Is India Tourism Right for Your Next Adventure?

India Tourism offers a vibrant tapestry of culture, history, and landscapes that are sure to captivate any traveler. SIXT.VN understands the importance of a smooth and enjoyable travel experience, providing comprehensive services like airport transfers, comfortable hotel bookings, and guided tours to make your journey to India unforgettable. Let us guide you through planning your trip, ensuring a seamless adventure.

1. Who is Eligible for India Tourism e-Visa Services?

Eligibility for India’s e-Visa services is determined by several factors. You’re likely eligible if you’re a national of a country listed on the official e-Visa website and your primary reason for visiting India falls under permitted categories. These include recreation, sightseeing, casual visits to friends and relatives, short-term yoga programs, volunteer work, medical treatment, business, or attending conferences. According to the Indian Ministry of Tourism, tourism contributes significantly to India’s economy, with a large percentage of visitors using e-Visa facilities for travel.

Here’s a detailed breakdown of the eligibility conditions:

• Nationality: You must be a citizen of a country listed on the e-Visa website.
• Purpose of Visit: Your main reason for visiting must be one of the following:
  • Recreation and sightseeing
  • Casual visits to friends and relatives
  • Attending short-term yoga programs or courses in local languages, music, dance, arts, crafts, cooking, medicine, etc., lasting no more than six months. These courses should not be formal and should not issue any qualifying certificates or diplomas.
  • Volunteer work for a maximum of one month, with no monetary payment or consideration involved.
  • Medical treatment, including treatments under Indian systems of medicine.
  • Being an attendant to an e-Medical visa holder.
  • Business purposes.
  • Attending a conference, seminar, or workshop.
• Passport Validity: Your passport should be valid for at least six months from the date you apply for the e-Visa. It should also have at least two blank pages for immigration stamping.
• Return or Onward Ticket: You must have a return ticket or an onward journey ticket, along with sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India.
• Exclusions:
  • Individuals of Pakistani origin or holding a Pakistani passport are not eligible. Foreigners who are not Pakistani nationals but whose parents or grandparents were born or permanently resided in Pakistan are also ineligible.
  • Diplomatic or official passport holders, Laissez-passer holders, and international travel document holders are not eligible.
  • Individuals endorsed on a parent’s or spouse’s passport are not eligible; each individual must have a separate passport.

2. What is the Procedure for Applying for India Tourism e-Visa?

The procedure for applying for an India e-Visa is straightforward and entirely online. Begin by visiting the official Indian e-Visa portal and completing the application form. You’ll need to provide accurate personal information, passport details, and travel plans. The application also requires uploading a digital photograph. After filling out the form, pay the e-Visa fee online. Once submitted, you’ll receive an application ID to track your application status.

SIXT.VN can provide helpful resources and guidance to ensure your application process is smooth and error-free.

Here’s a step-by-step guide:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official Indian e-Visa application portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/.
2. Fill Out the Application Form:
   • Provide accurate personal information, including your name, date of birth, nationality, and passport details.
   • Enter your travel details, such as the purpose of your visit, port of entry, and expected date of arrival.
   • Upload a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the specified requirements (e.g., size, format, background).
3. Upload Required Documents: Depending on the type of e-Visa, you may need to upload additional documents, such as:
   • A copy of your passport’s bio page.
   • A business card or invitation letter if applying for a business e-Visa.
   • A letter from the hospital if applying for a medical e-Visa.
   • An invitation letter and political clearance if applying for a conference e-Visa.
4. Pay the e-Visa Fee: Use a credit or debit card to pay the e-Visa fee. The fee varies depending on your nationality and the type of e-Visa.
5. Submit the Application: After completing the form and paying the fee, submit your application.
6. Receive Confirmation: You will receive a confirmation email with an application ID.
7. Check Your Visa Status: You can check the status of your e-Visa application on the official website using the application ID.
8. Receive E-Visa: If your application is approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email. Print a copy of the ETA to present to immigration officials upon arrival in India.

3. Is the Government Website the Only Way to Apply for an India Tourism e-Visa?

Yes, the only official website for applying for the India e-Visa is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/. Be cautious of unofficial websites that may claim to offer e-Visa services, as they could be fraudulent. The Indian government advises against using intermediaries or travel agents, as the e-Visa process is designed to be entirely online and self-service. Always ensure you’re using the official portal to protect your personal information and avoid scams. If you have any doubts, SIXT.VN can help verify the legitimacy of the website you’re using.

Note: The e-Visa process is completely online and does not require facilitation by any intermediaries or travel agents. It is crucial to avoid falling into traps set by unscrupulous elements claiming to expedite the e-Visa process for a fee. Do not share your personal information with any unauthorized website, as this may lead to data leakage. For any clarifications, you can contact the official support team via email at ‘indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in’ or by phone at (+91) 827808 7808 or +91 11 24300666.

4. Are There Any Fees Besides the India Tourism e-Visa Processing Fee?

No, the only fee you need to pay is the e-Visa processing fee, which is non-refundable. The fee amount varies depending on your country of origin, so check the official e-Visa website for the exact fee applicable to you. Be wary of any requests for additional payments from unofficial sources, as these are likely scams. SIXT.VN provides transparent pricing and won’t charge any hidden fees for our travel services.

5. When Should I Apply for India Tourism e-Visa?

The ideal time to apply for your e-Visa depends on the type of e-Visa you need. For e-Tourist Visas (1 year/5 years), e-Business Visas, e-Medical Visas, e-Medical Attendant Visas, and e-Conference Visas, you can apply online a minimum of 4 days before your arrival date, and up to 120 days in advance. For the e-Tourist Visa (30 days), you should apply at least 4 days before arrival but no more than 30 days in advance. Applying within these time frames ensures you have enough time for processing without risking delays. With SIXT.VN, you can also get reminders and assistance to ensure you apply within the correct window.

• e-Tourist Visa (1 year / 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, and e-Conference visa: Apply a minimum of 4 days and a maximum of 120 days before your arrival date.
• e-Tourist Visa (30 days): Apply a minimum of 4 days and a maximum of 30 days before your arrival date.

6. Will I Get a Confirmation After Submitting My India Tourism e-Visa Application?

Yes, immediately after you submit your e-Visa application and complete the payment, you will receive a confirmation email at the address you provided in the application form. This email confirms that your application has been successfully submitted and includes your application ID. Make sure to save this confirmation for future reference. SIXT.VN also helps you keep track of all your travel confirmations in one place.

7. How Long Does It Take for My India Tourism e-Visa to Be Issued?

The processing time for an e-Visa application can take 72 hours or more. You’ll receive an email informing you of the status of your application, whether it has been granted or rejected. It’s essential to monitor your email regularly, including your spam folder, for updates. If the processing takes longer, you can contact the e-Visa support center for assistance. SIXT.VN offers support to help you navigate any delays or issues with your visa application.

8. Can I Check the Status of My India Tourism e-Visa Application?

Yes, you can easily check the status of your e-Visa application online. Visit the official e-Visa website and click on the ‘Check your Visa Status’ tab. You’ll need to enter your application ID and passport details to retrieve the current status of your application. Regularly checking your status can help you stay informed and prepared for your trip. SIXT.VN also provides assistance in tracking your visa status and offers updates through our platform.

9. What is the Validity of India Tourism e-Visa?

The validity of your e-Visa depends on the type of e-Visa you applied for:

• e-Tourist Visa (1 year / 5 years): Valid for 365 days/5 years from the date of grant, with multiple entries allowed. The maximum stay in India during one calendar year should not exceed 180 days.
• e-Tourist Visa (30 days): Valid for 30 days from the date of your first arrival in India, with double entries allowed within the validity period.
• e-Business Visa: Valid for 365 days from the date of grant, with multiple entries allowed. Continuous stay during each visit should not exceed 180 days.
• e-Conference Visa: Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India, with a single entry.
• e-Medical Visa and e-Medical Attendant Visa: Valid for 60 days from the date of first arrival in India, with triple entries allowed.

Ensure your travel dates align with the e-Visa validity period to avoid any issues. SIXT.VN can help you plan your travel dates to match your visa validity, ensuring a smooth trip.

Here’s a detailed breakdown:

• e-Tourist Visa (1 year / 5 years):
  • Validity: 365 days / 05 years from the date of grant of ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization).
  • Entries: Multiple entries allowed.
  • Maximum Stay: The total stay in India during one calendar year should not exceed 180 days.
• e-Tourist Visa (30 days):
  • Validity: 30 days from the date of your first arrival in India.
  • Entries: Double entries are granted within the e-Visa validity period.
  • First Arrival: Your first arrival must be between the date of issue and expiry of ETA.
• e-Business Visa:
  • Validity: 365 days from the date of grant of ETA.
  • Entries: Multiple entries allowed.
  • Continuous Stay: Each visit should not exceed 180 days.
  • Registration: No registration is required if the stay is less than 180 days. If the intention is to stay for more than 180 days, registration with the FRRO/FRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office/Foreigners Registration Office) is required within two weeks after the expiry of the initial 180 days. The website for registration is https://indianfrro.gov.in.
• e-Conference Visa:
  • Validity: 30 days from the date of arrival in India.
  • Entries: Single entry allowed.
• e-Medical Visa:
  • Validity: 60 days from the date of the first arrival in India.
  • Entries: Triple entries are allowed within the e-Visa validity period.
• e-Medical Attendant Visa:
  • Validity: 60 days from the date of the first arrival in India.
  • Entries: Triple entries are allowed within the e-Visa validity period.

10. Can I Convert My India Tourism e-Visa to Another Type of Visa?

No, e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. If you need a different type of visa, such as an employment visa, you must apply for a regular visa through the Indian Mission. Ensure you apply for the correct type of visa based on your purpose of visit to avoid any issues. SIXT.VN can advise you on the appropriate visa type based on your travel needs and help you prepare the necessary documentation.

11. Can I Change the Port of Arrival/Departure with India Tourism e-Visa?

You can arrive at 31 designated airports and 5 designated seaports with an e-Visa. These include major airports like Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, and seaports like Cochin and Goa. You can depart from any of the Indian Immigration Check Posts (ICPs). Make sure your chosen port of entry is on the designated list to avoid any entry issues. SIXT.VN can help you arrange transportation to and from these designated ports, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

Airports:

• 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

Seaports:

• Cochin
• Goa
• Mangalore
• Chennai
• Mumbai

12. What Should I Do If I Haven’t Received Any India Tourism e-Visa Updates After 72 Hours?

If you haven’t received any updates on your e-Visa application after 72 hours, you can contact the e-Visa support center for assistance. You can reach them at (+91) 82 7808 7808 or +91 11 24300666, or via email at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in. It’s also a good idea to check your spam or junk folder in case the email was filtered. Ensure you have your application ID handy when contacting support. SIXT.VN offers a dedicated support team to help you follow up on your application and resolve any issues promptly.

13. Do I Need a Separate India Tourism e-Visa for My Minor Child?

Yes, each individual, including minor children, requires a separate e-Visa. Ensure that your child’s passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India. You’ll need to complete a separate application for each child, providing all the required information and documentation. SIXT.VN can assist you in managing multiple visa applications for your family, making the process easier and more organized.

14. If I Cancel My Trip, Will the India Tourism e-Visa Fee Be Refunded?

No, the e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is granted or rejected, or if you cancel your trip. The fee covers the cost of processing the application. Be sure to finalize your travel plans before applying for the e-Visa to avoid any financial loss. SIXT.VN offers flexible booking options and travel insurance to help protect your travel investments in case of unforeseen circumstances.

15. Do I Have to Pay Anything Else at the Airport for India Tourism e-Visa?

No, you do not have to pay any additional fees at the airport for your e-Visa. You have already paid the required processing fee online. Be cautious of anyone asking for extra payments, as this is likely a scam. Ensure you have a printed copy of your ETA to present to immigration officials upon arrival. SIXT.VN provides comprehensive travel information to help you navigate airport procedures and avoid any unexpected costs.

16. Can I Submit My Liquor Permit Application with My India Tourism e-Visa Application?

Liquor permit applications are handled by the customs department and are separate from the e-Visa application process. You will need to follow the procedures outlined by the customs department to obtain a liquor permit. SIXT.VN can provide information on local regulations and assist you in understanding the requirements for obtaining a liquor permit, ensuring you comply with all local laws.

17. What Should I Do If Payment Is Not Accepted on the India Tourism e-Visa Website?

If your payment is not accepted on the e-Visa website, try the following steps:

• Clear your browser’s history and cookies.
• Try using a different browser.
• Ensure that you are using a valid credit or debit card.
• If you have tried more than three times, you may need to resubmit the entire application form.

You can also contact the payment support helplines for assistance. SIXT.VN can provide technical support and guidance to help you complete your payment successfully and ensure your application is processed without delay.

Here are the payment support helplines:

• Axis Bank Technical Support:
  • Email: ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com
  • Toll-free Numbers:
    • USA: 18552055577
    • UK: 0808178 5040
    • Singapore: 8001206355
    • Australia: 1800153861
    • UAE: 8000 3570 3218
    • Saudi Arabia: 8008500000
    • Qatar: 00800 100348
    • Bahrain: 80011300
    • Rest of the countries: +91-40-6717-4100
• SBI ePay Payment Support:
  • Phone: +91-22-2753-5773 (24 x 7)

18. How Can I Get the Invoice/Receipt of the India Tourism e-Visa Payment?

To obtain the invoice or receipt of your e-Visa payment, visit the official e-Visa website and click on ‘Verify Payment/ Pay e-Visa fee’. You can enter your details to verify the payment and download the receipt. Keeping a copy of your payment receipt is useful for your records. SIXT.VN can help you retrieve your payment information and ensure you have all the necessary documentation for your trip.

19. What Documents Are Required for an India Tourism e-Business Visa Besides My Passport?

For an e-Business Visa, you need to upload a business card and details of the Indian firm or company you intend to associate with for business activities. If your business activity is sports-related, refer to the instructions for applicants page for a list of required documents. Ensure you have all the necessary documents ready when applying. SIXT.VN provides a checklist of required documents to help you prepare for your e-Business Visa application.

20. What Qualifies as a Business Card for India Tourism e-Visa Purposes?

A business card is a card provided to you by the company you work for. Alternatively, you can upload an invitation letter from the company in India, including the company’s information, address, and phone number in India. This documentation helps verify the legitimacy of your business purpose in India. SIXT.VN can provide templates and guidance for preparing these documents to ensure they meet the e-Visa requirements.

21. What Documents Are Required for an India Tourism e-Medical Visa Besides My Passport?

For an e-Medical Visa, you need a copy of a letter from the hospital in India on its letterhead. The letter should include the tentative date of admission or treatment, along with the patient’s name, nationality, and passport number. Having this letter ensures your medical treatment is recognized for visa purposes. SIXT.VN can assist you in coordinating with hospitals and gathering the necessary documentation for your e-Medical Visa application.

22. What Documents Are Required for an India Tourism e-Conference Visa Besides My Passport?

For an e-Conference Visa, you need the following documents:

• An invitation from the organizer (mandatory).
• Political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India (mandatory).
• Event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India (optional).

Ensure you have all these documents to avoid any delays in your e-Visa processing. SIXT.VN can help you obtain the necessary clearances and organize your documents for a smooth application process.

23. I Got a New Passport, but My ETA Was on My Old Passport. What Now?

You may be allowed entry into India with your new passport, even if the ETA was issued on your old passport, provided you carry both your new and old passports. This allows immigration officials to verify your identity and visa status. Always travel with both passports in such cases to avoid any complications. SIXT.VN advises keeping digital copies of both passports for added security.

24. Can I Enter India Via Land Border with an India Tourism e-Visa?

No, you can only enter India through the designated airports and seaports listed on the e-Visa website. Entry via land borders is not permitted with an e-Visa. Ensure you arrive at one of the approved entry points to avoid any issues with immigration. SIXT.VN can arrange your travel itinerary to ensure you arrive at a designated airport or seaport, providing a seamless entry into India.

25. How Can I Fill in Previous Visa Details on the India Tourism e-Visa Application Form?

You must provide previous visa details on the application form as it is a mandatory field. If you do not remember your earlier visa number or details, you can write NA, Not Available, or Not Applicable in the application form. Providing as much accurate information as possible helps expedite the visa process. SIXT.VN offers support in filling out the application form accurately, minimizing potential delays.

26. Can I Get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Indian Airports/Seaports for India Tourism?

Visa on Arrival (VoA) facilities are available only for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and UAE (only for UAE nationals who have previously obtained an e-Visa or regular visa for India). Nationals of all other countries eligible for an e-Visa must apply online and wait for the confirmation of their ETA before traveling to India. Ensure you apply for the e-Visa in advance if you are not eligible for VoA. SIXT.VN can guide you through the e-Visa application process, ensuring you meet all the requirements for a smooth travel experience.

27. Can I Get a Refund if My India Tourism e-Visa Application Is Rejected?

No, the e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable, regardless of whether the application is granted or rejected. The fee is for processing the application, and the outcome does not affect the refund policy. Ensure you provide accurate information and meet all eligibility criteria to minimize the chances of rejection. SIXT.VN offers expert assistance in preparing your application to increase your chances of approval.

28. Can I Use an India Tourism e-Visa to Enter India by Cruise Ship?

Yes, entry by cruise ship is allowed with the ETA through five designated seaports: Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa, and Mangalore. Ensure your cruise ship arrives at one of these designated seaports to avoid any issues with immigration. SIXT.VN can help you coordinate your cruise travel with your e-Visa, ensuring a seamless travel experience.

29. What is a “Visible Identification Mark” for India Tourism e-Visa Applications?

A visible identification mark refers to moles, birthmarks, permanent scars, or any other visible marks that can be used to identify you. These marks can be shown if asked for by the Indian Immigration Authority. Providing this information helps in verifying your identity. SIXT.VN advises being as accurate as possible when providing this information on your application.

30. Who Needs to Carry a Yellow Fever Vaccination Card for India Tourism?

All foreigners arriving in India within six days of departure from any yellow fever endemic country must possess a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate. Check the list of yellow fever endemic countries to determine if you need this vaccination. SIXT.VN provides updated health and safety guidelines to ensure you comply with all necessary regulations for your trip to India.

31. What If There Is a Discrepancy in the Name, Nationality, Passport Number, or Date of Birth on My India Tourism ETA?

You must check all details, including your name, nationality, passport number, date of birth, and photograph, before the final submission of your e-Visa application. You are responsible for any discrepancies, regardless of whether the e-Visa is granted or rejected. If you find any discrepancies on your ETA, contact the e-Visa Support Centre at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in or (+91) 82 7808 7808 or +91 11 24300666 for assistance at least 24 hours before your journey date. SIXT.VN offers assistance in verifying your application details to minimize errors and ensure a smooth travel experience.

32. Is the India Tourism e-Visa Allowed for Employment?

No, the e-Visa is not allowed for employment purposes. If you plan to work in India, you must apply for a regular employment visa through the Indian Mission. Ensure you apply for the correct type of visa based on your purpose of visit. SIXT.VN can advise you on the appropriate visa type and assist you in preparing the necessary documentation.

33. Is the India Tourism e-Visa Allowed for NGO Activities and Journalism Purposes?

The 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) is permitted. If you plan to engage in NGO activities or journalism, you must apply for a regular visa. SIXT.VN can provide information on the specific requirements for these types of visas.

34. How Many Attendants Can Come With a Patient on an India Tourism e-Medical Visa?

Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa for the patient. Ensure that the attendants meet the eligibility criteria and apply for the correct type of visa. SIXT.VN can assist in managing multiple visa applications for patients and their attendants, ensuring a smooth travel experience for all.

With SIXT.VN, planning your trip to India is seamless and stress-free. From visa assistance to airport transfers and guided tours, we ensure every detail of your journey is taken care of.

Ready to explore the wonders of India? Visit SIXT.VN today to discover our tailored travel packages and start your unforgettable adventure.