Quick answer: India requires an e-visa for most travelers. $25-100 USD. Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in.
Planning a trip to India? Here’s the complete visa picture — current, practical, no legalese. Verified against the official government sources as of May 2026.
Do you need a visa for India?
Visa rules depend on your passport. Current breakdown for the 5 most common traveler nationalities:
Key facts at a glance
- Currency: INR
- Capital: New Delhi
- Passport validity: 6 months beyond departure (or 3 months for Schengen)
- Cost: $25-100 USD
- Stay length: 30 days to 5 years
- How to apply: indianvisaonline.gov.in
How to enter India — step by step
- Apply online at indianvisaonline.gov.in 3-7 days before travel.
- Pay the fee: $25-100 USD
- Print confirmation (paper copy sometimes required).
- Bring 6+ months passport validity + return ticket.
- At immigration: show e-visa + passport.
What people miss
- Biometric is taken on arrival.
- E-visa is faster than embassy. Print + bring 2 photos.
- Overstays trigger bans. Even 1 day over can mean denied future entry.
- Carry passport copies separately. Lost passport recovery is faster.
- Save e-visa/eTA as PDF on phone — saves panic at the airport.
Common trip scenarios
Frequently asked questions
Do I need a visa for India?
India requires an e-visa for most travelers. $25-100 USD. Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in.
How long can I stay in India?
30 days to 5 years
How much does a India visa cost?
$25-100 USD
Can I extend my stay in India?
Most visa-free stays cannot be extended. For longer stays, apply for an appropriate residence permit.
What if I overstay in India?
Overstaying triggers fines, possible deportation, and 1-5 year entry bans. Don’t risk it.
Do I need travel insurance for India?
Strongly recommended. Schengen requires €30,000+ medical coverage.
Can I work in India on a tourist visa?
No. Tourist entry is for tourism only. Working requires a work permit.
What if my visa is denied?
Common reasons: incomplete docs, insufficient funds, prior overstays. Re-apply with stronger documentation.
Plan your India trip
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