India Tourist Visa — Requirements, Cost, Processing Time
Key highlights
- e-Visa options available for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years
- Fast digital processing for over 160 nationalities
- Multiple entry options for long-term visa holders
- Simplified online application with no physical interview for most
- Valid for sightseeing, recreation, and visiting friends or family
- Accepted at major international airports and seaports across India
- Convenient PDF delivery via email for e-Visa applicants
Processing time
4 - 7 working days
While e-Visas are often issued in 72 hours, it is advised to apply at least 7-10 days before travel to account for potential technical delays or extra vetting.
Estimated cost
Varies by nationality and duration
- Consular/Government Fee (varies by nationality/validity)$10 - $100+
- Bank Transaction Fee$2.50+
Requirements
- Passport must have at least six months validity from the date of arrival in India
- Passport must have at least two blank pages for stamping by Immigration Officers
- Applicant must have a return ticket or onward journey ticket
- Applicant must have sufficient money to spend during their stay in India
- The photograph must be a recent front-view face with a white background
- Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport holders or Laissez-passer travel document holders
- Individuals of Pakistani origin must apply for a regular paper visa at an embassy
- Application must be submitted no later than 4 days before departure for e-Visas
Documents you'll need
- Valid passport with at least six months validity and two blank pages
- Recent digital passport-sized photograph (white background, square format)
- Scanned copy of the passport information page (PDF format)
- Proof of residential address (if required for paper applications)
- Specific itinerary or flight reservation details
- Evidence of sufficient funds for the duration of the stay
How to apply, step by step
- 1
Identify Visa Category
Determine if you are eligible for an e-Visa or if you need to apply for a traditional paper visa at an Indian Embassy or VFS centre.
- 2
Complete the Online Form
Fill out the online application form with personal, professional, and family details. Ensure all information matches your passport exactly.
- 3
Upload Required Documents
Upload a digital photo and a PDF scan of your passport's bio page. Follow strict size and resolution guidelines to avoid rejection.
- 4
Pay the Visa Fee
Pay the non-refundable visa fee using a credit or debit card. A small processing fee usually applies to the transaction.
- 5
Wait for Processing
Await the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) via email. Most applications are processed within 96 hours.
- 6
Print your ETA
Once the ‘Granted’ status is received, print a clear copy of the ETA to present to the airline and immigration.
- 7
Biometrics and Entry
Present your passport and printed ETA to the immigration officer at one of the designated ports of entry for biometric capture.
Tips to avoid refusal
- Ensure your photo has a plain white background; off-white or patterned backgrounds are common reasons for rejection.
- Enter your name exactly as it appears in the 'Machine Readable Zone' at the bottom of your passport photo page.
- Check that your passport scan is clear and all text is legible without any glare covering your details.
- Be truthful about your ancestry; non-disclosure of Pakistani heritage can lead to permanent blacklisting.
- Carry a physical printout of your e-Visa (ETA) at all times while travelling, as digital copies may not always be accepted.
- Do not apply more than 120 days in advance for long-term visas, or more than 30 days for the short-term 30-day visa.
Frequently asked questions
Related visa guides
Visa policies change frequently. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying. PermitlyHQ provides general guidance and is not a substitute for legal or immigration advice.