India is a vast country with a rich culture and history. Visitors will find what they are looking for in India, as India offers an insight into the ways of the ancient, spiritual enlightenment, study opportunities, natural adventures, and scenic and historical wonders. The millions of people from all over the world who land on Indian shores annually mostly require a visa.

While nationals of more than 160 eligible countries can apply for a tourist visa online for India, applications for Indian Visas can still be processed through the traditional route. Applicants can apply in person at an Indian post or mission abroad. While within the USA, it would be best to take advantage of the Indian e-tourist visa facility.

The Government of India grants Visas of varying types for entry into India, depending on the applicant’s reasons for visiting. Among the most common visas available are the Indian Tourist Visa, Business and Medical visas. Lesser known Indian visas include the Missionary, Mountaineering, Research, Conference, Medical Attendant, Diplomatic, Sports, Film, Employment, Entry, Emergency, Transit, and Student Visas. Application for all of these visas, as well as Tourist, Business and Medical Visas for stays longer than 60 days, must be made through the Consulate General of India.

In the US, the Indian Consulate outsources its visa processing to Visa Application Centers. US Citizens must complete the online application form, submit the scanned copy of the front page of the passport and the required photograph, print out the application form, and submit it to the VAC. Handwritten applications are not acceptable wherever online facilities are provided. During the Indian visa application process, the applicant is prompted to make an appointment for an interview. The required supporting documents such as the national passport, official identity card, or official birth certificate, must be submitted before or at the time of this interview, together with the proof of payment and the application form. All information provided must be verified before final submission, as corrections cannot be made once submitted. When applying via an Indian post or mission, it is important to note that the documentation takes at least three days to process and issue. In exceptional cases and circumstances, visas may be processed in ways that differ to the norm. A copy of the application document should be saved for later verification and to assist in completing the visa issuing procedure.

Visas may be denied, and applications rejected should the information on the application form not exactly match that on the passport or in the supporting documents.

Citizens of the USA may apply for a standard visa for six months, although longer stays are possible for up to 10 years in certain circumstances. Overstaying your allocated time on an Indian visa can have serious consequences.

Applying online for an India visa is simple. The visa application process is intuitive and straightforward. As an Indian Visa Agency, we can assist you in applying online for an Indian visa in a simple 3-step process:

• Step 1: Apply for Indian e-tourist visa online
• Step 2: Submit Payment (PayPal payments are accepted)
• Step 3: You will receive your electronic travel authority via email. Applicants must print a copy to be kept on their person for the duration of their travels to India.

Biometrics are captured on arrival at the designated ports in India.

A receipt number is issued to track the progress of the online application. Only three attempts to pay for the visa online are permitted, where after the application is blocked and declined. With successful applications, approval should be received within 3 to 5 business days.