India has implemented several updates to its visa policies to facilitate international travel. Here's a comprehensive overview of the current visa regulations as of November 28, 2024:
1. e-Visa Categories and Validity: India offers e-Visas across multiple categories, each with specific validity periods and entry allowances:
e-Tourist Visa:
- 30-Day Visa: Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival, permitting double entry.
- 1-Year Visa: Valid for 365 days from the date of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) issuance, allowing multiple entries.
- 5-Year Visa: Valid for 5 years from the date of ETA issuance, with multiple entries permitted.
e-Business Visa:
- Valid for 1 year from the date of ETA issuance, allowing multiple entries.
e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, and e-Conference Visas:
- Each valid for 60 days from the date of arrival, permitting triple entries.
For detailed information on the e-Visa application process, visit the India Visa Online portal.
2. Restoration of Long-Duration Tourist Visas: The Government of India has reinstated long-duration tourist visas for nationals of several countries:
- United States Citizens:
- Valid regular (paper) tourist visas with a 10-year duration have been restored.
- Issuance of new long-duration (10-year) tourist visas has resumed.
- e-Tourist visas (1 month, 1 year, and 5 years) are available for nationals of 156 countries.
For more details, refer to the Embassy of India in Washington, D.C..
3. Application Process:
e-Visa Application:
- Apply online by uploading a recent photograph and a scanned copy of the passport's biographical page.
- Pay the applicable e-Visa fee using a credit/debit card or payment wallet.
- Receive the ETA via email, which should be presented upon arrival in India.
Regular (Paper) Visa Application:
- Submit the application at the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate.
- Provide necessary documentation as specified for the visa category.
4. Important Considerations:
- Travelers whose parents or grandparents were born in or have resided in Pakistan are ineligible for e-Visas and must apply for a visa at an Indian diplomatic post.
- Ensure the passport is valid for at least six months beyond the intended date of arrival in India.
- The e-Visa facility is not available to individuals endorsed on a parent's or spouse's passport; each individual must possess a separate passport.
- International Travel Document holders are not eligible for e-Visas.
For the most current and detailed information, consult the official India Visa Online portal or contact the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate.
