India visas

India offers a diverse visa landscape, primarily driven by its robust eVisa system, making travel accessible for tourism, business, and medical purposes. Recent policy updates for 2025-2026 aim to streamline entry with digital processes and expanded entry points, while also introducing stricter application requirements and updated fee structures.

Visa Overview

India's visa policy is characterized by its comprehensive eVisa system, which caters to a wide range of international travelers for tourism, business, medical treatment, and conferences. The government has expanded the number of e-Visa compatible entry points to 51, including major airports, seaports, and land crossings. Recent changes for 2025-2026 include a shift to a 'reciprocal pricing' model for eVisa fees, with standard 5-year e-Tourist Visas increasing to $200, though shorter 30-day and 1-year e-Tourist Visas maintain lower rates. Stricter AI-driven photo verification rules have been implemented, and travelers can now apply for e-Visas up to 120 days in advance. From October 1, 2025, an electronic arrival form becomes optional, becoming mandatory by March 2026. Additionally, new immigration rules effective June 2, 2026, require foreign nationals on visas valid for up to 180 days to complete registration before their permitted stay expires, rather than the previous 14-day grace period. Visa on Arrival is available for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and specific UAE nationals at designated airports.

Key Highlights

eVisa system available for e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, and e-Conference categories, with validity options of 30 days, 1 year, and 5 years.

Standard 5-year e-Tourist Visa fee is $200, with a reciprocal pricing model meaning fees can vary significantly by nationality (e.g., UK citizens up to $484, US citizens $140 for 1-year e-Business).

eVisa entry is permitted through 51 designated airports and seaports across India.

Mandatory e-Arrival Card for foreign nationals from October 1, 2025, replacing paper forms by March 2026.

New immigration rules (effective June 2, 2026) require registration before the 180-day stay limit expires for visas valid up to 180 days.

Official Resources

Indian Visa Online (Official eVisa Portal) Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs e-Arrival Card Portal

Travel Tips

Ensure your passport has at least six months validity from your date of arrival and at least two blank pages for immigration stamping.
Apply for your eVisa well in advance, as applications can be submitted up to 120 days before your planned arrival.
Adhere strictly to the new AI-driven photo requirements to avoid application rejections and delays.
If your visa allows a stay of up to 180 days and you intend to remain longer, register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) before the 180-day period expires.
Always carry a printout of your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and any other required documents, such as return tickets and proof of sufficient funds.