Can I Travel To India With E Visa: Your Ultimate Guide

Planning a trip to India? Wondering, “Can I Travel To India With E Visa?” Absolutely You can Explore the Incredible India with an e-Visa, and SIXT.VN is here to guide you through every step, ensuring a smooth and unforgettable journey. Our expert travel advice, combined with convenient services like airport transfers and hotel bookings, simplifies your travel planning. Let’s dive into the details of the India e-Visa, including eligibility, application process, and tips for a hassle-free trip.

1. Who Is Eligible for an India e-Visa?

Are you dreaming of exploring the vibrant culture and stunning landscapes of India? If so, you’re likely wondering about the India e-Visa. Can I travel to India with e visa if I meet the requirements? Here’s a breakdown of the eligibility criteria:

• Nationality: You must be a national of a country listed on the official e-Visa website.
• Purpose of Visit: Your primary reason for visiting India must be one of the following:
  • Recreation and sightseeing
  • Casual visits to friends and relatives
  • Attending short-term yoga programs or courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine (courses should be less than 6 months and not award formal certificates or diplomas)
  • Voluntary work (up to one month, without monetary compensation)
  • Medical treatment, including Indian systems of medicine
  • Attending an e-Medical visa holder
  • Business purposes
  • Attending conferences, seminars, or workshops
• Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your e-Visa application. It should also have at least two blank pages for immigration stamping.
• Travel Documents: You need a return ticket or onward journey ticket and sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India.
• Exclusions:
  • Individuals of Pakistani origin or holding a Pakistani passport are not eligible. This also applies to foreigners whose parents or grandparents were born in or permanently resided in Pakistan.
  • Diplomatic/official passport holders or laissez-passer/international travel document holders are not eligible.
  • Individuals endorsed on a parent’s or spouse’s passport must have their own separate passport.

2. How Do I Apply for an India e-Visa?

Applying for an India e-Visa is a straightforward process. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you navigate the application:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official e-Visa application portal.
2. Fill Out the Application Form: Provide all required details accurately. This includes personal information, passport details, travel plans, and purpose of visit.
3. Upload a Photo: Ensure your digital photograph meets the specified requirements (size, format, background).
4. Pay the Fee: Pay the e-Visa fee online using a credit or debit card. The fee varies depending on your nationality and the type of e-Visa.
5. Submit Your Application: Review all information before submitting. Once submitted, you will receive an acknowledgment via email.
6. Wait for Processing: E-Visa processing typically takes 72 hours or more. You’ll receive an email notification about the status of your application.
7. Print the ETA: If your e-Visa is approved, you’ll receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Print this document and carry it with your passport when you travel to India.

Note: The entire e-Visa process is online, and no intermediaries or travel agents are required. Be cautious of unofficial websites claiming to expedite the process or requesting additional fees.

3. Are There Any Fees Besides the e-Visa Processing Fee?

When applying for an India e-Visa, it’s essential to be aware of all potential costs involved. So, can I travel to India with e visa without additional fees? The answer is generally no, there are no hidden fees beyond the stated processing fee. Here’s what you need to know:

• Processing Fee: The e-Visa processing fee is the primary cost associated with your application. This fee is country-specific and non-refundable, regardless of whether your application is approved or rejected.
• No Additional Charges: The official e-Visa portal does not impose any extra charges for processing your application. Be wary of unofficial websites or agents asking for additional payments to expedite or guarantee approval.
• Payment Methods: The processing fee must be paid online using accepted credit or debit cards. Ensure you use a secure payment gateway to protect your financial information.
• Refund Policy: Keep in mind that the e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable. If you cancel your trip or your application is rejected, you will not receive a refund.

4. When Should I Apply for My India e-Visa?

Timing is crucial when applying for an India e-Visa. Applying too early or too late can cause unnecessary stress or even disrupt your travel plans. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I apply at the right time? Here’s a timeline to guide you:

• e-Tourist Visa (1 year / 5 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa, and e-Conference Visa: You can apply online a minimum of 4 days before your arrival date. The application can be made up to 120 days in advance.
• e-Tourist Visa (30 days): You can apply online a minimum of 4 days before your arrival date. The application can be made up to 30 days in advance.
• Processing Time: Keep in mind that it usually takes about 72 hours or more to process your e-Visa application. Always factor this processing time into your travel plans.

5. How Will I Know If My e-Visa Application Is Submitted Successfully?

After completing your India e-Visa application, you’ll want to confirm that your submission was successful. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I get a confirmation? Here’s what to expect:

• Confirmation Email: Immediately after you submit your e-Visa application and make the payment, you should receive a confirmation email. This email will be sent to the address you provided in the application form.
• Details in the Email: The confirmation email typically includes an application ID or reference number, which you can use to check the status of your application later.
• No Confirmation: If you don’t receive a confirmation email shortly after submitting your application, check your spam or junk folder. If it’s not there, contact the e-Visa support team to ensure your application was properly submitted.

6. How Long Does It Take to Issue My e-Visa, and How Will I Be Notified?

After applying for an India e-Visa, you’re likely eager to know when it will be issued and how you’ll be informed. So, can I travel to India with e visa after it’s issued? Here’s what to expect:

• Processing Time: The e-Visa application process can take up to 72 hours or more. This timeframe allows the authorities to conduct necessary checks and verifications.
• Notification Method: You will be notified of your Visa status (approved or rejected) via email. This email will be sent to the address you provided in your e-Visa application.
• Check Your Status: You can also check the status of your e-Visa application by visiting the official website and clicking on the ‘Check your Visa Status’ tab.
• Approved e-Visa: If your e-Visa is approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in your email. Print this ETA and carry it with your passport when you travel to India.

7. How Can I Check the Status of My e-Visa Application?

Keeping track of your e-Visa application status is essential to ensure a smooth travel experience. But can I travel to India with e visa if I don’t know how to check the status? Here’s how you can do it:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official e-Visa portal.
2. Find the ‘Check Your Visa Status’ Tab: Look for a tab or link that says ‘Check Your Visa Status’ or something similar. It’s usually prominently displayed on the homepage.
3. Enter Required Information: You’ll typically need to enter your application ID or reference number and your passport number.
4. Submit and View Status: After entering the required information, submit the form. The website will display the current status of your e-Visa application.

8. What Is the Validity Period of the India e-Visa?

Understanding the validity period of your India e-Visa is crucial for planning your trip effectively. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I know the validity? Here’s a breakdown of the validity for different types of e-Visas:

• e-Tourist Visa (1 Year / 5 Years):
  • Validity: 365 days / 5 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 will be granted within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your passport.
  • First Arrival: Your first arrival must be between the date of issue and expiry of the 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 you intend to stay longer, you must register with the FRRO/FRO within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days.
• e-Conference Visa:
  • Validity: 30 days from the date of arrival in India.
  • Entries: Single entry only.
• e-Medical Visa:
  • Validity: 60 days from the date of first arrival in India.
  • Entries: Triple entry allowed within the e-Visa validity period.
• e-Medical Attendant Visa:
  • Validity: 60 days from the date of first arrival in India.
  • Entries: Triple entry allowed within the e-Visa validity period.

9. Can I Extend or Convert My e-Visa to Another Type of Visa?

One common question among travelers is whether an India e-Visa can be extended or converted to another type of Visa. So, can I travel to India with e visa then extend or convert it? Here’s the definitive answer:

• Non-Extendable: No, e-Visas are generally non-extendable. Once the validity period expires, you must leave India.
• Non-Convertible: e-Visas cannot be converted to other types of Visas while you are in India. If you need a different type of Visa, such as an employment Visa, you must apply for it from outside India.

10. Can I Change My Port of Arrival or Departure After Receiving My e-Visa?

When planning your trip to India with an e-Visa, it’s essential to know whether you can modify your entry and exit points after your e-Visa has been issued. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I change my port? Here’s what you need to know:

• Designated Airports: You can arrive at 31 designated airports, including:
  • 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.
• Designated Seaports: You can arrive at 5 designated seaports:
  • Cochin, Goa, Mangalore, Chennai, and Mumbai.
• Departure: You can depart from any of the Indian Immigration Check Posts (ICPs).
• Restrictions: You must enter India through one of the designated airports or seaports listed on the e-Visa website. Entry through land borders is not allowed with an e-Visa unless specifically permitted.

11. What Should I Do If I Haven’t Received Intimation After 72 Hours of Submitting My e-Visa Application?

It can be concerning if you don’t receive any updates on your e-Visa application 72 hours after submission. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I haven’t received any intimation? Here’s what you should do:

• Check Spam/Junk Folder: First, check your email’s spam or junk folder. Sometimes, automated emails can end up there.
• Contact Support: If you still haven’t received any updates, contact the e-Visa support team. You can reach them at (+91) 82 7808 7808 or +91 11 24300666, or via email at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in.
• Beware of Scams: Be cautious of unscrupulous elements/travel agents/intermediaries who may claim to expedite the process for a fee.
• Provide Additional Information: If you were asked to provide additional information or correct any details, ensure you do so immediately. Failure to provide the required information within 72 hours may lead to rejection of your application.

12. Do I Need a Separate e-Visa for My Minor Child?

When traveling with family, one common question is whether each member needs their own e-Visa. So, can I travel to India with e visa with my child? Here’s what you need to know:

• Separate e-Visa Required: Yes, each individual, including minors, needs a separate e-Visa to enter India.
• Passport Validity: Ensure that your child’s passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India.

13. Will I Get a Refund If I Cancel My Trip After Paying the e-Visa Fee?

Understanding the refund policy for e-Visa fees is essential, especially if your travel plans change. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I cancel my trip? Here’s what you need to know:

• Non-Refundable Fee: The e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable once submitted.
• Processing Fee: The fee is for processing the application, regardless of whether the e-Visa is granted or rejected.

14. Do I Need to Pay Anything Else at the Airport for My e-Visa?

After paying the e-Visa processing fee online, you might wonder if there are any additional charges upon arrival at the airport. So, can I travel to India with e visa without paying more at the airport? Here’s what to expect:

• No Additional Fees: No, you do not need to pay anything else at the airport for your e-Visa, provided you have already paid the required processing fee online.
• Beware of Scams: Be cautious of anyone demanding extra payment at the airport, as this could be a scam.

15. Can I Submit My Liquor Permit Application Along With My e-Visa Application?

When applying for an e-Visa, you might have additional requirements or permits in mind. So, can I travel to India with e visa along with my liquor permit? Here’s what you need to know:

• Separate Process: Liquor permits are typically handled by the customs department and are separate from the e-Visa application process.
• Check Local Regulations: You should check the local regulations of the specific state you are visiting in India, as liquor permit requirements can vary.

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

Encountering payment issues on the e-Visa website can be frustrating. So, can I travel to India with e visa if my payment is not accepted? Here are some steps to troubleshoot the problem:

• Clear Browser Data: Delete your browser history and cookies, then try making the payment again.
• Try a Different Browser: If the issue persists, try using a different web browser.
• Resubmit Application: If you’ve attempted payment more than three times without success, you may need to resubmit the entire application form.
• Contact Payment Support:
  • 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)

17. How Can I Get the Invoice or Receipt of My e-Visa Payment?

Having a receipt for your e-Visa payment is essential for your records. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I have a receipt? Here’s how to obtain one:

1. Visit the Official Website: Go to the official e-Visa portal.
2. Click on ‘Verify Payment/Pay e-Visa Fee’: Look for this option on the website.
3. Enter Your Details: You will likely need to enter your application ID or reference number and passport details to verify the payment.
4. Download or Print the Receipt: Once verified, you should be able to download or print the invoice/receipt of your e-Visa payment.

18. What Documents Are Required for an e-Business Visa?

If you’re traveling to India for business, you’ll need an e-Business Visa. So, can I travel to India with e visa for business purposes? Here are the necessary documents:

• Passport: A valid passport with at least six months validity.
• Business Card: A business card from the company you work for, or an invitation letter from the company in India, including their information, address, and phone number.
• Details of Indian Firm/Company: Details of the Indian firm or company you intend to associate with for business activities.
• Additional Documents for Sports-Related Activities: If your business activity involves sports, refer to the instructions for applicants page on the e-Visa website for a list of required documents.

19. What Is Considered a Valid Business Card for the e-Business Visa?

When applying for an e-Business Visa, providing a valid business card is essential. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I have a business card? Here’s what constitutes a valid business card:

• Company-Issued Card: A card provided to you by the company you are working for.
• Invitation Letter: Alternatively, you can upload an invitation letter from the company in India. This letter should include the company’s information, address, and phone number in India.

20. What Documents Are Required for an e-Medical Visa?

If you’re traveling to India for medical treatment, you’ll need an e-Medical Visa. So, can I travel to India with e visa for medical reasons? Here are the necessary documents:

• Passport: A valid passport with at least six months validity.
• Letter from the Hospital: A copy of a letter from the concerned hospital in India on its letterhead. The letter should include:
  • The tentative date of admission/treatment.
  • The patient’s name, nationality, and passport number.

21. What Documents Are Required for an e-Conference Visa?

If you’re traveling to India to attend a conference, you’ll need an e-Conference Visa. So, can I travel to India with e visa for a conference? Here are the required documents:

• Passport: A valid passport with at least six months validity.
• Invitation from Organizer: A mandatory invitation from the conference organizer.
• Political Clearance: A mandatory political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
• Event Clearance: An optional event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India.

22. I Have a New Passport, But My ETA Was Issued on My Old Passport. What Should I Do?

It’s not uncommon to get a new passport after your ETA has been issued. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I have a new passport? Here’s how to proceed:

• Carry Both Passports: You may be allowed entry into India with your new passport, even if the ETA was issued on your old passport.
• Condition: You must carry both your new passport and the old passport on which the ETA was issued.

23. Can I Enter India Using a Land Border With an e-Visa Issued for an Airport or Seaport?

When planning your entry into India, it’s essential to know whether you can use a land border with an e-Visa. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I use a land border? Here’s the rule:

• Designated Entry Points Only: No, you can only enter India through the designated airports or seaports listed on the e-Visa website.
• No Land Border Entry: Entry through land borders is not permitted with an e-Visa unless explicitly allowed.

24. How Should I Fill in Previous Visa Details on the e-Visa Application Form?

Providing accurate information on your e-Visa application form is crucial, including details about previous visas. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I fill it out correctly? Here’s how to handle previous visa details:

• Mandatory Field: You must fill in the previous visa details on the application form, as it is a mandatory field.
• If Details Are Unavailable: If you do not remember your earlier Visa number or details, you can write “NA,” “Not Available,” “Not Applicable,” or any other suitable phrase.

25. Can I Get a Visa on Arrival (VoA) at Indian Airports or Seaports?

Visa on Arrival (VoA) facilities can be convenient for some travelers, but it’s essential to know who is eligible. So, can I travel to India with e visa, or can I get a Visa on Arrival? Here’s the scoop:

• Limited to Certain Nationalities: The Visa on Arrival facility is available only for nationals of Japan, South Korea, and UAE.
• UAE Nationals Condition: For UAE nationals, VoA is only applicable if they have previously obtained an e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India.
• e-Visa Required for Others: Nationals of all other countries eligible for e-Visa must apply online and wait for confirmation/grant of ETA before traveling to India.

26. Will I Get a Refund If My e-Visa Application Is Rejected?

Understanding the refund policy for e-Visa applications is essential, especially if there’s a chance your application might be rejected. So, can I travel to India with e visa if it’s rejected? Here’s what you need to know:

• Non-Refundable Fee: The e-Visa processing fee is non-refundable once submitted.
• Processing Fee: The fee covers the cost of processing the application, regardless of whether the e-Visa is granted or rejected.

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

Traveling by cruise ship can be a luxurious way to see the world, but it’s essential to know the Visa requirements for your destination. So, can I travel to India with e visa on a cruise ship? Here’s the answer:

• Designated Seaports Only: Entry by cruise ship is allowed with an ETA through 5 designated seaports.
• Approved Seaports: These seaports are Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa, and Mangalore.

28. What Is a ‘Visible Identification Mark’ on the e-Visa Application?

When filling out your e-Visa application, you’ll encounter a question about a “Visible Identification Mark.” So, can I travel to India with e visa if I know what to fill in? Here’s what it means:

• Definition: A visible identification mark generally refers to moles, birthmarks, permanent scars, or any other visible and identifiable features.
• Purpose: This information can be used by the Indian Immigration Authority for identification purposes if needed.

29. Who Needs to Carry a ‘Yellow Fever Vaccination Card’?

Certain health requirements must be met when traveling internationally, and the Yellow Fever Vaccination Card is one of them. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I need this card? Here’s what you need to know:

• Requirement: All foreigners arriving in India within 6 days of departure from any yellow fever endemic country must possess (in original) a valid yellow fever vaccination certificate.
• List of Endemic Countries: You can find an updated list of yellow fever endemic countries on the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare website.

30. What Should I Do If There Is a Discrepancy in My ETA Details?

Discovering a mistake in your ETA details can be concerning, but it’s crucial to address it promptly. So, can I travel to India with e visa if there is an error? Here’s what to do:

• Check Details Carefully: Applicants must check all details, including Name, Nationality, Passport Number, Date of Birth, photograph, and self-image, before the final submission of the e-Visa application.
• Applicant Responsibility: The applicant is responsible for any discrepancy, regardless of whether the e-Visa application is granted or rejected.
• Contact Support: If you find any discrepancy on the ETA, contact the e-Visa Support Centre for assistance at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in or (+91) 82 7808 7808 or +91 11 24300666.
• Timing: Contact support at least 24 hours before your journey date.

31. Is the e-Visa Facility Allowed for Employment?

Understanding the permitted activities under an e-Visa is essential before planning your trip to India. So, can I travel to India with e visa for employment? Here’s what you need to know:

• Not Allowed: The e-Visa is not allowed for employment purposes.
• Regular Visa Required: If you plan to work in India, you must apply for a Regular Visa.

32. Can I Use an e-Visa for NGO Activities or Journalism?

It’s important to know the specific purposes for which an e-Visa can be used. So, can I travel to India with e visa for these activities? Here’s what you need to know:

• Not Allowed for NGO or Journalism: The e-Visa is not allowed for Non-Governmental Organization (NGO) activities and journalism purposes.
• Voluntary Work Exception: 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. How Many Attendants Can Come With an e-Medical Visa Patient?

If you’re traveling to India as a medical patient, you might need attendants to accompany you. So, can I travel to India with e visa if I am an attendant? Here’s the rule:

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

34. Discover the Services Offered by SIXT.VN for Your Trip to India

Now that you understand the India e-Visa process, let’s explore how SIXT.VN can enhance your travel experience. We offer a range of services tailored to make your trip seamless and enjoyable.

• Effortless Airport Transfers: Start your journey stress-free with our reliable airport transfer services. We ensure timely pickups and comfortable rides to your hotel, so you can relax from the moment you arrive.
• Handpicked Hotel Selection: Choose from our curated selection of hotels that cater to various budgets and preferences. Whether you’re looking for luxury accommodations or budget-friendly options, SIXT.VN has you covered.
• Captivating Tour Packages: Immerse yourself in India’s rich culture and history with our carefully designed tour packages. Explore iconic landmarks and hidden gems with expert guides who bring each destination to life.

35. Contact SIXT.VN for Your Travel Needs

Ready to plan your trip to India? Contact SIXT.VN today for personalized assistance and seamless travel arrangements.

• Address: 260 Cau Giay, Hanoi, Vietnam
• Hotline/WhatsApp: +84 986 244 358
• Website: SIXT.VN

FAQ: Your India e-Visa Questions Answered

1. Can I apply for an e-Visa if my passport expires in less than six months?
   • No, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of application.
2. Is it possible to expedite the e-Visa processing time?
   • No, there is no way to expedite the official processing time.
3. Can I enter India through any airport with an e-Visa?
   • No, you must enter through one of the 31 designated airports.
4. What should I do if I make a mistake on my e-Visa application?
   • You may need to reapply with the correct information.
5. Can I use a credit card with a different name to pay for the e-Visa?
   • It is advisable to use a card in your name to avoid payment issues.
6. What is the maximum stay allowed on an e-Tourist Visa (1 year / 5 years)?
   • The maximum stay in India during one calendar year should not exceed 180 days.
7. Can I leave and re-enter India on a 30-day e-Tourist Visa?
   • Yes, double entries are allowed within the 30-day validity period.
8. Do I need to carry a physical copy of my e-Visa while traveling in India?
   • Yes, it is recommended to carry a printed copy of your ETA along with your passport.
9. Can I participate in missionary activities with an e-Visa?
   • No, the e-Visa is not allowed for missionary activities.
10. What if my e-Visa application is rejected? Can I appeal?
    • There is no formal appeal process. You may reapply with more accurate information.

Why Choose SIXT.VN for Your India Travel Needs?

SIXT.VN is dedicated to providing you with the best travel experience. Here’s why you should choose us:

• Expert Guidance: Our travel experts offer up-to-date advice and support for all your travel needs.
• Convenience: We provide seamless services, including airport transfers, hotel bookings, and curated tour packages.
• Reliability: With SIXT.VN, you can trust that your travel arrangements are in safe hands.
• Personalization: We tailor our services to match your specific preferences and requirements.

Conclusion: Your Dream Trip to India Awaits!

With the right information and planning, traveling to India can be an incredible experience. Remember to apply for your e-Visa well in advance, ensure you meet all eligibility requirements, and utilize the convenient services offered by SIXT.VN to make your trip smooth and memorable. Are you ready to explore the vibrant culture and breathtaking landscapes of India? Let SIXT.VN be your trusted partner in this journey.