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Guide to the Indian E-Tourist Visa from Application to Cost

Close up of visa application form

India is an amazing place with beautiful scenery and gorgeous architecture. But for many tourists, the procedure for acquiring a visa and entering the nation may be quite challenging. Thankfully, the Indian e-Tourist Visa has made it simpler to go to India!

Certain nations’ nationals are able to apply for and receive a visa fully online thanks to the Indian e-Tourist Visa. Compared to applying for a regular visa at an embassy or consulate, this makes it considerably easier and quicker. Travelers may legally and hassle-free enter India thanks to the e-Visa system.

What Is the Indian E-Tourist Visa?

Foreign citizens may enter India considerably more easily thanks to the pre-approved visitor visa scheme known as the Indian E-Tourist Visa, or ETV. It is available online before travel and is only supplied as an electronic document. Depending on the duration of the submitted passport’s validity, the visa entitles the holder to a stay in India of up to 60 days.

This kind of visa has been created particularly with leisure tourists in mind, allowing both people and families to discover India’s distinct culture, rich history, and vast terrain without any inconvenience. The Indian E-Tourist Visa offers privileged access to more than 1,000 Indian airports and seaports, as well as the choice to apply for single or multiple-entry tourist visas, allowing foreign tourists to get the most out of their trip while staying secure and affordable.

How Do I Apply for an Indian E-Tourist Visa?

The e-Tourist Visa has made it simpler and more accessible than ever before to visit India. Although there are a few prerequisites, the application process for an e-Tourist visa is pretty simple. Below is a step-by-step guide for obtaining an Indian e-Tourist Visa:

  1. Prepare all required documents, including passport information, personal information, address and contact information, and bank details.
  2. Complete the required forms available on the Indian government website, and make payment as directed.
  3. Upload 2 passport-size photographs and a digital or scanned copy of your passport (front page only).
  4. Submit your application form with all the required documents – including evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your trip– either through their website or through email (which is then printed by them and mailed to you).
  5. Wait for your application to be processed by the Indian immigration authorities (it may take up to 4 days).
  6. Once approved, you will receive an email with a link to your visa application form – be sure to print it out for presentation upon arrival in India.
  7. You’re ready! Your Indian e-Tourist Visa allows you entry into India for up to 60 days from the date of issue, with double entries allowed during this period of time (note: it must be used within 180 days of issue).

What Documents Do I Need to Apply for an Indian E-Tourist Visa?

Applying for an Indian e-Tourist Visa is a relatively simple process that requires specific documents. Depending on the country of residence, these documents may vary slightly, but some basics stay the same. Generally, travelers must provide:

  • A valid passport with at least six months of validity beyond the return date to India and at least two blank pages for immigration purposes.
  • A recent digital photograph
  • A copy of flight tickets or itinerary
  • Proof of accommodation (hotel reservations or rental agreement)
  • Proof of sufficient funds for stay in India
  • Return/onward air ticket or e-ticket number and proof of sufficient funds to cover stay in India (bank statement from the last three months).

Travelers can also be asked to provide additional documentation such as proof of employment if they are staying in India for over 180 days. It is important to note that while some countries allow applications up to 120 days before arrival, others require applications within 30 days before travel. Therefore, it is best to apply early, as this will better guarantee approval.

When and How Should I Pay the Indian E- Tourist Visa Fee?

The accompanying visa cost must be paid when the e-Tourist Visa application has been accepted. Online payment of the fee is required in order to begin the visa application procedure. Depending on the applicant’s country of origin, different nations pay different amounts for the current Indian E-Tourist Visa, with some paying as little as $25 USD and others as much as $80 USD.

Applicants must use extra caution to make sure their payment method is safe and correct when paying this charge. First, confirm that all personal data—including your complete legal name, date of birth, passport number, place of birth, and email address—is accurate and up to date.

It’s also important to determine an applicable payment option from the government’s list of approved methods:

  • Credit or Debit Card (Visa or MasterCard only)
  • PayPal
  • Rupees Net Banking
  • UPI (Unified Payments Interface)
  • MoneyGram or Western Union transfer services

Candidates should save a copy of the receipt for their records after selecting the appropriate payment option and having the transaction validated as successful. This ensures a simple application process and serves as evidence that the e-Tourist Visa cost has been paid in full.

What Are the Requirements to Be Eligible for an Indian E-Tourist Visa?

In order to be eligible for an Indian e-Tourist Visa, applicants must meet a few requirements.

  • Basic Requirements

Applicants should possess a digital passport with a valid six-month period of validity from the time of arrival in India and a valid digital photo. Additionally, it is important that applicants have a return ticket from India to their home country as proof of their intention to leave the country after their trip has ended.

  • Additional requirements for minors

For those applying for minors under 18 years of age, additional requirements are needed. The minor must be accompanied by a guardian or family member who holds a valid visa and can serve as an emergency contact person while they are in India. If the minor is traveling alone, they must provide proof of legal guardianship and written consent from the custodial parent or guardian allowing them to enter and stay in India. Documentation such as a legal birth certificate must also be provided when applying for an E-tourist visa on behalf of a minor.

By meeting these requirements, applicants will go through the smooth process of obtaining their Indian E-Tourist Visa with ease.

How Much Time Will It Take to Receive My Indian E-Tourist Visa After I Apply?

The Indian e-Tourist visa application process is relatively quick and straightforward, with most applicants receiving approval within two to three days after submission. However, applicants are advised to apply at least four days prior to travel as processing times may vary due to unforeseen circumstances. Applicants also have the option of receiving an express Indian e-Tourist visa in less than 72 hours by paying an additional fee.

Those who wish to speed up the process can take advantage of the following steps:

  1. Fill out the application form completely and accurately before submitting it.
  2. Provide all necessary documentation such as a valid passport and a valid international credit or debit card for payment of visa fees
  3. Make sure that all required documents have been uploaded correctly and accurately
  4. Carefully review your application again before submitting it to ensure accuracy and completeness.
  5. Make sure that you have applied for the visa well in advance of your departure date, as unexpected delays can occur during processing times.

What Are the Benefits of Applying for an Indian E- Tourist Visa?

The Indian e-Tourist Visa makes it easy for travelers to India, as the application process is both convenient and affordable. In addition to saving time and money, there are a few other advantages that come with this digital visa.

  • Easy & Secure Application Process: The online application process is self-explanatory and straightforward, making it easy and hassle-free for all those who want to travel to India. Plus, the secure payment gateway ensures safe transaction of payments.
  • Home Delivery Option: The Indian e-Tourist Visa can be delivered to the applicant’s home address which provides added convenience for those who don’t want to pick up the visa in person.
  • Quick Approval/Issuance Process: The turnaround time for receiving your Indian e-Tourist Visa is fast, with most applications being approved within 24 hours from submission. Even with delays due to additional paperwork or verification requirements, the average processing time remains 1 or 2 business days, making it a great option for last-minute trips.

Tips for Making the Most of Your Indian E-Tourist Visa

If you are looking to make the most of your Indian e-Tourist Visa, here are some tips that can help you optimize your experience.

  • Apply Early

  • The Indian e-Tourist Visa is valid for 60 days starting from the date of the approved application. To ensure your trip isn’t affected by any unforeseen delays, it is best to apply at least two weeks in advance.
  • Double-Check Your Documents

  • Before submitting your application, double-check to make sure all required documents are provided, as incomplete or incorrect applications will be rejected. Also, remember to save a copy of all your forms and supporting documents for your records.
  • Review Your Payment Options

  • The cost of your e-Tourist Visa is not refundable if the request is denied or canceled, so it is important to choose a payment method that works for you. Most payments are made online via credit card or debit card. However, some countries also accept money orders and traveler’s checks as forms of payment.

The Indian e-Tourist visa is a great way for travelers to enjoy an easier and more secure experience when visiting the country. From the easy application process to the reasonable cost, this visa takes the hassle out of making the transition from tourist to permanent resident.

The key advantages of applying for an e-Visa include:

  • 24/7 access to your visa information, including application status and expiration date
  • Easy and secure online payment options
  • Reduced waiting times for processing and approval
  • Improved transparency in the process, allowing applicants to quickly identify information requirements
  • Flexible pricing plans, depending on how many visits you make in a given year.

Travelers may easily, safely, and affordably enter India with the help of an Indian e-tourist visa. It is one of the least expensive methods to go to India and streamlines the visa application procedure. In order to apply for an Indian e-visa, applicants must have a current passport, residence documentation, and an active email address. The base application price, travel insurance charge, and processing fee are only a few of the costs connected with the e-visa. It’s critical that each stage of the application process be finished accurately and on time to prevent unwarranted delays.