Planning a trip to India? Forget the days of long queues at the embassy! The India E-Visa (Electronic Visa) by Government of Indianhas completely revolutionised the travel experience, allowing eligible foreign nationals to apply for and secure their travel authorisation entirely online. This comprehensive guide breaks down everything you need to know about this streamlined digital process right from the application to Approval process
Indian E-Visa
- 🧐 What Exactly is the Indian E-Visa?
- 🧾 E-Visa Categories: Which Type?
- 🖥️ E-Visa Application
- 🛬 Entry Rules and Key Reminders
🧐 What Exactly is the Indian E-Visa?
The Indian E-Visa is an official electronic authorisation issued by the Government of India. It grants foreign citizens the right to enter and travel within India for specified purposes—including tourism, business, and medical visits—without the need to visit an Indian Embassy or Consulate.The entire process, from application submission to fee payment and final approval, is handled digitally through the official government portal.
🧾 E-Visa Categories: Which Type?
India offers several E-Visa options tailored to different travel objectives. Understanding the differences is crucial for a smooth application process.
| E-Visa Category | Validity Period | Maximum Stay Per Visit | Purpose of Visit |
| e-Tourist Visa | 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years | 90 days (180 days for US, UK, Canada, Japan citizens on long-term visas) | Tourism, sightseeing, visiting family/friends |
| e-Business Visa | 1 year (Multiple Entry) | Up to 180 days | Business meetings, trade, establishing contacts |
| e-Medical Visa | 60 days (Triple Entry) | 60 days | Medical treatment in India |
| e-Medical Attendant Visa | 60 days (Triple Entry) | 60 days | For up to two attendants of e-Medical Visa holders |
| e-Conference Visa | 30 days (Single Entry) | 30 days | Attending government-approved conferences |
Visa can be rejected if you choose a wrong type of visa (You should note the difference between e-Business Visa and e-Conference Visa)
🖥️ E-Visa Application
🌍 Who is Eligible for the E-Visa?
The E-Visa facility is extended to citizens of approximately 170 countries, including major travel markets like the U.S., U.K., Canada, Australia, most of Europe, Singapore, Malaysia, Japan, and the UAE.
Important Exclusion: Nationals of Pakistan are not eligible for the E-Visa facility and must apply through a physical Indian Embassy or Consulate.
✅ The Official Application Portal
This is the most critical step. To avoid scams, phishing, and unnecessary charges, you must only use the official government website:
The Official Website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
Tip: Beware of third-party websites that look official but are not. They often charge inflated service fees and offer no official guarantee.
📋 Essential Documentation Checklist
Prepare the following documents in their required digital format (JPEG/PDF) before you begin the online application:
- Passport: Must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival and have two blank pages.
- Digital Photograph: Recent colour photo with a plain white background (JPEG format).
- Passport Bio Page Scan: A clear scan of the page with your photo and details (PDF format).
- Travel Itinerary: Details of your travel, return ticket, and accommodation/local contact.
- Supporting Documents (If Applicable): Business card/invitation (for e-Business) or a letter from the concerned hospital (for e-Medical).
💳 Fees & Processing Time
The visa fees are dynamic, generally ranging from USD 10 to USD 100, and vary based on your nationality and the chosen visa duration.
- Payment: Completed securely online via credit/debit card or PayPal.
- Processing Time: Typically 3 to 5 working days. It is strongly advised to apply at least 7 days before your planned date of travel.
🛬 Entry Rules and Key Reminders
Once your visa is approved, you will receive your Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) via email.
- Print the ETA: You must carry a printout of the ETA and your passport when you travel.
- Designated Entry Points: The E-Visa is valid for entry at 28 designated airports (including Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, and Goa) and 5 seaports.
- Land Entry is Prohibited: You cannot use an E-Visa to enter India via a land border crossing.
- No Extensions/Conversions: The E-Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible to any other visa type while you are in India.
- Overstaying: Overstaying your permitted duration is a serious violation that can result in heavy fines or a future travel ban.
The India E-Visa is the fastest and most convenient way to unlock your travel to the subcontinent. By following these simple steps and using the official portal, you’ll be ready to experience the magic of India stress-free!