What Are The Most Important Things To Know About India Tourism Official Website?

Embarking on a journey to India? The India Tourism Official Website is your go-to resource for planning an unforgettable trip, and SIXT.VN can help you make the most of your travel experience by offering personalized tours and essential travel services. Dive in to discover everything you need to know, from visa requirements to must-see destinations, ensuring a seamless and enriching adventure in India.

1. What Is The India Tourism Official Website?

The India Tourism Official Website serves as the primary online portal for travelers seeking comprehensive information about India. It is managed by the Ministry of Tourism, Government of India. This website provides details on destinations, accommodations, travel guidelines, and cultural insights, acting as a central hub for trip planning. For travelers looking for a more personalized touch, SIXT.VN offers customized travel services to enhance your experience.

1.1 What Kind Of Information Can I Find On The India Tourism Official Website?

You can find a wide range of information on the official tourism website, including:

• Destination Guides: Detailed information about various tourist destinations across India, including historical sites, natural landscapes, and cultural hubs.
• Accommodation Options: Listings of hotels, guesthouses, and resorts, catering to different budgets and preferences.
• Travel Guidelines: Essential information about visa requirements, health advisories, and safety tips for tourists.
• Cultural Insights: Articles and guides on Indian culture, festivals, cuisine, and traditions, helping you understand and appreciate the local heritage.
• Travel Planning Tools: Interactive maps, itinerary suggestions, and booking resources to help you plan your trip efficiently.
• News and Updates: Latest news and updates related to tourism in India, including new initiatives, events, and travel advisories.
• E-Visa Services: Information regarding e-Visa eligibility, procedures, and requirements for various types of visas.

1.2 How Can I Use The India Tourism Official Website To Plan My Trip?

The official website is designed to assist you in every step of your travel planning:

• Explore Destinations: Browse through the destination guides to identify the places you want to visit based on your interests.
• Check Visa Requirements: Understand the visa requirements and application process to ensure you have the necessary documents.
• Plan Your Itinerary: Use the itinerary suggestions to create a customized travel plan that fits your schedule and preferences.
• Find Accommodation: Search for hotels or other accommodations that meet your budget and location requirements.
• Stay Informed: Keep up-to-date with the latest travel advisories and news to ensure a safe and smooth trip.

2. Who Is Eligible For E-Visa Services?

Eligibility for e-Visa services is based on several conditions. You can apply if you meet these criteria. SIXT.VN can assist with your travel arrangements once your visa is approved.

2.1 Which Nationalities Are Eligible For An Indian E-Visa?

Nationals of countries listed on the e-Visa website are eligible to apply for e-Visa Services. The list of eligible countries is available on the official e-Visa portal.

2.2 What Are The Permitted Purposes Of Visit For E-Visa Holders?

Foreigners can apply for an e-Visa if their sole objective for visiting India is for:

• Recreation and sightseeing
• Casual visits to meet friends and relatives
• Attending short-term yoga programs or courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine, etc., which should not be formal courses exceeding 6 months in duration and not issuing a qualifying certificate/diploma.
• Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month) that does not involve any monetary payment.
• Medical treatment, including treatment under Indian systems of medicine.
• Attending as an attendant to an e-Medical visa holder.
• Business purposes.
• Attending a conference/seminar/workshop.

2.3 What Passport Requirements Must Be Met To Obtain An E-Visa?

Your passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making the application for grant of e-Visa and a re-entry permit, if required under the law of your country. The passport should also have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.

2.4 What Other Conditions Apply To E-Visa Eligibility?

Other eligibility conditions include:

• You must have a return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during your stay in India.
• Foreigners of Pakistani origin or holding a Pakistani Passport are not eligible for e-Visa.
• The e-Visa is not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer/international travel document holders.
• It is not available to individuals endorsed on a Parent’s/Spouse’s Passport; each individual should have a separate passport.

3. What Is The Procedure For Applying For An E-Visa?

The e-Visa application process is straightforward. Follow these steps to apply, and remember that SIXT.VN can handle your transportation and accommodation needs once your visa is secured.

3.1 Where Can I Find The Official E-Visa Application Website?

The official website to apply for e-Visa Services is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/. Always use this website to avoid scams and ensure your personal information is secure.

3.2 What Are The Key Steps In The E-Visa Application Process?

The key steps include:

• Online Application: Fill out the online application form with accurate details.
• Document Upload: Upload a digital photograph and a scanned copy of your passport.
• Payment: Pay the e-Visa processing fee online.
• Confirmation: Receive a confirmation of submission of your application via email.
• Visa Status: Check your visa status online after a few days.
• ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization): If your visa is granted, you will receive an ETA, which you must print and carry with you during your travel.

3.3 Are There Any Intermediaries Required For E-Visa Services?

No, e-Visa services are completely online, and no facilitation is required by any intermediary or travel agent. Be cautious of unscrupulous elements claiming speedy e-Visa grants and charging money for it.

3.4 What Precautions Should I Take While Applying For An E-Visa?

Take these precautions:

• Only use the official website.
• Do not share your personal information with unauthorized websites.
• Beware of scams promising speedy e-Visas for a fee.
• For any clarification, contact the official support via email at ‘indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in’ or call (+91) 827808 7808 or +91 11 24300666.

4. Are There Any Fees Other Than The Processing Fee?

No, there are no fees other than the processing fee for the e-Visa application. The processing fee is non-refundable. Visit the official website to know the fee applicable for your country, as it is country-specific.

4.1 How Can I Determine The E-Visa Fee For My Country?

To determine the e-Visa fee for your country, visit the official e-Visa website and look for the fee structure section. The fees vary depending on your nationality and the type of e-Visa you are applying for.

4.2 What Payment Methods Are Accepted For The E-Visa Fee?

The e-Visa portal typically accepts various payment methods, including:

• Credit cards (Visa, MasterCard)
• Debit cards
• Other online payment options as specified on the website

Ensure you have a valid payment method ready when you start your application to avoid any delays.

5. When Should I Apply For An E-Visa?

Timing is crucial when applying for an e-Visa. Apply within the recommended timeframes to avoid any last-minute complications. SIXT.VN can help you coordinate your travel plans around your visa processing time.

5.1 What Is The Earliest And Latest I Can Apply For An E-Tourist Visa (01 Year / 05 Years), E-Business Visa, E-Medical, E-Medical Attendant And E-Conference Visa?

For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, and e-Conference visas, you may apply online a minimum of 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. The application can be made up to 120 days in advance from the proposed date of travel.

5.2 What Is The Earliest And Latest I Can Apply For An E-Tourist Visa (30 Days)?

For e-Tourist Visa (30 days), you may apply online a minimum of 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. The application can be made up to 30 days in advance from the proposed date of travel.

6. Do I Get A Confirmation Of Submission Of My E-Visa Application?

Yes, immediately after you submit your e-Visa application and make the payment, you will receive a confirmation of submission on the email ID provided by you while filling up your application form.

6.1 What Should I Do If I Don’t Receive A Confirmation Email?

If you don’t receive a confirmation email shortly after submitting your e-Visa application, check your spam or junk mail folder first. If it’s not there, you can:

• Log back into the e-Visa portal and check your application status.
• Contact the e-Visa support team to inquire about your application.

7. When Will My E-Visa Be Issued And How Will I Be Informed About It?

Your e-Visa application may take 72 hours or more for processing. You will be intimated about your Visa status (Granted or Rejected) on your email id provided in the e-Visa application.

7.1 What Happens If My E-Visa Application Is Delayed?

If your e-Visa application is delayed beyond the typical processing time, you should:

• Regularly check the status of your application on the official e-Visa portal.
• Contact the e-Visa support team via email or phone for an update.
• Ensure that all the information and documents you provided were accurate to avoid further delays.

8. Can I Check The Status Of My E-Visa Application?

Yes, you may check the status of your e-Visa application by visiting the official website and clicking on ‘Check your Visa Status’ Tab.

8.1 What Information Do I Need To Check My E-Visa Status?

To check your e-Visa status, you will typically need:

• Your Application ID or Reference Number.
• Your Passport Number.
• Your Date of Birth.

Keep these details handy to quickly access your application status on the portal.

9. What Is The Validity Of E-Visa?

The validity of your e-Visa depends on the type of e-Visa you requested in the application form. Be aware of the entry and stay rules for each type of visa.

9.1 What Is The Validity Of The E-Tourist Visa (01 Year / 05 Years)?

For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), the validity would be 365 days / 05 years from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries. The maximum stay in India during one Calendar Year should not exceed 180 days.

9.2 What Is The Validity Of The E-Tourist Visa (30 Days)?

For e-Tourist Visa (30 days), the validity would be 30 days from the date of your first arrival in India. Double entries will be granted within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport. Your first arrival must be between the date of issue and expiry of ETA.

9.3 What Is The Validity Of The E-Business Visa?

For e-Business Visa, the validity would be 365 days from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries. Continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days, and no registration would be required if the stay is for a period of less than 180 days. However, if the intention is to stay for more than 180 days, you must register with the FRRO/FRO concerned within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days of your arrival in India.

9.4 What Is The Validity Of The E-Conference Visa?

For e-Conference Visa, the validity would be 30 days from the date of arrival in India with Single entry.

9.5 What Is The Validity Of The E-Medical Visa And E-Medical Attendant Visa?

For e-Medical Visa and e-Medical Attendant Visa, the validity would be 60 days from the date of first arrival in India, and triple entry will be allowed within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport.

10. Can I Convert My E-Visa To Any Other Visa?

No, e-Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible. Ensure you apply for the correct type of visa based on your purpose of visit.

10.1 What Are My Options If I Need To Extend My Stay Beyond The E-Visa Validity?

If you need to extend your stay beyond the e-Visa validity, you generally have the following options:

• Leave and Re-enter: You may need to leave India before your e-Visa expires and apply for a new visa if you wish to return.
• Apply for a Different Visa: Depending on your circumstances, you may need to apply for a regular visa through the Indian Mission in your home country.

11. Can I Change The Port Of Arrival/Departure?

You may arrive at 31 designated Airports and 5 designated seaports. You may depart from any of the Indian Immigration Check Posts (ICPs).

11.1 What Are The Designated Airports For E-Visa Entry?

The 31 designated airports are:

• Ahmedabad
• Amritsar
• Bagdogra
• Bengaluru
• Bhubaneshwar
• Calicut
• Chennai
• Chandigarh
• Cochin
• Coimbatore
• Delhi
• Gaya
• Goa (Dabolim)
• Goa (Mopa)
• Guwahati
• Hyderabad
• Indore
• Jaipur
• Kannur
• Kolkata
• Lucknow
• Madurai
• Mangalore
• Mumbai
• Nagpur
• Port Blair
• Pune
• Tiruchirapalli
• Trivandrum
• Varanasi
• Visakhapatnam

11.2 What Are The Designated Seaports For E-Visa Entry?

The 5 designated seaports are:

• Cochin
• Goa
• Mangalore
• Chennai
• Mumbai

12. I Have Not Received Any Intimation Even After 72 Hours Of Submission Of My E-Visa Application. What Should I Do Now?

Your e-Visa application may take up to 72 hours for processing. For more enquiries on your e-Visa application, you can contact the support team or e-mail them. Be aware of unscrupulous elements/travel agents/intermediaries in this regard.

12.1 What Steps Should I Take If My Application Is Incomplete?

If applicants have been asked for correct details or additional information where the application is incomplete, the same must be sent immediately. If such information is not provided within 72 hours, the application is liable to be rejected.

13. I Am Applying E-Visa For Myself And My Son/Daughter Who Is A Minor. Do I Need To Apply For A Separate E-Visa For My Minor Child?

Yes, ensure that your child’s passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India. Each individual, including minors, must have a separate e-Visa.

13.1 What Documents Are Required For A Minor’s E-Visa Application?

For a minor’s e-Visa application, you typically need:

• A valid passport with at least six months validity.
• A digital photograph of the minor.
• Copies of the parents’ passports.
• A birth certificate to prove the relationship between the minor and the parents.

14. I Have Submitted My E-Visa Application And Paid The Processing Fee. If I Cancel My Proposed Visit To India, Will The Fees Be Refunded?

E-Visa processing fees, once submitted, are non-refundable, as the fee is for processing the application and is not dependent on either the Grant or Rejection of the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).

14.1 Are There Any Circumstances Under Which The E-Visa Fee Can Be Refunded?

No, the e-Visa processing fee is generally non-refundable under any circumstances. This includes cases where the applicant cancels their trip or the visa application is rejected.

15. Do I Have To Pay Anything Else At The Airport For E-Visa (Other Than The Processing Fee Paid By Me Online)?

No, you have already paid the required processing fee online. Be aware of unscrupulous elements/travel agents/intermediaries demanding extra payment.

15.1 What Should I Do If Someone Demands Additional Payment At The Airport?

If someone demands additional payment at the airport despite you having already paid the e-Visa processing fee, you should:

• Refuse to pay any additional amount.
• Ask for the person’s identification and the reason for the extra charge in writing.
• Report the incident to the airport authorities or immigration officials immediately.

16. I Want To Submit My Liquor Permit Application Along With My E-Visa Application; How Can I Do This?

This pertains to the customs department. Liquor permits are not part of the e-Visa application process. You will need to follow the specific guidelines provided by the customs department regarding liquor permits.

16.1 Where Can I Find Information About Liquor Permit Regulations?

To find information about liquor permit regulations, you can:

• Check the website of the customs department of the specific state you are visiting in India.
• Contact the local tourism office for guidance on liquor permit requirements.

17. What Should I Do If The Payment Is Not Accepted By The E-Visa Website?

Make sure you delete the browser history and cookies before trying to make payment. Also, try changing the browser if the problem persists. In case you have already tried more than thrice, then you may have to re-submit the entire application form once again.

17.1 What Are The Contact Details For Payment Support?

• Axis Bank Technical support.
  • Email address: ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com
  • Contact No Toll free Numbers from:
    • USA: 18552055577
    • UK: 0808178 5040
    • Singapore: 8001206355
    • Australia: 1800153861
    • UAE: 8000 3570 3218
    • Saudi Arabia: 8008500000
    • Qatar: 00800 100348
    • Bahrain: 80011300
    • For rest of the countries: + 91-40-6717-4100
• SBI ePay payment support provides technical support for all payment-related transactions at +91-22-2753-5773 (24 x 7).

18. How Can I Get The Invoice/Receipt Of The E-Visa Payment?

Please visit the official website and click on ‘Verify Payment/ Pay e-Visa fee’.

18.1 What Information Will Be On The E-Visa Payment Invoice?

The e-Visa payment invoice will typically include:

• Your Application ID or Reference Number
• Date of Payment
• Amount Paid
• Payment Method Used
• Transaction ID

Keep this invoice for your records and as proof of payment.

19. What Are The Necessary Documents Required To Apply For An E-Business Visa Other Than The Passport?

You have to upload the business card along with the details of the Indian Firm/Company (which you intend to associate yourself with) for business activities. For Sports Related Activity under e-Business Visa, please refer to the Instructions for applicant page for the list of documents required.

19.1 What Additional Documents Are Required For Sports-Related Activities Under The E-Business Visa?

For sports-related activities under the e-Business Visa, you may need to provide:

• An invitation letter from the sports organization in India.
• Details of the event or competition.
• A letter of support from your national sports federation.
• Any other documents specified on the official e-Visa website.

20. What Is A Business Card In The Context Of An E-Business Visa Application?

Business card means ‘a card provided to you by the company you are working for’ OR you can also upload ‘an invitation letter from the company in India including the company’s information, address, and phone number in India’.

20.1 What Information Should Be Included In The Invitation Letter?

The invitation letter should include:

• Company Name
• Address
• Phone Number
• Details of the Purpose of Visit
• Duration of Stay

21. What Are The Necessary Documents Required For E-Medical Visa Other Than The Passport?

A Copy of Letter from the Hospital concerned in India on its letterhead which includes the tentative date of admission/treatment in the hospital mentioning the name, nationality, and Passport number of the patient/ e-Medical Visa applicant.

21.1 What Specific Details Should Be Included In The Hospital Letter?

The hospital letter should include the following details:

• Hospital Letterhead
• Patient’s Name
• Nationality
• Passport Number
• Tentative Date of Admission/Treatment

22. What Are The Necessary Documents Required For E-Conference Visa Other Than The Passport?

For e-Conference Visa, the following are the required documents:

• Invitation from the organizer (mandatory)
• Political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India (mandatory)
• Event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt of India (optional)

22.1 How Do I Obtain Political And Event Clearances?

To obtain the necessary clearances:

• The conference organizer in India should apply for political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs.
• If required, the organizer should also obtain event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs.

23. I Got A New Passport But My ETA Was On Old Passport And It Is Still Valid. How Can I Proceed Now?

You may be allowed entry into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport with the condition that you must carry the new Passport and old passport on which ETA was issued.

23.1 What If I No Longer Have My Old Passport?

If you no longer have your old passport, it is recommended to:

• Apply for a new e-Visa with your new passport details to avoid any potential issues at immigration.

24. Can I Enter India Using Land Border Even If I Am Having Valid E-Visa For Any Other Airport Or Seaport Which Is Not Listed For The E-Visa?

No, you can only enter through the designated airports/seaports which are listed on the e-Visa website. Entry via land borders is not permitted with an e-Visa.

24.1 What Should I Do If I Intend To Enter India Via A Land Border?

If you intend to enter India via a land border, you must:

• Apply for a regular visa through the Indian Mission in your home country, as e-Visas are not valid for land border crossings.

25. How Can I Fill Previous Visa Details Inside The E-Visa Application Form?

You have to put the Previous visa details in the application form as it is mandatory. You can write NA or Not Available or Not Applicable or any other suitable phrase according to you in the application form if you do not remember your earlier Visa number/details.

25.1 What If I Provide Inaccurate Information About My Previous Visa Details?

Providing inaccurate information can lead to delays or rejection of your e-Visa application. It’s important to provide as accurate information as possible, but if you’re unsure, using “NA” or “Not Available” is acceptable.

26. Can I Get Visa On Arrival(VoA) At Indian Airports/Seaport?

The Visa on Arrival facility is only for the nationals of Japan, South Korea, and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India). For the nationals of all other countries eligible for e-Visa, the e-visa application have to be filled online and the applicant must wait till the confirmation/Grant of ETA for traveling to India.

26.1 What Are The Specific Requirements For UAE Nationals To Avail Of The VoA Facility?

UAE nationals are eligible for Visa on Arrival only if they have previously obtained an e-Visa or a regular/paper visa for India. They must meet all other eligibility criteria as well.

27. Can I Get A Refund For The Rejected E-Visa Application?

E-Visa processing fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either grant or Rejection of the Application.

27.1 What Are The Common Reasons For E-Visa Application Rejection?

Common reasons for e-Visa application rejection include:

• Providing inaccurate or incomplete information.
• Uploading a poor-quality photograph or passport scan.
• Having a passport with less than six months validity.
• Having a criminal record or previous immigration violations.

28. Can I Use E-Visa To Enter In India By Cruise Ship?

Entry by cruise ship is allowed with the ETA through 5 designated seaports namely Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa, and Mangalore seaports.

28.1 What Should I Do If My Cruise Ship Is Arriving At A Non-Designated Seaport?

If your cruise ship is arriving at a seaport not designated for e-Visa entry, you must:

• Apply for a regular visa through the Indian Mission in your home country.

29. What Is ‘Visible Identification Mark’?

‘Visible identification mark’ generally means moles, birthmarks, permanent scars, etc., which are visible and can be shown if asked for by the Indian Immigration Authority.

29.1 Why Is It Important To Provide An Accurate Visible Identification Mark?

Providing an accurate visible identification mark helps immigration authorities to verify your identity and ensures a smoother entry process.

30. Who Has To Carry The ‘Yellow Fever Vaccination Card’?

All foreigners arriving in India within 6 days of departure from any yellow fever endemic country are required to possess (in original) a valid yellow fever certificate of vaccination.

30.1 Which Countries Are Considered Yellow Fever Endemic?

The list of yellow fever endemic countries is available on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website. It’s essential to check this list before your travel to comply with health regulations.

31. We Got The ETA, But Have A Discrepancy In The Name, Nationality, Passport Number, And Date Of Birth In The ETA?

The applicant must check all the details, including Name, Nationality, Passport Number, and Date of Birth, photograph/self-image, etc., before the final submission of the e-Visa application. The applicant would be responsible for any discrepancy irrespective of grant/rejection of the e-Visa application.

31.1 What Steps Should I Take If There Is An Error On My ETA?

However, if any discrepancy is found on ETA, the e-Visa Support Centre may be contacted for assistance at least 24 hours before the journey date. Contact them via email or phone.

32. Is The E-Visa Facility Allowed For Employment Visa?

E-Visa is not allowed for employment. You may apply for a Regular Visa.

32.1 What Type Of Visa Should I Apply For If I Intend To Work In India?

If you intend to work in India, you should apply for an Employment Visa through the Indian Mission in your home country.

33. Is The E-Visa Allowed For Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) Activities And Journalism Purposes?

E-Visa is not allowed for NGO activities and journalism purposes. However, Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which does not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return) is allowed.

33.1 What Visa Type Should I Apply For If I Plan To Engage In NGO Activities Or Journalism?

If you plan to engage in NGO activities or journalism, you should apply for the appropriate visa through the Indian Mission in your home country.

34. How Many Attendants Can Come With A Patient?

Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa (patient).

34.1 What Documents Are Required For An E-Medical Attendant Visa?

The necessary documents for an e-Medical Attendant Visa include:

• A copy of the patient’s e-Medical Visa.
• A letter from the hospital in India confirming the patient’s treatment.
• The attendant’s passport details and photograph.

Navigating the India Tourism Official Website and understanding e-Visa requirements can seem daunting, but with the right information, you can plan your trip with confidence. And when you’re ready to explore India, remember that SIXT.VN is here to provide personalized travel services, ensuring a seamless and enriching experience. From customized tours to reliable transportation, we’re committed to making your Indian adventure unforgettable. Contact SIXT.VN today to start planning your dream trip! Visit SIXT.VN or contact us at Hotline/Whatsapp: +84 986 244 358. Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam.