A Complete Guide to the Different Types of Indian Visas

Planning a trip to India requires understanding the various visa options available. The Indian government has streamlined the process for many travelers through its electronic visa (e-Visa) system, while other purposes require traditional application methods. This guide breaks down all major TYPES OF INDIAN VISA to help you choose the right one.

Table of Contents

Understanding the Two Main Pathways: e-Visa vs. Regular Visa

Indian visas primarily fall into two categories: the convenient, fully online e-Visa for short-term visits, and the Regular (Paper) Visa for long-term stays, employment, and other specific purposes. For most tourists and business visitors, the e-Visa is the fastest and recommended route.

The Electronic Visa (e-Visa) Categories

The Indian e-Visa system allows eligible travelers to apply, pay, and receive their visa approval electronically. It is valid for entry through 28 designated airports and 5 seaports across India.

1. e-Tourist Visa

The e-Tourist Visa is for leisure travel, short courses, yoga programs, and visiting family or friends.

Primary Purpose: Tourism, recreation, short-term courses (non-degree), and volunteer work (up to 1 month).
Validity & Entry: Choose from three durations at application:
- 30-Day Visa: Double entry, valid for 30 days from your arrival date.
- 1-Year Visa: Multiple entries, with each stay not exceeding 180 days.
- 5-Year Visa: Multiple entries, with each stay not exceeding 180 days.
Best For: Tourists, backpackers, and those attending retreats or workshops.

2. e-Business Visa

This visa facilitates commercial activities but does not permit taking up employment in India.

Primary Purpose: Business meetings, sales, trade fairs, conferences, setting up ventures, and recruitment.
Validity & Entry: Valid for 1 year from the date of issue with multiple entries. Each stay is limited to a maximum of 180 days.
Best For: Entrepreneurs, consultants, and professionals attending meetings or exploring business opportunities.

3. e-Medical Visa

This visa is for patients seeking treatment at recognized Indian hospitals.

Primary Purpose: Medical treatment, including surgeries and therapies.
Validity & Entry: Valid for 60 days with triple entry. Extensions are possible in India based on medical need.
Supplementary Visa: A Medical Attendant Visa is available for up to two people accompanying the patient.
Best For: International patients traveling for specialized healthcare.

For a detailed overview of all electronic options, you can review the complete list of INDIAN VISA TYPES.

Regular (Paper) Visa Categories

For long-term stays, work, study, or other specific needs not covered by the e-Visa, applicants must apply through an Indian embassy or consulate.

1. Employment Visa

Purpose: For skilled professionals taking up a specific, salaried position with an Indian company.
Key Requirement: A formal employment contract from the Indian employer.

2. Student Visa

Purpose: For enrollment in a full-time academic course at a recognized Indian institution.
Key Requirement: Official proof of admission from the educational institution.

3. Other Specialized Visas

Research Visa: For scholars and scientists conducting research.
Film Visa: For foreign film crews shooting in India.
Journalist Visa: For professional journalists on assignment.
Conference Visa: For attending conferences/seminars (if not covered by e-Business Visa).

Visa on Arrival (Extremely Limited)

Contrary to popular belief, India’s Visa on Arrival (VoA) is highly restricted and not a practical option for most travelers.

Availability: Offered only to nationals of a very few countries (like Japan and South Korea) under specific conditions.
Limitations: Limited to 60 days, available only at major airports, and requires payment in Indian currency (INR) upon arrival.
Recommendation: The e-Visa is strongly preferred due to its wider eligibility and pre-travel certainty.

Key Considerations and How to Choose

Match Purpose to Visa: Always select the visa category that exactly matches your primary reason for travel (tourism, business, medical treatment).
Check Eligibility First: Verify that your nationality is eligible for the e-Visa scheme before applying.
Apply Early: For e-Visas, apply at least 4-7 days before travel. For regular visas, start the process months in advance.
Valid Passport: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date and has two blank pages.
Enter at Designated Ports: e-Visa holders must arrive at one of the 28 approved airports or 5 seaports.