Travel Formalities & Entry
India Tourist Visa & Entry Guide
Everything international travellers need to know about the official Indian e-Tourist Visa process, passport validity rules, and airport arrival biometrics.
Official Indian e-Visa Overview
Entering India has never been simpler for foreign visitors. Citizens of over 165 countries—including the United States, United Kingdom, Canada, Australia, European Union nations, and Japan—are eligible for the online Indian e-Tourist Visa.
Step-by-Step e-Visa Application Protocol
- Official Government Portal: Apply exclusively via indianvisaonline.gov.in. Beware of fraudulent imitation websites and third-party fee aggregators.
- Submission Window: Submit your online application between 120 days and 4 days prior to your arrival date in India.
- Passport Validity Requirement: Your passport must be valid for at least six (6) months beyond your planned arrival date and contain at least two empty stamp pages.
- Digital Upload Specifications: Have ready a clear color scan of your passport biodata page (PDF) and a recent square photo against a white background (JPEG).
- Approval Documentation: Receive your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email. Print two physical copies to show airline check-in counters and Indian immigration officers upon arrival.
Available Tourist Visa Categories
- 30-Day Double Entry e-Tourist Visa: Ideal for short single-visit holidays or Golden Triangle tours (valid for 30 days from date of first entry).
- 1-Year Multiple Entry e-Tourist Visa: Continuous stay up to 90 days (180 days for US/UK/Canada/Japan citizens) per visit across a full 365-day validity window.
- 5-Year Multiple Entry e-Tourist Visa: Best for frequent travellers exploring multiple Indian circuits over several years.
Airport Arrival & Chauffeur Meet-and-Greet
Upon landing at major international gateways (Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport DEL, Mumbai BOM, Bengaluru BLR, Chennai MAA), proceed directly to the designated e-Visa / Biometric Verification counters. Once through customs with your luggage, step into the arrival hall where your private India Tour chauffeur awaits with a personalized name placard.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I obtain an Indian visa on arrival at the airport?
Visa on arrival is only available for citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE (under specific conditions). All other nationalities must obtain an e-Tourist Visa online prior to boarding flights to India.
How long does Indian e-Visa processing take?
Standard processing takes between 48 and 72 hours. We recommend applying 10 to 14 days before departure to accommodate any photo or documentation verification requests.
What happens if my flight arrives late at night in Delhi?
Our chauffeur and dispatch teams track your flight in real time using your flight number. Even if your flight is delayed by several hours, your chauffeur will be waiting inside the arrival terminal at no extra charge.
Plan Your Bespoke India Tour
Speak directly with Master Chauffeur Rajendra Sharma and our dedicated travel dispatch team for transparent, all-inclusive pricing with zero hidden surcharges.