Traveling to India soon? Great choice from its historic temples and colorful streets to peaceful mountains and tropical beaches, India is full of unforgettable experiences. Before you pack your bags, you’ll need to secure your entry permit. Fortunately, getting an India tourist visa is easy for most travelers, especially those from the United States, United Kingdom, European Union, Australia, New Zealand, and Canada.
Most visitors can apply online for an e-Tourist Visa (e-Visa), receive approval by email, print the document, and present it at immigration on arrival. No embassy visit needed.
This guide breaks down everything you need to know — including application steps, requirements, processing time, and helpful tips.
Who Is Eligible?
Travelers from over 150 countries can apply online for an India e-Visa. This includes US, UK, EU, and Australian passport holders.
If you hold a passport from an eligible country, you can apply from anywhere — the system is fully online.
If your nationality is not eligible for e-Visa entry, you will need to apply at an Indian consulate or embassy instead.
Types of India Tourist Visa
India offers multiple tourist e-Visa options. All are electronically issued and allow multiple entries.
| Visa Type | Validity | Maximum Stay per Visit |
|---|---|---|
| 30-Day e-Tourist Visa | 30 days | Up to 30 days |
| 1-Year e-Tourist Visa | 365 days | Up to 90 days |
| 5-Year e-Tourist Visa | 5 years | Up to 90 days |
The 1-Year e-Tourist Visa is the most popular choice because it allows multiple trips within a year and gives plenty of flexibility.
What You Need to Apply
The application is straightforward, but make sure you have the following ready:
- A passport with at least six months’ validity
- A digital passport-style photo
- A scanned copy of your passport’s information page (PDF)
- Your travel details (arrival date + first accommodation address)
- A valid credit/debit card for payment
You don’t need a full itinerary to apply just your first stay’s contact information.
Step-by-Step Application Guide
1) Visit the Official Website
Go to the Government of India’s secure e-Visa portal:
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
Be careful many third-party websites look official but simply charge extra fees. Always use the official address above.
2) Fill Out the Online Form
You’ll complete a digital application that asks for personal information, passport details, travel dates, and your first Indian accommodation.
For “reference in India,” it is acceptable to list your first hotel’s name, address, and phone number.
3) Upload Required Documents
Two documents are required:
- A recent passport-style photo
- A scan of your passport’s information page
The photo must be clear, front-facing, and on a plain background. A smartphone photo is usually acceptable if taken properly.
4) Pay the Visa Fee
Fees vary depending on nationality and season but generally range from US $10–$80.
Payment is made online via card.
Visa fees are non-refundable, even if your application is denied.
5) Wait for Approval
Processing usually takes 3–5 business days, although approval can arrive sooner.
Your e-Visa will be emailed to you as a PDF.
6) Print Your e-Visa and Travel
Once approved, print your e-Visa and keep a digital copy on your phone. You’ll present it when you land in India. At immigration, you’ll have your photo and fingerprints taken before entering the country.
Welcome to India!
When To Apply
You can apply anywhere from 30 to 120 days before arrival, depending on the visa type.
In most cases, applying 2–4 weeks before travel is ideal. This ensures enough time for approval while keeping plans flexible.
Where You Can Enter
The India e-Visa is accepted at most major airports, including:
- Delhi
- Mumbai
- Goa
- Bengaluru
- Chennai
- Hyderabad
- Kolkata
- Kochi
It’s also valid at select seaports (ideal for cruise travelers).
While air travel is easiest, land-border entry with an e-Visa may not always be supported. When possible, fly into India for smoothest entry.
Costs & Duration
Costs vary by country but are typically:
- $10–$25 USD (short-term, low season)
- $40–$80 USD (longer validity / high season)
Your stay is limited to 30 or 90 days depending on which visa you select. All tourist e-Visas allow multiple entries, so you can exit India and return within your validity period.
How Long You Can Stay
The stay duration depends on your visa type:
- 30-Day Visa: Max 30 days
- 1-Year Visa: Up to 90 days per visit
- 5-Year Visa: Up to 90 days per visit
The longer visas allow you to return multiple times over their validity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Do I need to visit an embassy?
No not for the e-Visa. The process is entirely online.
Can I extend my e-Visa?
Extensions are not guaranteed, so plan your trip within your visa’s stay limits.
Can I enter multiple times?
Yes all tourist e-Visas allow multiple entries.
Do I need a printed copy?
Yes! Immigration usually requests a printed copy. Keep an additional digital version on your phone.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Applying is simple, but mistakes can delay approval. Watch out for:
- Mismatched passport number or spelling
- Wrong passport scan format
- Poor-quality passport photo
- Applying too close to departure date
Double-check all details before submitting.
Health & Travel Insurance
Travel medical insurance isn’t required for entry but is strongly recommended. India has excellent and affordable medical care; however, insurance protects you from unexpected expenses and trip disruptions.
Booking Your First Hotel
While a full itinerary isn’t needed, you must provide accommodation details for at least your first stop. Most travelers begin in:
- Delhi great for first-timers
- Mumbai coastal + cosmopolitan
- Jaipur desert + palaces
- Goa beaches + nightlife
Booking a flexible, refundable hotel makes the visa application easier, even if you change plans later.
Getting a SIM Card or eSIM
Staying connected in India is easy. You can:
- Buy a local SIM at the airport
- Use an international roaming plan
- Install an eSIM before travel
eSIMs are the fastest and simplest option for most visitors.
Transportation Options
Once in India, you can choose from:
- Domestic flights (best for long distances)
- Private car with driver
- Trains (scenic and budget-friendly)
- Buses
- Rideshare apps (Uber, Ola)
Domestic flights are surprisingly affordable and save time. Private drivers are also popular for multi-city trips.
After Arrival
You do not need to register with local authorities unless your stay exceeds 180 days, which isn’t possible under most tourist visa rules.
You’re free to explore from the moment you clear immigration.
Example Visa Planning Timeline
1+ months before travel:
Apply for your visa
1 month before:
Book flights and accommodation
2 weeks before:
Print visa + confirm travel insurance
Day of travel:
Carry visa + passport and enjoy!
Final Tips
- Apply early — but not too early
- Use the official website only
- Print your e-Visa before flying
- Double-check passport details
- Keep a digital backup
The process is straightforward, and most travelers are approved quickly.
Conclusion
Applying for an India tourist visa is easier than ever. Travelers from the US, UK, EU, and Australia can complete the entire process online, upload a few documents, pay the fee, and receive their visa by email within a few days.
Once approved, simply print your e-Visa, bring your passport, and you’re ready to start exploring India’s rich culture, history, and landscapes.
If you’re planning your trip right now, this is the perfect time to book your first night’s stay and secure travel insurance.