

Double-check every entry for spelling, date formats, and accuracy.

Make sure all your information matches your official documents.

Take time to go over your details thoroughly before submission, and consider having a second pair of eyes review your application to catch any errors.

Payment gateway issues

Payment failures might occur if your card is declined or there are issues with the payment portal.

Verify that your card has sufficient funds and is authorized for international transactions. If a payment fails, follow the portal’s instructions to retry or check the payment status. If the issue persists, consider using an alternative payment method if available.

After submission: Handling delays and rejections

Sometimes, the processing of an Indian eVisa application takes longer than expected. This can happen during busy travel seasons or if there are issues with the system. Knowing the best time to apply is very important.

For 30-day eVisas, you should apply no earlier than 30 days and no later than four days before your trip. For 1-year and 5-year eVisas, applications can be made up to 120 days in advance . Processing usually takes up to 72 hours, so planning accordingly will ensure you receive your eVisa in time for your travel​.

If you applied as a group, the different applications don't get approved at the same time. This is because each application is assessed individually. Just because some applications take longer to process doesn’t necessarily mean they’re more likely to be rejected.

If the eVisa processing takes longer than the estimated duration, you can get in touch with the Bureau of Immigration at +91 11 24300666 or e-mail them at [email protected] .

Dealing with visa rejections

If your visa application is denied, the first thing to do is figure out why, which can be tricky since Indian immigration officials often don’t provide clear reasons. The rejection might be due to:

You filled in the form incorrectly.

Your documents don’t meet the necessary standards.

You did not fulfill the criteria for the Indian eVisa.

You did not respond properly or in time to inquiries from immigration officials.

There are concerns from the authorities about potential risks you might pose in India.

If the rejection is because of incorrect application details or document issues, correcting these errors in a new application could lead to an approval.

However, if the reason for rejection is unknown, applying again right away might not be the best idea, as the chances of another rejection are high. Instead, it's better to contact the nearest Indian Embassy to see if you’re eligible for a different type of visa . Use our Embassies Finder to locate the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.

Get support for your India Visa application

For a stress-free India eVisa application, consider using our India visa service . Thanks to our intuitive platform, we make it easy to fill out your application, upload documents, and submit your payment securely. We’ll expertly review your application before submitting it to the Indian government, helping you avoid the common errors that lead to delays or rejections.

Our customer service team can assist you if you need more information about applying for an Indian Visa. Contact us any time via WhatsApp or iVisa chat .

Related Articles

Is India safe for travelers? Get expert India travel advice

Can you renew your Indian visa?

Should I get an OCI or an Indian Visa?