Apply for Indian Visa: Requirements, Tips, and What to Expect

When you plan a trip to India, the first real hurdle isn’t choosing which temple to visit or which beach to relax on—it’s apply for Indian visa, a mandatory travel document for most foreign nationals entering India for tourism, business, or transit. Also known as India tourist visa, it’s not just a form you fill out—it’s your official ticket to experience the country’s chaos, beauty, and culture. Without it, you won’t even get past airport immigration. And while the process sounds intimidating, it’s simpler than you think if you know what to focus on.

Most travelers apply for an e-Visa, an online visa system introduced by the Indian government to make entry easier for tourists. This replaces the old paper-based system and covers tourism, business, and medical visits. You don’t need to visit an embassy unless you’re applying for a long-term visa or have a complex travel history. The e-Visa takes about 72 hours to process, but you should apply at least four days before your flight—never wait until the last minute. You’ll need a valid passport, a recent photo, a return ticket, and proof of funds. No bank statements, no invitation letters, no notarized forms. Just the basics.

Some travelers get tripped up by the photo requirements. It’s not about looking perfect—it’s about following the rules. No glasses, no hats, no shadows on your face. The background must be white or light-colored. Your face must fill 80% of the frame. If your photo gets rejected, you’ll have to wait another few days to reapply. That’s why so many people miss their flights. Also, don’t forget to print two copies of your approved e-Visa. One for immigration, one for your hotel. You’ll be asked for it more than once.

There are also visa-on-arrival, a limited option available only to citizens of a few countries like Japan, South Korea, and the UAE. If you’re not from one of those places, skip the hope and apply online. And while some blogs claim you can get a visa at the border, that’s outdated advice. India stopped offering visas on arrival for most nationalities in 2015. Don’t risk your trip on rumors.

Once you’re approved, your e-Visa is valid for 60 days from the date of your first entry. You can enter India twice during that window—useful if you want to hop to Nepal or Sri Lanka and come back. But you can’t extend it. No exceptions. If you stay past 60 days, you’ll face fines, delays, and possible trouble with immigration. Plan your itinerary around the visa clock, not the other way around.

And while you’re preparing, remember that India isn’t one country—it’s dozens. Some states have special rules. For example, if you’re heading to Sikkim or parts of the Northeast, you might need a Protected Area Permit on top of your visa. These aren’t hard to get, but you have to plan ahead. Check the official Indian visa website before booking your flights. Don’t assume your e-Visa covers everything.

You’ll find plenty of third-party sites offering to handle your visa for you—for a fee. But you don’t need them. The official portal is easy to use, available in English, and costs less than $10. Save your money and your stress. Do it yourself. You’ll feel more in control, and you’ll know exactly what you submitted.

When you land, keep your visa printout handy. You’ll need it at the airport, at your hotel, and sometimes even when renting a car or buying train tickets. It’s not just a formality—it’s your proof of legal entry. And if you’re asked for it by a local official, don’t panic. Most are just doing their job. Show your documents calmly, and you’ll be fine.

There’s no magic trick to applying for an Indian visa. It’s not about who you know or how much you spend. It’s about following the steps, paying attention to details, and giving yourself time. The rest? That’s where the real journey begins.

Below, you’ll find real advice from travelers who’ve been through it—covering everything from which airport to fly into after your visa clears, to how to stay safe once you’re on the ground. No fluff. Just what works.