Indian Visa

How to Apply for a Visa to India

India welcomes millions of visitors each year for tourism, business, employment, study, and family purposes. Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter India, although the process has become significantly simpler with the introduction of online e-Visas and streamlined consular services.

This article explains the types of Indian visas available, who needs a visa, and how to apply step by step.

1. Who Needs a Visa to India?

Most foreign nationals require a visa to travel to India unless they are:

  • Citizens of a visa-exempt country (limited categories), or
  • Holders of OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) cards

Citizens of many countries, including Australia, the UK, the US, and EU member states, do require a visa, but are usually eligible for an Indian e-Visa.

2. Types of Indian Visas

India offers several visa categories depending on the purpose of travel.

Common Indian Visa Types

  • Tourist Visa – Tourism, visiting friends or family
  • Business Visa – Business meetings, conferences, trade activities
  • Employment Visa – Working for an Indian entity
  • Student Visa – Full-time study in India
  • Medical Visa – Medical treatment in India
  • Conference Visa – Attending government-approved conferences

Many of these categories are available as e-Visas, while others require a regular (paper) visa through an Indian embassy or consulate.

3. Indian e-Visa (Most Applicants)

The Indian e-Visa is the most common and convenient option.

Key Features

  • Fully online application
  • No physical passport submission
  • Sent by email after approval
  • Available for tourism, business, medical, and conference travel

e-Visas are issued by the Ministry of External Affairs through the official government portal.

4. How to Apply for an Indian e-Visa

Step 1: Apply Online

You apply through India’s official e-Visa portal.

You will:

  • Select the visa category and duration
  • Complete the online application form
  • Upload a passport scan and photograph

Step 2: Pay the Visa Fee

Visa fees vary depending on:

  • Nationality
  • Visa type
  • Duration

Payment is made online by card.

Step 3: Receive Electronic Travel Authorisation

If approved:

  • You receive an Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by email
  • You must print or save a copy for travel

Processing is usually fast, but applications should be lodged well in advance of travel.

Step 4: Travel to India

On arrival at designated airports or seaports:

  • Immigration officers stamp your passport
  • The e-Visa becomes active

You must enter through an approved port of entry for e-Visas.

5. Regular (Embassy) Visas

Some visas cannot be obtained as e-Visas and require application through an Indian embassy, high commission, or consulate.

Examples Include

  • Employment visas
  • Student visas (long-term)
  • Research visas
  • Journalist visas

Applications are lodged online and then finalised through the Indian mission under the Indian Embassy in your country.

6. Documents Commonly Required

Depending on visa type, documents may include:

  • Valid passport (usually 6 months validity required)
  • Passport-style photograph
  • Travel itinerary
  • Invitation or sponsorship letter (business/employment/student visas)
  • Proof of funds
  • Employment or educational documents

Accuracy and consistency are critical—errors often lead to delays or refusals.

7. OCI (Overseas Citizen of India) – An Alternative

If you are of Indian origin or married to an Indian citizen, you may be eligible for OCI status, which:

  • Allows lifelong visa-free travel to India
  • Eliminates the need for repeated visa applications

OCI applications are handled through Indian missions and online portals.

8. Processing Times

  • e-Visas: Often processed within a few days
  • Embassy visas: May take several weeks, depending on category and checks

Applicants should apply well before travel, especially for work or study visas.

9. Common Reasons for Visa Refusal

  • Incorrect or incomplete information
  • Mismatch between visa type and travel purpose
  • Insufficient supporting documents
  • Prior immigration violations
  • Applying too close to travel date

10. Important Tips

  • Apply only through official government portals
  • Do not overstay—overstays can lead to fines or blacklisting
  • Carry printed copies of your visa or ETA
  • Ensure your passport details match exactly