How to Apply & Get an Indian e-Visa Online

Overview

India is a country that offers a vast range of experiences for travelers, from its ancient temples and rich culture to vibrant cities and stunning landscapes. For many international visitors, obtaining a visa to India has become easier thanks to the introduction of the Indian e-Visa system. The e-Visa allows travelers from eligible countries to apply online for their visa, saving time and avoiding the hassle of visiting an embassy. In this guide, we’ll walk you through the steps to apply for an Indian e-Visa, how to use it, and essential details you need to know before traveling.

What is an Indian e-Visa?

An Indian e-Visa is an official document permitting entry into India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. The e-Visa system allows eligible travelers to apply for a visa online, without the need to visit an Indian embassy or consulate. This makes the application process quicker and more convenient for tourists, business people, and medical travelers.

The Indian e-Visa comes in three main categories:

1. Tourist e-Visa – For tourists visiting India for sightseeing, recreation, and meeting friends and family.
2. Business e-Visa – For individuals visiting India for business purposes, including attending meetings, establishing contacts, or exploring business opportunities.
3. Medical e-Visa – For those seeking medical treatment in India, including visits to recognized hospitals and treatment centers.

Eligibility for Indian e-Visa

Before applying for an Indian e-Visa, make sure you meet the following eligibility criteria:

1. Nationality: The applicant must be a citizen of one of the 160+ eligible countries.
2. Purpose of Visit: The e-Visa is only applicable for tourism, business, and medical reasons.
3. Travel Restrictions: The applicant must have a passport that is valid for at least six months beyond the planned date of arrival in India.
4. Number of Entries: Depending on the type of e-Visa, you can enter India either once, twice, or multiple times.

Check the official Indian government website for a full list of eligible countries and visa types.

Steps to Apply for an Indian e-Visa Online

1. Visit the Official Indian e-Visa Website: Start by going to the official Indian e-Visa website (https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/).
2. Select the Type of Visa: Choose the correct visa category based on your travel purpose—Tourist, Business, or Medical e-Visa.
3. Fill in the Application Form: Complete the online application form with your personal details, including your full name, date of birth, nationality, passport number, and travel dates. Make sure to double-check all the information you provide.
4. Upload Required Documents: You will need to upload a recent passport-size photograph and a scanned copy of your passport’s bio page. Ensure that the photograph meets the required specifications (usually, it must be a clear, colored photo with a white background). The passport scan should clearly show your details, including the passport number, date of birth, and expiration date.
5. Pay the Visa Fee: After filling out the application form, you will be required to pay the visa fee online. The fee depends on the type of e-Visa you are applying for and your nationality. Payment is made via credit card, debit card, or other online payment methods.

   Important Tips to Keep in Mind

   1. Apply Well in Advance: While the processing time is usually quick, it’s best to apply for your e-Visa at least 4-7 days before your planned travel date to avoid any last-minute issues.
   2. Validity Period: The validity of the e-Visa is typically 60 days for tourist and business visas, with a multiple-entry option available in some cases. Make sure to check the validity of your e-Visa based on your travel plans.
   3. Enter India Through Approved Airports and Seaports: The Indian e-Visa allows entry through specific airports and seaports, which are designated for e-Visa holders. Ensure that your point of entry is one of the approved locations.
   4. Stay Duration: The maximum stay allowed on an e-Visa is generally 60 days for tourist and business visas. The duration may vary for medical e-Visas. Make sure to exit India before your e-Visa expires to avoid penalties.
   5. For Frequent Travelers: If you plan to visit India multiple times within a year, check whether the multiple-entry e-Visa option is available for your nationality.
6. Submit the Application: After completing the form and payment, submit your application. You will receive a reference number for your application.
7. Wait for Processing: The processing time for an Indian e-Visa usually takes 3-5 business days. However, you may receive your e-Visa approval sooner. You will be notified via email once your e-Visa is approved.
8. Download and Print the e-Visa: Once your e-Visa is approved, you will receive an email with the e-Visa document attached. You can download and print this e-Visa, which you will need to carry with you when traveling to India. Ensure the details on your e-Visa are correct before traveling.

What to Do if Your e-Visa is Denied?

While the e-Visa process is typically smooth, there are cases where a visa application may be denied. If this happens, carefully review the reasons for the denial. In such cases, you can apply for a regular visa by visiting an Indian embassy or consulate.

Conclusion

Getting an Indian e-Visa is an easy and efficient way to obtain permission to visit India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. By following the simple steps outlined above, you can apply for and receive your e-Visa online without the need to visit an embassy or consulate. Ensure you have the necessary documents, pay the visa fee, and carefully follow the application instructions. Whether you’re visiting India’s rich historical sites, embarking on a business venture, or seeking medical treatment, the e-Visa system streamlines the process and gets you to your destination quickly.