Tourist Visa

How to Apply for a Tourist Visa to India

India is a country of rich history, vibrant culture, and breathtaking landscapes — from the Taj Mahal to Kerala’s backwaters and the Himalayas. For most foreign travellers, visiting requires a tourist visa or an eTourist Visa (eTV). India has modernised its visa system, making it easier to apply online.

This guide explains who needs a visa, the types available, and the step-by-step process to get your tourist visa for India.

1. Who Needs a Tourist Visa for India?

  • Visa required:
    Most nationalities — including Australia, USA, UK, EU/Schengen, Canada, Japan, South Korea, Singapore, and many others — need a tourist visa to enter India.
  • Visa-free entry:
    Only a few countries (e.g., Nepal, Bhutan, Maldives — under certain conditions) have visa-free or visa-on-arrival privileges.
  • eVisa available:
    Citizens of over 160 countries can apply online for an eTourist Visa (easy and fast).

✅ Check eligibility here: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa

2. Types of Indian Tourist Visas

Visa TypeStay AllowedValidity
eTourist Visa (eTV)Up to 30, 90, or 180 days30 days (single entry) OR 1 year / 5 years (multiple entry)
Regular Tourist Visa90 days per entry6 months, 1 year, 5 years or 10 years (multiple entry, depending on nationality)

💡 For most travellers, the eTourist Visa is the easiest and fastest way to visit India.

3. Applying for an eTourist Visa (Most Common)

Step 1 — Apply Online

  • Visit the official eVisa portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa
  • Complete the application form with:
    • Personal & passport details
    • Travel plans
    • Port of arrival
    • Recent passport photo (digital)
    • Passport scan (bio page)

Step 2 — Pay the Visa Fee

  • Fees vary by nationality:
    • USD $25–80 (30 days)
    • USD $40–100 (1 year or longer)
  • Pay securely online (credit/debit card).

Step 3 — Wait for Approval

  • Processing time: Usually 2–5 working days.
  • You’ll receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email.

Step 4 — Travel to India

  • Print or save your ETA to show airline staff and immigration.
  • On arrival, you’ll get the visa stamped into your passport.

⚡ Apply at least 7 days before travel, but no earlier than 120 days before your trip.

4. Applying for a Regular Tourist Visa (Embassy/Consulate)

If you are not eligible for eVisa or need longer validity:

  1. Fill out the online visa application at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in (Regular Visa Application).
  2. Print and sign the application.
  3. Book an appointment with your nearest Indian Embassy, Consulate, or authorised visa centre (e.g., VFS Global).
  4. Prepare documents:
    • Passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages
    • Recent passport-size photos
    • Proof of travel (flight & accommodation)
    • Financial proof (bank statements if requested)
    • Additional documents if required by local consulate
  5. Pay the visa fee (varies by nationality — usually USD $80–150).
  6. Submit in person (or by mail if allowed).
  7. Processing: 5–15 working days depending on location and season.

5. Fees (2025)

Visa TypeApprox. Fee
eTourist Visa (30-day)USD $25–80
eTourist Visa (1-year/5-year)USD $40–100
Regular Tourist VisaUSD $80–150 (varies by nationality & duration)
VFS/Service FeesUSD $10–50 (if applicable)

6. Important Rules for Tourists

  • Maximum stay:
    • eTourist Visa: Usually up to 90 days per visit (180 days for US/UK/Canada/Japan nationals with certain visas).
    • Regular Tourist Visa: Up to 180 days per entry (check your visa label).
  • No work or study: Tourist visas cannot be used for employment, business, or formal study.
  • Entry points: eVisa holders must enter through approved airports/seaports (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kochi, etc.).
  • Re-entry: Multiple-entry options are available; check your visa type.

7. Tips for a Smooth Application

  • Use the official site: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa. Avoid third-party agents charging extra.
  • Apply early: eVisa takes ~5 days; regular visas may take 2–3 weeks.
  • Passport validity: Must be valid 6+ months beyond entry date with blank pages.
  • Photo requirements: Follow exact size/format rules (white background, full face).
  • Print your ETA: Some airlines and airports require a paper copy even if it’s digital.
  • Check your port of entry: eVisa is valid only at specific airports and seaports.
  • Travel insurance recommended: Especially for medical emergencies or delays.

Quick Pre-Travel Checklist

  • Valid passport (6+ months after travel)
  • Approved eVisa ETA or regular visa stamp
  • Flight booking and return/onward ticket
  • Accommodation details (hotel or host address)
  • Passport photos (for emergencies or extensions)
  • Travel insurance
  • Extra copies of your visa approval and ID