India eVisa FAQ: Complete Guide to Requirements, Application & Travel
India FAQ
2025-01-15
12 min read
Reviewed by Visa Compliance Team

India eVisa FAQ: Complete Guide to Requirements, Application & Travel

Get the answer to your India visa question

India eVisa FAQ: Complete Guide to All Your Questions

Get comprehensive answers to all your India eVisa questions. This detailed FAQ covers requirements, application process, processing times, fees, travel tips, and everything you need to know about visiting India.

1. General India eVisa Questions

1.1. What is an India eVisa?

An India eVisa is an electronic travel authorization that allows eligible foreign nationals to enter India for tourism, business, medical treatment, or transit purposes. The eVisa system enables travelers to apply online without visiting an embassy or consulate, making travel to India more convenient and accessible.

The India eVisa is linked to your passport and must be printed and presented upon arrival at Indian entry points. It's available in multiple types with different validity periods and entry options.

1.2. Who needs an India eVisa?

Most foreign nationals require an India eVisa to enter India. This includes citizens from:

  • North America: United States, Canada, Mexico
  • Europe: All EU countries, United Kingdom, Norway, Switzerland, Russia
  • Asia-Pacific: China, Japan, Australia, New Zealand, South Korea, Singapore
  • Middle East: UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, and most Middle Eastern countries
  • Africa: Most African countries
  • South America: Brazil, Argentina, Chile, Colombia, and most South American countries

Visa-Exempt Nationalities (Limited):

  • Citizens of Bhutan and Nepal (special arrangements)
  • Some diplomatic passport holders

Important: Always verify your specific nationality's requirements using our eligibility checker before applying.

1.3. How long is an India eVisa valid?

India eVisas have different validity periods depending on the visa type:

  • Tourist eVisa (30 days): Valid for 30 days from entry date, double entry
  • Tourist eVisa (1 year): Valid for 1 year from issue date, multiple entries, up to 90 days per stay
  • Tourist eVisa (5 years): Valid for 5 years from issue date, multiple entries, up to 90 days per stay
  • Business eVisa (1 year): Valid for 1 year from issue date, multiple entries, up to 180 days per stay
  • Medical eVisa: Valid for 60 days from entry date, triple entry

The eVisa must be used within its validity period. Once you enter India, the immigration officer will determine the exact length of stay.

1.4. What are the different types of India eVisas?

India offers several eVisa types:

1. Tourist eVisa (30 Days)

  • Purpose: Tourism, sightseeing, cultural exploration
  • Validity: 30 days from entry, double entry
  • Government Fee: $25-100 USD (varies by nationality)
  • Processing Time: 3-5 working days (normal), 1-2 working days (urgent)

2. Tourist eVisa (1 Year)

  • Purpose: Extended tourism with multiple entries
  • Validity: 1 year from issue date, multiple entries, up to 90 days per stay
  • Government Fee: $40-200 USD (varies by nationality)
  • Processing Time: 3-5 working days (normal), 1-2 working days (urgent)

3. Tourist eVisa (5 Years)

  • Purpose: Long-term tourism with multiple entries
  • Validity: 5 years from issue date, multiple entries, up to 90 days per stay
  • Government Fee: $80-400 USD (varies by nationality)
  • Processing Time: 3-5 working days (normal), 1-2 working days (urgent)

4. Business eVisa (1 Year)

  • Purpose: Business meetings, conferences, trade exhibitions
  • Validity: 1 year from issue date, multiple entries, up to 180 days per stay
  • Government Fee: Varies by nationality
  • Processing Time: 3-5 working days (normal), 1-2 working days (urgent)

5. Medical eVisa

  • Purpose: Medical treatment in India
  • Validity: 60 days from entry, triple entry
  • Government Fee: Varies by nationality
  • Processing Time: 3-5 working days (normal), 1-2 working days (urgent)

2. Application Process Questions

2.1. How do I start my India eVisa application?

Starting your India eVisa application is simple:

Step 1: Visit our secure platform and select India eVisa Step 2: Choose your visa type based on your travel purpose Step 3: Complete the online application form with accurate information Step 4: Upload all required documents (passport, photo, etc.) Step 5: Review your application carefully Step 6: Pay the government fee and service charge securely online Step 7: Track your application status through our customer portal Step 8: Receive your approved eVisa via email as a PDF document

Our expert team reviews every application before submission to ensure accuracy and completeness.

2.2. What personal information is required for the India eVisa application?

You'll need to provide:

  • Personal Information: Full name (as on passport), date of birth, place of birth, nationality
  • Passport Details: Passport number, issue date, expiry date, issuing country
  • Contact Information: Email address, phone number, residential address
  • Travel Information: Intended arrival date, port of entry, purpose of visit, accommodation details
  • Employment Details: Occupation, employer name and address
  • Previous Travel: Travel history to India (if applicable)
  • Emergency Contact: Name, relationship, phone number, address

Important: All information must match your passport exactly to avoid delays or rejection.

2.3. How do I upload documents for my India eVisa?

Document upload requirements:

Passport Bio-Data Page:

  • Format: PDF
  • File size: Maximum 1MB
  • Quality: Clear, legible, in color
  • Must show all passport details clearly

Passport-Size Photograph:

  • Format: JPEG
  • File size: Maximum 300KB
  • Dimensions: Minimum 600x600 pixels
  • Background: White or light-colored
  • Recent photo (within last 6 months)

Additional Documents:

  • Proof of accommodation (if required)
  • Business invitation letter (for business visa)
  • Medical documents (for medical visa)

Our system automatically validates file formats and sizes to prevent common submission errors.

2.4. Can I edit my India eVisa application after submission?

Once payment is made and the application is submitted, you cannot edit your India eVisa application. However:

  • Before Payment: You can go back and correct any errors
  • After Payment: Contact our support team immediately if you notice critical errors
  • Corrections: May require a new application and payment

Best Practice: Carefully review all information before making payment to avoid the need for corrections.

2.5. What happens after I submit my India eVisa application?

After submission and payment:

  1. Confirmation Email: You'll receive an acknowledgment with your application ID
  2. Processing: Your application is reviewed by Indian immigration authorities
  3. Status Updates: You'll receive email notifications at key stages
  4. Approval: Once approved, you'll receive your eVisa as a PDF via email
  5. Print: Print multiple copies of your eVisa approval letter for travel

Processing Timeline:

  • Normal processing: 3-5 working days
  • Urgent processing: 1-2 working days

2.6. How do I track my India eVisa application status?

You can track your application status through:

  1. Our Customer Portal: Use your application ID and passport number
  2. Email Updates: Automatic notifications at each stage
  3. Customer Support: Contact our 24/7 support team

Application Status Options:

  • Under Process: Application is being reviewed
  • Granted: eVisa approved and ready
  • Rejected: Application denied (reason provided)

Keep your application ID safe for tracking purposes.

2.7. What should I do if my India eVisa application is rejected?

If your India eVisa is rejected:

  1. Review the Reason: Check the rejection email for specific reasons
  2. Address Issues: Fix any problems identified
  3. Reapply: Submit a new application after addressing issues
  4. Get Help: Contact our support team for guidance

Common Rejection Reasons:

  • Incorrect or incomplete information
  • Poor quality documents
  • Insufficient financial proof
  • Security concerns
  • Missing required documents

Important: Government fees are non-refundable for rejected applications. Our expert review process helps minimize rejection risk.

2.8. Can I apply for an India eVisa on behalf of someone else?

Yes, you can apply for family members, especially:

  • Children under 18
  • Elderly relatives
  • Family members traveling together

Requirements:

  • Each person needs a separate application
  • Use the applicant's details (not yours)
  • Each application requires individual payment
  • All requirements must be met for each applicant

2.9. What payment methods are accepted for India eVisa?

India eVisa fees can be paid using:

  • Credit Cards: Visa, MasterCard, American Express
  • Debit Cards: With international transaction capability
  • Other Methods: As available on our platform

Important:

  • Ensure your card is enabled for international transactions
  • Payment must be completed to submit the application
  • All payments are processed securely through encrypted channels

2.10. Do I need to visit an embassy or consulate for India eVisa?

No, the India eVisa is completely online. You don't need to visit any embassy or consulate. The entire process is handled electronically:

  • Application submission online
  • Document upload through secure portal
  • Payment processing online
  • eVisa delivery via email
  • Print and carry when traveling

Simply carry your printed eVisa approval letter along with your passport when traveling to India.

3. Travel and Entry Questions

3.1. Which airports can I use to enter India with an eVisa?

India eVisa holders can enter through designated airports:

Major International Airports:

  • Delhi (DEL): Indira Gandhi International Airport
  • Mumbai (BOM): Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport
  • Bangalore (BLR): Kempegowda International Airport
  • Chennai (MAA): Chennai International Airport
  • Kolkata (CCU): Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport
  • Hyderabad (HYD): Rajiv Gandhi International Airport
  • Goa (GOI): Goa International Airport
  • Kochi (COK): Cochin International Airport
  • And other designated international airports

Seaports:

  • Designated seaports for cruise ship arrivals

Land Borders:

  • Limited designated land border crossings

Always verify your entry point is eligible for eVisa holders before traveling.

3.2. Can I extend my stay in India beyond my eVisa validity?

Tourist eVisas can be extended in exceptional circumstances through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO). However:

  • Extensions are not guaranteed
  • Require valid reasons (medical emergency, flight cancellation, etc.)
  • Must be applied for before visa expiry
  • Different policies apply to different visa types

Best Practice: Plan your trip within your visa validity to avoid complications.

3.3. What are restricted and protected areas in India?

Some areas require special permits beyond the eVisa:

Restricted Areas:

  • Parts of Northeast India (Arunachal Pradesh, Nagaland, Mizoram, etc.)
  • Certain border areas
  • Some islands (Andaman & Nicobar, Lakshadweep)
  • Ladakh (some areas)
  • Sikkim (some areas)

Permit Requirements:

  • Check with local authorities or travel agents
  • Apply for permits in advance
  • Some areas may have entry restrictions

Always verify permit requirements for your specific destinations before traveling.

4. Requirements and Eligibility Questions

4.1. What documents do I need to carry when traveling to India with an eVisa?

When traveling to India, you must carry:

  • Original Passport: Valid for at least 6 months, with at least 2 blank pages
  • Printed eVisa Approval Letter: Multiple copies recommended
  • Return Flight Tickets: Proof of onward travel
  • Proof of Sufficient Funds: Bank statements or credit cards
  • Accommodation Proof: Hotel bookings or invitation letters
  • Yellow Fever Certificate: If arriving from risk countries

Keep physical copies as backup and digital copies on your mobile device.

4.2. Are there any health requirements for traveling to India?

Mandatory Requirements:

  • Yellow Fever: Vaccination certificate required if arriving from infected areas

Recommended Vaccinations:

  • Routine vaccinations (measles, mumps, rubella, etc.)
  • Hepatitis A and B
  • Tetanus and typhoid
  • Japanese encephalitis (for some regions)
  • Rabies (for extended stays or rural areas)

Important: Consult with a travel health specialist before your trip to India.

4.3. What should I know about Indian customs and culture?

Cultural Considerations:

  • Dress Modestly: Especially when visiting religious sites
  • Remove Shoes: Before entering homes and temples
  • Right Hand: Preferred for eating and greeting
  • Respect Traditions: During festivals and religious observances
  • Photography: Ask permission before photographing people
  • Tipping: Customary in restaurants and for services (10%)

Religious Sites:

  • Cover head, shoulders, and knees
  • Remove shoes and leather items
  • Follow specific rules for each religion
  • Be respectful and quiet

4.4. What items are prohibited from bringing into India?

Prohibited Items:

  • Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances
  • Weapons and ammunition
  • Satellite phones (without permission)
  • Certain electronic items
  • Beef products (in some states)
  • Counterfeit currency

Restricted Items (Require Declaration):

  • Gold and silver above certain limits
  • Currency above $5,000 USD equivalent
  • Professional equipment
  • Medications (with prescriptions)

Important: Check the latest customs regulations before packing to avoid issues at immigration.

4.5. How should I handle money and payments in India?

Currency:

  • Indian Rupee (INR): Local currency
  • ATMs: Widely available in cities
  • Credit Cards: Accepted in hotels and restaurants in major cities
  • Cash: Essential for rural areas and markets
  • US Dollars/Euros: Can be exchanged at authorized dealers

Tips:

  • Inform your bank about travel plans to avoid card blocks
  • Carry cash for rural areas
  • Use ATMs in secure locations
  • Keep receipts for currency exchange

4.6. What transportation options are available in India?

Domestic Transportation:

  • Railways: Extensive network, book in advance (especially peak season)
  • Domestic Flights: Quick connections between major cities
  • Buses: Comprehensive network, budget-friendly
  • Taxis: Use reputable services or ride-sharing apps
  • Prepaid Taxis: Reliable and safe at airports

Tips:

  • Book train tickets well in advance
  • Use reputable transportation services
  • Prepaid taxi counters at airports are safe
  • Consider domestic flights for long distances

4.7. Is it safe to drink water and eat street food in India?

Water Safety:

  • Bottled Water: Always drink bottled or filtered water
  • Avoid Ice: Unless you're sure it's made from purified water
  • Brushing Teeth: Use bottled water
  • Hot Beverages: Generally safe (tea, coffee)

Food Safety:

  • Street Food: Choose busy stalls with high turnover
  • Hot Food: Eat freshly cooked, hot food
  • Raw Items: Avoid raw salads or unpeeled fruits from street vendors
  • Restaurant Food: Generally safe in hotels and reputable restaurants
  • Personal Hygiene: Wash hands frequently, use hand sanitizer

4.8. What should I do in case of emergency while in India?

Emergency Contacts:

  • Police: 100
  • Fire: 101
  • Ambulance: 102
  • Tourist Helpline: 1363

Important Actions:

  • Contact your embassy or consulate immediately
  • Keep emergency contacts handy
  • Inform someone of your travel plans
  • Keep copies of important documents separately
  • Travel insurance is highly recommended

Healthcare:

  • Major cities have good healthcare facilities
  • Medical evacuation insurance advisable for remote areas
  • Keep prescription medications with original labels

5. Why Choose United eVisa Services for Your India eVisa?

5.1. Expert Support and High Success Rate

  • 98% Approval Rate: Our expert team ensures your application meets all requirements
  • 24/7 Customer Support: Get help whenever you need it
  • Expert Document Review: Our specialists review every document before submission
  • Direct Relationships: We work directly with Indian immigration authorities

5.2. Transparent Pricing and Fast Processing

  • No Hidden Fees: Complete transparency in pricing
  • Fast Processing: Efficient handling of all applications
  • Urgent Processing: 1-2 working days available
  • Secure Platform: Bank-level security protects your information

5.3. Proven Track Record

Join thousands of satisfied travelers who have successfully obtained their India visa through our platform.

6. Conclusion

This comprehensive FAQ covers all aspects of India eVisa applications. If you have additional questions, our expert support team is available 24/7 to assist you.

Ready to apply for your India eVisa?

[Start your application today] and let our professional team handle your visa processing efficiently and securely.

Experience India's incredible culture, stunning landscapes, and rich heritage with peace of mind!

Still have questions?

Our expert team is here to help you with your India visa application. Get personalized assistance and clear guidance for your next steps.

Table of contents

Send Us a Message

Get expert help with your visa application

Our visa experts are here to help you 24/7. Fill out the form below and we'll get back to you as soon as possible.
EXPERTS AVAILABLE 24/7

US: +1 323 286 4541

UK: +1 323 286 4541

APPLY WITH CONFIDENCE

  • Fast, secure, and reliable visa processing
  • Safe online payment—no hidden fees
  • Most visas approved within 3 working days
  • All applications processed urgently—no extra rush fees
  • Transparent pricing, no surprises
  • 100% Service Fees Returned if Rejected