Planning Your Trip to India? If you’ve decided to travel to India soon, one of the first things you need to do is apply for an e-Visa online. Most countries are eligible for an e-Visa, and the process is very straightforward.
Understanding the Application Process
While filling out the application, you might encounter a few questions that need some research to answer. It took me just under 24 hours to complete my application. The application provides guidance on what you need to prepare in advance and how to answer some of the tricky questions. I’m not a government official or an expert, but I’m sharing my personal experience.
Preparing Required Documents
The first step is to prepare the bio page from your passport and a photograph. Here’s how to get these documents ready so that you can fill out the application smoothly.
Passport Bio Page
- The bio page of your passport must be in PDF format.
- The file size should be between 10 kilobytes and 300 kilobytes.
- Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after you arrive in India.
- All information on your passport must match exactly, including your first name, last name, and middle name if you have one.
- The scan must be clear, legible, and not blurry, with all four corners visible.
- Do not cover your passport with your hands; include all personal details and the magnetic strip at the bottom.
Photograph
- The photograph can be a passport photo but doesn’t need to be.
- It must be in JPEG format, with a size between 10 kilobytes and 1 megabyte.
- The photo should be at least 350 pixels by 350 pixels.
- It should be about 2 inches in size with uniform lighting, no shadows, normal tones, and no blurriness.
- Do not use editing software.
- The background should be plain, and the clothing should be simple.
I’ve provided a link to a site with detailed information about these requirements. It might sound complicated, but it’s not as difficult as it seems.
Visa Pricing and Duration
- The 30-day visa costs $25.
- The one-year visa is $40.
- The five-year visa is $80.
For most visas, you can stay in India for up to 90 days per visit. Some nationalities, such as those from the UK, Canada, and Japan, can stay up to 180 days in one visit, but most can stay up to 90 days per trip.
Filling Out the Application Form
Visit the official website: Indian e-Visa. On the left corner, there is a blue box labeled “Instructions for the Applicant” along with FAQs and a payment-related section. Follow the instructions carefully, fill in your details, and submit the form.
If everything is filled out correctly, your visa should arrive in your inbox within 72 hours. I hope this guide was helpful and answered any questions you might have.
FAQ: Applying for an Indian e-Visa
Q: What is an e-Visa?
A: An e-Visa is an electronic visa you can apply for online to visit India.
Q: Who can apply for an e-Visa?
A: Most countries are eligible to apply for an e-Visa to India.
Q: How long does it take to get an e-Visa?
A: It usually takes up to 72 hours to receive your e-Visa.
Q: What documents do I need to apply?
A: You need the bio page of your passport and a photograph.
Q: How much does an e-Visa cost?
A: The cost ranges from $25 to $80, depending on the visa duration.
Q: How long can I stay in India with an e-Visa?
A: You can stay up to 90 days per visit; some nationalities can stay up to 180 days.
Q: What format should my passport bio page be in?
A: The bio page should be in PDF format.
Q: What are the photo requirements?
A: The photo must be in JPEG format, at least 350 pixels by 350 pixels, and 10 KB to 1 MB in size.
Q: Can I use a passport photo for the application?
A: Yes, but it should meet the e-Visa photo requirements.
Q: Where do I apply for an e-Visa?
A: Apply on the official website: Indian e-Visa.
Q: What if my passport is not valid for 6 months?
A: Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your arrival date in India.
Q: Can I extend my e-Visa once in India?
A: No, e-Visas cannot be extended; you must leave and reapply if needed.
Q: Is there only one official website for e-Visa application?
A: Yes, use the official website to avoid scams: Indian e-Visa.
Q: What should I do if my e-Visa application is denied?
A: Check the reason for denial, correct any errors, and reapply.
Q: Can I work on an e-Visa?
A: No, e-Visas are for tourism, medical visits, or short-term business.