India Visa Policy

You can realize your planned trip to India by obtaining an India visa. Foreign nationals can apply to India short-term visas (tourist visa, e-visa) for temporary reasons (tourism, business, cultural, and other short-term purposes). If you want to stay in India for a longer period for some reason (such as study, employment, etc.) you can also apply for India long-term visas.

India E-visa (e-TV) is an online way to obtain a visa to realize a trip to India.

After completion of the online application form and payment of the processing fee, you will receive your e-visa by email within 3 working days, depending on the visa processing status you have chosen.

1. The nomenclature of the existing ‘e-Tourist Visa’ has been changed to ‘e-Visa’ with three sub-categories i.e. ‘e-Tourist Visa’, ‘e-Business Visa’ and ‘e-Medical Visa’ which will be available to the nationals of 161 countries/territories (list available on the website of the e-Visa).

Following activities will be permitted under e-Tourist Visa, e-Business Visa and e-Medical Visa:

E-visa Types: 

1. E-Tourist Visa: Recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, and attending a short-term yoga program.
2. E-Business Visa: Casual business visits.
3. E-Medical Visa: Medical treatment, including treatment under Indian systems of medicine.

Note: A foreign national will also be permitted to club these activities provided he/she had clearly indicated the same in the application form along with requisite documents.

Main Points:

1. The international traveler should hold a passport with a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of arrival in India and a re-entry permit if that is required under the law of the country of nationality of the applicant.  The passport should have at least 2 blank pages for stamping by the immigration officer.
2. As approved by Competent authorities of India, foreigners traveling to India on e-visa on a passport different from the passport mentioned on Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) issued to them will be allowed entry into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, provided foreign nationals carry the old passport on which ETA was issued.
3. The competent authority in India has decided to include Bhubaneswar and Port Blair Airports in the list of entry points where persons holding e-Visa will be allowed to enter India.

Entry Points for India E-Visa

The e-Visa will be provided only at the 24 designated international airports (Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Pune, Tiruchirappalli, Trivandrum, and Varanasi) and 3 designated seaports, i.e., Cochin, Goa, Mangalore.  However, the foreigner can take the exit from any of the authorized immigration checkpoint in India.

India E-Visa Validity

An e-Visa will be valid for entry and stay in India within the period of its validity, subject to the conditions specified.  The immigration officer may grant a double-entry e-Tourist Visa or e-Business Visa up to a period of 60 days to the passport holders of the countries covered by the e-Visa scheme.  Triple entry e-Medical Visa may be granted which can be extended by another 6 months on a case-to-case basis on its merit by the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO)/ Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) concerned.

Conditions for India E-Visa

E-Visa can neither be extended nor converted to any other kind of visa during the visa holder’s stay in India except under exceptional circumstances like medical reasons, marriage, PIOs who are otherwise eligible for a normal Indian visa, etc.

Required Documents for India E-visa

1. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

2. Photo

• Format - JPEG
• Minimum 10 KB
• Maximum 1 MB
• The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
• The photo should present full face, front view, eyes open and without spectacles
• Center head within frame and present full head from the top of hair to bottom of the chin
• The background should be plain light-colored or white background.
• No shadows on the face or on the background.
• Without borders.

3. When You Arrive in India, You Must Present also:

• Printed India e-visa
• Travel Itinerary including:
  • Flight reservation
  • Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy

Processing Time for India E-visa

The average processing time for India e-visa is 3-10 working days.

India E-visa Application Fee

India e-visa fee is 10 USD for 30 days e-TV (April to June), 25 USD for 30 days e-TV (July to March), 40 USD for 1-year e-TV, and 80 USD for 5 years e-TV (they can vary depending on your country and nationality).

Where to Apply for India E-visa Application?

You will apply to India e-visa online. You can apply for an E-visa through this website.

India Short-term Visa

If you are not eligible for e-Visa, you can also apply for traditional paper visas for realizing your short-term travel to İndia. Reasons to apply for this type of visa can be tourism, visiting family or friends, business trips, short-term education, exchange programs, short-term work, and many other non-permanent nuances. You can check all the required documents for each type of visa application, visa fees, processing time, and where to apply for a visa below.

India Tourist Visa

India Tourist visa is issued for applicants intending to visit India for tourism and sightseeing. You can apply for the India Tourist visa in order to realize your tourist activities.

If your nationality isn’t eligible for an India e-visa, you can also apply for a short-term India Tourist visa for realizing your trip to India.

Required Documents for India Tourist Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. For Minors:

• Copy and English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Tourist Visa

The average processing time for an India Tourist visa is 3-20 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Tourist Visa Fee

India Tourist visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Tourist Visa?

You will apply for an India Tourist visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Business/Congress/Trade Fair Visit Visa

An India Business visa gives you the authorization to enter India and stay here for a maximum period of your visa validity, as permitted. It permits its holder to engage in business-related activities such as attending meetings or conferences, conducting or attending the training, conducting internal audits, installing equipment, or performing other temporary services for a client, local affiliate, or branch office.

Under the Business visa category, other following cases would be applicable:

• Business matters/meetings/negotiation/trainings
• Conference/Congress/Exhibition
• Scientific/Research events
• Journalists
• Official delegations

Required Documents for India Business Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your transiting through India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your transiting through India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Documents Reflecting the Nature of the Business Trip and the Existence of Business Relations

• Invitation letter from company/authority in India with full address, stating the purpose and duration of the business trip and/or
• Information on event/congress/trade fair being visited in India with details of organizer/host, with full address in India, duration of the event, and reason to take part (e.g., visitor ticket for trade fair).
  • If applicable, including information about who covers the expenses of the business trip in India
• Only applicable if fair exhibitor: Information on trade fair by submitting exhibitor ticket/exhibitor invoice/confirmation letter reflecting status as trade fair exhibitor.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Business Visa

The average processing time for an India Business visa is 3-20 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Business Visa Fee

India Business visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Business Visa?

You will apply for an India Business visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Cultural, Scientific, Sports Events Visa

The India  Cultural/Scientific/Sports Visa enables you to enter India for cultural, scientific, or sports purposes, such as attending cultural events.

Required Documents for India Cultural Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Documents Reflecting the Nature/Purpose of the Journey and Stay of Artist/Member of Cultural / Sports Association in India: Artist/Athlete Member of Cultural/Sports Association in Your Country Travels to a Cultural/Sports Event Organized in Cooperation with India Cultural/Sports Association

• Letter of Local Cultural Association / Sports Association stating timeframe and schedule of cultural event/sports camp with details of organizer/host with full address in India, as well as the purpose of cultural camp/event and information who covers costs (accommodation, travel expenses).
• If the applicant is under the age of 18, signed “letter of no objection” of school/university confirming participation in cultural / sports event.

11. For Minors:

• Copy and English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Cultural  Visa

The average processing time for an India Cultural visa is 3-20 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Cultural Visa Fee

India Cultural visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals The fee may vary depending on your nationality or your country of submission.

Where to Apply for India Cultural Visa?

You will apply for an India Cultural visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Visiting Family and Friends Visa

A short stay family/friend visit visa is a type of Tourist visa, and it allows you to travel to India for visiting your family or friends who legally residing in India for up to the expiration date of your visa validity.

Required Documents for India Family Visit Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Valid (existing) hotel/accommodation booking/reservation with the full address (name, street, city, zip code, contact information, booking ref.)

8. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation)

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

9. Proof of Financial Means

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

10. Proof of Visit/Accommodation:

• Letter of invitation
  • Must be official. A scanned version is accepted at the time of application, but it is advisable to send the original by mail as the original will be required at the border.
• Documents proving kinship
• A document confirming the status of the inviting person in India
• If the invitee stays at the inviting person’s home, documents about the house (contract, payment for utilities, etc.)

11. For Minors:

• Copy and English translation of either birth certificate/proof of adoption/custody decree if parents are divorced/death certificate of parent
• Letter of consent from parent/s or legal guardian/s, if traveling unaccompanied

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Family Visit Visa

The average processing time for an India Family Visit visa is 3-20 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Family Visit Visa Fee

India Family Visit visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).      

Where to Apply for India Family Visit Visa?

You will apply for an India Family Visit visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Study (Short-term) Visa

An India Study visa is granted to you to undertake trips to India for study or educational training, which requires staying in India temporarily.

Required Documents for India Study (Short-term) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

8. Proof of Visit

• Original Letter of Acceptance by the Education Institution, including details of the course, duration, and fees with proof of payment.

9. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation), if any

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

10. Proof of Financial Means

       In the case of scholarship:

• Confirmation of receipt of a grant or scholarship from the relevant fund of India

       In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

       In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Study (Short-term) Visa

The average processing time for an India Study (Short-term) visa is 3-20 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Study (Short-term) Visa Fee

India Study (Short-term) visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Study (Short-term) Visa?

You will apply for an India Study (Short-term) visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Work (Short-term) Visa

An India Work visa is granted to you to undertake trips to India for short-term work activities, which requires staying in India temporarily.

Required Documents for India Work (Short-term) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas
• Copy of visa for the final destination (if any)

7. Travel Itinerary 

• Flight reservation
• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

8. Proof of Visit

• Invitation from your business partner in India

9. Letter from Local Employer/Sponsor (Proof of Occupation), if any

• The letter must include:
  • Name, postal address, and telephone number of sponsor/company
  • Details regarding the applicant’s working position, starting date of the employment, and salary
  • The timeframe of work leave (expected date to resume duties) and purpose of travel
• Valid trade license copy and company ownership documents (if a person is an owner of the company).
• Letter from University (if student)
• Copy of sponsor’s valid passport and residence visa (if any) to be attached to letter from sponsor (if an applicant is a dependent)

10. Proof of Financial Means

       In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

       In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Work (Short-term) Visa

The average processing time for an India Work (Short-term) visa is 3-20 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Work (Short-term) Visa Fee

India Work (Short-term) visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Work (Short-term) Visa?

You will apply for an India Work (Short-term) visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

Whether or not a foreign citizen needs to meet the transit visa requirements for India depends on a few different factors.

All foreign citizens who need a visa to enter India are able to transit through India without a visa for up to 24 hours, but only if they remain within the airport transfer lounge. To transit in India for longer periods and to be able to leave the airport lounge, it will be necessary to hold an approved visa for the country.

Even if the traveler has a connecting flight within 24 hours of arrival in India, they could, for one reason or another, be required to leave the Transit Area of the airport. For example, immigration clearance may be required to recheck bags for the connected flight, or whether the traveler wants to stay at a hotel outside the transit area.

In such cases, travelers need to apply for a visa beforehand.

India Long-term Visa

India Long-term Visa

Even if your country is exempt from visa requirements, if you intend to stay longer in India, you will need to apply for a long-stay visa from your home country before coming to India.

In some countries, India's official embassies and consulates don’t process long-term visas, instead visa applicants apply for short-term tourist visas for traveling to India and they only apply for residence permits when they have already arrived in India. This procedure can vary depending on your country of residence, nationality, and the policy of the embassy you apply for a visa.

The India Long-term Visa is given to foreigners who wish to live in India for a longer period of time or to have temporary or permanent residence established.

The long-term visa grants entry to India on the basis that you will be applying for a residence permit. It enables you to enter India as a potential resident and stay while you apply for residency.

India Employment (Long-term) Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in India for a longer period. This visa applies to those who want to work within the legal frame of employment upon taking an employment permit and the work permit as per appointed procedure from competent regional authorities.

Required Documents for India Employment (Long-term) Visa

1. Application Form 

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant 

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas/ India resident permit

7. Original Employment Letter from the Applicant's Employer in India

• On the official company paper with stamp and signature, date and clearly mentioning: full address and contact details of the company, the name, and position of the countersigning officer, details regarding the employment of the applicant (e.g. position, salary, estimated duration), details regarding additional conditions of employment (e.g. accommodation, transport, living expenses).

       In the case of international transfer of the employee:

• A letter from the current employer confirming the transfer and approving the leave/absence of the applicant

8. Curriculum Vitae (CV) of Professional Career, specifying the Certificates, Diplomas, and Qualifications You Have Obtained.

9. Proof of Accommodation

• Accommodation (if not indicated in the invitation or contract) - Confirmed accommodation (hotel, hostel, apartment) reservation mentioning applicant’s name, dates, and accommodation address details.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Employment (Long-term) Visa

The average processing time for India Employment (Long-term) visa is 5-30 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Employment (Long-term) Visa Fee

India Employment (Long-term) visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Employment (Long-term) visa?

You will apply for an India Employment (Long-term) visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Study (Long-term) Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in India for a longer period. This visa applies to those who are admitted to the state college or state university in India.

Required Documents for India Study (Long-term) Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors, below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos        

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame.
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas/ India resident permit

7. Details from your University in India:

       a) Confirmed University Admission

• Admission letter issued by an educational institution (school/college/university) accredited in India
  • Must state language of instruction
  • Must contain the start and end dates of the course
• Those in full-time education should submit a letter from their education establishment clearly indicating the course of studies being followed.

       b) Confirmed Language Course With Conditional University Admission

• Receipt/confirmation of language course payment in advance
• Proof of conditional university admission or confirmation of admission as an applicant or detailed communication with the University for a concrete subject of study

8. Documents Attesting Previous Education:

• Higher secondary certificate - if the applicant applies for a visa on the basis of a university certificate on admission to the first year of studies
• In a preparatory course, one must submit the higher secondary certificate legalized/attested/apostilled by the MEA/MFA.

       In the case of student exchange:

• The original certificate from the university confirming that the applicant is a student.
• Copy of the agreement/official information from the universities regarding the student exchange.
• Invitation from India University.

9. Knowledge of Language, for cases of Confirmed University Admission and Confirmed Admission to a Preparation Course for University (if any)

• Proof of language proficiency in English (TOEFL/IELTS), if the course is taught in English

10. Proof of Accommodation in India

• Document confirming the availability in India of appropriate accommodation for the intended period of stay (documents shall contain information about the cost of living; the costs for a full period or monthly payment must be indicated)

11. Documents Confirming the Sufficient Financial Resources (of Applicant or Sponsor)

• Traveler’s cheque
• Original bank statement for the past 3 months
• Certificate of the amount of the credit card limit issued by the bank (any bank located in India or another country is allowed)
• A certificate of availability of money in a bank or a cooperative savings and loan association located on the territory of the Republic of India (it cannot be a bank located in your country)
• A document confirming granting of a national or foreign scholarship
• A certificate of employment with a monthly salary statement

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Study (Long-term) Visa

The average processing time for India Study (Long-term) visa is 5-30 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Study (Long-term) Visa Fee

India Study (Long-term) visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Study (Long-term) Visa?

You will apply for an India Study (Long-term) visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.

India Family Reunion Visa

This visa is intended to permit foreign nationals to obtain a long-term visa, allowing them to stay in India for a longer period. This visa applies to family members of İndia nationals and wishing to obtain a permit for long-term residence in India.

Required Documents for India Family Reunion Visa

1. Application Form

• Fully completed in English and signed and dated by the applicant himself (signed by both parents in case of minors below the age of 18)

2. Passport

• Validity minimum of six months beyond the date of your departure from India.
• Signed by bearer
• Passport not older than 10 years (issued in the last 10 years)
• At least one or two free “visa pages”
• Undamaged pictures securely affixed with/to passport

3. Two Photos

• NEW! Should not be older than 6 months.
• A frontal view of the face-covering 70-80% (32-26mm) of the photo.
• A uniform and white background.
• Clear facial features and eyes – not covered by hair or glasses frame
• 3.5x4.5 size

4. ID Card Copy

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

5. Residence Permit/Visa Copy (if your country of residence and citizenship are different)

• Validity minimum of three months beyond the date of your departure from India.

6. Photocopies

• Copy of the main page of your passport
• Copies of previous visas/ India resident permit

7. Details of Spouse

• Passport copy
• For spouses of foreign nationals have to submit a copy of their partner's residence permit for India.
• Certificate of residence of the spouse living in India

8. Marriage Certificate

       a) India Marriage Certificate:

• India certificate of marriage, along with certified copies.

       b) Foreign Marriage Certificate:

• Foreign documents or certificates are often only recognized by the authorities of a state if their authenticity and evidentiary value has been determined by a special procedure.

9. Proof of Accommodation in India

• Copy of lease certificate of an apartment in India or title deed of owned property, if the partner is already residing in India.
• If the host provides accommodation – document indicating the right of ownership/right to use (e.g., rental agreement) clearly allowing to lodge guests at this location.

10. Proof of Sufficient Means of Substance

• Copy of employment certificate of the foreign spouse who intends to live in India
• Salary slips from the past three months if he/she is living in India.

      In the case of self-funding:

• Generally, there are several recognized ways to prove your financial sufficiency:
  • A personal bank statement indicating your financial movements (for at least 3 last months)
  • Credit card
  • Cash
  • Traveler’s cheques
  • Payslips
  • Proof of employment
  • Supporting document to attest sponsor’s readiness to cover your expenses during your stay
  • Proof of prepaid accommodation
  • Document about accommodation in private
  • Proof of prepaid transport
  • Other

      In the case of sponsorship:

• Latest 3 months current account bank statement of a sponsor (showing sponsor’s name, an end balance, and date of issue).
• Sponsorship letter, copy of the first page of the sponsor’s passport with the data.

*Additional documents can be required by the embassy.

Processing Time for India Family Reunion Visa

The average processing time for an India Family Reunion visa is 5-30 working days. It depends on your visa application country.

India Family Reunion Visa Fee

India Family Reunion visa fee is 25-100 USD for foreign nationals (it can vary depending on your nationality and validity period of visa).

Where to Apply for India Family Reunion Visa?

You will apply for an India Family Reunion visa in India visa application centers, embassies, or consulates, whichever accepts visa applications in your country of residence. If there is none of them in your country, you need to apply to the nearest embassy or consulate to your location.