India is a diverse and captivating country that draws visitors from all over the world. From the bustling cities to the peaceful countryside, India offers an array of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. To make it easier for tourists to visit, the Indian government has introduced the eVisa system, an electronic travel authorization that allows foreign nationals to enter the country for short stays for tourism, business, or medical purposes. The eVisa for India was introduced in 2014, and it has since become the preferred option for travelers looking to visit the country. The eVisa is issued online and is linked to the traveler’s passport, eliminating the need for physical paperwork and in-person visits to Indian embassies or consulates.
Types of India eVisas
There are three types of India eVisas available for foreign nationals:
- Tourist eVisa: This eVisa is meant for travelers visiting India for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, exploring historical monuments, or visiting friends and family. The tourist eVisa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival and allows multiple entries into the country.
- Business eVisa: This eVisa is meant for business travelers who intend to attend meetings, conferences, or explore business opportunities in India. The business eVisa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival and allows multiple entries into the country.
- Medical eVisa: This eVisa is meant for foreign nationals seeking medical treatment in India. The medical eVisa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival and allows triple entry into the country.
Eligibility criteria for India eVisa
To be eligible for an India eVisa, the applicant must:
- Have a valid passport: The passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India.
- Be a citizen of an eligible country: The Indian government has a list of eligible countries whose citizens can apply for an eVisa. The list includes countries such as the United States, Canada, Australia, and the United Kingdom.
- Have a return or onward ticket: The applicant must have a confirmed return or onward ticket from India.
- Have sufficient funds: The applicant must have enough money to cover their expenses during their stay in India.
- Not have a criminal record: The applicant must not have a criminal record or be wanted in India.
- Have a valid email address: The applicant must have a valid email address to receive the eVisa.
Application process for India eVisa The application process for an India eVisa is straightforward and can be completed online in a few simple steps:
- Fill out the application form: The applicant must fill out the online application form with their personal details, travel information, and passport details.
- Upload supporting documents: The applicant must upload a scanned copy of their passport’s bio-page and a recent passport-sized photograph.
- Pay the eVisa fee: The applicant must pay the eVisa fee online using a debit or credit card.
- Receive the eVisa: Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive their eVisa via email.
- Print the eVisa: The applicant must print a copy of the eVisa and carry it with them during their trip to India.
Validity and extension of India eVisa
The India eVisa is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival and allows multiple entries into the country, except for the medical eVisa, which allows triple entry. The eVisa cannot be extended beyond the initial 60-day validity period, and the traveler must leave India before the eVisa expires.