A complete guide to obtaining an Indian visa
Planning a trip to India? An Indian visa is your passport to exploring this vibrant country. This guide will walk you through the process of applying for an Indian visa, from eligibility to collection.
Table of Contents
4. Online Application (e-Visa)
5. Offline Application (Regular Visa)
7. How Much is the Indian Visa Fee?
8. Processing Time and Collection
10. Guarantee Your Indian Visa with a Valid Passport Photo from Smartphone iD
Indian visa eligibility
To be eligible for an Indian visa, you must:
- Hold a valid passport with at least six months validity beyond your intended stay in India.
- Have a confirmed return or onward journey ticket.
- Possess sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay.
- Meet the specific requirements of the visa category you’re applying for (tourist, business, medical, etc.).
Can I apply online?
Yes, India offers an e-Visa facility to citizens of over 160 countries, making the application process more accessible. The e-Visa is available for:
- Tourism(e-Tourist Visa)
- Business(e-Business Visa)
- Medical Treatment(e-Medical Visa)
- Medical Attendant(e-Medical Attendant Visa)
- Conference Participation(e-Conference Visa)
The e-Visa is typically issued for short-term visits ranging from 30 days to 1 year, depending on the purpose of the visit.
How to apply
The Indian visa application process can be done online or through the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country.
Online application (e-Visa)
- Visit the Official e-Visa Website: Navigate to the Indian government’s official e-Visa website.
- Fill Out the Application Form: Provide all required details, including your passport information, travel dates, and purpose of visit.
- Upload Documents: Upload the necessary documents such as passport copies, photographs, and additional documents depending on the visa type.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card.
- Receive Your e-Visa: Once processed, the ETA will be sent to your email. Print it out and carry it with you during your trip.
Offline application (regular visa)
- Complete the Application Form: Download and fill out the visa application form from the Indian Embassy’s website in your country.
- Gather Required Documents: Collect all necessary documents, including passport photos, proof of travel, financial statements, and letters of invitation if required.
- Submit the Application: Submit your completed application form along with the documents at the nearest Indian Visa Application Center or Embassy.
- Pay the Fee: Pay the visa fee at the application center.
- Attend an Interview (if required): Some visa types may require an interview at the embassy.
- Collect Your Visa: Once your visa is processed, you can collect it from the embassy or have it mailed to you.
General documents
Regardless of the visa type, you will generally need the following documents:
- Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your planned stay in India and have at least two blank pages.
- Passport-Sized Photographs: Recent (digital/printed) photos that meet the specific requirements for Indian visas.
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed.
- Proof of Travel Arrangements: Such as flight tickets.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or pay slips to demonstrate financial stability during your stay.
- Additional Documents: Depending on the visa type, such as a letter of invitation, medical reports, or admission letters from educational institutions.
How much is the Indian visa fee?
The cost of an Indian visa varies depending on the visa type, duration, and nationality of the applicant. Here’s a general idea:
- e-Visa Fees: Usually range between $10 to $100, depending on the visa category and duration.
- Regular Visa Fees: Can vary from $20 to over $200, depending on the visa type and processing speed (regular or expedited).
It’s essential to verify the specific fees applicable to your country and visa type on the official website before submitting your application.
Processing time and collection
- e-Visa:
The processing time for an e-Visa is usually between 3 to 5 business days. After you approve it, it is emailed to you.
- Regular Visa:
The processing time can range from 5 to 15 business days, depending on the embassy’s workload and the visa type.
Collection: e-Visas are received via email and should be printed out before travel. Regular visas are usually stamped in your passport and can be collected from the embassy or consulate.
Additional tips
- Apply Early: Always apply well in advance of your travel dates to avoid any delays.
- Check Requirements: Make sure to check the specific requirements for your nationality and visa type.
- Ensure Photo Compliance: One of the common reasons for visa delays is incorrect passport photos. Make sure your photo meets the Indian visa requirements.
Guarantee your Indian visa with a valid passport photo from Smartphone iD
A valid passport photo is crucial for your Indian visa application. With Passport photo Maker Smartphone iD , you can easily ensure that your photo meets the specific requirements:
- Use Smartphone iD from Apple Store et Google Play Store, or conveniently use our online web app.
- Follow the Guidelines: The app provides detailed instructions to capture the perfect passport photo.
- Upload or Print: Use the app to upload your photo directly to the online application portal, or print it for your offline application.
By using Smartphone iD, you can avoid common mistakes and ensure your application is processed smoothly, increasing your chances of obtaining an Indian visa without delays.
Sources
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html
https://indianvisaonline.gov.in
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