India e-Visa Complete Guide 2026
The electronic visa is the fastest way to enter India for tourism, short business trips, and medical visits. Find out if you qualify and how to avoid application rejection.
What is the India e-Visa?
The India e-Visa is an Electronic Travel Authorization that allows citizens of 166+ eligible countries to apply for a visa entirely online. There is no need to visit an Indian Embassy, mail your physical passport, or submit paper documents. Your approval arrives via email.
Validity
30 Days to 5 Years
Entry
Multiple (mostly)
Processing
~72 Hours
Max Stay
90-180 Days
Eligible e-Visa Categories
- e-Tourist Visa: Valid for recreation, sightseeing, or casual visits. Available in 30-day (double entry), 1-year (multiple entry), and 5-year (multiple entry) variants.
- e-Business Visa: Valid for 1 year (multiple entry). For attending meetings, setting up ventures, trading, or delivering lectures. Requires a business card/invitation letter upload.
- e-Medical Visa: Valid for 60 days (triple entry). Designed for foreign nationals seeking medical treatment at recognized, specialized hospitals in India.
- e-Conference Visa: Valid for 30 days (single entry). For delegates attending international conferences organized by Government ministries or UN agencies.
Who Cannot Apply?
Ineligibility Factors
- Citizens of Pakistan, Bangladesh (must apply for regular embassy visa).
- Individuals of Pakistani origin or descent, even if holding a US/UK/Canadian passport.
- Holders of Diplomatic/Official passports or UN Laissez-passer travel documents.
- Individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport (each individual needs a separate passport).
- Travelers looking to work or stay long-term (e-visa cannot be extended).