indian travel visa for us citizens

Authorized Portal for Visa Application to India Indianvisaonline.gov.in

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 from an Indian Mission/Post or eVisa (Limited Categories) from Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs.

Visa on Arrival for the nationals of Japan, South Korea and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India) Available at selected Airports

Advisory: Government of India has not authorized any agent or intermediary to charge any fee for facilitation of emergency / express Visa/eVisa. For travel to India a regular/eVisa along with passport is mandatory. Only categories exempted under bilateral arrangments may not need a visa. For persons of Indian origin (all categories), OCI card is mandatory.

e-Visa - Only Ordinary Passport holders may apply for eVisa application online. Select Visa Service as G20 eConference Visa and purpose as "To Attend G20 Conference/Meeting" .

Regular Visa - Diplomatic/Official/Ordinary Passport holders may fill online application and submit at concerned Indian Embassy/Mission in their country. Select Visa Service as Conference Visa and purpose as "To Attend G20 Conference/Meeting" .

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Travel Advisory June 23, 2023

India - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

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 .

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

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting 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 from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

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

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19.  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. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting 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 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 Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but 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 apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “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. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

Embassy Messages

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Quick Facts

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

Two pages required.

Yes. Travelers must enter in either on a paper visa, valid for 10 years for U.S. citizens, or an e-tourist visa.

Required for yellow fever if the traveler is arriving from an infected area; others are suggested.

The possession of satellite phones is prohibited in India; Currency in excess of USD $5,000 must be declared. Please check with the Indian Embassy in Washington if you are planning to carry a large amount of currency into India.

Check local law for reporting requirements for exiting with large quantities of foreign currency and Indian rupees.

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 American 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 (Bombay) 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, Chhatisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, and the union territory of Diu and Daman, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

U.S. Consulate General Kolkata (Calcutta) 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani Kolkata - 700 071, West Bengal, India Telephone: +(91) (33) 3984-2400 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) 99030 42956 or +(91) (33) 3984-2400 then dial "0" Fax: +(91) (33) 2282-2335

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. [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Chennai (Madras) 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

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 Lakshwadeep Islands. [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad Survey No. 115/1, Financial District, Nanakramguda Hyderabad, Telangana, 500032 Phone: 040 6932 8000

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

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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. Travelers without valid documents or the correct type of visa may be denied entry into India. Indian visa regulations and instructions change frequently, often with little advance notice. Travelers are urged to 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 prior to their arrival. Please visit the  Indian government's website for electronic travel authorization for additional information and to submit an application.  

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 to individuals in the United States. Applicants may apply for Indian visas through the application link https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-visa .

Diplomatic and Official visa applications are accepted directly at the Indian Embassy and Consulates. All U.S. government employees traveling on official orders, including military personnel, must obtain country clearance for travel to India. Once you have received your visa, check it carefully to ensure that the type of visa 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 downloading 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 visa from the Indian government. Replacing a lost visa, which is required in order to exit the country, may take four or five 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. The FRRO maintains 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 otherwise violate Indian visa regulations, you may require clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs to leave the country. Generally, you will be fined and, in some cases, may be jailed 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 of an exit permit under these circumstances can take up to 90 days and decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.  

For the most current information on entry and exit requirements, please contact the  Embassy of India  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, inquiries should be made 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 (including local customs and etiquette) and keep a low profile. Monitor local news reports, vary your routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when you visit public places, including religious sites, and when choosing hotels, restaurants, and entertainment and recreation venues.

India continues to experience terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Anti-Western terrorist groups, some on the U.S. government's list of foreign terrorist organizations, are active in India, including Islamist extremist groups such as Harkat-ul-Jihad-i-Islami, Harakat ul-Mujahidin, Indian Mujahideen, 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.  In eastern India’s Bihar state, 10 security personnel were killed and five injured in a Naxalite-triggered Improvised Explosive Device blast on July 18, 2016.  In the eastern state of Jharkhand, seven policemen were killed and eight others injured in a landmine blast by Naxalites on January 27, 2016.   

Beyond the threat from terrorism and insurgencies, 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. Large religious gatherings that attract hundreds of thousands of people can result in dangerous and often life-threatening stampedes. Local demonstrations can begin spontaneously and escalate with little warning, disrupting transportation systems and city services and posing risks to travelers. In response to such events, Indian authorities occasionally impose curfews and/or restrict travel. You are urged to obey such curfews and travel restrictions and to 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. 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. India generally goes on “High Alert” status prior to major holidays or events. You should monitor local television, print media, Mission India’s American Citizens Services  Facebook  page, and enroll with the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  for further information about the current situation in areas where you will travel.

The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai will post information about routine demonstrations on the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General websites, under the heading “Demonstration Notices.” Please monitor our websites regularly for information about protest activities in the country. Please note that the Embassy and Consulates General will issue emergency/security messages for other purposes, as necessary.

Religious violence occasionally occurs in India, especially when tensions between different religious communities are purposefully exacerbated by groups pushing religiously chauvinistic agendas. 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 the past. 

Swimming in India:  You should exercise caution if you intend to swim in open waters along the Indian coastline, particularly during the monsoon season. Every year, several 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. Trained lifeguards are very rare along beaches.

If you visit the Andaman Islands, be aware that there have been reports of crocodile attacks in salt water resulting in fatalities.  Ask local residents about dangerous sea life before swimming and keep a safe distance from animals at all times.

Wildlife safaris:  India offers opportunities for observation of wildlife in its natural habitat and 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 a good idea 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.

Trekking in India:  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 or with one or two companions. Altitudes in popular trekking spots can be as high as 25,170 feet (7,672 m); please make sure that you have had a recent medical checkup to ensure that 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 generally is 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 the death and serious injury of passengers.

Areas of Instability: Jammu & Kashmir:  The Department of State strongly recommends that you avoid 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. Since 1989, as many as 70,000 people (terrorists, security forces, and civilians) have been killed in the Kashmir conflict. 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).

India-Pakistan Border:  The Department of State recommends that you avoid 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 occasionally 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 the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, 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. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Restricted/Protected areas:  While the Indian Government has designated that travelers to “portions” of certain areas need special advance permission, actual practice has been to require a permit to enter any portion of certain states or territories. Areas requiring a permit 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, be aware the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Center, 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  (Bombay),  Chennai (Madras),  Hyderabad , and  Kolkata  (Calcutta).

CRIME:  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 adept and women have reported having their bags snatched, purse-straps cut, or the bottom of their purses slit without their knowledge. If you are 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. Violent crime, especially directed against foreigners, has traditionally been uncommon, although in recent years there has been a modest increase. 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. ATM card scams have been used to clone credit card details to withdraw money.

Sexual Assault:  Travelers should be aware that there have been reported cases of sexual assault, including rape, of U.S. citizens traveling throughout India. U.S. citizens, particularly women, are cautioned not to travel alone in India. Women traveling in India are advised to respect local dress and customs. Customary everyday dress for Indian women throughout the country is conservative, and even more so in non-urban areas,  with women wearing clothing that covers their legs and shoulders. Exceptions are vacation resorts catering to foreign clientele and some neighborhoods of the major cities of 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 can 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 market places, 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 greater attention on addressing issues of gender violence. One outcome has been greater reporting of incidences of sexual assault country-wide, and Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Among large cities, Delhi experienced the highest number of reported crimes against women. Although most victims have been local residents, recent sexual attacks against female visitors in tourist areas across India underline the fact that foreign women are at risk and should exercise vigilance.

Women should observe stringent security precautions, including avoiding use of public transport after dark without the company of known and trustworthy companions, restricting evening entertainment to well-known venues, and avoiding isolated areas when alone at any time of 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).

Scams:  Major airports, train stations, popular restaurants, and tourist sites are often used by scam artists looking to prey on visitors, often by creating a distraction. Beware of taxi drivers and others, including train porters, who solicit travelers with "come-on" offers of cheap transportation and/or hotels. Travelers accepting such offers have frequently found themselves the victims of scams, including offers to assist with "necessary" transfers to the domestic airport, disproportionately expensive hotel rooms, unwanted "tours," unwelcome "purchases," extended cab rides, and even threats when the tourists decline to pay.  There have been reports of tourists being lured, held hostage and extorted for money in the face of threats of violence against the traveler and his/her family members.

You should exercise care when hiring transportation and/or guides and use only well-known travel agents to book trips. Some scam artists have lured travelers by displaying their name on a sign when they leave the airport. Another popular scam is to drop money or to squirt something on the clothing of an unsuspecting traveler and use the distraction to rob them of their valuables. Tourists have also been given drugged drinks or tainted food to make them more vulnerable to theft, particularly at train stations. Even food or drink prepared in front of the traveler from a canteen or vendor could be tainted.

Some vendors sell carpets, jewelry, gemstones, or other expensive items that may not be of the quality promised. 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.

There have been a number of other scams perpetrated against foreign travelers, particularly in Goa, Jaipur, and Agra that target younger travelers and involve suggestions that money can be made by privately transporting gems or gold (both of which can result in arrest) or by taking delivery abroad of expensive carpets, supposedly while avoiding customs duties. The scam artists describe profits that can be made upon delivery of the goods, and require the traveler to pay a "deposit" as part of the transaction.

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 . 

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/or consulates are unable to provide legal advice or intervene on behalf of United States citizens with Indian courts on civil or criminal matters.  A list of local attorneys is available on the Embassy and Consulates General  websites .

In another common scam, family members in the United States, particularly older people, are approached for funds to help callers claiming 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 . 

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 our information on  victim’s 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

Please note that 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 are unable to take any meaningful action without the filing of a police report. 

If your passport is stolen, you should immediately report the theft or loss to the police in the location where your passport was stolen. A FIR is required by the Indian government in order for you to obtain an exit visa to leave India if the lost passport contained 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 determine if you have been injured and to discuss treatment and prevention options for diseases and pregnancy. You should be aware that in order 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. 

There are a number of resources in India 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 one can dial 1-800-425-2908 or 1098 for crimes in general.

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 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. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

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.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

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

Drugs:  Several U.S. citizens have been arrested at Indian airports for attempting to smuggle illegal drugs from India.  All claimed 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. The OCI program is similar to the Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card except that PIO holders must still register with Indian immigration authorities, and PIO cards are not issued for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens of Indian descent can apply for PIO or 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 are required to travel on a U.S. passport when traveling in and out of the United States.

Religious activities and faith-based travelers:  See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .  If you plan to engage in religious proselytizing you are required by Indian law to have a "missionary" visa. Immigration authorities have determined that certain activities, including speaking at religious meetings to which the general public is invited, may violate immigration law if the traveler does not hold 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 religious faith to another. If you intend to engage in missionary activity, you may wish to seek legal advice to determine whether the activities you intend to pursue are permitted under Indian law.

Tourists should also be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by 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 restrictions: Before traveling to or from India, you are urged to inspect all bags and clothing thoroughly to ensure they do not inadvertently contain prohibited items. Several U.S. citizens have been arrested or detained when airport security officials discovered loose ammunition (even spent individual bullets and casings) or weapons in their luggage. If you are found to have loose ammunition or bullets (including empty bullet shells used in souvenirs) on your person or in your bags, you could be charged with violation of the Indian Arms Act, incarcerated, and/or deported from India.

In addition, U.S. citizens have been arrested for possession of satellite phones. Satellite phones, personal locator beacons, and hand-held GPS devices are illegal in India.

Indian customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from India of such items as, antiquities, electronic equipment, currency, ivory, gold objects, and other prohibited materials. Permission from the Government of India is required 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 you are charged with any legal violations by Indian law enforcement, have an attorney review any document before you sign 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 Dehra Dun, 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 inavailability of goods and services, including supplies for multiple days after a severe weather event.

Accessibility: While in India, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation 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.

Women Travelers: Please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

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

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Section 377 of India’s penal code makes same-sex sexual acts illegal in India. On September 6, 2018, the Supreme Court of India declared unconstitutional the application of Section 377, barring discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, effectively legalizing homosexuality in India. Reports of widespread discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ persons, particularly in rural areas, persist. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Zika is present in India. See the Centers 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. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance (our webpage) 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. 

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 yellow-fever areas, Indian health regulations require that you present evidence of vaccination against yellow fever. If you do not have such proof, you could be subjected to immediate deportation or a six-day detention in the yellow-fever quarantine center. If you transit through any part of sub-Saharan Africa, even for one day, you are advised to carry proof of yellow fever immunization.

Dogs and bats create a high risk of rabies transmission in most of India. Vaccination is recommended 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 is transmitted 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. Influenza vaccine is recommended for all travelers during the flu season.

Outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1 virus) occur intermittently in eastern India, including West Bengal, Manipur, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Assam. For further information on pandemic influenza, please refer to the Department of State's 2009-H1N1, Pandemic Influenza, and H5N1 Fact Sheet .

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

Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in India. For further information, please consult the CDC’s Travel Notice on TB .

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 Embassy’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.

For emergency services, 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.

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 taxis’ back seats. 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. 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, they are often driven fast, recklessly, and without consideration for the rules of the road. Accidents are quite 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.

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:

• 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 assessment 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  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.

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Consulate General of India San Francisco, California, Serving the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah and Territory of Guam

• Home ›   Consular Services ›   Visa Services ›   E-Visa

E – Visa

1. E-Visa has been made available by the Government of India to citizens of certain countries, including the United States of America. Details of the scheme are available on the dedicated website created for this purpose:  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

2. International travellers whose sole objective for visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine, business purpose, as attendant to e-Medical visa holder, attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop organized by a Ministry or Department of the Government of India, State Governments or UT Administrations etc. & their subordinate/ attached organizations & PSUs and no other purpose/activity, can apply for e-Visa.

3. e-Visa has 5 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa (for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa. A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.

4. For e-Tourist and e-Business visa, Applicants may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival.

5. For e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, Applicants may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 120 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept to 2nd Jan.

6. Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.

7. The revised fee structure for e-Tourist visa is as under:-

8. Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed.

9. e-Visa 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 Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).Applicant should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel. Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey.

10. Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India. e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority.

11. The e-Visa fee payment status updation may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. In cases, where e-Visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on 'Verify Payment/Pay Visa Fee' tab or by clicking on the link Verify Payment.

12. Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries or travellers arriving from these 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.

13. You must travel on the Passport which you have applied for eVisa. Entry will be allowed into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, however in such cases a traveler must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued.

14. The documents required for completing the eVisa application is indicated against each type of eVisa. Please keep all these documents ready at hand before beginning to fill your eVisa application. All documents including Business cards, Invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which the application would be liable for rejection. The entire process may take 10 to 15 minutes to complete the application and make the payment. Applicants must be fill eVisa application himself/herself and give correct information in each column and take responsibility for the correctness of information provided.

Helpful Information:

Passport used by the applicant 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 on arrival.

The applicant must travel on the passport on which e-Visa has been applied. Entry into India will be allowed on a new passport even if the e-Visa has been granted on the old passport. However, in such cases, the traveler must also carry the old passport on which the e-Visa has been granted.

International Travelers should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.

International Travelers having a Pakistani Passport or are of Pakistani origin may please apply for regular Visa at the Indian Mission.

E-Visa is not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer travel document holders.

E-Visa is not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.

E-Visa is not available to International Travel Document Holders.

Applicants requiring help regarding e-Visa may call the 24X7 helpline number (+91-11-24300666) or send an email to [email protected] for any queries.

The e-Visa facility is in addition to the existing Visa services being provided through Indian Embassy and Consulates.

Advisory : The applicant may note that the Embassy/Consulate does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal. Service of e-Visa involves a completely online application for which no facilitation is required by any intermediary / agent etc. Applicants are, therefore, advised to be cautious and for any clarification, please contact [email protected] Applicants are also advised to be careful of fraudulent websites offering e-visa services for India and only use the Government of India portal which is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

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• Home › Consular Services › Visa Services › FAQ’s on Visa

FAQ on Visa

Q.My old passport with ‘valid Indian visa’ is lost. How can I  get fresh visa on new passport?

A. Same category visa can not be re-issued,  even on different passport,  to  an applicant during the validity of existing visa .  Fresh  visa will be issued only when first visa  has  either expired or is lost (Police report of lost passport is required).

  Q. What is eligible criteria to get Indian Tourist Visa ?

A. Indian Tourist visa is granted to a foreigner whose sole objective of visiting India is recreation, sight seeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, short duration medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine etc. and no other purpose/ activity (Short term yoga programme means a yoga programme not exceeding 6 months duration and not issued with a qualifying certificate/ diploma etc.)

Q. How to apply for Indian Visa ? How much time it will take ?

A: Please follow these steps for Visa application :

a. Visit CKGS website ( https://www.in.ckgs.us ) and apply online.

b. Pay required fees online & Submit your application

c. Print your submitted application

d. Submit physical copy of application along with required documents to CKGS center by Walk in or Mail/Post :

CKGS (Visa / OCI / PIO / Renunciation of Indian Citizenship Department)

235 West 23rd Street, Level 2, New York, NY 10011.

Processing Time : If everything are in order (i.e documentation etc.) it will take 4-5 working days for US Passport holder (excluding VFS mailing time). 

Q. My Passport will be expiring soon/running out of pages which has valid Indian visa in it (and I already applied for my new Passport), Can I travel on valid visa on my old Passport ?

A: Yes, your Visa is valid till it expiry date, but while traveling you have to carry this old Passport with valid visa along with your new Passport.

  Q. While applying Visa online on CKGS website, they ask previous Visa number, which I have not remember, what should I do?

A: If you do not remember your previous visa number then skip that portion and complete the online application.

Q. I applied for Visa on CKGS website but not getting appointment, what should I do ?

A . If you are not getting appointment on desired date please select walk in option which is always open.

Q. I am US passport holder of Pakistani origin, applied for Indian Visa on CKGS website but not getting any update on my visa status, what should I do ?

A. In this case administrative process will take minimum 45 working days. Once concerned authority approved it we will intimate you accordingly.

Q. I am holding dual nationality (i.e. Pakistan & USA) & also holding two Passports (i.e Pakistan & USA), on which Passport I need to apply for Visa ?

A. Pakistani nationals holding dual nationality must apply only on their Pakistani Passports.

  Q. I am holding dual nationality (i.e. Pakistan & USA), but holding only one Passport (i.e. USA), which documents are required to apply Visa ?

A. USA passport holders of Pakistani origin must submit their visa application form along with:

a. Certificate of Renunciation of Pakistani Citizenship

b. US passport with valid Pakistani visa OR Copy of the Pakistan Overseas Card

Q. I am Pakistani Passport holder, Can I choose my entry port in India & book the flight tickets accordingly ?

A. No, you can not choose your entry Ports in India & book tickets until a visa decision has been made.

Q. I am Indian origin of US Citizen, Can I apply for emergency Visa ?

A. Yes, you can apply for Emergency Visa through CKGS website ( https://www.in.ckgs.us/visa ).

Q. I have applied Indian visa for my minor Son/Daughter and CKGS kept his/her application on hold due to lack of Parental authorization, what should I do ?

A. Parental authorization signed by both the parents is must, you have to submit this documents to CKGS to avoid further delay.

Q. I have applied for Indian visa for my minor Son/Daughter, Should my son/daughter needs to be present at VFS center for interview ?

A. No need for child to be present. Please submit notarized parental authorization signed by both parents along with other documents to process the visa.

Q. I have applied for E-visa and status is pending, could you please let me know the status of my E-Visa ?

A. E-visa is directly handled by authority in India, Consulate has no role in e-Visa, please do notcontact consulate for e-visa , for more details please visit : https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html . If you would like to apply for R egular V isa please visit (which is handled by consulate): ( https://www.in.ckgs.us/visa ).

  Q. What is authentic website of E-Visa ?

A. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

Q. What is the Processing timing for E-visa ?

A. E-visa is directly handled by authority in India, C onsulate has no role in E -Visa, please do not contact consulate for E -visa . For more details please visit : https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/tvoa.html

Q. What is the Processing timing for Regular Visa through CKGS ?

A. Once we receive the visa application from CKGS and if everything is in order (i.e. documentation etc.) then processing time will be as per below (excluding CKGS processing time);

a. US passport holders (2-3 working days)

b. Passport holders of other countries (5-10 working days)

c. Pakistan Passport holder OR Pakistani origin of US passport holders(minimum 45 working days)

Q. I entered wrong name/data in CKGS online visa form, how to edit it ?

A. Please contact CKGS helpline : https://www.in.ckgs.us/feedback/ OR Phone : 516-206-1483 / 646-589-0088

Q. Can I book my Air Ticket before getting the visa?

A. No bookings or travel arrangements should be confirmed until a visa decision has been made. Consulate will not be responsible for any loss of bookings made in anticipation of obtaining a Visa.

Q. If my visa is issued, from when does the validity begin?

A. The validity of the visa begins from the date it is issued and not from the date of your departure mentioned on the application form.

Q. What are the Emergency Visas?

A. Please visit our website and follow these steps :

Home › Consular Services › Visa Services › Emergency Visa

Q. Can I send my visa application directly to Consulate ?

Q. I have only one blank page left in my passport, can I apply for visa ?

A . No, for Visa minimum two blank pages in passport is required.

Q. I want to visit Sikkim/Arunachal Prades in India, how to get Restricted/Protected Area Permission ?

Q. How to get Restricted/Protected Area Permission ?

A. Foreign nationals intending to visit a place falling in the Protected/ Restricted Area in India, may submit an application for the grant of Protected/Restricted Area Permit to Concerned offices in particular Indian states OR nearest Indian Mission/Post. This requirement is in addition to getting an Indian visa. It will take shorter time, if the traveler apply for RAP from Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) /Resident Commissioners of the Concerned State Govt. through nearest metropolitan City OR through travel/tour operators in India. If traveler apply in Indian Mission/Post abroad, it will take around 5-6 weeks to process. For more details please visit: https://mha.gov.in/PDF_Other/AnnexVII_01022018.pdf

Q. Is there any restrictions on Indian Tourist Visa holder to re-entry in India within 2 months ?

A. With effect from January 24, 2013, the gap of two months required between visits to India of a foreign national on a Tourist Visa would be applicable only in the case of nationals of Afghanistan, China, Iran, Pakistan, Iraq, Sudan, foreigners of Pakistan origin and Stateless persons.

Q. I am traveling to Nepal via Delhi, do I need Indian transit Visa ?

A. Transit visa is not required by a foreigner passing through, in direct transit by air, and traveling onward through India, provided he/she does not leave the specified precincts of the airport. A transit visa is not required by a foreigner who does not leave the ship while it halts at an Indian port.

Q. I am an Artist visiting India to Participate in Painting Exhibition or Music show on Charitable basis (not Paid performance), which visa should I apply ?

Entry Visa : Those going to India for Charitable performances e.g an artist going for painting exhibition, musician for musical shows etc on charitable basis have to apply for Entry Visa.

Business Visa : Those going to India for short term paid performances e.g an artist going for painting exhibition, musician for musical shows etc have to apply for Business Visa.

Employment Visa : Those going to India for long term paid performances e.g an artist going for painting exhibition, musician for musical shows etc have to apply for Employment Visa.

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Page last updated on: March 22, 2024

How To Apply & Get An Indian e-Visa Online

India has some amazing architecture and natural sights, with famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra, and snow capped mountains in the Himalayas.

Most nationalities (except for Bhutanese and Nepali citizens) will need a visa to visit India, which is given in the form of an electronic Indian visa (eVisa) since November 2014.

This guide explains everything about how to get an Indian tourist visa using the e-Visa India website! I wrote it in 2019 and last updated it in 2024.

I went through this process as a tourist, but the process on the e-Visa India website is very similar for the other visa categories as well.

What Is The India eVisa?

The Indian e-Visa is for visitors coming to India on a short term trip for sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, short term medical treatment or casual business related things.

The 5 eVisa types are as follows: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, or e-Conference.

The eVisa is valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years from the date of your arrival in India, and it’s a double entry visa (for e-Tourist or e-Business), single entry visa (e-Conference), or triple entry visa (e-Medical). It’s non-extendable and non-convertible.

You can apply and pay online anywhere from 4 to 120 days in advance of your date of arrival in India, but no later than 4 days prior to arrival, otherwise the application will not be processed.

The eVisa is valid for entry through 26 designated airports and 5 seaports in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Goa. The full list of airports and seaports permitted for the India eVisa can be found here (click the Instructions For Applicant link on the left side).  

Who Is The eVisa Available To?

The eVisa is available to US citizens and those of 170+ other places , and the fee depends on your country/territory.

The current fee for American citizens and other countries can be found in their full list of fees by country on the website .

An additional bank transaction charge of 2.5% may be applicable on the eVisa India online website.

The visa fee is non-refundable, even if for some reason your application is rejected.  

How Can I Get The India eVisa?

The visa process may sound complicated, but don’t worry, it’s actually pretty simple! Here it is broken down in 4 short steps:

• 1. Apply Online. You will need to submit an application with a personal photo and passport page.
• 2. Pay Visa Fee. Credit or debit cards (or Paypal) are accepted for online payment.
• 3. Receive e-Visa. The visa will be sent to you by email.
• 4. Visit India. You will need to print the India eVisa and carry it with you at the time of travel.

Before You Apply For The Indian e-Visa

It’s important to fill out your visa application completely and accurately, otherwise it may be rejected.

Before applying on the eVisa India website, make sure of the following:

• Passport Validity. Your passport should have >6 months validity
• Visa Pages. Your passport should have at least 2 blank visa pages for stamping
• Sufficient Funds. You should have enough money for your stay in India (this is rarely questioned), and also a return ticket or onward ticket.

You will also need to have the following items on your computer:

• Personal Photo. This should be a recent, clear photo of your face with a white background. JPEG format is required.
• Passport Photo. This should be your main passport page with your name, date of birth, nationality, etc. PDF format is required. If you need help changing your passport image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Note: If you’re applying for an e-Business or e-Medical visa, in addition to the above you will also need a copy of the business card (for the e-Business visa) or a copy of the letter from the hospital concerned in India on its letterhead (for the e-Medical visa).  

How To Apply For The India eVisa (Indian Tourist Visa)

When you’re ready to proceed, you can begin your visa application at the Indian government’s official eVisa website:

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

THIS IS IMPORTANT. There are other websites circulating on the internet that mimic this one or pretend to grant speedy visas, but those are often scams and they will take your money. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER WEBSITE.

I’ve provided some photos below as EXAMPLES to guide you through the application, but these are not from my actual eVisa submission. In other words, the addresses and other data I used in the images below are only examples. With that said, the pages you see in your visa application will resemble the ones shown in these images.

If anything has changed in the application process since this guide was written, please let me know in the comments at the bottom of this page and I will update the guide ASAP. I will do my best to keep this entire page up to date.

To begin your visa application, click the button circled in red that says Apply here for e-visa .

Visa Application Page 1

E-visa application.

Passport Type*:  Select Ordinary Passport Nationality*:  Select your country from the dropdown list Port Of Arrival*:  Select the airport you will be flying into Date Of Birth*: Email ID*: Re-enter Email ID*: Expected Date Of Arrival*: Visa Service*: Select from the list, and then choose an activity that best fits your trip to India Please Enter Above Text*: Enter the captcha code given

(Items above marked with  * are required.)

Page 1 of the Indian visa online application on the eVisa India website. Very straightforward.

After selecting continue, if you’re applying for the Indian tourist visa (e-Tourist), then a small message will appear: “The following documents are required to be submitted. 1) Photograph. 2) Passport.” Select OK.

(For some reason the photo dimensions here state 2″ x 2″ but when you come to the actual uploader, the correct minimum dimensions will be 350 x 350 pixels. You’ll use the latter. Side note: separate messages may appear for Business/Medical eVisa applications.)

You can ignore this message on the Indian visa application and click OK.

You have now arrived at the second page of the Indian visa online application form. It’s a good idea to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you have issues or need to come back to your application later.  

Visa Application Page 2

Applicant details form.

Surname: Exactly as in your passport Given Name*: Exactly as in your passport Have You Ever Changed Your Name?* If yes, click the box and give details Gender*: Date Of Birth: Automatically filled in Town/City Of Birth*: Country Of Birth*: Citizenship/National ID No*:  If not applicable, type NA Religion*: Visible Identification Marks*:  List any tattoos if you have them, otherwise put NONE Education*: Nationality:  Automatically filled in Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?* Select yours Have You Lived For At Least Two Years In The Country Where You Are Applying Visa?* Select yes or no  

Passport Details

Passport Number*: Place Of Issue*: Whatever nationality is on your passport Date Of Issue*: Date Of Expiry*: Any Other Valid Passport/Identity Certificate (IC) Held?* Yes or no. If yes, give details

Page 2 of the e-Visa India application form. Personal identification details.

Visa Application Page 3

Applicant’s address details.

House No./Street*: Village/Town/City*: Country*: State/Province/District*: Postal/ZIP Code*: Phone No.*: One phone number is required Mobile No.: Email Address: Automatically filled in Click Here For Same Address*: Click here if your permanent address is the same address as above, and then it will be applied.

Page 3 of the Indian visa online. Personal address details.

Visa Application Page 3 (continued)

Father’s details.

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality:  Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:  

Mother’s Details

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality: Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:

Applicant’s Marital Status:  Select whether you’re single or married. If married (or separated but not divorced), enter your spouse’s details. If divorced, just select single. Were Your Parents/Grandparents (Paternal/Maternal) Pakistan Nationals Or Belong To Pakistan Held Area?  Select yes or no  

Profession / Occupation Details Of Applicant

Present Occupation*:  Select your occupation from the dropdown list. If it’s something else, select ‘Others’ and then enter it. The image below gives an example. Employer Name/Business*: Designation: Address*:  Phone: Past Occupation, If Any: Are/Were You In A Military/Semi-Military/Police/Security Organization?* Select yes or no. If yes, a dropdown will appear asking for the following: Organisation, Designation, Rank and Place Of Posting.

Page 3 (continued). Family and occupation details for the Indian visa online.

Visa Application Page 4

Details of visa sought.

Type Of Visa:  Automatically filled in Visa Service:  Automatically filled in Places To Be Visited*: Enter any cities or areas (e.g. Delhi) you will be visiting in India Places To Be Visited Line 2:  Duration Of Visa:  Automatically filled in No. Of Entries:  Automatically filled in Port Of Arrival In India:  Automatically filled in Expected Port Of Exit From India*:  Select the correct airport from the dropdown  

Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details

Have You Ever Visited India Before?*  Select yes or no. If yes, enter the name and address of the place you stayed previously. Cities In India Visited*:  Enter details from previous visits Last Indian Visa No/Currently Valid Indian Visa*:  If your previous visit was with an eVisa, the number will be written on the stamp given in passport. If you don’t know the number, type unknown. Type Of Visa*:  Tourist Place Of Issue*:  United States (if it was a regular visa). Enter the airport name in India if it was an eVisa. Date Of Issue*:  The date it was issued. For an eVisa, you can use the date of entry from the stamp on your passport, or possibly in your email. Has Permission To Visit Or To Extend Stay In India Previously Been Refused?*  Select yes or no. Hopefully the answer is no  

Other Information

Countries Visited In Last 10 Years:  List any countries you’ve recently visited. I didn’t have room to list all of them, so I included a partial list. This field is not mandatory.  

SAARC Country Visit Details

Have You Visited SAARC Countries (Except Your Own Country) During Last 3 Years?*:  The list of SAARC countries can be found in the dropdown list.

Page 4 of the eVisa application. Your travel details.

Visa Application Page 4 (continued)

Reference Name In India*:  Your accommodation details will work Address*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on Google Maps or the listing at Booking.com or Agoda.com Phone*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on their website or on Google Maps Reference Name In Home Country*:  A relative or friend will work Address*:  Phone*: 

Page 4 (continued). Travel and reference details.

Visa Application Page 5

Additional question details.

• Have You Ever Been Arrested/Prosecuted/Convicted By Court Of Law Of Any Country?*  Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Refused Entry/Deported By Any Country Including India?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Human Trafficking / Drug Trafficking / Child Abuse / Crime Against Women / Economic Offense / Financial Fraud?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Cyber Crime / Terrorist Activities / Sabotage / Espionage / Genocide / Political Killing / Other Act Of Violence?* Yes or 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?* Yes or no
• Have You Sought Asylum (Political Or Otherwise) In Any Country?* Yes or no

Page 5 of the Indian visa online application. Background questions.

Visa Application Page 6

Upload photograph.

At this point you will be asked to upload a personal photo.

If you need to come back and do this later, you can save and exit the application (but make sure to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you want to reuse your application later).

The photo format will need to be JPEG, with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 1 MB. Minimum dimensions are 350 pixels wide x 350 pixels high. The personal photo needs to be recent and front facing, with a white background.

The picture needs to be a clear photo of your face. You can get these done at places like Walgreens, for example. Unfortunately you cannot crop your passport photo to use for this, it needs to be a separate photo.

It’s important to follow all of these specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa India application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the photo you want to choose; then click upload photo .

After uploading the photo, you’re given an opportunity to crop the photo or upload it again if you’d like.

Page 6 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your personal photo.

Visa Application Page 7

Upload passport.

Next, you will be asked to upload a copy of your passport page.

This should be the photo page with personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiration date, etc. It should match the passport details entered in your eVisa application.

The file should be in PDF format with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 300 KB. If you need help changing your passport file from an image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Again, it’s important to follow all of the specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the PDF file you want to choose; then click upload document .

Page 7 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your passport.

Verification & Payment

After submitting your passport upload, the next page will ask you to confirm ALL of the previous details from your Indian e-Visa application.

Look these over thoroughly to make sure you entered everything correctly, because this will be your last chance to edit anything. Once you verify and continue, you will be brought to the visa payment page.

At this point, you can pay for the visa now or later. Follow the instructions on the page for either option. You should also write down the visa Application ID so you can access the application again.

You can pay with international credit or debit cards, or you can make your visa payment with Paypal. I used Paypal and I would recommend this. It was easy to process.

If you don’t have a Paypal account, then the next best option is probably using your card via the Axis option.  

After submission and payment, you will get an email from the Indian government saying that your Indian visa online application was submitted successfully and will take 72 hours for processing.

Generally you will hear back in much quicker time; in my case the Indian visa application was processed and granted in under 24 hours.

You MUST print the email you receive containing the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and present it to the immigration officer when you arrive in India. I would recommend printing and bringing at least two copies.

The government of India emphasizes that you should also track your application and make sure that the status says  granted on the official eVisa India website ( same link as above ) before making your journey to India.  

What If My India Visa Is Rejected?

If your India visa is rejected, don’t worry. You can apply again, and there’s no minimum amount of time you have to wait before re-applying for a visa. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then you can go ahead and do it when you’re ready.

However, it’s important to find out why you were rejected so you can fix it in your next application. Unfortunately a reason is not always given, but generally the most common reasons for India visas being rejected are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specifications.

When reapplying, you’ll be faced with this question: “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?”

How you answer this question will depend on why you were rejected in your first application. If it was a simple clerical error like a wrong date or wrong photo specifications, then I would answer no, because you weren’t actually refused a visa for visiting India due to being ineligible for some reason, you only made a minor mistake in the submission process that can easily be corrected.

Good luck and happy travels!

Best India Tours

More travel guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you were helped by this guide on how to fill out an Indian e-visa application.

While you’re waiting for your visa to be processed, don’t forget to check out the other travel guides on my blog!

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I’m very impressed by the quality of information on this website. There are a lot of good resources here. I’m sure I will visit this place again soon.

I have an extra copy of my passport photo. Although it is the same picture as in my passport it is not just a cropped version of the photo in the passport. Is this acceptable?

Hi Jeanne, I haven’t tried that myself but it should be okay as long as it meets the other requirements for the personal photo. Regards

I used my extra copy of my passport photo this past week for my India E-visa, and it worked!

Thank you, David, for providing the details regarding the E-visa information. It was really helpful and guided me as I entered the required fields in the application.

Good to hear. Thanks Esther!

why is it that when i filled the places to be visited form, it says invalid characters

What are you trying to enter there?

Once we receive ETA the first name and last name are shuffled is it the same for everyone?

Yes, it was the same on my ETA. No problem.

Hi David, thank you SO MUCH for this helpful post. I’m flying to India in a month and my e-visa application was just rejected (I traveled to India in early 2020 and had no issues at all) so I’m now going through the process of carefully re-applying… one question I’m hoping you can help me with: I just got married 2 weeks ago, do you expect it to be an issue to check the “married” box despite the fact my (USA & Israeli) passports say nothing about being married (or single, for that matter?) also -I can’t seem to find anything online about a minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying… any idea? Trying to minimize all odds of being rejected again. Thanks so much again, really appreciate your guidance.

Hi Abigail! Glad the post was helpful for you. Yes, it should be okay to put married on the application. Like you say, the marital status isn’t shown on the passport anyway, and spouse names aren’t always changed right away after marriage either, or sometimes they never change. So that should be fine. As far as I know, there’s no minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then I would go ahead and try again. Do you know why you were rejected the first time? I would figure that out before re-applying. Good luck!

Hi David! Another important question – for the “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?” question on page 4 – would my previous e-visa rejection quality as a “yes”?

For this question, I think it would depend on the reason why you were rejected on the first application. Was it a simple error like a wrong date, wrong photo specifications, etc? If so, I would answer no, you weren’t refused a visa for visiting India, your application was only rejected because of a minor mistake. This is different from refusing you a visa because you aren’t eligible for some reason.

My e-visa application just got rejected without any specific reason provided. All they mention in the remark is “You may apply for Regular/Official Visa at nearest Indian Mission/Embassy abroad”. I compared my application to yours and the only difference I see is that for “city/town” of birth I put down city and state as opposed to state only. Would you happen to know if this could have caused the rejection?

Hi Jan! That shouldn’t cause a rejection. I’ve heard of people doing it either way (city and state, or city only). Both are correct answers. Do you think there might be another issue on your application? The most common things are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specs.

Thanks so much. This is very helpful.

Question – on page 2 it asks if you ever changed your name. Am I correct in assuming that I put yes because I changed my name when I got married?

Hi Judy! If your passport still has your maiden name, I would use that name in the application and answer no to the question about name change. If your passport has your married name, I would use that name in the application and answer yes to the question about name change. However, I know of people who have applied successfully either way. It shouldn’t affect your application.

Thank you, this was very helpful. I have a question on section “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details”. I have traveled to India multiple times, but as an Indian citizen and held an Indian passport. Now I am no longer Indian citizen and applying for India Tourist visa for first time. What do I click in this “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details” section’s “Have you ever visited India before?”

Hi Sylvia, in that case you can answer “No” for the question “Have you ever visited India before?” because they’re asking if you’ve visited India on a visa before, and you haven’t. You were a citizen and resident, not a visitor. They should be able to understand this since you will list your country of birth as India on page 2 of the application, and also when they ask “Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?” you can put Naturalization.

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Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

India tourist visa from the embassy in 2023: A complete guide

Published: June 7, 2023

This article is a complete guide to obtaining India tourist visa from the embassy or consulate. You can learn everything about India tourist visa types, requirements, eligibility, documents needed, fee and application procedure.

Indian missions around the world issue India tourist visas for those that require a visa to enter India. Most nationalities are eligible to apply for an e-Visa or Visa on Arrival. But there are a handful of nationalities that are not eligible. These nationalities must apply for a tourist visa at their nearest Indian embassy or consulate. 

Nationalities that are eligible for India e-Visa or India Visa on Arrival are also eligible to apply for an Indian tourist visa from their nearest Indian embassy or consulate. There may be occasions where a tourist visa from the embassy is a better choice than an India e-Visa or India Visa on Arrival . For example, US nationals can get a 10-year tourist visa from the embassy vs an Indian e-Visa which is only valid for 5 years. So a tourist visa from the embassy is a better choice in this case.

There are three types of tourist visa categories T-1, T-2 and T-3. T-1 is for tourists. T-2 is for tour groups and T-3 is for cruise passengers. 

Table of Contents

Requirements for india tourist visa from the embassy (sticker visa).

Who is required to apply for India tourist visa?

Following nationalities are REQUIRED to apply for an Indian tourist visa from the embassy in order to travel to India.

• Congo, Dem. of
• Congo, Dem. Rep. of
• North Korea
• Saudi Arabia
• South Sudan
• Turkmenistan

NOTE Nationals who are eligible to apply for e-Visa or Visa on Arrival can also apply for an India tourist visa from the embassy. 

Pakistan citizens are restricted from obtaining Indian tourist visas from the embassy. They must apply for a special visa. 

Anyone of Pakistan origin is granted only a 3-month single-entry tourist visa. Applicants whose parents or grandparents were born or ever lived in Pakistan are considered of Pakistan origin. 

What are the different types of India tourist visas available?

Indian embassies offer three types of tourist visas depending on whether the applicant is an individual, a tour group or a cruise passenger. Below is a summary of the three categories of Indian tourist visas offered at the embassy. 

NOTE For this article, we will focus only on the T-1 category meant for individual tourists. 

What is the validity of India tourist visa?

India tourist visa is valid for 1 year, 5 years and 10 years. Your tourist visa validity varies depending on your nationality. Below is a summary of various nationalities and the corresponding tourist visa validity. 

How many days can you stay in India on a tourist visa?

You can stay up to 90 days in India on a tourist visa. Canada, Japan and US nationals can stay up to 180 days. Below is the summary of permitted stay for your tourist visa depending on your nationality.

How many times can you enter India on tourist visa?

All tourist visas from India are multiple-entry, except for those of Pakistan origin. That means you can enter India as many times as you like. But there are some restrictions on how frequently you can enter India on your multiple-entry visa.

When can you enter India on a tourist visa?

You can enter India anytime during the validity of your tourist visa. You are allowed to stay 90 days on each entry (or 180 days if you are a Canada, Japan, UK or US national).

Even if you enter India on the last day of your visa validity, you will still be given 90 days of entry (or 180 days if you are a Canada, Japan, UK or US national)

When should you apply for India tourist visa?

Indian tourist visas can be applied for up to 180 days in advance. But the latest is 30 days as the visa processing takes 15-20 calendar days in some locations. 

Where should you apply for Indian tourist visa?

You can apply for an India tourist visa from any Indian embassy/consulate in any country. You don’t have to be a citizen or resident of that country. You can be a tourist as well. 

In case you are a non-resident or a tourist in a country, the Indian embassy where you have applied may consult the Indian embassy in your home country for the visa process. This usually does not delay the visa process. 

Which airports or land borders you can enter India from using tourist visa?

You can enter India from all international airports, sea ports and land borders using an India tourist visa obtained from the Indian Embassy. There are no restrictions on where you can enter or exit the country with a tourist visa.

What is the minimum passport validity required for India tourist visa?

Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from the date of arrival.

How many blank pages are required in the passport for India tourist visa?

You need at least two blank pages in your passport for your Indian tourist visa. One blank page is necessary for the visa sticker and another is for entry and exit stamps when entering and leaving India. 

What are the documents needed for India tourist visa?

The following documents are needed for tourist visa.

• Completed and signed India visa application form
• One digital photo for the online application
• One physical photograph to affix on the completed application form
• Proof of residence (ID, passport or visa)

What are the India tourist visa photo requirements?

You must upload one digital photo during your online application. The photo must meet the following specifications.

• Must be in JPG or JPEG format only
• Must be a minimum of 10 KB and a maximum of 300 KB
• Must be square in dimensions
• Must not have any borders
• Background must be white or light color
• Must not have any shadows on the face or on the background
• Must show full head from the top of the hair to the bottom of the chin
• Head must be about 1 inch to 1 ⅜ inches, i.e roughly 25mm to 35mm
• Eye height must be between 1 ⅛ inches to 1 ⅜ inches

What is the current India tourist visa fee?

The visa fee varies depending on the visa period, the embassy’s location and the nationality. For example, the fee for a 10-year India visa for a US citizen applying from the US is $160 plus VFS charges. The fee for a 1 year India visa for Bangladesh nationals applying from Bangladesh is free of charge. 

What is the current India tourist visa processing time?

The India tourist visa processing time is 3 working days the application is submitted directly at the Indian embassy/consulate. 

The processing time is 15 calendar days or more if applied through a visa application center such as VFS. 

Whether you must apply at the visa application center or directly at an Indian mission depends on your location and whether or not the Indian embassy/consulate has outsourced its visa application process. 

INDIA TOURIST VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

How to apply for Indian tourist visa from the embassy?

The India tourist visa application is a two-step process.

STEP 1: Online Application

Step 2: appointment.

The first step in the Indian tourist visa application process is to fill out an online application on the India visa portal . 

If you are a family or group, each person must complete one online application form. There is no family application. Similarly, each person must schedule one separate visa appointment for document submission. 

In the online application, you must select the Indian embassy/consulate where you plan to apply for your visa. 

After filling out the application, you must print and sign it. 

If the Indian embassy/consulate did not outsource the visa application to a visa application center, then you can walk into the embassy/consulate any day to pay the fee and submit your visa application. 

If the Indian embassy/consulate has outsourced the visa process to a visa application center, then you will have to go to the visa application center’s website and schedule an appointment. You may be able to pay the visa fee while scheduling the appointment. 

On the day of the appointment, you must submit your completed and signed application form, photographs and original passport. You must also pay the fee if you haven’t while scheduling the appointment. 

If there is no visa application center near you, you can also send your completed application and documents to the visa application center by mail. 

Word of caution on India tourist visa fake websites

If you search on the internet, you will see that there are many Indian visa websites posing as “official websites”. There is ONLY one OFFICIAL website for Indian tourist visas. The rest are all fake. The OFFICIAL website is below.

India tourist visa OFFICIAL website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/index.html  

How to track India tourist visa application?

If applied directly at an Indian embassy or consulate: There is no option to track your application. But the processing time is fairly quick. The Indian mission where you are applying will tell you when to come back and pick up your passport, which is usually within 3 working days. 

If applied at a visa application center such as VFS: You can track your visa application status on the visa application center’s website. 

How to receive the approved India tourist visa?

If applied directly at an Indian embassy or consulate: At the time of submitting your documents at the embassy, the visa officer will tell you when to come back to pick up your passport. You will simply have to go back on that day to pick up your passport with your India visa. 

If applied at a visa application center such as VFS: When your visa is processed, you will be notified by email to pick up your passport. If you have opted for returning the passport via mail/courier, your passport will have mailed to your address.

Is there a priority service for India tourist visa?

Unfortunately, there is no priority visa service for Indian tourist visas. You must apply at least 30 calendar days prior to your travel to avoid any delays. Or you can opt for an India e-Visa which usually is processed within 72 hours. 

How to contact India tourist visa customer service?

You will have to contact your nearest embassy or the visa application center for any questions.

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.

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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.

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Global Gallivanting

The complete guide to applying for an indian visa for us citizens.

FAQs and a complete step by step guide on how to apply for an Indian Visa for US Citizens.

Guest post by patricia from www.zewanderingfrogs.com, 2019 update, 1 year online tourist, business and medical indian evisas are now available for citizens of 161 countries horay, so you may not need this post anymore  read this new post about how to get your 1 year indian evisa online .

Almost all nationalities, including US citizens, need to apply for a visa before traveling to  India which means that applying for an Indian visa is an essential part of  planning any trip to India.   As the process of applying for an Indian Visa for US citizens can sometimes be a little confusing and time consuming, and I get a lot of questions about applying for Indian visas and wrote a post for UK citizens and Canadians and thought it was time I helped out my American readers so I asked Patricia, an American, who blogs at www.zewanderingfrogs.com to write a step by step guide to make applying for an Indian visa for US citizens easier.

There are 2 main options when applying for an Indian visa for US citizens – if you are only visiting India for up to 60 days ( 2 months) you can apply online for an E visa , or if you need longer you’ll have to send your passport off to apply for a longer term visa.

The great thing about the E-Visa is that you can apply online from anywhere in the world – so if you are already traveling you can easily apply for an E-Visa to India. If you need the longer term visa it’s best to apply while your in the States.

It’s important to be aware that all nationalities  must apply for a visa before visiting India , even if applying for an E-Visa – confusingly it’s not a visa on arrival so you must apply before you travel. It’s also important to be aware that Indian tourist visas are valid from the date of issue, not the date of your entry to India. So make sure that you prepare in advance and that you start the application process so that your visa coincides with your travel dates – don’t apply too early or your visa could expire before the end of your trip!

We will go into full details about how to apply for both types of Indian visa for US Citizens in this post.

Please bear in mind this is from the point of view of an American passport holder and while all efforts have been to ensure the information here is correct guidelines can change frequently and suddenly. Also, this is just from my experience and I am not an immigration professional. Requirements and processes for other nationalities are different – if you are from the UK see this post on  how to apply for an Indian visa for UK citizens.    If you’re from Canada check out this post on how to apply for an Indian visa for Canadian citizens . Also be aware that the process is also different if you are of Pakistani origin.

Pin me and help out other travellers 🙂

Short Term Indian Visas for US Citizens – Visa on Arrival and E-Visas

How to apply for an indian e visa for us citizens.

The new E-Visa (also known as an ETA (electronic travel authority) is the cheapest, quickest and easiest way to get an Indian visa for US Citizens and is good for trips upto 60 days. The E-visa has sometimes been described as a ‘visa on arrival’ but you must still apply for the visa in advance before you travel.  

Citizens from 161 countries are eligible to apply online for an  E Tourist Visa to India , including citizens of the USA, Canada, UK and Ireland, Australia, New Zealand and many European Countries. At first the ETA was only valid for 30 days (1 month), but now the  E Visas are valid for 60 days (2 months) .

The cost for an E-Visa for India depends on your nationality. The cost for an Indian E-visa for US citizens is now USD $75 plus a small admin fee. The application process is fully online, and you can apply a minimum of 4 days before your arrival date in India. However, E Visas are NOT extendable or convertible and you can only apply for an E-Visa twice per year.

You can enter India on an E Visa at 24 airports and 3 seaports; Cochin, Goa and Mangalore. The E-visa has three subcategories; e-Tourist Visa, e-Business Visa and e-Medical Visa. Double entry is permitted on E-Tourist Visa and E-Business Visa. Triple Entry is allowed for E-Medical visa.

How to Apply for an Indian E Visa online

You can apply for an E Visa to India on the government website at  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ The process is fully online and your visa will be emailed to you but you need to make sure that a printed copy of your visa approval must be with you when you arrive in India . The visa will then be affixed to your passport at the airport when you arrive in India. 

As the process is fully online (i.e. you are not required to send off your passport and wait for 2 weeks for the visa to be processed like you do with the longer term visas) the E-Visa makes planning a holiday to India so much quicker and easier.

However, bear in mind that applying for the E Visa can still be quite confusing as there is still a lot of paperwork to fill out and the forms ask you a lot of questions. You also need to make sure the photo you upload meets the specific requirements. Plus, the fee for the visa and for processing of the application are non-refundable, even if the visa is not granted, so if you make a mistake on the forms you could be rejected and have to apply and pay again.

Also, if your parents or grandparents were born in Pakistan, whatever your current nationality,  sadly you’re not eligible to get an E-Tourist Visa so unfortunately you will have to apply for a normal Tourist Visa.

To take the stress and hassle out of applying for your Indian visa you can use  iVisa  They charge a small service fee but they offer a zero frustration policy and make the process simpler and easier to follow. They can process your application and send your E Visa via email in only 18 hours. They also have a window for arrival of 120 days meaning you can get your visa sorted well in advance of your trip but remember you still need to apply online no later than 4 days in advance of your arrival date to India.

Longer Term Indian Visas for US Citizens

Because India is such a big country with so much to see, it is likely that you will want to spend a more extended period in India. If you are looking to travel in India for more than 1 or 2 months, you’ll need to apply for an Indian visa from the USA by sending off your passport. The Indian visa application process in the USA has been outsourced to Cox and Kings.

While most nationalities apply for 6 or 12 month Indian visa (and have to pay much higher fees), US citizens are lucky are as we can apply for a 5 or 10-year multiple entry tourist visa for India. These two options come with multiple entries, which will be helpful if you travel frequently across Asia and plan for different visits to India.

But be aware that even with a 5 or 10-year multiple entry tourist visas each stay cannot be longer than 180 days per visit. These 5 or 10-year multiple entries tourist visas are only granted for recreation and sightseeing purposes and doesn’t allow any employment while in India. Other activity such as studying, work, business, journalism, etc., which require more documents and different visas but this post is only for tourist visas.

As with any visa application, there is no guarantee that the visa will be granted. Should the visa be refused, there will be no refund of the visa fees. The duration allowed might also be different than what you asked for.

Before starting your application, make sure your US passport meets the following requirements: “The passport must be valid for 6 months at the time of visa application. The Passport must have at least 2 blank Visa pages available for India Visa stamp. Amendment pages in the back of the passport are not suitable for Indian Visa.”

How much does a tourist visa for India cost for a US citizen?

Fees may differ based on previous nationality, occupation, etc and tend to increase every year. A 10-year multiple entry tourist visa for India cost us US$120 as US passport holders. 

The fees include the visa fees, CKCS service fees as well as other fees. You can check estimated costs on their Visa Fee Calculator.

The fees for 10 or 5 year multiple entry Indian visa for US citizens are now $150 plus an admin fee of $7.70. For a 6 month visa the fee is $60 plus an admin fee of $7.70.

As with all Indian visas, the visa payment is non-refundable and it’s not guaranteed it will be approved.

How to apply for a 5-year or 10-year Indian tourist visa from the USA with Cox and Kings

When applying for an Indian visa from the USA the visa process goes through Cox and Kings .  Do not start the process before thoroughly reading the Visa Application Guide , and bookmark this section as you will go back several times.

A key document is the Document Checklist , (the CKGS website has been customized so that depending on your nationality, type of visa and category, purpose of visit, duration, once you complete the widget, you will get the appropriate visa to apply for along with the fees, document checklist and documents required)  which provides a detailed list of which paperwork you need, which ones need to be originals or copies, the numbers of copies, and formats required.

A printed copy of the list Document Checklist must be given with your application. We suggest printing two copies – one for you to track your documents gathering, one to be handed over. We highly recommend not skipping this step.

You need to get the following ready before starting the actual online process:

Itinerary : List the places you plan on visiting. It is suggested on different forums to avoid listing sensitive areas such as Kashmir. Note that a Tourist visa doesn’t allow to enter regions such as Nagaland, Manipur, Mizoram, Arunachal Pradesh, Parts of Sikkim, Parts of Himachal Pradesh, Parts of Uttar Pradesh (now Uttaranchal), Parts of Jammu & Kashmir, Parts of Rajasthan and Andaman and the Nicobar Islands. To enter these regions, you will have to apply for a restricted/protected area permit (RAP/PAP).

Previous Trip to India : You need to provide detailed information such as cities visited, visa type and number, date, and place of issue, and places where you stayed.

Countries Visited: Make sure to list of all the countries you visited during the last 10 years. If you don’t mention a country for which your passport has a stamp for, this might be a cause for visa refusal.

Expected Date of Journey: The day you are planning to travel to India. It doesn’t have to be exact since you don’t need to have purchased a ticket yet. As a reminder, the India visa starts on the day of approval, not necessarily the date you are to enter the country.

Proof of address: Provide one of the following documents no more than 3 months old (Utility bill Water or Electricity or Gas), Year to Year Lease signed by Landlord and tenant (no month to month), State Issue ID or Driver License (with at least 6 months validity). Do NOT cut any of these documents to a smaller size. If the proof of address is not in the applicant’s name, then a proof of relationship is required (marriage certificate or birth certificate).

How to apply for an Indian visa by post or in person

When applying for an Indian visa from the USA you need to start through Cox and Kings website, whether you want to apply by post or in person. The first step is to visit their website and get familiar with the process and the requirements. Do NOT apply on the Indian Consulate website.

Indian Visa Application – Get Started

Once you have all the necessary items, start the online process. The form is quite detailed, and the filling takes some times, especially as you might have to answer similar questions a couple of times. If you are filling different applications, you might want to keep notes in a Word Doc or Google Doc to make it faster, though the copy/paste feature did not work all the time. Every individual has to apply for his / her application independently.

Follow the instructions as you select each item from the provided drop-down menus. These drop-downs and questions are pretty straightforward even though a couple might feel repetitive. Many questions regarding whether any of your parent or grandparent are from Pakistan, or whether your job is related to media, journalism, or the army. An affirmative answer to any of these questions might require you to apply for a different visa.

If you are a dual citizen of another country and hold another passport, you will need to list this passport details (passport number, country, and dates of validity)

Questions Worth Highlighting:

Center you need to apply : Depending on the state of you live in; you will have to apply to predetermined center. This preset Center will be automatically listed once you select your state of residence. Many cities in the US might have to choose a Center in a different state for their applications.

Family details : Extensive questions cover whether you have any close family relations with Pakistan, up to your grandparents. You will need to provide the place of birth for your parents and spouse, if relevant.

Mode of Payment: You can pay by Credit Card both online and at the Center, but Cash will only be accepted for Walk-in applications. Payment has to be made separately for each applicant, even minors. Personal checks are not allowed. Make sure to print or ask for a receipt as you need to include the copy of the receipt with your application.

Reference Numbers: Keep note of the Web Reference Number as you will need for any track and correspondence with CKGS. You might see three different numbers, make sure to take notes of all of them (temporary application ID / CJ Temporary ID, and Visa Reference) as you might be asked for either at different points of the application process.

Religion : One of the questions asks you to enter your religion. You have the option to choose ‘Others’ and in the field below that, enter “NA.”

Before Submitting your Application Review the details of your application as any mistaken cannot be changed once you clicked the Verified and Continue button. Mistakes can lead to visa refusal or have to re-apply for your visa.

Once the review is done, print your applications.  You find these documents under “My Account” if you need to retrieve them at a later stage.

• Print a copy of the Document Checklist as part of your application package.
• Review the Document Checklist to ensure you have all the necessary documents. Remember to double check which documents need to be originals or copies, and ensure these are in colors
• Add your photos: Glue or paperclip only – Do NOT staple
• Sign where required
• You will need to give your actual passport with your application as the visa will be stamped on it

Walk-In Application

Appointments: Only needed if you are applying through a Walk-in at a CKGS Center. Mailing your application will avoid waiting times on site. Scheduling an appointment is done during your online application process. If you already have a date and need to either change or cancel, you can do so online on the CKGS Appointment You can also use that page to reprint your Appointment letter.

Biometric enrolment: Biometrics are not available at this point.

However, it is mandatory if you apply for a Walk-in Visa Application in the San Francisco Some exceptions cases include applicants below 12 Years or above 70 Years, applicants with an official passport, Diplomatic passport or UN passport, and applicants with no fingers.

At the Center: Upon arrival, an office clerk will quickly verify your application and ensure you already paid. If not, this will be the time to do it. You are then given a number and are directed to a waiting area until your number is called. We waited around 30 minutes. The processing clerk reviewed our application, payment, check our passport and documents, and told us to check on the CKGS website to keep track of our application. The whole visit lasted about one hour.

Photos required for the Indian Tourist Visa Application

The application for the Indian visa for US citizens requires 2 passport photos with specific requirements:

• 2 recent passport photos taken within the past 6 month
• Each picture 2 inches by 2 inches size (51mm x 51mm), which is the same size used in the US
• Among other requirements, the photos must be in color printed on glossy photo paper, full face, and neither scanned nor printed.

Besides the printed versions of these passport photos, you will also need to upload a digital copy during your online application.

References for applying for an Indian Visa for US Citizens

The application form will ask for two different references, one in the US, and one in India.

• Reference in India: If you don’t know anyone in India, enter the hotel information (name address, and telephone number). You don’t need a hotel confirmation, just the information where you are thinking of staying.
• Reference in the USA: This can be a member of your family, a friend, a colleague, as long as the person lives in the US.

Where to send your Indian visa application

For many applicants applying for an Indian visa from the USA mailing your paperwork might be the only option, if the Center is not in your state of residency or far away even in the same state.

If you select Shipping during the online process, Cox and Kings have specific requirements to do that through their CKGS Courier Service . Given that you are sending your passport by mail, you want to be sure to review the process.

Because no one from the Consulate will be able to double-check your application, just recheck your documents before sending:

• Printed and signed application form
• Two photos (I usually put my name, Passport number, and signature in the back in case the photos get misplaced from the application)
• Payment receipt
• Any other documents that might have been required during the online process

To avoid any issue, double-check the address where to send your application.

How long does an Indian visa for US citizens take to process?

Processing times vary based on visa type and nationality of the passport, but for Indian visas for US citizens it usually takes between 5 to 10 working days. Watch for US and Indian holidays which might lengthen the process. To be safe, it is recommended to apply at least 15 days before your travel dates.

You can track the status on your application directly online under the Track My Application page.

Once the application processed and the visa hopefully granted, it’s time to get these back. If you chose the Shipping option, you just need to await the delivery. If you selected Walk-in, you don’t need to have an appointment and can go collect your passport during the document collection hours.

Only you or your immediate family member can collect the document on your behalf. Immediate family member is defined as your Spouse, Parents, Siblings, or Children above the age of 18. Please make sure that the person has the following documents:

• The Payment Receipt
• A State Govt ID like a driving license
• An Authorization letter signed by you.

An old rule prevented travelers from re-entering India within 2 months, even with a valid visa. This requirement has been lifted for US citizens as well as most nationalities, though it is still a restriction for a few nationalities.

This is a guest post from Patricia Pagenel, the founder of  www.ZeWanderingFrogs.com  an outdoor activities and adventure travel blog. Together with her husband Bruno, they explored 50+ countries over five continents. Both are from the USA and currently on a long-term round-the-world trip through Asia, Africa, and Latin America. 

We hope this helps you with the process of applying for an Indian visa for US citizens. Don’t miss checking out the Complete Step by Step Guide to Planning for your trip to India   , the best places to visit in India and my perfect India itinerary. 

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Thanks a lot for this detailed description and the tips. I plan to visit India next year for at least 3 months, and this will be a great starting point. Really looking forward to it.

Thanks for the detailed guide, Anna. I am currently in India but my 3-month visa is expiring and now I see they have changed some things around. For example, if you are already in India and your visa is expiring, you have to contact the embassy through your home country, which does not make sense at all. I;m a bit anxious as my date is nearing and my freelance project is still only halfway. Any tips or workaround?

Hi Bella, unfortunately you cannot extend a tourist visa when you are in India. You must leave the country if you overstay you will get a fine and banned from India. If you don’t want to go to your home country you could apply again from a neighbouring country like Sri Lanka or Nepal or you could apply online for an e visa.

After spending over 3 hours on the first of 3 e-visas, I made a step by step with screen shots and fixes for the common problems. If it can be of help check it out. http://letsvagabond.com/how-to-get-your-e-visa-for-india/

Thanks for sharing Roger 🙂

Hi Anna and thanks very much! My daughter has moved to India (for the next year) and I would like to have the freedom to visit her more than once over the next 6-9 months, but I live in Austria and am not sure how easy it will be for me to get a tourist visa. I have a few questions about the e-visa. It was my understanding after reading several varied resources that the e-visa is valid from the date of entry to India, is good for 60 days, and can be used for two entries. I also read that only two in a “calendar year” can be issued, which should mean that I could have two before and two after January 1, 2019? If anyone has any clarification on these questions, I’d much appreciate it!

Hi Andrea – yes at the time of writing this is the correct information – but it can change and you are only allowed 2 e visas in a year. You should be able to apply for online e visa wherever you are in the world. You can also get longer visas if you need – all the info should be in the post.

This is a really helpful article. Where were you able to get a digital copy of your passport photo to upload? A lot of places that provide this service, like CVS or Costco, only provide a physical copy of your photo. Thanks again for all this useful advice on this process.

Hey Zara. Glad the article helped – I think it should work if you take your passport photo on your phone or camera and then edit it to size on your computer and then upload it. Or if applying by post or appointment then you can skip this step and just hand in the physical photo.

Anna is bang on. Take the picture and edit it to size. If the size or dimensions are off the site will not accept them 🙂 I used my cell phone and a free online image editor. Remember just the Information page (half of the passport) is needed not the whole open passport. The site will reject the image if you try to upload the whole thing. 🙂

Thanks Roger – yes its important that you get the size right or they will reject the application. Good luck!

Hello!! Thank you so much for the great information. My boyfriend and I booked tickets on a whim to India, and didnt really expect the visa application process to be so daunting. I am confused about the duration of the visas, however. I only need to apply for a 6-12 month visa, but when I apply through my jurisdiction (Atlanta) it only lets me apply for 5/10 year visa, which is more than double the price. Can you give me some insight on this? Best regards!

Hi Brooke glad my post helped you. You should be able to apply for a 6- 12 month visa – I’m not sure why it’s not letting you. I’m not an immigration professional though so you’ll need to contact the embassy to find out whats happening. Hope you get it sorted and have a good trip to India 🙂

I’ve been trying to find clarification on the multientry 10 year visa for US citizens. One can stay for 6 months at a time but how long must one leave India(visa run) before being allowed to return for another 6 months? Thanks

You can stay for maximum 180 days in one visit and then you can just leave for one day and come back

I was reading your detailed instructions about the different Visas. I am Swiss living in Colombia. My wife is Colombian. So we have to get the Visa at the Indian Embassy in Bogota. They only want to give us 2 months………………… We would like to stay longer because we are traveling from one end of the world to the other end. Any idea where we can get help for a longer visa ? Min 4 months ? Max 6 months ?

We would like to leave Colombia around the January 20th and we will start in Goa.

Any advise will be very appreciated.

Kind regards Silvio Hostal Capurgana, Capurgana, Colombia

So we have to apply the Visa at the Indie

Hi Silvio. Sorry to hear you are having trouble with getting your visa, However, I’m a blogger and traveller not an immigration professional so I really can’t comment or help you sadly. The rules and processes are different for different nationalities and I’m not from Colombia or Switzerland so I couldn’t tell you. I suggest you contact the embassy or an immigration agent. Btw – if they will only give you 2 months then you may as well just get an e visa which is good for 60 day visits and you can apply from anywhere in the world without having to go to the embassy. Good luck!

Muchas gracias I will do so.

My tourist visa will expire while I am in India. Please recommend what should I do. I understand that I cannot apply for a new visa while I have a valid unexpired Indian visa although the visa expiring shortly after I enter India.

Hi Nikul. You cannot extend a tourist visa while in India and if you overstay, even by 1 day, you will not be allowed to leave the country and will receive a fine and a ban.

Better to get a new visa before you travel!

Applying for an Indian Visa may seem like a small thing to you but, it isn’t. It takes a lot more than just filling a form, which is why it is essential for you to go through a brief guide explaining the Indian visa application.

Yes it can be quite complicated – hence why I thought I would write this post to help other travellers to India

Hi Anna Great article! Thanks for the effort you put in to write all of it in so much detail. Me and my wife live in California, and are planning to apply for an Indian tourist visa. What are the processing times for e-Visa once you apply, and also for the regular tourist visa if we walk-in and submit the application? Thanks!

good work and it is very helpful for tourists

Hai anna ,why it is so difficult to get indian visa now.They asking so much documents for example for the address proof ,they asking for heat bill or gas bill or drivers license.What if you do not drive or living in somebody else house.In this situation they should accept bank statement also like before.Other wise peple will face so much difficulties.

Yes, India’s always liked to make things a bit more complicated! It’s all part of the trip haha but I know how frustrating it can be!

Good news is now they have 1 yr tourist visas you can apply online – no need to have address proof. See this post for more details – https://www.global-gallivanting.com/how-to-apply-for-a-1-year-indian-evisa-online-tourist-business-and-medical/

Hi, I just wanna thank you for this helpful informative article! I wanna apply for a visa to India too, which quite hard for a Moroccan to get, but thank you by the way! you are always posting great content!

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India Visa For US Citizens: India Visa Requirements, OCI Card, And India Visa Types

Last Updated : 29 Mar 2024

Atlys in the news

Last Updated : 29 Mar 2024 at

30-Second Summary

US nationals traveling to India must apply for the India e-visa, which allows US nationals to visit for tourism.

An India visa is an electronic visa that allows you to apply entirely online.

It does not require you to submit your passport and visit any embassy for interviews.

Important Information

— Visa type

— India e-visa cost

— India e-visa processing time

— India e-visa validity

— Lenght of stay

Do the US nationals need a visa for India?

Yes, an Indian visa for US citizens is necessary. The nation does not provide visa-free access to Indian passport holders, whether their visit is for tourism or business activities.

US citizens are eligible to get an e-visa, which is one of the most convenient visa options, enabling applicants to complete the process online. For India e-visa, US nationals can apply directly on Atlys or the government website.

Are US green card holders eligible for e-visa in India?

Yes, US green card holders are eligible for e-visa in India; however, this will depend on your nationality. You must follow the process and get your tourist e-visa. The application process requires uploading necessary documents and paying the required fees online for expedited processing.

Applying for an e-visa is a straightforward online process that can be done through Atlys or directly via the government portal.

India e-visa requirements for US citizens

When applying for an India e-visa for US citizens, certain documents will be required to complete your online application form.

A valid passport : Your passport is crucial when applying for a visa. Ensure that your passport is valid for your intended stay in India and has at least two blank pages for visa stamps.

Passport-size photographs: When applying for an India, you must provide a recent digital photo. This photograph must meet specific requirements, such as being in color, with a plain white background, and showing your full face with no headwear (unless for religious purposes).

With Atlys , you can easily upload your required documents using the camera on your smartphone or laptop.

India e-visa fees for US citizens

The fee structure for an Indian visa for US citizens is as follows:

A 30-day e-tourist visa from July to March costs $ 25.00.

A 30-day e-tourist visa from April to June costs $ 10.00.

Payment of fees must be made at least 4 days before the expected travel date on the government website. Otherwise, the Indian visa for US citizens application will not be processed.

*The fee is based on the currency exchange rate. Before traveling, please check the official website.

Online India e-visa application process for US citizens

Before applying for an Indian visa for US citizens, you must know your two options: Atlys or the government site. We'll help you understand both processes to make an informed decision.

How to apply through Atlys

You can easily apply for an Indian visa for US citizens as it is straightforward, involving just four simple steps:

Start application : Begin your India e-visa application journey by visiting Atlys .

Upload or take your photo : You can either upload an existing photo or take a new one directly through the portal using your smartphone or laptop.

Provide your details : Fill in the required personal and travel information accurately.

Finalise and pay : Review your application, then proceed to checkout and pay the applicable visa fees.

Why choose Atlys

India visa approval times are uncertain, taking up to 15 working days. Atlys guarantees your visa in 8 days.

Atlys has tie-ups and public relations officers at India Immigration to ensure that visas come on time.

You can also apply for your entire family on Atlys in one go.

How to apply through the government website

To apply for an Indian visa for US citizens, you can follow these streamlined steps:

Register on the website : On the first web page, when applying for the India e-visa for US citizens, you will be asked for certain details like application type, Nationality, port of arrival, type of e-visa, and more. Make sure to fill it out accurately.

Enter the applicant details: During the online India e-visa application process phase, you must enter the personal details that have been requested. For example, you must enter personal, passport, family, and occupation details.

Select your India e-visa type: US citizens can apply for different Indian visa types. These include the India E-Tourist Visa, India E-Business Visa, and India E-Medical Visa. You can choose a single entry or multiple entries within each India visa application type.

Add your references: Provide the contact information of someone you know in India and a reference from your own country. If you don't have any contacts in India, you can provide details of your hotel or Airbnb accommodation. This ensures that authorities have a point of contact for you during your stay in India and helps to verify your travel plans.

Upload your documents: Before submitting your India e-visa application, you must upload documents such as a photograph or passport. It's essential to review your application carefully to ensure accuracy. Check your email to ensure you have received all necessary communications, and double-check that your passport details are correct. Verifying these details before submission can help prevent delays or complications in e-visa processing.

Pay the respective visa fee: The next step in the India e-visa application process is to pay your India e-visa fee. Remember that each India e-visa has its own visa cost, so please check the e-visa fee for each India e-visa type. Paying your India e-visa fee is pretty straightforward. However, a 5% surcharge will apply for most international cards for USD transactions, and many times, you might face visa payment issues . You can avoid this by using Atlys .

Wait for your visa to be processed: The last step of the India e-visa process is to wait for your India e-visa to be processed. The processing time for the India e-visa is up to 15 days.

Tips to apply

Double-check all the documents required for your e-visa application, including your passport and photograph.

Carefully fill out your application form with accurate information that matches your travel documents.

Submit your e-visa application well before your intended travel date to allow ample time to rectify any issues and ensure you receive your e-visa on time.

After submitting, regularly check the status of your India visa online to address any follow-up requirements or corrections promptly.

Receive your approved India e-visa for US citizens

After submitting your Indian visa for US citizen application, processing your India e-visa usually takes 15 days.

Remember that e-visa processing times do not include weekends or public holidays. You can view India's public holiday schedule on the official government website.

Through Atlys:

Once your e-visa is approved, Atlys will notify you. You can then access and download the visa in PDF format from the "My Documents" section of your Atlys profile in the app. It's important to remember to print this document and take it with you when you travel to your destination.

Through Government

Your Indian visa for US citizens application may take days to process. You will be informed about your e-visa status (granted or rejected) on the email ID you provided in the e-visa application. Once the visa is approved, you must print and take the e-visa with you for the trip.

India e-visa information for Indians

How to check india visa status.

You can check your Indian visa for US citizen status by following the steps:

Visit the website of the India e-visa .

Add your application ID, passport number, and captcha.

Then, check the India visa status.

If you applied with Atlys , you can easily check your India tourist visa status on the Atlys app . You will also receive real-time updates.

India e-visa processing time

The e-visa India processing time through the government website is 15 working days.Please remember that Indian tourist visa processing time can be delayed due to multiple factors.

However, by using Atlys , you can receive your approved e-visa within 8 days.

India e-visa validity & length of stay

The validity and length of stay of the e-visa would be according to the e-visa service you have requested in the application form.

The validity of a 30-day e-tourist visa starts from the day of your first arrival in India. You can enter the country twice during the validity period of the e-visa that is stamped on your passport for a maximum of 30 days. Your first arrival must fall between the date of issue and the expiration of the ETA.

Our commitment to visa accuracy

At Atlys , our focus is on delivering current and precise visa application details, with information gathered from dependable government sources, such as:

India government website

India visa online website

Consulate General of India

Please note that India visa fees and rules can vary over time. We recommend checking the official website for the most recent information before starting your application. This step will help you access the latest data for a hassle-free visa application process.

Frequently Asked Questions

You can apply for a visa at the Indian embassy in San Francisco, California. To apply at the embassy, you must gather all the necessary documents. But this process is lengthy. We recommend you apply online for ease and convenience.

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Indian Visa For US Citizens: How To Get Indian Visa? Here's A Step-By-Step Instructional Guide

India is a country with a rich heritage of diversity. People here belong to various religions, speak different languages, and follow different cultures, among other diversities, which makes it a perfect destination for adventurers. That’s why the arrival of American citizens in India has grown  in the last few years.  

So, if you are a US passport holder and planning a trip to India, you might require a visa to enter India. Here is everything you need to know about the requirements and regulations for US citizens to apply for an Indian visa.

What are the types of Indian visas?

An  Indian Visa for US citizens , which allows for multiple entries like  tourism, conferences, yoga, medical visits, study, workshops, deal-and-exchange, and other business adventures . Here are some visa categories issued by the Indian government for US citizens.

1. Tourist Visa

2. Medical Visa

3. Medical Attendant Visa

4. Business Visa

5. Conference Visa

Indian visa requirements for US citizens

The requirement for United States citizens is to have the following ready for the India eVisa:

- Full Name (as per passport)

- Date and place of birth

- Address and contact info

- Passport details

- Applicant Photo

- Ordinary Passport that is valid for 6 months

- Scanned copy of Passport Personal Details

- Other documents are required if the purpose of the visit is different, like business or medical.

- Credit/Debit Card or Paypal Account

How to get an India visa for US citizens

Getting an  Indian visa for US citizens is quite simple, and it's been a 100 percent online process since 2014, but you can apply offline as well.

e-Visa Application 

American citizens whose sole objective for visiting India is tourism, medical treatment, conferences, yoga, study, courses, attending a conference, seminar, or workshop organised by a ministry or department of the Government of India, state governments, or UT administrations, etc., can apply for an e-Visa.

India e-Visa has 5 sub-categories:

-  e-Tourist Visa for US citizens

- e-Business Visa for US citizens

- e-Medical Visa for US citizens

- e-Medical Attendant Visa for US citizens

- e-Conference Visa for US citizens

Indian visa for US citizens: what documents are required?

Before you start the application, make sure to have these documents ready:

- A scanned bio page of your passport or other travel document with your photo and passport information.

The passport's validity has to be more than 6 months. If your passport expires within 6 months, you will not be allowed to submit your Indian e-Visa application.

- A recent passport-size photograph taken on a white background.

- Your reference's address and contact information in India, if you know anyone there.

- Enough funds to cover the India Visa fee

How to apply e-visa for US citizens?

While US passport holders greatly benefit from visa waivers for international travel worldwide, we will still need a valid visa to enter India. Fortunately, US citizens can apply for an Indian e-Visa. Follow the below steps to apply for an e-Visa as a US citizen.

STEP 1: Visit e-visa portal. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

STEP 2: Click on "Apply here for e-visa"

STEP 3: Enter the required details

STEP 4: Select the type of Visa

STEP 5: Click on Continue.

STEP 6: Enter the applicant details and passport details

STEP 7: Click on Save and Continue.

STEP 8: Enter the present address, permanent address, family details, marital status etc.

STEP 9: Enter the details of the Visa sought along with the previous visa and currently valid visa details.

STEP 10: Save and Continue.

STEP 11: Confirm the required details

STEP 12: Upload JPEG format front-facing photograph

STEP 13: Upload a Scanned bio page of your passport showing the photograph and details

STEP 14: Other documents are required if the purpose of the visit is different, like Business or Medical.

STEP 15: Click on Confirm

STEP 16: Verify the details

STEP 17: e-Visa fee payment

How to apply for a regular Indian visa for US citizens

Applicants may fill out the online application form by going to the official website for Indian visas. Here's a step-by-step guide:

STEP 1: Vist the official website for Regular visa application: indianvisaonline.gov.in

STEP 2: Click on Regular/Paper Visa Application

STEP 3: Fill out the application online as per the forms standardised by the Ministry

STEP 4:  Submit the form

After filling out the form and submitting it, the system shall automatically generate an Application Id that will be required for further communications with the concerned Indian Mission.

STEP 5:  After submitting the form, the System will ask you to select 'YES' if you want to seek an appointment with Indian Mission and make payment online or 'No' if the applicant just wants to print the submitted application form.

If you click "Yes," the system will use the link to do the following:

*Selection of Appointment Date and Time at the Concerned Indian Mission

*Calculation of Visa fee, service charge, VAT, and so on, as applicable to the Visa type.

- If you select "No," the system will request that the applicant print a copy of the submitted online application form and visit the relevant Indian mission to submit the online form along with supporting documents.

Online payment is not available for all Indian missions around the world. Wherever the said facility is not available, it is requested that the applicant kindly submit the application fees to either the outsourcing agency or the mission directly, along with the supporting documents.

FAQs on Indian Visas for US Citizens

Does India offer visas on arrival for US citizens?

No, the Visa-on-Arrival facility for American citizens is not available, it's only available to the citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. So if you are planning to visit India, you need to apply for and obtain your visa for India.

Fees for Indian Visas for US Citizens 

The fee depends on the type of visa applied for and the duration of the visa. Depending on the case, the visa fee is divided into three types: the basic fee, the special fee, and the processing fee charged by the outsourced agency. The basic fee will be displayed near the end of the online registration process. For further information on this, please check with the local embassy office, Indian Visa Application Center office, or websites for information on applicable fees and payment methods.

Here's the fee structure for an Indian e-Tourist visa for US citizens:

- 30-day e-Tourist Visa (from July to March): US$ 25.00

- 30-day e-Tourist Visa (April to June): US$ 10.00

- One-year e-Tourist Visa: US$ 40.00

- Five-year e-Tourist Visa: US$ 80.00

Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged in addition to applicable e-Visa fees.

10-year Indian visa for US citizens

The 10-Year India Tourist Visa for US citizens is valid for 10 years from the date of issuance, not from the date of your first entry. But if you plan to stay in India on a 10-year Indian visa for US citizens, you can only stay for up to 180 days, or 6 months, in India with the 10-year visa. Travellers with this visa need to wait at least 2 months between visits to India.

Fees for a 10-year Indian visa for US citizens

The 10-year Indian Visa fee for US citizens will be calculated (including bank processing fees for e-payments) when you fill in your application form on the visa website. In general, the application fee is about $80–$200 depending on the exact details of your application, which is reasonable for 10 years of multiple entries.

Indian visa processing time for US citizens

The India electronic visa application is easy to complete. The processing time for an Indian visa for US citizens is usually 4 to 5 days, but it’s also common for applicants to receive their visas within 24 hours of completing their application.

Indian Visa for US Citizens of Pakistani Origin

Pakistani nationals are not eligible for tourist visas; they should apply for visitor visas instead. All applicants of Pakistani origin who hold dual nationality must apply for an Indian visa on their Pakistani passport only.

Those holding a NICOP (National Identity Card for Overseas Pakistanis) must give a copy thereof. Those who have renounced Pakistani nationality or cancelled their Pakistani passport should submit documentary proof of the same.

How to get Indian Visa for US Citizen Baby

Each and every foreign traveller needs a visa to enter India, irrespective of their age. Minors under the age of 16 are not exempt, and they all require separate visas.

To get an Indian visa for US citizen babies, you will need a photo of the minor and a scanned copy of the passport personal details section, After that, the whole process is just like a normal Indian visa.

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India Tourist Visa for US Citizens: Apply for the India Visa Now

Embarking on a journey to India? Don't forget to apply for your India tourist visa before your trip!

From the iconic Taj Mahal to the lively streets of Mumbai, India promises a captivating experience. Let us assist you in ensuring a hassle-free journey by guiding you through the burdensome paperwork.

This guide is tailored to help US citizens heading to India understand the visa requirements and application process. So prepare to apply for your India visa now and start your adventure!

Do US citizens need a visa for India?

Yes, US citizens need a visa before traveling to India. The visa is a mandatory entry requirement for US citizens . It allows them to legally enter and stay in India for tourism, business, medical purposes, or other short-term visits.

India visa for US citizens: What are your options?

There are many types of visas to choose from depending on the purpose of your trip. Here are the India e-visa options we offer for US citizens:

The e-Tourist visa is for those visiting India for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting friends and family, or attending cultural events.

You'll need an e-Business visa if you're traveling to India for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or trade fairs.

e-Medical visa : This visa is for those seeking medical treatment in India. It's issued to the patient and two attendants and is sometimes called the e-medical attendant visa.

The Indian Embassy Visa is a visa issued by the Embassy of India or its consulates to foreign nationals who wish to visit India for various purposes such as tourism, business, education, employment, medical treatment, or family visits.

Conference visa : This visa is for those attending international conferences in India.

It's essential to apply for the correct type of visa to avoid any issues or delays during your travel.

Am I eligible to get an Indian Tourist Visa in the US?

The Indian tourist visa is available to citizens of various countries, including the United States. US citizens visiting India for tourism can apply for an Indian tourist visa. The eligibility criteria to get an Indian tourist visa for US citizens include the following:

Citizenship : Applicants must hold a valid US passport, as the passport serves as the primary travel document for US citizens. The passport should remain valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in India.

Purpose of visit : The tourist visa is specifically designed for individuals traveling to India for recreational or sightseeing purposes, visiting friends or relatives, or participating in yoga/meditation retreats. It doesn't cover employment, business, or long-term stays.

Entry points : US citizens can enter India through various designated ports of entry, including international airports, seaports, and land border checkpoints. The chosen entry point should be specified during the visa application process.

Validity and duration : The Indian tourist visa grants permission to stay in India for a specific period. The validity and duration of the visa can vary based on factors such as the applicant's intended stay, the type of visa, and the discretion of the Indian authorities.

Previous visits : There are no specific restrictions on the number of times a US citizen can apply for an Indian tourist visa. However, adhering to the visa rules is crucial, including the maximum duration of stay allowed per visit.

Compliance with visa regulations : US citizens must comply with all visa regulations during their stay in India. This includes respecting the visa's validity period, adhering to the permitted activities, and following any additional conditions specified by the Indian authorities.

What is the India Tourist Visa for US citizens?

The India tourist visa for US citizens is an official authorization granted by the government of India that allows US citizens to visit India for tourism purposes . It's a temporary visa that permits US travelers to explore the diverse attractions, immerse themselves in the rich culture, and experience the wonders of India.

The tourist visa for US citizens is mainly for recreational and sightseeing activities , visiting friends or relatives, participating in yoga/meditation retreats, or engaging in casual business activities. It doesn't permit individuals to work or engage in long-term employment in India.

You can apply for the visa through the government's e-visa portal (which can be complicated) or use our simplified online application process .

How long is the India Tourist Visa valid for US citizens?

3 different types of tourist visas offer different validity periods. Your options are:

The 30-day Double-Entry India Tourist Visa

The 1-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

The 5-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

Click here to learn more about the India Tourist eVisa validity and length of stay .

We also offer the Business e Visa , the Medical e Visa and the Embassy Visa ; you'll find information on these categories in separate articles.

Note : All e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. The Indian government doesn't issue visas on arrival.

India Tourist Visa application: How to apply in the US?

It couldn't be easier to apply for your India visa online! The process is straightforward and takes around 10 minutes to complete our simplified Indian visa application in three steps. They are:

Step 1 - Applicants must complete the online form via our website. You'll be asked to provide general information about yourself and choose the type of visa you want to apply for.

Step 2 - Verify the information you have already provided is correct and select the processing option that best suits your needs.

Step 3 - Pay the service fee using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit or debit card. Upload any required documents (a passport photo and a photo scan of your passport).

Once you complete all three steps, please submit your application and sit back and relax while we process your visa! Wait for your e Visa to arrive in your email inbox within your chosen timeframe.

Note : During travel, you must carry a printed and electronic copy of your Tourist eVisa to show to immigration officers on arrival so they can see your India e-Visa status.

We recommend installing the iVisa app on your mobile device so you can keep track of your documents electronically. You can even track the status of your application and receive real-time alerts.

How to prepare for the India Tourist Visa interview as a US citizen?

US citizens may be required to attend an interview as part of the India tourist visa application process. The interview is usually conducted at the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate. It aims to determine the applicant's eligibility for the visa. The interview can cover various topics, such as the purpose of the trip, the intended duration of stay, and the applicant's ties to their home country.

The Indian Embassy or Consulate often contacts the applicant to schedule an interview after completing the online visa application and submitting supporting documents. The interview is typically conducted in person and may involve biometric data collection.

To prepare for the India tourist visa interview , US citizens should keep in mind the following tips:

Be honest : It's essential to answer all questions truthfully and accurately during the interview. Providing false information can result in the rejection of your visa application.

Know your trip details : US citizens should have a clear idea of their itinerary, including the places they plan to visit, the duration of their stay, and their mode of transportation.

Show ties to your home country : Demonstrating ties to the US, such as employment, family, or property ownership, can help establish the applicant's intent to return to their home country after the trip.

Dress appropriately : Dressing appropriately and professionally can help make a good impression during the interview.

Bring relevant documents : It's essential to bring all relevant documents to the interview, such as your passport, visa application form, and supporting documents.

Be prepared to explain : The interviewer may ask questions about any inconsistencies or discrepancies in the application or supporting documents. US citizens should be prepared to explain such issues.

Stay calm and confident : Maintaining a calm and confident demeanor during the interview can help create a positive impression and increase the chances of a successful visa application.

In conclusion, while US passport holders may be required to attend an interview as part of the India tourist visa application process, proper preparation and following the guidelines will increase the chances of a successful outcome.

India Tourist Visa fee: Cost of the visa for US citizens

Different processing times have different prices depending on your travel needs and the type of Indian e-visa you're applying for. All applicable e-visa fees include the government visa levy and our e-visa processing fee.

During the application process on our site, you can add services such as an iVisa Plus subscription, Premium Concierge Service, Embassy Registration, or Premium Photo Services.

We also offer iVisa Fee Protection , which allows us to process a new application for no additional processing fee if you're unable to make your trip, as well as the option to get a flight reservation or itinerary that's valid for two weeks and can be used to apply for a visa, as proof of return to show to immigration officers while traveling, for car rental purposes, etc.

All these additional services carry varying costs. Use our application form to check your application's total cost based on your circumstances.

What is the India Tourist Visa processing time for US citizens?

There are three processing alternatives, each with a different processing time and price depending on your travel needs and type of visa. Here are the processing options we offer:

Standard Processing - This is the best option if you have more time to wait; it takes 4 days and is also the most economical.

Rush Processing - A little faster; receiving your visa only takes 2 days .

Super Rush Processing - Your visa will be delivered in 30 hours , which is superfast and perfect for anyone in a rush.

India Tourist Visa requirements for US citizens

Understanding the necessary documents, specific requirements for children, and passport requirements is crucial to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process. Let's dive in and confirm you have all the information you need for a successful visa application.

Necessary documents for the India Tourist Visa for US citizens

Valid passport : Your passport should have a minimum validity of six months beyond your intended stay in India. It must have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.

Completed visa application form : Complete the online application form accurately with all the required information.

Passport-size photograph : Provide a recent, color photograph that meets the specifications outlined by the Indian Embassy or Consulate. Our convenient digital photo service makes it easy to get one that meets all government criteria.

Proof of US residency : Provide a copy of your US residency proof, such as a valid US visa or permanent resident card (Green Card).

Travel itinerary : Submit a detailed travel itinerary, including flight reservations, accommodation bookings, and planned activities in India.

Financial documents : Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or any other document demonstrating your financial capability.

Visa fee payment : Pay the applicable visa fee per the instructions from the Indian Embassy or Consulate.

India Tourist Visa requirements for children of US citizens

In addition to the documents mentioned above, children of US citizens applying for an Indian tourist visa will require the following:

Birth certificate : Provide a copy of the child's birth certificate as proof of parentage.

Consent letter : If the child travels without both parents, a consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) is required, authorizing the child to travel to India.

Parents' documents : Submit copies of both parents' passports, visas, and other relevant identification documents.

India Tourist Visa passport requirements for US citizens

To meet the passport requirements for getting an Indian tourist visa, US citizens should ensure the following:

Validity : The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended duration of stay in India.

Blank pages : The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping purposes.

Condition : The passport should be in good condition, without damage or tampering.

Previous Indian visas : If you have traveled to India, include copies of your previous Indian visas, if applicable.

India Tourist Visa photo requirements for US citizens

You must provide a recent passport-size photograph that meets specific requirements. The India Tourist Visa photo requirements for US citizens require that the picture:

be a recent color photograph taken against a white or light-colored background.

must be printed on high-quality photo paper , clear and focused.

be the correct size, which is 2 inches by 2 inches (50 mm x 50 mm).

Show the entire face of the applicant, with the head centered in the frame and both ears visible. The applicant shouldn't wear any headgear or glasses in the photograph except for religious reasons.

should not be digitally altered in any way.

It's important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your trip. To ensure your photograph meets all the requirements, use our Passport Photo Service to get recent, government-standard pictures from home.

My India Tourist Visa application was denied. What should I do?

If you're our client and your India Tourist Visa application was denied, we can assist you in reapplying . As a professional visa agency, we have experience with visa applications for various countries, including India.

We'll help you review the reason for the denial , guide you through the reapplication process, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

However, it's essential to note that the Indian embassy or consulate has the final say in the visa application process , and the decision to grant or deny a visa is at their discretion. We cannot guarantee that your visa application will be approved, but we can assist you with the process and give you the best chance of success.

Suppose your application is denied due to an error found in your application after our experts have checked it. In that case, we'll refund the processing fee you paid us as our experts strive to ensure no mistakes in your applications.

Note: Government fees will not be refunded.

Need more information?

If you need more info about traveling to India for tourism, medical assistance, or business, please contact our customer support team anytime via online chat or email at [email protected] .

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• 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

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Indian Visa Online Simplifies Travel for Burundian and Angolan Citizens

New Delhi, India, 27th March 2024, As international travel resumes its pace, Indian Visa Online emerges as a beacon of convenience for Burundian and Angolan citizens seeking to explore the vibrant tapestry of India. With the unveiling of streamlined processes tailored to the unique needs of travelers from these nations, Indian Visa Online solidifies its commitment to accessibility and efficiency.

Navigating the labyrinth of visa applications can often be a daunting task, but Indian Visa Online has pioneered a user-centric approach to ease the journey for Burundian and Angolan citizens. Through a seamless online platform, applicants can now swiftly embark on their Indian adventure with confidence and peace of mind.

INDIAN VISA FOR BURUNDI CITIZENS

INDIAN VISA FOR ANGOLA CITIZENS

INDIAN VISA APPLICATION

INDIAN VISA ONLINE

INDIAN VISA FOR CRUISE SHIP VISITORS

“Our mission at Indian Visa Online is to bridge the gap between travelers and their Indian odyssey,” remarked a spokesperson for the company. “By catering to the specific needs of Burundian and Angolan citizens, we aim to enhance accessibility and foster cultural exchange between nations.”

In addition to simplifying the visa application process, Indian Visa Online also extends its services to cruise ship visitors, recognizing the unique travel requirements of maritime explorers.

As the world eagerly embraces the resurgence of travel, Indian Visa Online stands as a steadfast ally for adventurers from all corners of the globe. By prioritizing efficiency, accessibility, and customer satisfaction, the company continues to redefine the landscape of international travel.

About Indian Visa Online:

Indian Visa Online is a leading provider of e-Visa services, dedicated to simplifying the visa application process for travelers to India. Through its user-friendly platform and commitment to customer satisfaction, Indian Visa Online empowers adventurers from around the world to embark on their Indian journey with ease and confidence.

Media Contact

+359 2 982 4808

[email protected]

https://www.india-visa-online.org/visa/