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
PermitlyHQ provides informational software tools only and does not offer legal, immigration, or consulting services. Visa policies change frequently — always verify current requirements with the official embassy or consulate before applying.