A clear, step-by-step roadmap for both routes: the fully online e-Visa and the Regular (Embassy/Mission) visa.
Follow the checklist, avoid common errors, and plan a realistic timeline from form to arrival.
Choosing the Right Route
India offers two primary pathways. The e-Visa is a digital pre-authorization available to eligible nationalities for short,
purpose-specific trips (tourism, business, conference, medical). You apply online, upload scans, pay online, and carry the approval
when you travel. The Regular (Paper) visa goes through an Indian Mission/Embassy or VAC (Visa Application Centre), and is
the default for long-stay categories like student, research, employment, intern, or journalist visas.
Regular visa: Online form → print → submit passport & documents at Mission/VAC → biometrics/interview (if asked) → visa stamped.
Check your nationality’s eligibility and the category rules before you start. Switching intent mid-trip (e.g., tourist to business)
is not permitted; apply for the correct category from the outset.
e-Visa: Step-by-Step
1) Prepare Your Pack
Gather a valid passport (clear biographic scan), a compliant recent photo, and purpose-specific proofs
(invitation, conference reg, hospital letter, etc.). Keep files small, sharp, and readable.
choose the category (tourist/business/conference/medical), and complete the form carefully.
Use the passport’s exact name format. Save the reference number.
3) Uploads
Upload the photo and passport page per pixel/size requirements. Avoid glare, cropped edges, or tilted scans.
Add concise supporting PDFs if the portal prompts.
4) Fee Payment
Pay online via accepted methods. Keep the receipt/confirmation. If payment fails, wait a bit and retry via the portal’s
payment link using your reference number.
5) Processing & ETA
Processing is usually short, but varies seasonally. Once approved, you receive an ETA/e-Visa authorization by email.
Print a copy and save a PDF on your phone/cloud.
6) Travel & Arrival
Fly with your passport and the e-Visa approval. At the airport, you’ll complete biometrics and immigration.
The officer records your permitted stay. Keep hotel/host details handy.
Do not upload edited or altered documents. Authentic, legible scans are essential. Mismatched names/dates trigger delays or refusal.
Regular (Embassy/Mission) Visa: Step-by-Step
Create Application: Fill the online visa form on the official site. Choose the correct Mission/VAC that serves your jurisdiction.
Print & Sign: Print the completed form, sign where indicated, and attach your compliant photo.
For Regular visas, biometrics are commonly captured at the VAC/Mission. Some applicants may receive an interview call.
Interviews focus on purpose, itinerary, funding, and ties to your home country. Keep answers factual and brief.
Arrive early; bring the appointment letter and ID. Follow photo specs—carry 1–2 spare photos.
If sponsored, know your sponsor’s relationship and funding details.
Do not guess or over-explain. If you don’t know an answer, say so and refer to the document that clarifies it.
Fees & Payment Methods
Fees vary by category and nationality and may include service charges at VACs. e-Visa fees are paid online on the portal;
Regular visa fees are paid as per local Mission/VAC rules (card/bank/online gateway). Keep receipts and note any reference numbers.
Use the same email for your application and payment acknowledgements.
After a failed transaction, wait for the portal to reset before re-attempting.
Fee updates happen; always verify the current amount on official sites.
Processing Timelines & How to Track
Timelines depend on category, season, and individual profile. e-Visa decisions are generally quicker but can slow during festivals
or big conference months. Regular visa processing varies by Mission. Build buffer into your travel plans and avoid non-refundable
bookings until your visa is decided.
e-Visa: Use your reference number to check status; watch your email (spam folder too) for ETA.
Regular visa: VAC/Mission portals often offer tracking by application/passport number.
Escalation: If a case exceeds the normal window, follow the contact process listed by your Mission/VAC.
Arrival, Immigration & Permitted Stay
Visa validity is the travel window; your actual permitted stay is recorded at entry by the immigration officer.
Keep your hotel/host details, return or onward plan, and purpose letters accessible. Respect the stay limit and local laws.
Overstay can lead to penalties and future visa complications.
Carry printed copies of e-Visa/visa, hotel address, and confirmations.
Keep funds access (cards/cash/app) ready in case of queries.
If something changes (e.g., medical extension need), follow official procedures immediately.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Choosing the wrong category (e.g., tourist for business meetings with contracts).
Uploading low-quality scans or photos with shadows, glare, or wrong size.
Mismatched names across the form, passport, tickets, and letters.
Unrealistic itineraries that don’t match funding or time available.
Relying on partial screenshots instead of full invitation/approval letters.
Before submitting, do a 5-minute self-audit: identity, purpose, plan, funds—does each have a clear document?
Travel week: Re-check e-Visa/visa, insurance, hotel addresses, and emergency contacts.
Reapplying After Refusal & Special Profiles
After a Refusal
Identify the weak points (category mismatch, funds, document quality). Fix them and reapply with a stronger,
clearer pack. Don’t conceal prior refusals—be transparent and show what changed.
Minors & Families
Birth certificate, consent letters (if one parent isn’t travelling), and custody papers (if applicable).
Family applications should keep itineraries and hotel bookings consistent across members.
Groups & Conferences
Use a shared checklist. Ensure each member has the correct category (e.g., conference vs business).
Keep event approvals, agenda, and contacts in every participant’s file.
One-Page Submission Checklist
Correct visa category selected; form completed with exact passport name.
Photo and passport scan match portal specs (size, clarity, background).
Funding evidence (recent statements, payslips, sponsor letter if any).
Travel/stay plan (hotel/host address, simple itinerary, return intent).
Fee paid; receipt saved; reference numbers noted.
Print set prepared + digital backup on phone/cloud.
Application Process — FAQs
Prefer refundable or flexible options. Many applicants apply with intended dates and finalize tickets after approval,
but some Missions or categories may request firm bookings—follow their instructions.
No. Your activity must match the visa category you were granted. Apply for the correct category before travelling.
Wait a short while for the portal to reset, then use your reference number to retry. Do not create duplicate applications
unless the portal instructs you to.
It’s usually fast, but timelines vary by season and profile. Apply within the recommended window and build buffer into your plans.
Not always. Some categories or profiles are called for a brief interview focusing on purpose, funds, itinerary, and ties.
Keep answers concise and consistent with your documents.
Yes—birth certificate, parental consent (if one parent isn’t travelling), and custody documentation if relevant. Keep school letters if helpful.