how to extend india tourist visa

General Instructions for Registration & E Services

Important Notice

Applicants are advised not to submit multiple applications once they have received application id on successful submission of application. submission of multiple applications will delay clearance as each application will be examined before clearing., " vide mha o.m. no. 25022/24/2020-f.v/f.i(pt.) dated 29.06.2020. in respect of foreign nationals, whose regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period are expiring post 30.06.2020, such regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period shall be deemed to be valid until 30 more days from the date of resumption of normal international flight operations on 'gratis' basis without levy of overstay penalty.", vide mha o.m. no. 25022/24/2020-f.v/f.i dated 02.09.2021 1. existing instructions as contained in this ministry's o.m. of even number dated 04.06.2021 provide as follows:- "regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation of period of foreign nationals stranded in india due to covid-19 may be considered as deemed to be valid till 31.08.2021 on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty. such foreign nationals may not be required to submit any application to frro/fro concerned for extension of their visas. before exiting the country, they may apply for an exit permission, which would be granted by the frro/fro concerned on gratis basis without levy of any overstay facility." 2. the matter has been re-considered by the government in view of the present situation. it has accordingly been decided to extend the existing facility of deemed extension of the regular visa or e-visa or stay stipulation period on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty granted to foreign nationals stranded in india due to covid-19 pandemic till 30th september 2021 . such foreign nationals may not be required to submit any application to frro/fro concerned for extension of their visas. before exiting the country, they may apply for an exit permission, which would be granted by the frro/fro concerned on gratis basis without levy of any overstay penalty. 3. if extension of visa is required beyond 30.09.2021, the foreign national concerned may apply for extension of visa on the online e-frro platform on payment basis, which would be considered by frro/fro concerned subject to the eligibility as per the provisions contained in the visa manual 2019. 4. afghan nationals living in india on any category of visa will be granted extension of visa by frro/fro concerned on gratis basis until further orders. they will not be granted exit or issued leave india notice by frro/fro concerned without prior approval of the ministry of home affairs. 5. these instructions shall come into force with immediate effect., important notice for covid 19, visa services granted on account of covid-19 are gratis..

In the backdrop of outbreak of COVID-19, no foreigners are allowed to visit the FRRO Office for OCI/Registrations and other Visa related services without prior appointment till further orders.

For appointment, contact respective FRRO Support Centres as given below:

• FRRO Delhi 011-26711384 [email protected]
• FRRO Delhi 011-26711443/ 011-26713851(24*7) [email protected]
• FRRO Mumbai 022-22620446/022-22621167 [email protected]
• FRRO Chennai 044-28251721 [email protected]
• FRRO Bengaluru 080-22218183 Fax No. 080-22218196 [email protected], [email protected]
• FRRO Ahmedabad 079-26306606 [email protected]
• FRRO Ahmedabad 079-26306606 [email protected]
• FRRO Amritsar 0183-2500464 [email protected]
• FRRO Hyderabad 040-29880374, 040-29880375 040-29881088 (OCI/PIO) [email protected]
• FRRO Kolkata 033-22818640 [email protected]
• FRRO Lucknow 0522-2432431 [email protected]
• FRRO Trivandrum 0471-2333515/2573512 Fax No. 0471-2333514, 2573514 [email protected]
• FRRO Kozhikode(Calicut) 0495-2323550 [email protected]
• FRRO Cochin 0484-2611652 [email protected]

Welcome to the Online e-FRRO Portal

Before you apply, kindly read all the instructions carefully. Foreigners are advised to apply at least 2 weeks in advance.

About e-FRRO

• How to Apply
• Already registered? Login here
• Frequently Asked Questions

Important Instructions

• Photo and Documents Requirement
• SBI Payment Related FAQ
• AXIS Payment Related FAQ

Technical Information

Useful web links, support centres.

e-FRRO involves completely online application submission and document upload, for which no facilitation is required by any intermediary / agents etc. The foreign nationals are required to apply online by themselves. It is advised not to believe or fall in trap of any middlemen/agent that claim speedy/express grant of e-FRRO and charge money for it. For any clarification or doubt, you may contact FRRO Support Centre.

Salient Features

• Services from comfort of your home.
• No need to visit FRRO/FRO office.
• Online Payment.
• Convenient and Time Saving.
• Exclusive Dashboard for User friendly experience.
• What is e-FRRO?
• Online FRRO Service delivery mechanism without requirement of visiting FRRO/FRO office. No requirement of taking appointment and visiting FRRO/FRO office unless specifically called upon by the FRRO/FRO.
• Web based application aimed to build centralized online platform for foreigners for visa related services. Its key objective is to provide Faceless, Cashless and Paperless services to the foreigners with user friendly experience.
• Using this application, foriegners are required to create their own USER-ID by registering themselves. Afterwards, they would apply online through registered user-id for various Visa and Immigration related services in India viz. Registration, Visa Extension, Visa Conversion, Exit Permit etc, without any hassle and obtain the service(s) without coming to FRRO office.
• The necessary immigration/Visa document e.g. Registration Permit/Certificate (RP/RC), Visa Extension Certificate etc will be sent by post on the address mentioned. It would also be electronically sent to the foreigner to his registered email ID.
• Foreigners would not be required to mandatorily visit FRRO/FRO office for grant of service. However, in certain exceptional cases, the foreigner will be intimated to visit the FRRO/FRO on scheduled date and time for interview.
• In case of exigency, the foreigner can visit the FRRO/FRO office directly for grant of service.

How to Apply?

User creation.

Create User-id/Password by registering online into our portal.

User Authentication

Valid Email ID and Mobile Number in India is mandatorily required for obtaining the One Time Password (OTP). Foreigners should register with their own email ID and provide valid Mobile Number in India for receiving OTP and other status updates/alerts at various stages of processing.

Login with Valid credentials

Once user-id/password is successfully created, the foreign national can submit online application by selecting the appropriate service and uploading the requisite documents.

Online Application Submission and Document Upload

The application form should be carefully filled and any errors should be avoided. Further, necessary documents and photograph should be uploaded online in the designated format. The application would not be successfully submitted unless the documents and photographs are uploaded online successfully.

Successful Submission of Application

The application would be scrutinized by Visa Officers only if the application has been successfully submitted. Upon scrutiny, necessary instructions with regard to application i.e. Fee Payment, Correction of Selected/desired Service, re-uploading of documents etc would be conveyed to the Foreigner through email/SMS alerts.

Online Fee Payment

The foreigner would be intimated to deposit the requisite fee, if any, for the service. The fee has to be deposited online through Bank Payment gateway available on the portal. Amount of fee would be intimated through email/sms alerts.

Status Updates/Alerts

The foreigner can track the status of the application through our portal. For any clarification, our Support Centre can be contacted.

Service Granted/Rejected

Upon Grant/Rejection of service, the same would be intimated to the foreigner. His/Her RC/RP etc would be sent through email or it can also be downloaded from our portal by signing in.

Exigency/Emergency Scenarios

The foreigner can approach the concerned Civil Authority i.e. FRRO/FRO office directly in case of exigency/emergency. Upon satisfaction of the case, the services can also be granted directly at the FRRO/FRO level. Make sure that services granted are electronic and not manual. You may face hurdles at the Immigration Check Posts in case of manual services.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

e-FRRO is online FRRO/FRO Service delivery mechanism for foreigners without requirement of visiting FRRO/FRO Office.

• Who needs to apply for e-FRRO?

All foreigners who desire Visa and Immigration related services in India viz. Registration, Visa Extension, Visa Conversion, Exit Permit etc need to apply for e-FRRO.

• How to apply for e-FRRO?

Foreigners are required to create their own USER-ID by registering themselves online on e-FRRO portal. Afterwards, they are required to apply online through registered user-id for various Visa and Immigration related services in India viz. Registration, Visa Extension, Visa Conversion, Exit Permit etc, without any hassle and obtain the service(s) without coming to FRRO/FRO office.

• Do I need to visit FRRO/FRO office after applying through e-FRRO?

No requirement of taking appointment and visiting FRRO/FRO office unless specifically called upon by the FRRO/FRO concerned. Intimation would be sent through sms/email on the registered mobile/email-id.

• How to make payment?

Upon successful uploading of application and documents, the foreigner would be intimated to deposit the requisite fee online, if any, for the service. The fee has to be deposited online through Bank Payment gateway available on the portal. Amount of fee would be intimated through email/sms alerts.

• How would I get RC/RP?

RC/RP, Exit Permit etc would sent by post on the “Address in India” mentioned in the online application form.

• Do I need Endorsement on my Passport?

There would not be any requirement of endorsement on passport. In case, there is any such requirement, you would be intimated by the FRRO/FRO concerned to visit their office.

• What to do in emergency/exigency?
• What happens if there is delay in fee payment or document uploading?

Foreigner would be liable for prosecution/fines as per Indian laws, for any delay in fee payment/document upload/not attending interview etc.

• Do I need to use my own email-id for registration?

Yes. It is mandatory to use personal email ID. Foreigners should use their own email id to ensure data privacy and data security as important communication would be sent to your email.

• Can I apply for my family members through my own ID?

Yes. You can submit applications for your family members from same ID. However you would be required to submit/fill individual online forms for each member of your family.

• How would I know about status of my application?

At every stage of processing, the status of your application would be shared via SMS/Email. You can also track your status by logging into your dashboard through registered Email-ID/Password.

• e-FRRO is presently applicable for foreigners in the jurisdiction of FRROs: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Bengaluru.
• e-FRRO is presently applicable for foreigners in the jurisdiction of 12 FRROs, 1 RRO and 4 FROs: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, Kolkata, Amritsar, Lucknow, Hyderabad, Ahemdabad, Cochin, Thiruvananthapuram, Kozhikode, Puducherry, Gurugram, Faridabad, Ghaziabad and Gautam Buddha Nagar.
• e-FRRO is now applicable for foreigners in the jurisdiction of all FRROs/FROs.
• e-FRRO is mandatory for availing services at the above FRROs/FROs.
• e-FRRO is mandatory for availing services at FRROs/FROs.
• Services would be granted at FRRO/FRO office only in case of exigency/emergency.
• The foreigner is required to appear for interview if any, at scheduled time/date, as intimated by FRRO through email/sms alerts.
• Foreigner should check their inbox daily for email alerts.
• Foreigner would be liable for prosecution/fines as per Indian laws, for any delay in fee payment/document upload/interview etc.
• This service is not applicable for diplomats/officials who are under jurisdiction of CPV Division, Ministry of External Affairs.
• Foreigners are encouraged to upload documents and photographs in good quality.
• Foreigners should use their own email id to ensure data privacy and data security as important communication would be sent to your email.
• Services rendered though e-FRRO can be cancelled by the Civil Authority any time, upon field enquiries and verification. Cancellation would be duly intimated to the foreigner and necessary action, as per Indian Laws, would be taken against the foreigner.
• Foreigners are advised to apply at least 2 weeks in advance.

Apply Visa online

All foreign nationals entering India are required to possess a valid international travel document in the form of a national passport with a valid visa obtained from an Indian Mission or Post abroad. All Individual visa seekers are requested to apply for the Indian Visa through Online application in order to make an application for getting the Indian visa. The duly signed physical copy of the application form completed in all respect and submitted successfully, is to be submitted at the concerned Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to Indian Mission/Post, on the scheduled date of interview along with the requisite supporting documents. The instructions for filling the form and scheduling the appointment can be seen at Instructions for Online Visa Application. Important technical information for filling online Indian visa application can be referred at Technical Instructions.

Document Requirment

• Photo and Document(s) upload are mandatory.
• First use the Online Application Submission option then upload photo and required document(s).
• Photographs which are edited or modified by Photoshop or any other Software/ Mobile App will be rejected.
• Only one copy of each document type has to be uploaded.
• Scanned documents should be in PDF format.
• Size of pdf document must be less than 200 KB.
• Single supporting document can have multiple PDFs. The maximum size of each PDF should be 1 MB.
• Only completely filled application along with photo and document(s) is available for appointment.
• Only completely filled application along with photo and document(s) uploded to generate pdf.
• Only permanently saved application is available for Re-Printing.
• Format - jpg
• Size - Maximum 1 MB
• Photo should present Full face, front view, eyes open
• Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Background should be plain light colored or white background
• No shadows on the face or on the background
• Bring same photo along with application form.

SBI Payment: FAQ

• What is SBIePay?.

SBIePay is the Payment Aggregator service of State Bank of India which provides multiple payment options on a single payment page for the convenience of applicants. SBIePay has enabled Debit and Credit issued by MasterCard and VISA.

• What are all the payment modes available on SBIePay payment page?

SBIePay facilitates online payments all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.

• Are transactions on SBIePay secure?

SBIePay is certified with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ver 2.0 certified, which reinforces our promise of security. The payment system fully supports 3DSecure - Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code, wherever it is applicable. Further SBIePay is secured using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption which ensures that payment information never sent over the Internet unencrypted and cannot be viewed by unauthorised individuals.

• Can International payments be processed?

SBIePay has enabled international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D Secure authentication.

• How a customer/applicant can understand that payment has been made successfully?

The applicant after filling details on https://indianfrro.gov.in/ and clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to SBIePay payment page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Applicant enters his card details and clicks 'Proceed'. Then the applicant may see one of the two options: (i.) 3 D Secure page of the Card issuing page for inputing 3D Secure password/OTP (ii.) Transaction is processed without 3D Secure page. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianfrro.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

• How do I know that my Bank participates in 3D Secure transaction?

If an applicant is presented with a 3D Secure page prompting to enter a password/OTP, this means the Card issuing Bank participates in 3D Secure transaction. If the applicant does not have a transaction password/One time password, he/she should contact the card issuing Bank for support.

• What if a successful page on https://indianfrro.gov.in/ is not shown after completing the transaction?

The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund shall be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicants card account.

• How are Refunds processed?

If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount shall be refunded to the applicants card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction.

• What are the banking charges for LTV (Long Term Visa) fee?

The banking charge is 100 rupees(INR) applicable for LTV as a fee. This charge is charged to the applicant at the time of making online fee payment for LTV.

• What is the support available for the applicants ?

SBIePay provides technical support for all payment related transactions at 1800221401 (Timings : 10.30 a.m. to 6.30 p.m. on week-days and from 10.30 a.m. to 2.30 p.m. IST on Saturday)

• Can an applicant perform more than one transaction for same application number registered at https://indianfrro.gov.in/ ?

Yes. An applicant can perform more than one transactions for a single application ID.

An applicant can perform maximum of three transactions for a single application ID.

• What happens if all three transaction attempts of the applicant fail?

If the applicant cannot succeed in three attempts, a new application is required to be filled and transaction has to be carried out with new application ID.

• Can https://indianfrro.gov.in/ charge more than one time for an application ID ?

An applicant shall be charged for only once against an application ID. Any double/triple debit shall be refunded after due reconciliation within seven (7) days of transactions.

Axis Payment: FAQ

• What is Axis Bank Payment Gateway service?.

Axis Bank is world-class Internet Payment Gateway Solution allows you to accept payments on a 24 X 7 basis from around the world. It accepts all Visa and MasterCard issued in and outside India

• What are the various payment modes available on Axis Bank payment gateway page?

Axis Bank Payment Gateway services facilitates online payments all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.

• Are transactions on Axis Bank Payment Gateway secure?

Axis Bank Payment gateway services is compliant with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) standards. All transactions initiated at Axis Bank Payment Gateway services come with 128 bit security and two factor authentication via MasterCard Secure Code and Verified-by-Visa authentication is enabled.

Axis Bank Payment gateway accepts all international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D secure authentication.

The applicant after filling details on https://indianfrro.gov.in/ clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to Axis Bank payment gateway page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Cardholder enters his card number, expiry date, Name and CVV value and clicks 'Pay Now'. Incase cardholder Bank is enabled for 3D secure, then a page will appear for the cardholder to entire either his/her OTP/3D secure password. Else transaction would be processed. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianfrro.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

Incase Bank is participating for 3D Secure, during transaction a 3D secure page would appear and cardholder has to enter his/her password /OTP.

The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund will have to be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicants card account.

If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount will have to be refunded to the applicants card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction. In some cases, the fund still lies with the card issuing Bank, kindly get in touch with your Bank for such case.

Axis Bank provides technical support for all payment related transactions at +91-022-7131-2125/2126 (Timings : 09.30 a.m. to 7.00 p.m IST)

• This site is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox, Google Chrome, and Internet Explorer (Windows) version 9.0 and above.
• The applicant must also have Adobe Acrobat Reader version 7.0 or higher installed on your PC in order to download and print the completed application form.
• Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. Of India.
• Ministry of External Affairs, Govt Of India
• Ministry of Tourism, Govt Of India
• Bureau of Immigration, Govt Of India
• Incredible India, Govt Of India

Lorem ipsum dolor sit amet, consectetur adipisicin elit, sed do eiusmod tempor incididunt ut labore et dolore magna aliqua.

011-26711384

011-26711443/ 011-26713851(24*7)

[email protected]

frrodli[at]nic[dot]in

East Block-VIII, Level-2 Sector-1, R.K. Puram, New Delhi-110066

FRRO Mumbai

022-22620446

[email protected]

helpdesk[dot]mum-ivfrt[at]gov[dot]in

78/1, Badruddin Tayabji Marg, behind st.xevier collage, Dhobi Talao, Chhatrapati Shivaji Terminus Area Fort Mumbai, Maharashtra-400001

FRRO Chennai

044-28251721

[email protected]

chiochn[at]nic[dot]in

No 26, Haddows Road, Shastri Bhavan Annexe, Nungambakkam, Chennai-600006

FRRO Bengaluru

080-22218191/195, 22218183 Fax No. 080-22218196

080-22218183 Fax No. 080-22218196

[email protected], [email protected]

[email protected], [email protected]

frroblr[dot]feedback[at]nic[dot]in, frroblr-ka[at]nic[dot]in

5th Floor, 'A' Block, TTMC, BMTC Bus Stand Building, K.H. Road, Shantinagar, Bangalore - 560027

FRRO Ahmedabad

079-26306606

[email protected]

afrro-boi[dot]ahd[at]nic[dot]in

frroamd[at]nic[dot]in

Barrack No. 2, First Floor, Govt. Polytechnic Campus, Ambawadi, Ahmedabad, Gujarat-380015

Plot No.235, Ground Floor, HUDCO Bhawan, Ishwar Bhuwan Road, Navrangpura, Ahmedabad, Gujarat-380009

FRRO Amritsar

0183-2500464

[email protected]

frroasr[at]nic[dot]in

Bureau of Immigration, D-123, Ranjit Avenue, Amritsar - 143001

H.No. 208, Near Gobind Park, Basant Avenue, Amritsar

FRRO Hyderabad

040-27541022

040-29880374, 040-29880375

040-29881088 (OCI/PIO)

[email protected]

frrohyd[at]nic[dot]in

Foreigners Regional Registration Officer, Bureau of Immigration (MHA), Govt. of India, Room No. 301, 3rd Floor, CGO Towers, Kavadiguda, Hyderabad-500080

FRRO Kolkata

033-22900549

033-22818640

[email protected]

frrokol[at]nic[dot]in

237, A.J.C Bose Road, Kolkata

FRRO Lucknow

0522-2432431

[email protected]

frrolko[at]nic[dot]in

557, Hind Nagar, Kanpur Road Near Old Chungi, Lucknow-226012

FRRO Trivandrum

0471-2333515/ 2573512 Fax No. 0471-2333514, 2573514

[email protected]

frrotvm[at]nic[dot]in

T.C.14/1377, Vazhuthacaud opposite Ganpati temple, Thycaud. P.O, Trivandrum-14

AMRITH PLAZA, 1st Floor, TC No. 30/1398-3, Nalumukku, Pettah (P.O), Trivandrum-695024

FRRO Kozhikode(Calicut)

0495-2323550

[email protected]

frro-clt[at]nic[dot]in

20/1305, Castle View, Thiruvannur Road, Panniyankara,Kallai PO, Kozhikode,KERALA-673003

FRRO Cochin

0484-2611652

[email protected]

frro[dot]cochin[at]nic[dot]in

2nd Floor, Airlines Building, Cochin International Airport Ltd.,Airport PO, Cochin- 683111, Kerala

RRO Puducherry

0413-2275605

[email protected]

rro[dot]pon[at]nic[dot]in

Regional Registration Office, Bureau of Immigration, MHA No. 1,Second Main Road, 2nd Cross,Navasakthi Nagar, Vazhuthavur Road,Puducherry - 605009

Latest News

Most Searched

• Birth Certificate
• Driving Licence

Guidelines for visa extension for foreigners by Bureau of Immigration

Access to guidelines for visa extension for foreigners by Bureau of Immigration (BOI), Ministry of Home Affairs is given. Information about visa extension process, documents required for visa extension, types of visa extensions, fee, etc. is given. Users can download format of bonafide certificate, annual salary certificate and monthly salary certificate.

Related Links

Website of bureau of immigration, information on immigration by bureau of immigration, information on person of indian origin card by bureau of immigration.

Details related to Person of Indian Origin (PIO) Card are provided by Bureau of Immigration (BOI), Ministry of Home Affairs. Users can get information about the card, its benefits, eligibility criteria, fee and authority to which the application has to be made. Details on registration process for PIO Card and documents required are also available.

Welcome to Embassy of India, Washington D C, USA

• Skip to main content
• Screen Reader Access

• List of Officers
• Departments
• List of Holidays
• Consulates in US
• Right to Information
• Embassy of India, Washington, DC Jurisdiction
• Emergency Contact Numbers
• A brief history of the Chancery building
• Former Ambassadors of India to U.S.
• Discontinuation of walk-in consular services
• Apply Indian Visa
• EMERGENCY VISA
• Visa for Diplomatic/Official and Laissez-Passer Passport Holders
• Passport Services
• Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card
• Conversion of PIO card to OCI card
• OCI Card Reissue Guidelines
• Miscellaneous-Attestation Services
• Renunciation of Indian Citizenship
• Global Entry Program (GEP) For Indian Nationals
• Emergency Travel Document (Emergency Certificate-EC)
• Consular Assistance
• VFS Helpline Numbers
• Brief on India-US Relations
• What's New/Press Releases
• Journalist Visas/Documentary Filming in India/Film Visa
• Events Gallery
• Arts/Culture
• Indian Council For Cultural Relations (ICCR)
• International Day of Yoga
• Contact point
• Education Wing
• Guidelines for Indian Students in the United States
• Registration of Indian Students in USA
• Orientation Session for University Students
• Inviting applications for 'International Hindi Course' by the Central Institute of Hindi, India
• Fulbright Scholarships
• The Quad Fellowship
• Guidelines for issue of No Objection Certificate / Visa for students proceeding to India on Fulbright Scholarship residing under the jurisdiction of Embassy of India, Washington D.C.
• Financial Terms and Conditions for Scholarships handled by ICCR.
• ICCR Scholarship
• Equivalency certificate of academic qualification
• Study in India
• Advisory/Information for students desirous of pursuing medical studies abroad
• Information on various aspects of US Legal system for incoming Indian students
• Public Notices/ Alerts
• How to address issues related to Marriages of Indian nationals to Overseas Indians
• Bill on NRI Marriages
• Procedure for sending/ forwarding Court Order/ Summons
• Legal and other provisions in foreign countries on Indian women cheated/abandoned/abused by Overseas Indian Spouses
• Officer-in-charge
• FAQs on Marital disputes involving NRI/PIO spouses
• प्रायः पूछे जाने वाले प्रश्न : "भारतीय महिलाओं का विवाह

• Home > Updated Advisory on Tourist Visas

Updated Advisory on Tourist Visas

Embassy of India

Washington DC

The Government of India has decided, with immediate effect, to restore valid long duration (10 years) regular (paper) tourist visas for the nationals of USA. Fresh issue of regular (paper) long-duration (10 years) tourist visas has also been restored for nationals of USA.

E-Tourist visas under the three options (one month, one year and five year) which remained suspended since March 2020, shall stand restored for nationals of 156 countries. Applications for fresh e-tourist visas for eligible nationalities can also be made at the Indian E-Visa Portal [ https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ]

• The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (single entry of 30 days duration) on gratis basis will be discontinued w.e.f. 1 st April 2022.  

Application for fresh tourist visa can be made as per following procedure:

E visa: Eligible foreign nationals can apply for e-tourist visa at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . [The applicant may note that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal].

Regular (Paper) Tourist visa: Application for regular (paper) tourist visa from Embassy / Consulate in USA can be submitted by following the link: https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind

Foreign nationals on tourist/e-tourist visas would be permitted to enter India only through designated Sea Immigration Check Posts (ICPs) or Airport ICPs by flights, including those under the Vande Bharat Mission or ‘air bubble’ scheme or by any flights as allowed by Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation. In no case, the foreign nationals will be allowed to enter through land border or riverine routes on Tourist visa/E-Tourist visa.

Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India available at:  https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsupdatedon10thFebruary2022.pdf .

28 March 2022

The current scheme of regular tourist visa/e-visa (one month stay only) on gratis basis will also continue.

15 March, 2022

            The Government of India has decided to issue fresh tourist visas with effect from 15 October, 2021 for group tourism and from 15 November, 2021 for individual travel.  In this context, the following may be noted:

• All foreign nationals intending to visit India for tourism will be allowed to enter India on e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa through chartered flights (for group tourism only) with effect from 15 October, 2021.
• All foreign nationals intending to visit India for individual tourism purposes will be permitted to enter India on e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa with effect from 15 November, 2021. Such travel will be allowed through Vande Bharat Mission, Air Bubble Scheme or by any scheduled/non-scheduled commercial flight allowed by the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation.
• Foreign nationals will not be allowed to enter India through land routes on e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa.
• A Single Entry e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa valid for a stay of up to 30 days will be issued, which will have to be utilized within a period of 120 days from the date of issue . This visa will be issued on a gratis basis for a limited time once to each applicant. However, VFS service charge and payments on account of value-added services like courier, etc. will need to be made.
• It may be noted that existing valid e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa issued before 6 October, 2021 will continue to remain suspended and travel on such visas is not permitted.
• The process of obtaining e-Tourist Visa/Regular Tourist Visa may be accessed at the following links:
• e-Tourist Visa -  https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . The applicant may note that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal.
• Regular Tourist Visa through VFS Global with effect from 13 December, 2021 (12:01 AM Eastern Standard Time) - https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind
• Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India available at https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/GuidelinesforInternationalarrivalsdated30thNovember2021.pdf

Advisory on Tourist Visas

• A Single Entry e-Tourist Visa/regular paper Tourist Visa valid for a stay of up to 30 days will be issued, which will have to be utilized within a period of 120 days from the date of issue . This visa will be issued on a gratis basis for a limited time once to each applicant.
• e-Tourist Visa - https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html . The applicant may note that the Embassy does not process e-visas and any enquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal.
• Regular Tourist Visa through the Embassy of India – https://www.indianembassyusa.gov.in/extra?id=88
• Applicants are also advised to go through the guidelines for international travel to India available at  https://www.mohfw.gov.in/pdf/Guidelinesforinternationalarrivals17022021.pdf .

• Copyright policy --> Copyright policy
• Terms & Conditions --> Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy --> Privacy Policy
• Hyperlinking Policy --> Hyperlinking Policy
• Accessibility Option --> Accessibility Option

Chancery Address: 2107 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008

Consular Wing Address: 2536 Massachusetts Avenue, NW Washington, DC 20008

Disclaimer: The Embassy is not responsible for the information or content provided in any of the external links given in its Website.

Tel No. for all enquiries:(202) 939-7000 Embassy closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public holidays. Official working hours: 9:30 AM - 6:00 PM EST

Page last updated on: September 21, 2024

© Embassy of India, Washington DC, USA 20008. All Rights Reserved. Ardhas Technology India Private Limited. -->

Welcome to Consulate General of India, New York (USA)

• Skip to main content
• Screen Reader Access
• English Hindi

• Visa Guidelines for USA Passport Holders
• Advisory on Satellite Phone
• Emergency Entry Visa Guidelines
• Visa for Diplomatic/ official/ Laissez-Passers Passport Holders
• Tourist Visa
• Business Visa
• Employment Visa
• Transit Visa
• Medical Visa
• Student Visa (Study/Research /Internship)
• Conference Visa
• Mountaineering Visa
• Missionary Visa
• Journalist Visa(Journalist /Documentary filming)
• Film Visa: Visa for shooting Feature Films
• Visa for Pakistani Passport Holders/ Foreign Passport holders of Pakistani Origin
• Important Advisory on Fake Indian eVisa websites
• FAQ’s on Visa
• General Passport Information
• TATKAAL  Passport Services
• Public Advisory on Urgent Re-issuance of Passports
• FAQ on Passport
• EAMs Message on the occasion of Passport Seva Divas 2023 (24 Jun)
• How to apply for OCI ?
• When to Update/Reissue OCI
• Renewal/Re-issue of OCI Card
• General Information on OCI
• Conversion of PIO card to OCI card
• Instructions to Convert PIO Card to OCI Card
• Renunciation of OCI
• FAQ On OCI Related Matters
• Notice regarding Dual Citizenship
• FAQs on Misc. Service
• Outsourcing of Police Clearance Certificate (PCC) Service for Indian Nationals with VFS Global
• General Information
• FAQs on Renunciation
• Emergency Travel Document (Emergency Certificate-EC)
• Calendar of upcoming Camps
• Past Consular Camps
• Import of Pet
• Data of Death Record
• Adult Protective Services (APS)
• Empanelled NGOs with Consulate
• Child Protective Services (CPS)
• Assistance for distressed women in India
• Minutes of Fourth Interaction-Community Organizations
• Procedure for sending/ forwarding Court Order/ Summons
• India: Leather Exports
• DISCLAIMER: Links given to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement / promotion of external websites by the Consulate General of India, New York. This Consulate does not take responsibility for the content therein. It does not endorse, approve, or certify such information, nor does it guarantee the accuracy, completeness, efficiency, timeliness, or correct sequencing of such information. They are given solely for access to prima facie information.
• अमरीका में हिंदी
• Statement of Need Certificates for Medical Doctors
• Equivalence Certificate
• Open Admissions - School of International Cooperation, Security and Strategic Languages, Rashtriya Raksha University, India
• CUNY India Study Abroad Program (July 30 –August 15, 2019)
• RIT- OASIS organised Dandiya event with Mr. Jeffrey Cox, Director, International Student Services and Ms. Erica Ford, International Student Advisor
• Meet and Greet for Indian Students in USA, 21 October 2022 Consulate General of India in New York in association with GOPIO- Manhattan organized the 'Annual Day for Indian Students in USA' on October 21, 2022 at the Consulate. The Chief Guest for the evening was Mrs. Chandrika Tandon, Chairperson of Tandon Capital Associates and a recognized business leader, Grammy- nominated artist and humanitarian.
• Celebrating 20 years of Indian School of Business as part of Amrit Mahotsav. CGI, New York hosted ISB delegation led by Dean, its founding chairman & members and alumni on November 18, 2022
• Advisory/Information for students desirous of Pursuing Medical Studies abroad
• Fulbright - Nehru and Fulbright - Kalam Fellowships
• Online Annual Hindi Learning Program by Yuva Hindi Sansthan.
• Emergency Contact
• PIB Accreditation
• PRAMIT Pravasi Mitra (Helpline)

• Home › Consular Services › Visa Services › E - Visa

1. Service of e-Visa involves a completely online application for which no facilitation is required by any intermediary/agent etc. Applicants are also advised to be careful of fraudulent websites offering e-visa services for India and only use the Government of India portal which is https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html .

It may be noted that Consulate does not process e-visas and any inquiries in this regard will need to be made directly on the e-visa portal.

In case if you stuck somewhere or face any problem please contact e visa help desk i.e.

+91 11 24300666

[email protected]

2. International travelers whose sole objective for visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine, business purpose, as attendant to e-Medical visa holder, attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop organized by a Ministry or Department of the Government of India, State Governments or UT Administrations etc. & their subordinate/ attached organizations & PSUs and no other purpose/activity, can apply for e-Visa.

3. e-Visa has 7 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa (for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa, e-Ayush Visa, e-Ayush Attendant visa and e-Conference Visa . A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.

4. For e-Tourist and e-Business visa, Applicants may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival.

5. For e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, Applicants may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 120 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept to 2nd Jan.

6. Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatory by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.

7. The revised fee structure for e-Tourist visa is as under:-

8. Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed.

9. e-Visa fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).Applicant should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel. Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey.

10. Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India. e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority.

11. The e-Visa fee payment status updation may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. In cases, where e-Visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on 'Verify Payment/Pay Visa Fee' tab or by clicking on the link Verify Payment.

12. Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries or travellers arriving from these countries must carry YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CARD at the time of arrival in India, otherwise they may be quarantined for 6 days upon arrival in India.

13. You must travel on the Passport which you have applied for eVisa. Entry will be allowed into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, however in such cases a traveler must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued.

14. The documents required for completing the eVisa application is indicated against each type of eVisa. Please keep all these documents ready at hand before beginning to fill your eVisa application. All documents including Business cards, Invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which the application would be liable for rejection. The entire process may take 10 to 15 minutes to complete the application and make the payment. Applicants must be fill eVisa application himself/herself and give correct information in each column and take responsibility for the correctness of information provided.

1. E-Visa has been made available by the Government of India to citizens of certain countries, including the United States of America. Details of the scheme are available on the dedicated website created for this purpose: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

2. International travellers whose sole objective for visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends and relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine, business purpose, as attendant to e-Medical visa holder, attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop organized by a Ministry or Department of the Government of India, State Governments or UT Administrations etc. & their subordinate/ attached organizations & PSUs and no other purpose/activity, can apply for e-Visa.

3. e-Visa has 5 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa (for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years), e-Business Visa , e-Medical Visa , e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa . A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.

6. Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.

• Visa Services
• Travel Advisory for Indian Nationals
• Passport Services
• OCI Services
• Miscellaneous Consular Services
• Renunciation of Indian Citizenship
• Emergency Travel Document
• Global Entry Program (GEP) For Indian Nationals
• Emergency Contact No
• Consular Camps
• Customs Regulations
• PAN Card for NRI/PIO ?
• Aadhaar Card for NRI/OCI/PIOs
• Adoption of Indian Children
• Vaccination Guideline
• About PRAMIT
• Important Notification for Travelers to India - Bringing on Import or Use of satellite phones in India

• @IndiainNewYork @IndiainNewYork
• CGI NewYork CGI NEW YORK
• CGI NEWYORK CGI NEWYORK
• PRAMIT PRAMIT
• Google Feedback Google Feedback

• Copyright policy
• Terms & Conditions
• Privacy Policy
• Hyperlinking Policy
• Accessibility Statement

Address: Consulate General of India, 3 East 64th Street (Between 5th and Madison Avenues), New York, NY 10065

Tel No. for all enquiries : +1 347-721-9243

Consulate closed on Saturdays, Sundays & Public Holidays Official working hours: 9.00 AM - 5.30 PM EST Submission of documents/or any Consular Query: 09:30 am to 11:30 am Collection of documents: 04:00 pm - 04:30 pm For submission of documents : 09:15 am to 11:15 am (Monday to Friday) Delivery of documents : 11:30 am to 13:00 pm (Monday to Friday) --> For submission of documents : 9:15 am - 12:15 pm Delivery of documents : 4:00 pm - 5:00 pm-->

Visitors Since (June, 2018): 9560218

Page last updated on: September 06, 2024

How To Apply & Get An Indian e-Visa Online

India has some amazing architecture and natural sights, with famous landmarks like the Taj Mahal in Agra, and snow capped mountains in the Himalayas.

Most nationalities (except for Bhutanese and Nepali citizens) will need a visa to visit India, which is given in the form of an electronic Indian visa (eVisa) since November 2014.

This guide explains everything about how to get an Indian tourist visa using the e-Visa India website! I wrote it in 2019 and last updated it in 2024.

I went through this process as a tourist, but the process on the e-Visa India website is very similar for the other visa categories as well.

What Is The India eVisa?

The Indian e-Visa is for visitors coming to India on a short term trip for sightseeing, visiting friends or relatives, short term medical treatment or casual business related things.

The 5 eVisa types are as follows: e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, or e-Conference.

The eVisa is valid for 30 days, 1 year, or 5 years from the date of your arrival in India, and it’s a double entry visa (for e-Tourist or e-Business), single entry visa (e-Conference), or triple entry visa (e-Medical). It’s non-extendable and non-convertible.

You can apply and pay online anywhere from 4 to 120 days in advance of your date of arrival in India, but no later than 4 days prior to arrival, otherwise the application will not be processed.

The eVisa is valid for entry through 26 designated airports and 5 seaports in India, including Delhi, Mumbai, Jaipur, and Goa. The full list of airports and seaports permitted for the India eVisa can be found here (click the Instructions For Applicant link on the left side).  

Who Is The eVisa Available To?

The eVisa is available to US citizens and those of 170+ other places , and the fee depends on your country/territory.

The current fee for American citizens and other countries can be found in their full list of fees by country on the website .

An additional bank transaction charge of 2.5% may be applicable on the eVisa India online website.

The visa fee is non-refundable, even if for some reason your application is rejected.  

How Can I Get The India eVisa?

The visa process may sound complicated, but don’t worry, it’s actually pretty simple! Here it is broken down in 4 short steps:

• 1. Apply Online. You will need to submit an application with a personal photo and passport page.
• 2. Pay Visa Fee. Credit or debit cards (or Paypal) are accepted for online payment.
• 3. Receive e-Visa. The visa will be sent to you by email.
• 4. Visit India. You will need to print the India eVisa and carry it with you at the time of travel.

Before You Apply For The Indian e-Visa

It’s important to fill out your visa application completely and accurately, otherwise it may be rejected.

Before applying on the eVisa India website, make sure of the following:

• Passport Validity. Your passport should have >6 months validity
• Visa Pages. Your passport should have at least 2 blank visa pages for stamping
• Sufficient Funds. You should have enough money for your stay in India (this is rarely questioned), and also a return ticket or onward ticket.

You will also need to have the following items on your computer:

• Personal Photo. This should be a recent, clear photo of your face with a white background. JPEG format is required.
• Passport Photo. This should be your main passport page with your name, date of birth, nationality, etc. PDF format is required. If you need help changing your passport image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Note: If you’re applying for an e-Business or e-Medical visa, in addition to the above you will also need a copy of the business card (for the e-Business visa) or a copy of the letter from the hospital concerned in India on its letterhead (for the e-Medical visa).  

How To Apply For The India eVisa (Indian Tourist Visa)

When you’re ready to proceed, you can begin your visa application at the Indian government’s official eVisa website:

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

THIS IS IMPORTANT. There are other websites circulating on the internet that mimic this one or pretend to grant speedy visas, but those are often scams and they will take your money. DO NOT USE ANY OTHER WEBSITE.

I’ve provided some photos below as EXAMPLES to guide you through the application, but these are not from my actual eVisa submission. In other words, the addresses and other data I used in the images below are only examples. With that said, the pages you see in your visa application will resemble the ones shown in these images.

If anything has changed in the application process since this guide was written, please let me know in the comments at the bottom of this page and I will update the guide ASAP. I will do my best to keep this entire page up to date.

To begin your visa application, click the button circled in red that says Apply here for e-visa .

Visa Application Page 1

E-visa application.

Passport Type*:  Select Ordinary Passport Nationality*:  Select your country from the dropdown list Port Of Arrival*:  Select the airport you will be flying into Date Of Birth*: Email ID*: Re-enter Email ID*: Expected Date Of Arrival*: Visa Service*: Select from the list, and then choose an activity that best fits your trip to India Please Enter Above Text*: Enter the captcha code given

(Items above marked with  * are required.)

Page 1 of the Indian visa online application on the eVisa India website. Very straightforward.

After selecting continue, if you’re applying for the Indian tourist visa (e-Tourist), then a small message will appear: “The following documents are required to be submitted. 1) Photograph. 2) Passport.” Select OK.

(For some reason the photo dimensions here state 2″ x 2″ but when you come to the actual uploader, the correct minimum dimensions will be 350 x 350 pixels. You’ll use the latter. Side note: separate messages may appear for Business/Medical eVisa applications.)

You can ignore this message on the Indian visa application and click OK.

You have now arrived at the second page of the Indian visa online application form. It’s a good idea to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you have issues or need to come back to your application later.  

Visa Application Page 2

Applicant details form.

Surname: Exactly as in your passport Given Name*: Exactly as in your passport Have You Ever Changed Your Name?* If yes, click the box and give details Gender*: Date Of Birth: Automatically filled in Town/City Of Birth*: Country Of Birth*: Citizenship/National ID No*:  If not applicable, type NA Religion*: Visible Identification Marks*:  List any tattoos if you have them, otherwise put NONE Education*: Nationality:  Automatically filled in Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?* Select yours Have You Lived For At Least Two Years In The Country Where You Are Applying Visa?* Select yes or no  

Passport Details

Passport Number*: Place Of Issue*: Whatever nationality is on your passport Date Of Issue*: Date Of Expiry*: Any Other Valid Passport/Identity Certificate (IC) Held?* Yes or no. If yes, give details

Page 2 of the e-Visa India application form. Personal identification details.

Visa Application Page 3

Applicant’s address details.

House No./Street*: Village/Town/City*: Country*: State/Province/District*: Postal/ZIP Code*: Phone No.*: One phone number is required Mobile No.: Email Address: Automatically filled in Click Here For Same Address*: Click here if your permanent address is the same address as above, and then it will be applied.

Page 3 of the Indian visa online. Personal address details.

Visa Application Page 3 (continued)

Father’s details.

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality:  Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:  

Mother’s Details

Name*: Nationality*: Previous Nationality: Leave blank if it never changed. Place Of Birth*:  Use the state/province/district of birth if you don’t know the town/city Country Of Birth*:

Applicant’s Marital Status:  Select whether you’re single or married. If married (or separated but not divorced), enter your spouse’s details. If divorced, just select single. Were Your Parents/Grandparents (Paternal/Maternal) Pakistan Nationals Or Belong To Pakistan Held Area?  Select yes or no  

Profession / Occupation Details Of Applicant

Present Occupation*:  Select your occupation from the dropdown list. If it’s something else, select ‘Others’ and then enter it. The image below gives an example. Employer Name/Business*: Designation: Address*:  Phone: Past Occupation, If Any: Are/Were You In A Military/Semi-Military/Police/Security Organization?* Select yes or no. If yes, a dropdown will appear asking for the following: Organisation, Designation, Rank and Place Of Posting.

Page 3 (continued). Family and occupation details for the Indian visa online.

Visa Application Page 4

Details of visa sought.

Type Of Visa:  Automatically filled in Visa Service:  Automatically filled in Places To Be Visited*: Enter any cities or areas (e.g. Delhi) you will be visiting in India Places To Be Visited Line 2:  Duration Of Visa:  Automatically filled in No. Of Entries:  Automatically filled in Port Of Arrival In India:  Automatically filled in Expected Port Of Exit From India*:  Select the correct airport from the dropdown  

Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details

Have You Ever Visited India Before?*  Select yes or no. If yes, enter the name and address of the place you stayed previously. Cities In India Visited*:  Enter details from previous visits Last Indian Visa No/Currently Valid Indian Visa*:  If your previous visit was with an eVisa, the number will be written on the stamp given in passport. If you don’t know the number, type unknown. Type Of Visa*:  Tourist Place Of Issue*:  United States (if it was a regular visa). Enter the airport name in India if it was an eVisa. Date Of Issue*:  The date it was issued. For an eVisa, you can use the date of entry from the stamp on your passport, or possibly in your email. Has Permission To Visit Or To Extend Stay In India Previously Been Refused?*  Select yes or no. Hopefully the answer is no  

Other Information

Countries Visited In Last 10 Years:  List any countries you’ve recently visited. I didn’t have room to list all of them, so I included a partial list. This field is not mandatory.  

SAARC Country Visit Details

Have You Visited SAARC Countries (Except Your Own Country) During Last 3 Years?*:  The list of SAARC countries can be found in the dropdown list.

Page 4 of the eVisa application. Your travel details.

Visa Application Page 4 (continued)

Reference Name In India*:  Your accommodation details will work Address*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on Google Maps or the listing at Booking.com or Agoda.com Phone*:  For a hotel this can usually be found on their website or on Google Maps Reference Name In Home Country*:  A relative or friend will work Address*:  Phone*: 

Page 4 (continued). Travel and reference details.

Visa Application Page 5

Additional question details.

• Have You Ever Been Arrested/Prosecuted/Convicted By Court Of Law Of Any Country?*  Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Refused Entry/Deported By Any Country Including India?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Human Trafficking / Drug Trafficking / Child Abuse / Crime Against Women / Economic Offense / Financial Fraud?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever Been Engaged In Cyber Crime / Terrorist Activities / Sabotage / Espionage / Genocide / Political Killing / Other Act Of Violence?* Yes or no
• Have You Ever By Any Means Or Medium, Expressed Views That Justify Or Glorify Terrorist Violence Or That May Encourage Others To Terrorist Acts Or Other Serious Criminal Acts?* Yes or no
• Have You Sought Asylum (Political Or Otherwise) In Any Country?* Yes or no

Page 5 of the Indian visa online application. Background questions.

Visa Application Page 6

Upload photograph.

At this point you will be asked to upload a personal photo.

If you need to come back and do this later, you can save and exit the application (but make sure to write down the Temporary Application ID  because it will be required if you want to reuse your application later).

The photo format will need to be JPEG, with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 1 MB. Minimum dimensions are 350 pixels wide x 350 pixels high. The personal photo needs to be recent and front facing, with a white background.

The picture needs to be a clear photo of your face. You can get these done at places like Walgreens, for example. Unfortunately you cannot crop your passport photo to use for this, it needs to be a separate photo.

It’s important to follow all of these specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa India application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the photo you want to choose; then click upload photo .

After uploading the photo, you’re given an opportunity to crop the photo or upload it again if you’d like.

Page 6 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your personal photo.

Visa Application Page 7

Upload passport.

Next, you will be asked to upload a copy of your passport page.

This should be the photo page with personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiration date, etc. It should match the passport details entered in your eVisa application.

The file should be in PDF format with a minimum size of 10 KB and a maximum size of 300 KB. If you need help changing your passport file from an image to a PDF, you can use the following website: https://smallpdf.com .

Again, it’s important to follow all of the specifications and rules, otherwise your eVisa application may be rejected. Click choose file and navigate to the PDF file you want to choose; then click upload document .

Page 7 of the Indian visa online guide. Upload your passport.

Verification & Payment

After submitting your passport upload, the next page will ask you to confirm ALL of the previous details from your Indian e-Visa application.

Look these over thoroughly to make sure you entered everything correctly, because this will be your last chance to edit anything. Once you verify and continue, you will be brought to the visa payment page.

At this point, you can pay for the visa now or later. Follow the instructions on the page for either option. You should also write down the visa Application ID so you can access the application again.

You can pay with international credit or debit cards, or you can make your visa payment with Paypal. I used Paypal and I would recommend this. It was easy to process.

If you don’t have a Paypal account, then the next best option is probably using your card via the Axis option.  

After submission and payment, you will get an email from the Indian government saying that your Indian visa online application was submitted successfully and will take 72 hours for processing.

Generally you will hear back in much quicker time; in my case the Indian visa application was processed and granted in under 24 hours.

You MUST print the email you receive containing the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) and present it to the immigration officer when you arrive in India. I would recommend printing and bringing at least two copies.

The government of India emphasizes that you should also track your application and make sure that the status says  granted on the official eVisa India website ( same link as above ) before making your journey to India.  

What If My India Visa Is Rejected?

If your India visa is rejected, don’t worry. You can apply again, and there’s no minimum amount of time you have to wait before re-applying for a visa. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then you can go ahead and do it when you’re ready.

However, it’s important to find out why you were rejected so you can fix it in your next application. Unfortunately a reason is not always given, but generally the most common reasons for India visas being rejected are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specifications.

When reapplying, you’ll be faced with this question: “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?”

How you answer this question will depend on why you were rejected in your first application. If it was a simple clerical error like a wrong date or wrong photo specifications, then I would answer no, because you weren’t actually refused a visa for visiting India due to being ineligible for some reason, you only made a minor mistake in the submission process that can easily be corrected.

Good luck and happy travels!

Best India Tours

More travel guides.

Thanks for looking! I hope you were helped by this guide on how to fill out an Indian e-visa application.

While you’re waiting for your visa to be processed, don’t forget to check out the other travel guides on my blog!

You may also like

Ternate island travel guide & best things to do (maluku), how to visit khao sok national park in thailand, how to visit ciletuh geopark: waterfall valley in west java, fulidhoo island guide: shark & stingray beach in maldives, how to visit dhigurah island: budget paradise in maldives, how to visit tanjung puting national park in indonesia, 19 comments.

I’m very impressed by the quality of information on this website. There are a lot of good resources here. I’m sure I will visit this place again soon.

I have an extra copy of my passport photo. Although it is the same picture as in my passport it is not just a cropped version of the photo in the passport. Is this acceptable?

Hi Jeanne, I haven’t tried that myself but it should be okay as long as it meets the other requirements for the personal photo. Regards

I used my extra copy of my passport photo this past week for my India E-visa, and it worked!

Thank you, David, for providing the details regarding the E-visa information. It was really helpful and guided me as I entered the required fields in the application.

Good to hear. Thanks Esther!

why is it that when i filled the places to be visited form, it says invalid characters

What are you trying to enter there?

Once we receive ETA the first name and last name are shuffled is it the same for everyone?

Yes, it was the same on my ETA. No problem.

Hi David, thank you SO MUCH for this helpful post. I’m flying to India in a month and my e-visa application was just rejected (I traveled to India in early 2020 and had no issues at all) so I’m now going through the process of carefully re-applying… one question I’m hoping you can help me with: I just got married 2 weeks ago, do you expect it to be an issue to check the “married” box despite the fact my (USA & Israeli) passports say nothing about being married (or single, for that matter?) also -I can’t seem to find anything online about a minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying… any idea? Trying to minimize all odds of being rejected again. Thanks so much again, really appreciate your guidance.

Hi Abigail! Glad the post was helpful for you. Yes, it should be okay to put married on the application. Like you say, the marital status isn’t shown on the passport anyway, and spouse names aren’t always changed right away after marriage either, or sometimes they never change. So that should be fine. As far as I know, there’s no minimum amount of time to wait before re-applying. If the online system allows you to re-apply, then I would go ahead and try again. Do you know why you were rejected the first time? I would figure that out before re-applying. Good luck!

Hi David! Another important question – for the “Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused?” question on page 4 – would my previous e-visa rejection quality as a “yes”?

For this question, I think it would depend on the reason why you were rejected on the first application. Was it a simple error like a wrong date, wrong photo specifications, etc? If so, I would answer no, you weren’t refused a visa for visiting India, your application was only rejected because of a minor mistake. This is different from refusing you a visa because you aren’t eligible for some reason.

My e-visa application just got rejected without any specific reason provided. All they mention in the remark is “You may apply for Regular/Official Visa at nearest Indian Mission/Embassy abroad”. I compared my application to yours and the only difference I see is that for “city/town” of birth I put down city and state as opposed to state only. Would you happen to know if this could have caused the rejection?

Hi Jan! That shouldn’t cause a rejection. I’ve heard of people doing it either way (city and state, or city only). Both are correct answers. Do you think there might be another issue on your application? The most common things are simple errors like typos, wrong dates, or wrong photo specs.

Thanks so much. This is very helpful.

Question – on page 2 it asks if you ever changed your name. Am I correct in assuming that I put yes because I changed my name when I got married?

Hi Judy! If your passport still has your maiden name, I would use that name in the application and answer no to the question about name change. If your passport has your married name, I would use that name in the application and answer yes to the question about name change. However, I know of people who have applied successfully either way. It shouldn’t affect your application.

Thank you, this was very helpful. I have a question on section “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details”. I have traveled to India multiple times, but as an Indian citizen and held an Indian passport. Now I am no longer Indian citizen and applying for India Tourist visa for first time. What do I click in this “Previous Visa/Currently Valid Visa Details” section’s “Have you ever visited India before?”

Hi Sylvia, in that case you can answer “No” for the question “Have you ever visited India before?” because they’re asking if you’ve visited India on a visa before, and you haven’t. You were a citizen and resident, not a visitor. They should be able to understand this since you will list your country of birth as India on page 2 of the application, and also when they ask “Did You Acquire Nationality By Birth Or By Naturalization?” you can put Naturalization.

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Visa Traveler

Exploring the world one country at a time

How to apply for India e-Visa: A step-by-step guide (with screenshots)

Updated: July 26, 2023

India e-Visa application is quite simple and easy to navigate. It only takes about 15 minutes to apply for India e-Visa online. Keep the necessary documents ready before you start the application. If you are missing something, it’s not a big deal as you can save the application and come back later to complete it.

There can be occasional hiccups with the visa fee payment. But nothing major. These payment issues can be fixed easily. I have provided all the details you need to know in this article.

If you haven’t already, check out the complete guide to India e-Visa for details on different tourist e-Visa types, eligible nationalities, fees, processing time, application status, etc.

Table of Contents

Documents needed to apply for india e-visa.

Before starting your India e-Visa online application, have these documents ready.

• Passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your anticipated date of arrival in India
• Photo must be in JPG/JPEG format only
• Photo must be 2inch x 2inch in dimensions
• Photo must be less than 1MB in size
• Head must be centered with light background and no glasses
• Scan must be in PDF format only
• Scan must be larger than 10KB and smaller than 300KB
• Your credit or debit card must support international transactions in non-home currency

Steps for filling out the India e-Visa application

• Go to India e-Visa Portal
• Click on the Apply here for e-Visa button

You will be taken to the e-Visa application page.

02. e-Visa application

Enter the following details on the e-Visa application page.

• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your country of passport ]
• Passport Type [ Comment : Select “ORDINARY PASSPORT” from the options ]
• Port of Arrival [ Comment : Select the airport where you will be arriving ]
• Date of Birth [ Comment : Enter your date of birth as it appears in your passport in DD/MM/YYYY format ]
• Email ID [ Comment : Enter your email ID where you would like to receive your approved e-Visa ]
• Re-enter Email ID [ Comment : Re-enter your email ID ]
• Visa Service [ Comment : Select “e-TOURIST VISA”. If there is a 5-year option, select the 5-year option and then select “RECREATION/SIGHT-SEEING”. If you are not a tourist and applying for the e-Visa for some other purpose, select the appropriate purpose ]
• Expected Date of Arrival  [ Comment : Enter your anticipated date of arrival in India in DD/MM/YYYY format ]
• Please enter above text  [ Comment : Enter the captcha ]

Check the box for “I have read the instructions I have all the required documents in scanned pdf format and photograph in jpg/jpeg format”.

Click on the orange Continue button.

A small popup appears prompting you to make sure you have a colored digital photo and a scan of your passport ID page. 

Click on the Ok button on the popup. 

You will be taken to the Applicant Details Form .

03. Applicant Details Form (part 1)

Enter the following information in the Applicant Details section.

• Surname (exactly as in your passport) [ Comment : Enter your surname as it appears in your passport ]
• Given Name/s (exactly as in your passport) [ Comment : Enter your given name as it appears in your passport. If you have a middle name, enter your middle name followed by your first name in this field ]
• Have your ever changed your name? [ Comment : If you have legally changed your name in the past, check this box and enter the details. Ex: changed your surname after marriage ]
• Gender [ Comment : Select your gender from the options ]
• Date of birth [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your date of birth is populated automatically from the previous screen ]
• Town/City of birth [ Comment : Enter your place of birth as it appears in your passport ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Enter your country of birth ]
• Citizenship/National Id No. [ Comment : If you have a national Id, enter here. But do not enter SSN or something similar that’s confidential. In that case, just enter NA ]
• ZOROASTRIAN
• Visible identification marks [ Comment : Enter any visible identification marks such as permanent moles or scars preferably on the face ]
• BELOW MATRICULATION
• HIGHER SECONDARY
• MATRICULATION
• NA BEING MINOR
• POSTGRADUATE
• PROFESSIONAL
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your nationality is populated automatically from the previous screen ]
• Naturalization
• Have you lived for at least two years in the country where you are applying visa? [ Comment: Select “Yes”. If you haven’t lived more than two years in the country you are applying from, select “No” ]

Enter the following information in the Passport Details section.

• Passport Number [ Comment : Enter your current passport number that you will use for entering India ]
• Place of Issue [ Comment : Enter the place of issue as it appears in your passport ]
• Date of Issue [ Comment : Enter the date of issue as it appears in your passport ]
• Date of Expiry [ Comment : Enter the expiry date as it appears in your passport. Passport must have at least 6 months of validity from the anticipated date of entry ]
• Any other valid Passport/Identity Certificate(IC) held [ Comment : Select No. If you also hold a passport from another country, select Yes and enter the details ]

Click on the orange Save and Continue button. 

You will be taken to the Applicant Details Form second part.

How to save the application and come back later to complete

If you plan to continue filling out the application later, you can click on Save and Temporarily Exit button.

This will save your progress and exit the application. You will be asked to make a note of your application ID. 

You will also receive an email with your application ID. You will have 7 days to complete the application. Otherwise, the application will be deleted from the system and you will have to start over again.

Follow these steps to complete the partially saved application.

• Click on the Complete Partially Filled Application Form button

You will be taken to the Complete Partially Filled Form .

Enter the following information in the Complete Partially Filled Form .

• Temporary Application ID [ Comment : Enter your saved application ID. If you don’t remember, look in your email inbox ]
• Please enter above text [ Comment : Enter the captcha ]

Click on the orange Complete Partially Filled button.

You will be taken to the last saved point of your e-Visa application. You can continue filling in from there.

04. Applicant Details Form (part 2)

Enter the following information in the Applicant Address Details section.

Present Address

• House No./Street [ Comment : Enter your house number or street address where you live ]
• Village/Town/City [ Comment : Enter the city where you live ]
• Country [ Comment : Enter the country where you live ]
• State/Province/District [ Comment : Enter the state or province where you live ]
• Postal/Zip Code [ Comment : Enter your current address postal or zip code ]
• Phone No. [ Comment : Enter your current fixed-line phone number ]
• Mobile No. [ Comment : Enter your current mobile or cellphone number ]
• Email Address [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your email is populated automatically from the previous pages ]
• Click here for same address [ Comment : Check this box if your permanent address is the same as your current address. If not, enter your permanent address below ]

NOTE Enter your permanent address below if it’s different from your present address.

Permanent Address

• House No./Street [ Comment : Enter your permanent address house number ]
• Village/Town/City [ Comment : Enter your permanent address city ]
• State/Province/District [ Comment : Enter your permanent address state or province ]

Enter the following information in the Family Details section.

Father’s Details

• Name [ Comment : Enter your father’s full name including first, middle and last names ]
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your father’s nationality ]
• Previous Nationality/Region [ Comment : This is not a mandatory field, so leave it unselected. But if your father held any previous nationality, select the country from the list ]
• Place of birth [ Comment : Enter your father’s place of birth ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Select your father’s country of birth from the list ] 

Mother’s Details

• Name [ Comment : Enter your mother’s full name including first, middle and last names ]
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your mother’s nationality ]
• Previous Nationality/Region [ Comment : This is not a mandatory field, so leave it unselected. But if your mother held any previous nationality, select the country from the list ]
• Place of birth [ Comment : Enter your mother’s place of birth ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Select your mother’s country of birth from the list ] 

Enter the following information in the next (Marital Status) section.

Spouse’s Details

• Name [ Comment : Enter your spouse’s full name including first, middle and last names ]
• Nationality/Region [ Comment : Enter your spouse’s nationality ]
• Previous Nationality/Region [ Comment : This is not a mandatory field, so leave it unselected. But if your spouse held any previous nationality, select the country from the list ]
• Place of birth [ Comment : Enter your spouse’s place of birth ]
• Country/Region of birth [ Comment : Select your spouse’s country of birth from the list ] 
• Were your Parents/Grandparents (paternal/maternal) Pakistan Nationals or Belong to Pakistan held area? [ Comment: Select No. If you select Yes for any reason, give the details on your ancestory ]

Enter the following information in the Profession/Occupation Details of Application section.

• Present Occupation [ Comment : Select your current occupation/profession from the list. If you can’t find your occupation/profession in the list, such as NURSE, select OTHERS and enter your occupation/profession in the box that appears below ]
• Employer Name/business [ Comment : Enter your current employer/business name ]
• Designation [ Comment : Enter your current designation or title ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter your current employer/business address ]
• Phone [ Comment : Enter your current employer/business phone number ]
• Past Occupation, if any [ Comment : If you had any other occupations or professions in the past, select from the list ]
• Are/were you in a Military/Semi-Military/Police/Security Organization? [ Comment : Select No. If you are/were in defense, select Yes and enter the details ]

Click on the orange Save and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Visa Details Form .

05. Visa Details Form

Enter the following information in the Details of the visa sought section.

• Type of visa [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as your visa type (e-Visa) will be automatically populated here ]
• Visa service [ Comment : Nothing to enter here too as the e-Tourist Visa option that you have selected earlier will be automatically populated ]
• Places to be visited [ Comment : List all the places that you will visit in India on this trip ]
• Places to be visited line 2 [ Comment : If the above text box is not enough, you can enter more places that you plan to visit in India here ]
• Have you booked any room in Hotel/Resort etc. through any Tour Operator? [ Comment : If you have already booked a hotel or tour, select Yes and enter the details here ]
• Duration of visa [ Comment : Nothing to enter here as the visa length that you have selected earlier will be automatically populated here ]
• No, of Entries [ Comment : This will also be auto-populated based on your selection in the previous pages ]
• Port of Arrival in India [ Comment : This will also be auto-populated based on your selection in the previous pages ]
• Expected Port of Exit from India [ Comment : Select the airport or seaport from which you plan to leave the country after your trip ]

IMPORTANT Your port of arrival and exit do not matter much. After your e-Visa is approved, you can enter from any airport/seaport and exit from any airport/seaport.

Enter the following information in the Previous Visa/Currently valid Visa Details section.

• Have you ever visited India before? [ Comment : If you have been to India before, select Yes and enter the details below. If this is your first time visiting India, select No and skip to the next section ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter the address of the house or hotel where you stayed during your last visit to India ]
• Cities previously visited in India [ Comment : List all the cities you have visited on your last visit to India ]
• Last Indian Visa No/Currently valid Indian Visa No. [ Comment : Enter your previous India visa number ]
• Type of Visa [ Comment : Select the type of your previous visa from the list ]
• Place of Issue [ Comment : Enter the place your previous India visa was issued. If it was e-Visa, then it would be your first port of entry in India. If it were a consular visa, then it would be the city abroad where it was issued ]
• Date of Issue [ Comment : Enter the date on which your previous India visa was issued ]
• Has permission to visit or to extend stay in India previously been refused? [ Comment : Select No. If you were denied entry into India before select Yes and enter the details ]

Enter the following in the Other Information section.

• Countries Visited in Last 10 years [ Comment : Enter the list of countries that you have visited in the last 10 years ]

Enter the following in the SAARC Country Visit Details section. 

• Have you visited SAARC countries (except your own country) during last 3 years?  [ Comment : If you have visited any SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) countries in the last 3 years, enter them here ]

SAARC Countries SAARC (South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation) comprises Afghanistan, Bangladesh, Bhutan, India, Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan and Sri Lanka. If you have visited any of these countries in the last 3 years, you must enter them for the above question. 

Enter the following in the Reference section.

• Reference Name in India [ Comment : Enter the name of a contact person in India. This can be a family, relative or friend who lives in India. If you do not know anyone, you can enter the hotel where you plan to stay ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter your India contact person’s address or hotel address ]
• State [ Comment : Select the state where your India contact person resides or your hotel is ]
• District [ Comment : Select the district where your India contact person resides or your hotel is ]
• Phone [ Comment : Enter an Indian phone number of your India contact person or hotel ]
• Reference Name in <your country> [ Comment : Enter the name of someone from your country as an emergency contact. This can be a family, relative or friend who lives in your country ]
• Address [ Comment : Enter your emergency contact person’s address ]
• Phone [ Comment : Enter your emergency contact person’s phone number ]

06. Additional Question Details

Answer the following question on this page.

• Have you ever been arrested/ prosecuted/ convicted by Court of Law of any country? [ Comment : Select No unless you have been arrested or prosecuted ]
• Have you ever been refused entry / deported by any country including India? [ Comment : Select No unless you have been refused entry or deported from any country in the past ]
• Have you ever been engaged in Human trafficking/ Drug trafficking/ Child abuse/ Crime against women/ Economic offense / Financial fraud? [ Comment : Select No ]
• Have you ever been engaged in Cyber crime/ Terrorist activities/ Sabotage/ Espionage/ Genocide/ Political killing/ other act of violence? [ Comment : Select No ]
• Have you ever by any means or medium, expressed views that justify or glorify terrorist violence or that may encourage others to terrorist acts or other serious criminal acts? [ Comment : Select No ]
• Have you sought asylum (political or otherwise)in any country? [ Comment : Select No, unless you have sought asylum ]

Check the box for the self-declaration that all the above information is correct.

Then, click on the orange Save and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Upload Photograph page.

07. Upload Photograph

Click on the Choose File button to select the JPG/JPEG file of your photo.

After selecting the file, click on the orange Upload Photo button.

When the photo is uploaded, you will be asked to crop the photo. If necessary, you can crop the photo. If not, simply drag the outer edge of the crop highlight to select the entire photo.

Then, click on the orange Crop and Save button. 

Now, click on the orange Save and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Upload Document page.

08. Upload Document

Click on the Choose File button to select the PDF of your scanned passport ID page.

Once you select your PDF file, click on the orange Upload Document button.

Then, check the box for “I have verified that all the documents are uploaded as per the requirement”.

Click on the orange Confirm button.

You will be taken to the Confirm Details page.

09. Confirm Details

Review all the details you have entered so far. If you need to make any corrections, click on the Modify button.

If everything is looking good, click on the Verified and Continue button.

You will be taken to the Online VISA Fee Payment page.

10. Online VISA Fee Payment

On this page, your name and application ID are displayed along with the disclaimer and undertaking.

Select “Yes” for the undertaking and click on the Pay Now button. 

You will then be shown the below three available payment gateway options.

Select the payment gateway that you would like to use and click on the Continue button.

NOTE The Axis bank gateway is not reliable. Use Sbi e-pay when paying with a credit or debit card. 

You will be shown a popup notifying you that there may be some payment delays. Click on the Ok button on the popup to continue.

You will be taken to the payment gateway page to enter your credit or debit card details. 

On the Sbi e-pay gateway page, the Debit/Credit Card option will be selected by default. 

Enter the following information in the Debit/Credit Card form.

• Card number [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card number ]
• Expiry date/valid thru [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card expiry date ]
• CVV/CVC [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card CVV number ]
• Name of the cardholder [ Comment : Enter your name as it appears on your credit/debit card ]
• Use your GSTIN for claiming input tax [ Comment : Leave this check box as is ]

Click on the Pay Now button.

On the Axis bank gateway page, enter the following information.

• CARD NUMBER [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card number ]
• CARD NAME [ Comment : Enter your card issuer such as Visa, Master, etc. ]
• MONTH [ Comment : Enter the month of your credit/debit card expiry ]
• YEAR [ Comment : Enter the year of your credit/debit card expiry ]
• CVV CODE [ Comment : Enter your credit/debit card CVV number ]

Click on the Submit button.

You will be taken to the Your Final Payment page of Axis bank.

India e-Visa payment success

If the payment is successful, you will be taken to the Payment Success page.

On this page, your name, application ID and passport number are deployed along with contacts of the e-Visa department for any assistance.

Click on the orange Generate Fee Receipt button to download a copy of the fee receipt. 

You will also receive an email that your application has been successfully submitted. 

India e-Visa payment failed

If your payment is failed, you will be taken to the Payment Failed page. 

On this page, the reason for the payment failure, such as the card declined, etc. is displayed. You cannot retry the payment from this page. To retry the payment, follow the below steps.

• Click on the Verify Payment/Pay e-Visa Fee button

You will be taken to the Pay Visa Processing Fee page.

On the Pay Visa Processing Fee page, enter the following details.

• Application Id [ Comment : Enter your saved 12-digit application Id. If you don’t remember, check your email ]
• Date of Birth [ Comment : Enter your date of birth as it appears in your passport ]

Click on the orange Check Payment button.

You will be taken to the Payment Report page.

On the Payment Report page, you will see your last failed payment attempt and the reason for the failure. 

Click on the orange Pay Visa Processing Fee button. 

You will be taken back to the Online VISA Fee Payment page. From here simply follow the steps outlined in “ 10. Online VISA Fee Payment ” above to try the payment again. 

Check your India e-Visa application status

To check the status of your India e-Visa process, follow the below steps.

• Click on the Check your Visa Status button

You will be taken to the Visa Status Enquiry page.

Enter the following on the Visa Status Enquiry page.

• Passport No. [ Comment : Enter your passport number ]

Click on the orange Check Status button.

On the next page, your visa status will be displayed. 

If the application status says “successfully received”, then your application is still in process. If the application status says granted, then your e-Visa is approved. 

Receive your approved India e-Visa

When your Indian e-Visa is approved, you will receive an email notifying you that your e-Visa has been granted. 

You can use this email as proof of your e-Visa approval or you can download your approved e-Visa from the India e-Visa Portal. 

To download your approved e-Visa, first follow the steps to check the visa status as outlined above in “ Check your India e-Visa application status “.

On the Visa Status Enquiry page, you will see that your application status is now “Granted”. 

Click on the orange Print Status button to download your approved e-Visa. 

Print and carry your approved India e-Visa PDF when you travel. Or download it as a PDF on your phone and present it to the airline staff or India immigration officer on your arrival. 

WRITTEN BY THIRUMAL MOTATI

Thirumal Motati is an expert in tourist visa matters. He has been traveling the world on tourist visas for more than a decade. With his expertise, he has obtained several tourist visas, including the most strenuous ones such as the US, UK, Canada, and Schengen, some of which were granted multiple times. He has also set foot inside US consulates on numerous occasions. Mr. Motati has uncovered the secrets to successful visa applications. His guidance has enabled countless individuals to obtain their visas and fulfill their travel dreams. His statements have been mentioned in publications like Yahoo, BBC, The Hindu, and Travel Zoo.

PLAN YOUR TRAVEL WITH VISA TRAVELER

I highly recommend using these websites to plan your trip. I use these websites myself to apply for my visas, book my flights and hotels and purchase my travel insurance.

01. Apply for your visa

Get a verifiable flight itinerary for your visa application from DummyTicket247 . DummyTicket247 is a flight search engine to search and book flight itineraries for visas instantly. These flight itineraries are guaranteed to be valid for 2 weeks and work for all visa applications.

02. Book your fight

Find the cheapest flight tickets using Skyscanner . Skyscanner includes all budget airlines and you are guaranteed to find the cheapest flight to your destination.

03. Book your hotel

Book your hotel from Booking.com . Booking.com has pretty much every hotel, hostel and guesthouse from every destination.

04. Get your onward ticket

If traveling on a one-way ticket, use BestOnwardTicket to get proof of onward ticket for just $12, valid for 48 hours.

05. Purchase your insurance

Purchase travel medical insurance for your trip from HeyMondo . HeyMondo offers a 5% discount to Visa Traveler readers (use the link above), and covers all medical and travel emergencies during your trip.

Need more? Check out my travel resources page  for the best websites to plan your trip.

LEGAL DISCLAIMER We are not affiliated with immigration, embassies or governments of any country. The content in this article is for educational and general informational purposes only, and shall not be understood or construed as, visa, immigration or legal advice. Your use of information provided in this article is solely at your own risk and you expressly agree not to rely upon any information contained in this article as a substitute for professional visa or immigration advice. Under no circumstance shall be held liable or responsible for any errors or omissions in this article or for any damage you may suffer in respect to any actions taken or not taken based on any or all of the information in this article. Please refer to our full disclaimer for further information.

AFFILIATE DISCLOSURE This post may contain affiliate links, which means we may receive a commission, at no extra cost to you, if you make a purchase through a link. Please refer to our full disclosure for further information.

RELATED POSTS

• Cookie Policy
• Copyright Notice
• Privacy Policy
• Terms of Use
• Flight Itinerary
• Hotel Reservation
• Travel Insurance
• Onward Ticket
• Testimonials

Search this site

• How to Get an Indian Visa
• India's Visa Types, Explained
• Applying for an E-Visa
• India's Climate & Seasons
• Monsoon in India
• Your Essential Packing List
• Things to Buy Before You Go
• What to Pack for Monsoon
• The Best India Guidebooks
• How to Save on Your India Trip
• The Top Destinations in India
• The Most Iconic Sights in India
• Which Region Is Right for You?
• India's Top Historical Destinations
• Romantic Indian Destinations
• India's Top Hill Stations
• India's Top National Parks
• The Best Beaches in India
• India's Best Backpacker Spots
• India's Most Spiritual Destinations
• The Best Luxury Spas in India
• India Off the Beaten Path
• India for Adventure Travelers
• Where to Experience Rural India
• The Top Things to Do in India
• Palaces & Forts in India
• India's Best Surfing Beaches
• Volunteer on a Budget in India
• 7 Cool Sound & Light Shows
• India's Most Popular Festivals
• India's Best Bike Tours
• See India by Motorcycle
• India's Top Tribal Tours
• Offbeat Tours to Take in India
• India's Best Homestays
• Palace Hotels in India
• India's Coolest Treehouse Hotels
• Top Wildlife & Jungle Lodges
• The Best Hostels in India
• Best Budget Hotels in India
• Transport in India: An Overview
• India's Major Airports
• India's Best Airlines
• Domestic Airlines in India
• Hiring a Car & Driver in India
• Your Intro to Indian Railways
• Travel Classes on Indian Trains
• How to Reserve a Train Ticket
• How to Find & Board Your Train
• Tips for Train Travel in India
• India's Scenic Toy Trains
• 12 Indian Etiquette Don'ts
• The Top 10 Indian Stereotypes
• Tipping in India
• What Does the Head Shake Mean?
• 9 Challenges You'll Face in India
• How to Avoid Culture Shock
• Top 5 Monsoon Health Concerns
• Voltage Information for India
• How to Use Your Cell Phone
• How to Say Hello in Hindi
• Often Misunderstood Hindi Terms
• Hindi Language Books
• Most Common Indian Scams
• How to Handle Begging in India
• How to Spot Fake Indian Currency
• What to Buy in India
• How to Buy a Sari in India
• How to Bargain at Indian Markets
• Search Please fill out this field.
• Newsletters
• Destinations
• More to Explore

Your Essential Guide to Getting an E-Visa for India

Understanding India's New Electronic Visa Scheme (Updated)

All visitors to India require a visa , except for citizens of neighboring Nepal and Bhutan. Visitors must either apply for a regular visa or an e-Visa (citizens of Japan and South Korea can also get a visa on arrival at six major airports in India). The e-Visa is hassle-free to obtain, and will be suitable for most tourists. Here's what you need to know about it.

Latest News as of September 2019

Three types of e-Tourist visas are now available with validity of one-month, one-year and five-years. The one-month e-Tourist Visa permits two entries. The one-year and five-year e-Tourist visas allow multiple entries but are subject to limitations on length of continuous stay. The fee for the one-year e-Tourist Visa has been reduced, while the fee for the new one-month e-Tourist Visa is discounted during the off-peak summer season from April to September.

The Indian government introduced a tourist visa on arrival scheme on January 1, 2010. It was initially trialed for citizens of five countries. Subsequently, a year later, it was extended to include a total of 11 countries. And, from April 15, 2014 it was extended to include South Korea.

Effective November 27, 2014, this visa on arrival scheme was replaced by an online Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) scheme. It has been implemented in phases and progressively made available to more countries.

In April 2015, the scheme was renamed "e-Tourist Visa" by the Indian government, to remove confusion over the previous ability to get a visa on arrival without applying in advance.

In April 2017, the scheme was further extended to passport holders of 158 countries (up from 150 countries).

The Indian government has also widened the scope of the visa scheme to include short duration medical treatment and yoga courses, and casual business visits and conferences. Previously, these required separate medical/student/business visas.

The aim is to make getting an Indian visa easier, and to bring more business people and medical tourists into the country.

To facilitate this change, in April 2017, the "e-Tourist Visa" scheme became known as "e-Visa". Furthermore, it was divided into three categories:

• e-Tourist Visa
• e-Business Visa
• e-Medical Visa

Two additional categories—e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa—have since been added. Up to two e-Medical Attendant visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa.

The visa categories can be clubbed together. However, e-Conference visas are only permitted to be clubbed with e-Tourist visas.

Be sure to research the different types of Indian visas .

Who is Eligible for an E-Visa?

Passport holders of the following 165 countries: Albania, Andorra, Angola, Anguilla, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Aruba, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Bolivia, Benin, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burundi, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Cayman Island, Chile, China, Hong Kong, Macau, Colombia, Comoros, Cook Islands, Costa Rica, Cote D'lvoire, Croatia, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, East Timor, Ecuador, El Salvador, Eritrea, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guinea, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hong Kong, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Macedonia, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Montserrat, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger Republic, Niue Island, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Christopher and Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent and The Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Swaziland, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Tonga, Trinidad and Tobago, Turks and Caicos Island, Tuvalu, Uganda, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, Uruguay, USA, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City-Holy See, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia and Zimbabwe.

However, do note that if your parents or grandparents were born in or lived in Pakistan, you will be ineligible to get an e-Visa even if you're a citizen of the above countries. You will have to apply for a normal visa.

What is the Procedure for Obtaining an E-Visa?

Applications must be made online at this website, no less than four days and no more than 30 days before the date of travel (for a 30-day tourist e-visa). A sample form with screen shots can be downloaded here .

As well as entering you travel details, you will need to upload a photograph of yourself with a white background that meets the specifications listed on the website, and the photo page of your passport that shows your personal details. Your passport will need to be valid for at least six months. Additional documents may be required depending on the type of e-Visa required.

Following this, pay the fee online with your debit or credit card. You will receive an Application ID and the ETA will be sent to you via email within three to five days (often earlier). The status of your application can be checked here . Make sure it shows "GRANTED" before you travel.

You will need to have a copy of the ETA with you when you arrive in India, and present it at the immigration counter at the airport. An immigration officer will stamp your passport with your e-Visa for entry into India. Your biometric data will also be captured at this time.

You should have a return ticket and enough money to spend during your stay in India.

What are the Fees?

The visa fees depend on the nature of the reciprocal relationship between India and each country. Citizens of some countries can get visas free of cost. There are also differing fees for e-Tourists visas and other types of e-Visas. The details can be found in this e-Tourist Visa Fee Chart and Fee Chart for Other E-Visa Types .

Citizens of the following countries are entitled to free visas:

• Argentina, Cook Islands, Fiji, Indonesia, Jamaica, Kiribati, Marshall Islands, Mauritius, Micronesia, Myanmar, Nauru, Niue Island, Palau, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Seychelles, Solomon Islands, South Africa, Tonga, Tuvalu, Uruguay and Vanuatu.

Citizens of all other countries, except Japan, now pay the same fees for e-Tourist visas. These are as follows:

• One-month e-Tourist Visa (April to June): $10.
• One-month e-Tourist Visa (remainder of the year) : $25
• One-year e-Tourist Visa : $40.
• Five-year e-Tourist Visa : $80.

Japanese citizens only pay $25 for one-year and five-year e-Tourist visas.

The fees for other types of e-Visas are as follows:

• $100 Citizens of US, UK, Russia, Ukraine and Mozambique.
• $80 : Citizens of the majority of countries including Australia, Belgium, Brazil, Canada, China, Hong Kong, Finland, France, Germany, Hungary, Ireland, Israel, Jordan, Kenya, Malaysia, Mexico, the Netherlands, New Zealand, the Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Spain, Sweden, Taiwan, Thailand, and Vietnam.
• $25: Citizens of Japan, Singapore and Sri Lanka.

In addition to the visa fee, a bank charge of 2.5% of the fee must be paid.

How Long is the Visa Valid For?

The one-month e-Tourist Visa is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India, with two entries permitted. One-year and five-year e-Tourist visas are valid for 365 days from the date the ETA is granted, with multiple entries permitted.

E-Business visas are valid for one year from the date the ETA is granted, with multiple entries permitted.

E-Medical and e-Medical Attendant visas are valid for 60 days from the date of arrival in India. E-Conference visas are only valid for 30 days from the date of arrival. Three entries are permitted on e-Medical visas and e-Medical Attendant visas. Only one entry is permitted on e-Conference visas. The visas are non-extendable and non-convertible.

How Long Can You Stay in India?

It's important to note that although your e-Tourist Visa may be valid for one year or five years, this doesn't mean you can stay in India continuously for the whole time. The length of continuous stay must not be longer than 90 days—except for citizens of US, UK, Japan and Canada. Citizens of these countries can stay for up to 180 days at a time.

Citizens of all countries can stay in India for up to 180 days continuously on an e-Business visa.

Which Indian Entry Points Accept E-Visas?

You can now enter at the following 28 international airports in India : Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bangalore, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Kochi, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa, Guwahati, Hyderabad, Jaipur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi, and Vishakhapatnam.

You can also enter at the following five designated seaports: Kochi, Goa, Mangalore, Mumbai, Chennai.

In addition, separate immigration desks and help counters have been set up to assist medical tourists at Delhi, Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai, Bangalore, and Hyderabad airports.

Once you have the e-Visa, you can leave India (and return) through any immigration point.

How Often Can You Get an E-Visa?

You can apply as often as you want. The limit on the number of times in a calendar year has been removed.

Visiting Protected/Restricted Areas with Your E-Visa

The e-Visa is not valid for entry into areas such as Arunachal Pradesh in Northeast India, by itself. You'll need to obtain a separate Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Inner Line Permit (ILP), depending on the requirements of the particular area. This can be done in India after you arrive, using your e-Visa. You don't need to hold a regular tourist visa to be able to apply for a PAP. Your travel or tour agent can take care of the arrangements for you. If you're planning on visiting Northeast India, you can read more about permit requirements here.

Need Help with Your Application?

Call +91-11-24300666 or email [email protected]

Important: Scams to be Aware of

When applying for your e-Visa, do be aware that a number of commercial websites have been created to look similar to the government of India's official website, and they claim to provide online visa services to tourists. These websites include but are not limited to:

• e-visaindia.com
• e-touristvisaindia.com
• indianvisaonline.org.in

The websites do not belong to the government of India and they will charge you hefty service fees.

Expediting Your E-Visa

If you do need to get your e-Visa in a hurry, iVisa.com offers 24-hour and 2-day processing times. However, this comes at a price— $100 for 24-hours, and $65 for 2-days. Their standard fee for a 4-day processing time is $35. These fees are all additional to the e-Visa fee. The company is legitimate and reliable though.

Related Articles

More related articles.

Navigating the Process of Extending Your Indian Visa: Tips and Tricks

Are you planning to extend your Indian visa, but feeling overwhelmed by the process? Don’t worry, we’ve got you covered! In this blog post, we’ll take you through everything you need to know about extending your Indian visa. From understanding the requirements and documents needed, to navigating the application process itself, our tips and tricks will help make your extension experience a breeze. So grab a cup of tea and get ready to become an expert on extending your Indian visa!

Steps to extend your Indian visa

If you are an Indian citizen, your visa will likely expire within six months. You can extend your visa for an additional six months by submitting a Visa Extension Request Form along with the appropriate fees. However, there are a few steps you’ll need to take to ensure the extension process goes smoothly.

First, gather all of the necessary documents. You’ll need your passport, visa application form (Form I-129), and payment for the fee(s) associated with the extension. If you are traveling outside of India, be sure to bring your airline ticket and any other documentation needed for travel.  Indian Visa for Slovak Citizens

Next, submit your request to the Indian Embassy or Consulate where you reside. The embassy or consulate may require that you visit in person to submit your paperwork or they may accept copies of your documents. Be sure to provide enough time before your visa expires so that you can arrange this visit.

Once you have submitted your request and paid the applicable fees, the embassy or consulate will send you a confirmation letter stating whether or not your visa has been extended. If it has been extended, the letter will also include information on how to apply for a new visa should you decide to leave India prematurely.

What documents will be required?

If you are intending to stay in India for an extended period of time, you will likely need a valid visa. There are a few documents that you will need to provide to the Indian authorities in order to obtain a visa:

• Your passport with at least six months remaining on your current passport validity.
• A recent photo that meets the requirements of the Indian embassy or consulate where you will be applying for your visa.
• Proof of financial stability, such as bank statements, recent income tax returns, or letters from employers testifying to your wages and working status.
• A travel document if you are traveling outside of India (such as a ticket)
• Proof of non-political status if you are a foreigner residing in India on a student visa (a copy of your student ID card is usually sufficient).  How to extend Indian Visa
• If applicable, proof that you have secured appropriate insurance coverage during your stay in India (e.g., health insurance).
• A letter confirming the dates and purpose of your visit to India.

How much does it cost to extend your Indian visa?

If you are planning on staying in India for an extended period of time, you may want to consider extending your visa. Here is a breakdown of the costs associated with extending your Indian visa:

Application Fees:

-For applications filed online, the application fee is Rs. 2,000.

-For applications filed through an Indian embassy or consulate, the application fee is Rs. 5,000.

-In addition to the application fee, there are additional fees for specific types of visas (e.g., business/tourist visas). Check with your nearest Indian embassy or consulate for more information.

Extension Fee:

The extension fee varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and where you are filing your application from. The fee ranges from Rs. 1,500 to Rs. 4,000 and must be paid in cash at an authorized immigration office in India or abroad.

Can you apply for an emergency visa extension?

If you find yourself in a situation where your Indian visa is about to expire and you need to stay in India for an extended period of time, there are a few things you can do to make the process easier. First, make sure that you have all of the necessary paperwork ready before you go to the embassy or consulate. Depending on the specific case, you may need to provide proof of your employment, financial stability, and other documentation. Additionally, be sure to bring any extra identification documents (like passports) with you when you go to see the officials.

If everything looks good and you still cannot get your visa extension approved, there is always the option of applying for an emergency visa extension. This will require more paperwork and may take longer than simply getting a regular visa extension, but it can be worth it if your situation is really urgent. If all else fails and you are forced to leave India without a visa, be prepared for some extra hassle when trying to return later on. Make sure that you have all the relevant information prepped ahead of time so that any red tape can be bypassed easily.

Where can you get help if you have questions about the process?

If you have any questions about the process of extending your Indian visa, don’t hesitate to reach out to your local Indian embassy or consulate. They will be able to provide you with all the information and guidance that you need. Additionally, many online resources are available which can help you get started. Finally, remember that it’s always best to speak with a professional before starting any new process.

Post navigation

Previous post.

No comments yet. Why don’t you start the discussion?

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

• Skip to main content

Additional menu

The Visa Project

A place for your visa experiences and more

FRRO Delhi: Extend Indian Visa Online as a Foreigner Spouse

INDIAN VISA EXTENSION IN FRRO DELHI FOR FOREIGNER SPOUSE

By Claudia Lizeth last updated on September 4, 2022

I have earlier written on my experience on converting my tourist visa for India to an India entry visa in FRRO Delhi/Gurgaon, as a foreigner married to an Indian citizen.

This article is about how to extend Indian visa online through the e-FRRO portal(for Entry visa).

Since then I have tried to apply for an Aadhar unsuccessfully twice. Didn’t get it. I don’t think I will apply for it anymore. Got a bank account and a PAN card. So there is that.

The thing is sometimes you might think that you know the system, but then the system throws a curveball or two your way.

But I have received two India visa extensions by far. So I can presume with some confidence that, I know the process to extend Entry visa for India.

The thing is you need to keep on extending the India Entry Visa until you become an OCI.

In this article, I will recount my experience. The first time, it took me 3 weeks to extend Indian visa online, and the second time, only 5 days.

What is Indian Entry Visa & Who can Get it?

An  Entry Visa to India is granted to:

• A person of Indian origin
• Spouse or a child of a person of Indian origin.

My experience is based on getting the India X visa extension from FRRO while being inside India. If you are doing it through an Indian embassy outside, the process will be different.

Table of Contents

How to Extend Indian Visa Online through FRRO?

An FRRO or foreign regional registration office is where your visa application is processed. Although I extended a spouse visa, you can also apply to extend a work visa, student visa etc.

What is e-FRRO?

The e-FRRO or FRRO online is nothing but a web-based application for all FRROS in India. It is a centralized online platform to cater to visa related services for foreigners.

The idea is that foreigners would not be required to visit the FRRO/FRO office to get a visa. However, there are chances that you would need to on a scheduled date and time for an interview. So there is that.

I know I did.

Where are the FRRO Offices in India

There are many FRRO offices in India, so no matter which part of India you are, you won’t be too far from one. But some of them are main offices which have more authority over a sub-office.

For example, the Gurgaon FRRO is actually an extension or subsidiary of the Delhi FRRO.

You need to choose the FRRO based on where you live. If you love in Gurgaon, your application will be processed through Gurgaon FRRO. But if you live in Delhi, it will be Delhi FRRO.

Here is map with address and contact details to help you out.

India Visa Extension Requirements for Spouse Visa

Here are all the documents you need to extend Indian visa for spouse in FRRO. Have the scanned copies of all these ready before you start the application process online.

During the process, they might ask you for an extra document or two, especially during police verification. But these are the ones that you would need to upload to the FRRO portal.

Except for the photo, all the other documents must be uploaded in PDF format only.

1. Valid India X Visa for Spouse

You need to upload the valid X-1 visa for India. This is the one which you would have received in your email from FRRO in the past.

2. Proof of Residence in India

All these proofs of residence can work.

• Utility bill
• Rent agreement
• Bank statement
• Form C, if you are staying in a hotel or Airbnb.

I uploaded the rent agreement.

3. Undertaking Letters from Spouse & Applicant

For spouse to take financial responsibility.

My husband wrote an undertaking letter where he mentioned that he was my husband and he would take all the financial responsibility for me.

For Applicant to not Work

The foreigner applicant has to write an undertaking letter that says you will not get employed or do business while in India, and that you want to convert your visa to a spouse visa.

How to Write Undertaking Letter You can write an undertaking letter in a plain word document, print it, sign it and scan it to upload to the e-FRRO official portal. Depending on the FRRO where you are applying, they might ask you to notarize it. But I would say just try without notarizing and do it only if intimated.

4. Request Letter from Indian Spouse

When I got my X1 visa the first time and extended it, I did those in Gurgaon/Delhi FRRO, and a request letter was never asked.

I was asked for this the second time. So my husband had to write a letter where he talked about being my husband and requested them to give me a visa.

5. Passport Bio Page along with Entry Stamp in India

The bio page of your passport, the one with your name and pic along with the page that has the immigration stamp when you entered India the last time.

There are many websites like iLovePDF or smallPDF where you can join them and upload them as one document.

6. ID or Passport Page of Spouse

Your Indian spouse can join the bio page and address page of the Indian passport, and upload it as an ID proof.

7. Marriage Certificate

A scanned copy of your marriage certificate, received through the special marriage act.

If you got married through the Hindu marriage act or any other religious marriage act, you can upload that as well. This might delay the process. Just a heads up.

8. FRRO Registration or RC Certificate

An FRRO registration for foreigner or RC/RP certificate is the document that indicates the FRRO you are registered in with a unique registration number. When you get the India X visa the first time, you receive an email with a RC certificate as a PDF.

You would need to upload that.

How to Get India Visa Extension in Delhi FRRO

Step 1: submit your application online on frro.

I am assuming that since you are applying to extend Indian visa, you already are registered in e-FRRO through your current visa. So you need to head to the FRRO log-in page and enter your user name and password.

Click on “Fresh/New Application Submission”. On the next page, you will need to fill in some information. Here is what you need to check for the X visa extension in India.

You need to choose your nationality as well as the state and the city you live in. Based on this, the FRRO will be assigned to your case.

Then select the following options

• Services desired : Visa Extension
• Visa Typ e: Entry Visa
• Visa Subtype : X-1
• List of questions: Option 2, Whether the applicant foreign national is seeking visa extension as Spouse/ Dependent of Person of Indian Origin / OCI Cardholders.

All other options are self-explanatory.

Once you submit, you will be taken to the next page where you would have to fill in a lot of personal details like name, profession, passport issuance … blah blah blah.

One important data to fill in the next page is the details of your FRRO registration or RC. This is a document that you should have received when getting your India X visa earlier.

Once you complete this, you would be taken to the document submission page.

So the second time, this is what I saw, which didn’t ask me to upload all the documents in one go for some reason. When I did the extension first time , I was able to see the list of all the documents at once.

And there were 10 documents in total.

Here is what I am talking about. When I submitted the application, it only asked me for 6 mandatory documents that didn’t include the marriage certificate and some other stuff.

In any case, I submitted the application, and received the email.

Step 2: Receive More Emails from FRRO to Upload Documents

So as I had mentioned earlier, I was doubtful why I wasn’t asked to upload all the documents. A day after I submitted the application, I received the email to upload more documents.

In case the same happens to you, you would need to log in to e-FRRO portal and click on “Re-upload Missing and Additional Documents”.

And if the remarks in the screenshot are confusing, wait until you get to the page where you would need to upload the documents.

So I upload the RC/RP FRRO registration even though, I had uploaded it earlier in the “others’ section. My husband wrote a request letter which I hadn’t uploaded earlier. No idea why it is required really.

And the undertaking letter that I had uploaded the first time, I simply uploaded in place of the recommendation letter.

Seems like, it worked, coz’ the next day I got another email for more documents and in the e-FRRO portal, I saw that they wanted me to upload the Indian marriage certificate.

Step 3: Indian Visa Extension Fees Payment

You should receive an email from FRRO to pay the Indian visa extension fees. Once you get that, you can log in to the portal and click on the “Payments” option. This will forward you to the page for payment.

It costs 8640 rupees, which might change a little depending on where you are from.

You can choose SBI e-pay or Axis. You can pay using a credit card, debit card, internet banking or UPI gateway like Google Pay.

If the payment goes through, you should see the confirmation page.

Indian Police Clearance for Visa Extension

An important step in extending Indian visa for spouse is the Indian police clearance or verification. Here is how it goes:

• FRRO sends your details with a form to the police station in the area where you live.
• An officer or two from the police station visit your place to verify your address.
• They write a report that basically says they don’t have any issues with your visa extension.
• They give you the report to get signatures from two people along with their address and ask you to attach the self-attested ID proofs for them.
• You submit these to the police station and they send the documents to the FRRO

When I extended the Indian visa the first time, the police verification happened.

But when I did it the second time, the police verification didn’t take place. It could be because of the COVID. I have various friends who got their extensions and there was no police verification. And sometimes, there was.

If your application is not moving forward after 10 working days, check with the FRRO. If the police verification is pending, go to the police station in your area and get things moving.

How Many India X Visa Extensions Can You Get?

You can get extensions for your entry visa from FRRO in India on a yearly basis up to a maximum period of  5 years .

The Visa Project’s Comprehensive Visa Series: Guides & Experiences

Visa requirements are always changing. Here on The Visa Project, they are kept up-to-date and should answer most visa questions.

And not just guides and tips, we also rely on real people’s experiences on visas, coz’ we know how much visas change based on your nationality, financial status, age, ethnicity, etc.

In the South Asia Visa Series: Experiences

• India Spouse Visa : How to Get India Spouse Visa in FRRO
• Indian Embassy Visa for Tourism : One Year Indian Tourist Visa
• India Online Visa for Tourism
• Visa on Arrival for Nepal
• Srilanka Online Visa

Spread the word

Like this article how about these ones.

About Claudia Lizeth

Born in Colombia, Claudia now calls India home. She is keenly interested in the spiritual and cultural aspects of India. She is a certified Spanish teacher and a creative thinker.

Reader Interactions

November 22, 2020 at 6:26 pm

Hello Claudia, I have a doubt regarding Entry X visa. Recently my wife got X visa on email.

My Question is what is next step we need to do after getting this Entry X1 visa ? How to get Rc/Rp ? Does I need to apply from local FRO office or online or they will send us with email ? Local FRO have no idea about rc/rp. In email we got only Entry x 1 visa PDF

Reply soon please

November 23, 2020 at 6:02 pm

Hi Vishal, Which FRO office did your wife apply at?

Does the X visa say “RP/RC/ Visa” on top? If it does, then your wife doesn’t need a separate RC. That visa is the RC. Also search for “RCF No./UCF No.” in the PDF? It should be there. That’s the registration number.

They send the RC/RP as a separate PDF when they grant the visa the first time.

November 25, 2020 at 3:23 pm

Thank you for your reply. We applied for FRRO Mumbai.

On the top of X visa its mentioned “SERVICE GRANTED: VISA CONVERSION” and “RCF No./UCF No. : NA”

They grant the visa but didn’t send us RC/RP pdf on mail till now from june 2020.

so does it mean we need to fill application form at e-frro website again for registration ???Pls reply

November 25, 2020 at 6:44 pm

That’s a little strange. They should send the RC/RP along with the visa as a separate PDF. It will say “SERVICE GRANTED: Registration Certificate/Residential Permit [RC/RP]”. It would have a unique service number for each foreigner. That service number would become the RCF/UCF No in the visa.

And considering Mumbai FRRO must be processing a lot of applications for foreigners, I don’t know if they missed it or something else. But I did the visa extension in FRRO Delhi and Bangalore and received the RC both times. The RC is valid for the time the visa is valid.

So I think you should talk to them or email them. Maybe visit in person if possible, which, because of the pandemic might be difficult. And yes, you might need to fill in an application for registration because you never know when these things might come back to bite you.

December 16, 2020 at 1:38 pm

Thank you Claudia for reply. I Called local FRO office regarding registration they said i has not chosen Registration option while filing application form for visa conversation so this might be the reason, maybe they forgot or what to give me RC with Visa, Dont know !

For visa conversion they charged me 8640 and 1000 as penalty dunno why they charged me penalty.

yesterday i applied online for Registration. lets see…

March 16, 2023 at 10:41 am

Hi Claudia I have the same problem as Vishal The first conversion doesn’t have RCF/UCF No, at that time it was very confusing the registration and visa process I thought it is same. But when I got my visa extention it has RCF/UCF No. Does that mean I got registered with FRRO second time. Please shed some light.

March 20, 2023 at 9:40 pm

Hi Lisa, No, you get registered once in the FRRO. The visa extension has RCF/UCF no for that only. If your extension has the expiry date after a year, you are fine.

September 24, 2021 at 7:19 pm

Thanks for this helpful blog. I wanted to ask can I marry my partner if he comes on tourist visa to India? He’s Dutch and earlier this year Indian Embassy at NL denied him X visa at the last moment even after sending them all the docs they asked and applying for court marriage in India. In case he may have to stay more than 90 days can we convert tourist visa to entry visa or is it troublesome process ?

February 28, 2023 at 11:46 am

Hii madam, I am india my husband Sri Lanka. My come from india multiple entry visa for x-1visa.. Rc/Rp certificate complete.. one toubt madam… Rc/Rp certificate how to address change… Visa extension any problem coming… Please reply madam how to Rc/Rp certificate address change process explain… Step by step please madam… My life big problem in the visa problem.. reply with my e mail madam please,,

March 16, 2023 at 10:35 am

Thanks for the blog I have a question regarding travelling back to home country from india. Once you are married to an Indian and you got a visa and extended couple of times. If you are going back to home country after three years do you have an idea if immigration officer asks about any document?

March 20, 2023 at 9:38 pm

Hi Kaushal, No, they don’t ask for any document as long as you have a valid X visa. You should be fine.

January 18, 2021 at 9:09 pm

Hey loved your blog, i recently got entry visa, but instead of X 2 i got X 1 , i am wife of an Indian national, as i know usually x 1 visa is for person of indian origin, i am little worried about entering india, after reading your blog i felt better hopefully i will not have an issue on boarder , as i got you also got x 1 visa , wonder how it usually works and if they distinguish from each other

January 20, 2021 at 9:46 am

Hi Nia, Thanks for stopping by. I am guessing you got it from an Indian embassy and not FRRO? Now a days they are giving X1 only, although technically it should be for people of Indian origin. You should be fine when entering India.

January 22, 2021 at 2:25 am

Hi Claudia !!

Thank you very much for exploring the x-visa procedure for wife of an indian national. Recently my son got married to a foreign national and we need to apply x visa (x2) for her. She is already having e-visa (ebv) valid upto 6.2.2021. Can it be converted into x visa ? Is it necessary to upload financial soundness of my son as he has just started own company n doesn’t have much funds in account ? Moreover we are staying in joint family. Please advise.

January 23, 2021 at 4:02 pm

Hi Sanjay. Thank you for your kind words. She would need to apply for X1 visa. Earlier they used to give X2, now they are giving X1. Having an e tourist visa might cause some issues and delays, but it is definitely possible to convert it to X visa.

The financial undertaking from the Indian spouse is a mandatory requirement. Although the FRRO doesn’t talk about the amount, I know people who showed close to 1 lakh in their bank account and it was approved. So I guess you can work it out.

You should definitely start the process asap, as she has only two more weeks.

Here is the article on converting India tourist visa to X visa .

February 20, 2021 at 2:42 pm

Hey Claudia, after two extension we need to apply for oci or pio ?

February 21, 2021 at 4:01 pm

An OCI card can be applied after 2 years of marriage. So I am assuming 2 extensions.

February 23, 2021 at 9:38 am

Thanks for reply! I applied for 1st visa extension today. I submit all her document visa, passport , marriage certificate , my document to police station for verification ….now police officer ask for my wife mothers document.

I wonder why they need my wife mothers document.

February 24, 2021 at 5:49 am

Hi Vishal, Which document it is? Like an undertaking?

March 5, 2021 at 8:46 am

Hi, police officer asked her mother identity card ex. passport. its so strange , extension is of my wife visa , asking document which are not required.

March 6, 2021 at 6:36 am

If you don’t mind- which FRRO are you applying it? And where is your wife from?

March 6, 2021 at 4:47 am

Hi Claudia did you got OCI?

March 6, 2021 at 6:18 am

Not yet Vishal.

March 27, 2021 at 11:39 pm

Hello Claudia, First of all you have done a great job by writing these articles.Well done. Can you post one more article explaining about how did you get married to indian as per special marriage Act step by step or help me with this? What hurdles did you faced? It will be helpful to me.

June 23, 2021 at 5:16 am

There is definitely a system. And its bold of you to attempt to sort some sort of standardised process out. I recall when I first started the process of marrying and then getting visas the chap who had done it before just laughed out loud and left the advice there. I’ve known people who say it’s really simple I called my friend who went to school with some official. I’ve met people who say when they applied for a visa extension the official offered them OCI instead. Not sure how you managed to get a bank account without an Aadhar. But then again my wife was able to get an Aadhar but it took over three years for her to get her Indian passport. To update her Aadhar which we needed to do before getting her passport we had to get a friendly bank manager to start a new account then he sent his deputy manager to follow us home so he could give.a personal visual confirmation of our address. Then we used this account at the ICICI bank to update the address on her Aadhar card using another bank I have forgotten the name as the ICICI at that time wasn’t able to get its online Aadhar card update system working. I have another set of problems now with my visa extension. I hadn’t realised the OCI was another kind of lottery. But I’m not sure that it’s helpful to others other than to show that there is a Heisenberg uncertainty principle involved in Indian Bureacracy whereas you make it sound more like an orderly Newtonian laws version of the world.

July 1, 2021 at 1:22 pm

I don’t know when you applied and what were the circumstances, but things are more or less standardized now. By now, I have done a lot of visa stuff- conversion, transfer, RC/RP, change of address and now I have also received the OCI. I am not gonna say that it’s a perfect and flawless system, but bureaucracy never is. Not anywhere in the world.

And I find it quite interesting that your wife got an Indian passport.

It’s very much possible to open a bank account without Aadhar. Aadhar was never a criteria. I opened it in HDFC bank. Opening one in a privatised bank is pretty straightforward.

August 13, 2021 at 11:34 pm

Hi Claudia,

Just applied for my husband’s second visa extension. We were supposed to apply for his OCI later this year. A bit worried because they haven’t asked for bank details and stuff before. This time the FRRO officer did and asked us to verify the source of income and all. Its also been delayed for over a month. Visa approval has never taken so much time before. After all this, we get a mail saying “Visa Extension for foreigner service has been referred to higher authorities for approval”. We are in Delhi. All this is happening for an extension of just 1 year that we asked for. Not 5. Any idea what might have happened?

August 17, 2021 at 5:25 pm

Hi Dita, I also find it weird that they would scrutinize this much for an extension. But usually they would ask for your bank details as you are the Indian citizen and you would be taking the responsibility since he wouldn’t be working. My husband provided the bank statements the first time. They didn’t ask for it after that. They always extend for a year only even if you ask for 5. 🙂

September 15, 2021 at 1:52 pm

Hi Clauida, Thanks for the detailed post and your responses to the comments. I am planning to extend the x1 visa of my 1 year US born daughter. I see that we cannot apply for OCI unless she lived here for atleast 6 months so its not an option for me and I also see no registration required for kids under 2 years. How is the extension given- Do they need US passport to stamp with another entry visa or is it just a pdf that we need to carry when travelling? How long it takes to get the visa? I tried calling the frro hyderabad office so many times, but its always busy.

September 17, 2021 at 2:09 pm

Hi Anand, The extension is online. So you would get an email with a PDF. There is no stamping involved. The visa can take 3 weeks or more. It depends on the FRRO. You could apply for the OCI in the US if you are there now.

September 17, 2021 at 7:14 pm

Thanks so much Claudia for your response- greatly appreciate it! I am still in India, so planning to extend it here.

September 23, 2021 at 12:41 pm

I have applied RC/RP extension for my wife after visa extension. But today i have recieved email stating that Registration extension application is closed and no remarks from mention in email FRRO Hyderabad as well as on FRRO website.

1. What would be the reason, is RC/RP extension required or not? 2. In visa extension it mentioned : SERVICE GRANTED: STAY VISA RP/RC/ Visa Extended From 15/09/2021 (dd/mm/yyyy) To 14/09/2022 (dd/mm/yyyy). So RC/RP extension already done with visa extension? Kindly reply.

September 24, 2021 at 4:14 pm

Hi Tabrez, Yes, the RC/RP extension is already done with the visa extension. It’s all good.

September 24, 2021 at 7:26 pm

Hi Claudia Can People get married on tourist visa? Sorry I am posting my comment again since I can’t see my previous one and also mailed some queries

September 25, 2021 at 4:38 pm

Hi Nancy, Yes, you can get married on a tourist visa. I got married on a tourist visa and changed it to spouse visa. Here is my article: https://thevisaproject.com/experience/india-x-visa-entry-for-spouse/ .

The comments are posted after approval. That’s why you didn’t see it right away.

October 4, 2021 at 6:32 am

Did you have police verification for spouse when you applied at hyderabad frro? I paid my visa fee today after submitting additional documents. I am not sure what the process would be now. Would it now go to police verification? How long did they take to provide extension after submitting the payment?

October 12, 2021 at 4:57 pm

Hi Claudia They gave My fiancé entry X misc visa single entry just for one month! Unfortunately it’s expiring before our court marriage date. can this X misc visa be extended through FRRO so We can get married. Also the tourist visa is resuming from 15 Nov but only for 1 month & that will delay our marriage.

October 13, 2021 at 5:24 pm

Hi Nancy, Sorry to hear that. Kind of strange. I believe it can be extended.

October 26, 2021 at 5:19 am

We have gone through the same process and can very well relate to whatever you have mentioned. I am sure it will help a lot of people. Also, I was wondering on what ground was your Aadhar application not approved? Hope you won’t mind telling us about it.

October 27, 2021 at 6:31 am

Hi Mona, I never got an answer really. It went into a limbo and after that I never really cared to reapply. I have a PAN and OCI, so they are good enough for me for now.

December 1, 2021 at 1:30 pm

I see. What documents did you submit for the Aadhar card application? I am planning to go tomorrow to apply. If you can let me know today, it would be a great help.

November 1, 2021 at 5:15 am

Hello Claudia,

Thank you for your article. How much time did it take you to receive the OCI from the time of application? My marriage happened in September and my Visa was received in December which gives me almost 3 months before my visa is over. Would it be enough for the OCI or should I extend my visa again?

November 5, 2021 at 10:14 pm

I’ve been reading your posts about personal experience and discussions with various people trying to apply for X visa. It’s been exhaustively informative and thank you for your initiative to be of help to people in the same boat!

I’m an Indian married to a Russian and my wife will be getting X visa from Indian embassy in Russia.

I’ve a query. Since our marriage is registered in Russia, will it be valid as a supporting document when we’ll require to extend my wife’s X visa? Or do we need to register it into Indian legal system through some process?

Thanks in advance. Vijay K

November 6, 2021 at 4:04 pm

Hi Vijay, Glad to help. It will surely be valid as a supporting document as long as it is translated and attested. Since this process is different in different countries, you can check with the Indian embassy in Russia on this.

November 9, 2021 at 1:32 pm

Hi Vijay and Claudia, I have an X Visa since 6 years and facing huge problems to extend my visa each time. They are specially doubting my marriage certificate as Switzerland gives a very unexited certificate with no spectacular stamps or things like the look of a stamp paper. But why I am writing to you, it is compulsory to get your marriage certificate from Russia Apostilled. And of course it should be in English.

November 10, 2021 at 10:18 am

Hello Claudia! My husband and I moved from Bangalore to a different state (west bengal) recently. I now need to apply for his visa extension because his X1 visa expires on 26th Dec. This is the 2nd extension; however, our court marriage would complete 2 years on 16th December . Do you suggest that i apply for OCI or do i extend the X1 visa ? If i apply for OCI after 16th December or on 16th december then how long does it take for the OCI to be approved? It would be risky to do this i suppose ? Also, since i moved from one state to another, do i need to do a chnage of address ? how do i do this, could you please guide me?

November 12, 2021 at 2:24 am

Hi Tania, You should extend the visa first. They will not accept your OCI application if your visa is not valid for at least 3 months or even 6 in some FRROs.

Yes, since you moved from one state to another, your husband would need to register in the FRRO that covers your jurisdiction. You would need to do an RC/RP transfer in eFRRO portal. This is to be initiated at the FRRO where your husband was registered earlier and might involve a police visit to your old address. Once that’s complete, the RC would be transferred to the new address. Bangalore FRRO needed me to do an RC transfer first when I moved from Gurgaon to Bangalore and I wouldn’t have been able to extend my visa without that.

November 23, 2021 at 9:44 am

Thanks so much for this.

I’m here on medical visa which is valid for 2 months. It expires January 4, 2022 though.

I’m a US citizen married to my Indian wife since February 2019.

What can I do to extend my visa? I would like to stay here longer.

November 23, 2021 at 5:17 pm

Hi James, You can surely try and convert the visa to an X visa.

https://thevisaproject.com/experience/india-x-visa-entry-for-spouse/

November 27, 2021 at 5:14 pm

would my overstay be forgiven? it expires first week of january

November 28, 2021 at 10:32 am

Yes. Once it gets approved, you won’t have any issues.

November 28, 2021 at 4:29 pm

SOrry, just worried. because it’ll take few weeks to get accepted.

Just waiting for my marriage certificate.

Guess i’ll just see

January 15, 2022 at 3:25 pm

Claudia, I am a US passport holder. I tested positive and could not board my flight. Two days later my e-visa expired. I was told to apply at e-frro for an exit permit. I did. My minor child had to stay back with me (although negative test) and so I applied for an exit permit for her as well. The fee that I am being charged for an exit permit to leave India 10 days after the e-visa expiry date is 12,000 rupees per person. The fee schedule is not published anywhere – at least I could not locate it. Does this fee sound accurate?

January 18, 2022 at 4:01 am

Hi Z.Robinson, I think they are charging you for the overstay. I wish I could help you with this but I haven’t found any info on how much it would be.

February 13, 2022 at 1:51 am

I currently have x visa (as foreigner spouse to indian national) which expires on 5 April 2022.

I submitted application for x visa extension in Delhi Frro on 31 January 2022. I received email from Frro that application is in/under process & then 30 minutes later received second email that application is closed (not rejected, not deleted).

My indian husband took police tenant verification form filled in & signed along with notarised lease agreement & building owner signed id & received back a copy of police tenant verification with police stamp which I scanned & uploaded while doing x visa extension application.

I neglected to take photo but believe I only applied for visa extension and not for both visa extension and registration extension….I did write to Frro requesting clarification on meaning of application closed on Monday 7 February 2022 and am still awaiting response.

Any idea what application closed means?

Suggestions on how to further proceed appreciated as your site has been a valuable resource to successfully convert medical visa to x visa last year for which I am most grateful.

February 17, 2022 at 2:52 am

Hi Lisa, I have been hearing cases of people getting these kind of emails that say application was cancelled, deleted or closed. I am not very sure why they are getting them. Although you got the email, do you still that the application is under process on the website? If not, you would probably need to visit the FRRO office.

February 21, 2022 at 8:46 pm

The email response from Frro on 31 January said application is “under process” and then a bit later a second email said application is “closed” (NOT deleted, NOT cancelled). I wrote requesting clarification on meaning of application “closed” on Frro website feedback section query and am still awaiting response.

On Frro website it shows application as “closed” (not rejected, not deleted).

Indian spouse believes this may be related still to Covid & best to wait as current x visa expires on 5 April 2022.

September 7, 2022 at 3:52 pm

Important to NOT apply too early or the file will be “closed” and not processed.

February 24, 2022 at 5:03 am

I’m an Indian citizen and my boyfriend is a uk citizen. Now since India has opened its borders on February 2022. We hope to have a court marriage once he arrives. Now because of the pandemic restrictions, he can be here for 30 days. The notice period for court marriage is 30 days so he exhausts the entire permitted visa days.

Please advise what to do. I’m am so lost and confused ☹️

February 25, 2022 at 3:15 am

Hi Sharda, Lots of people are in the same boat, unfortunately. https://thevisaproject.com/experience/india-x-visa-entry-for-spouse/#comment-2071

February 28, 2022 at 9:33 am

Thanks for your really helpful articles. Do you know if there’s a way to register your marriage in India if you’ve already been married overseas? My husband is Indian and we were married five years ago. We tried to apply for an OCI card but were told that it needed to be Apostilled, the only problem is the country where we got married doesn’t issue Apostilles (we have all the stamps from the various embassies, but were told this may not be enough). We were told to try and register our marriage in India, but my research suggest that you have to declare you’re single which we’re not as we’re married to each other! Is that correct, or are there other ways of doing things that I don’t know about? Thanks so much, Rachel

March 3, 2022 at 5:35 pm

Hi Rachel, Where did you get married? And can you try at the Indian embassy in that country to register the marriage? That probably would be the easiest option. If not, the other option would be to try and see if the Ministry of External affairs in India would agree to apostille it.

All the best, Claudia.

April 11, 2022 at 9:28 am

I hope you can help me with a query and my next steps. I really thank you in advance. Your blog post took the edge away from the application process 🙂

Today I received my Ist Visa extension on my X-1 Visa which was granted by the Indian Embassy in my country. That was Six months ago, and it was to expire coming April 19. So we went through the entire process and your blog describing the process made it a lot easy by taking the edge off from the anticipation and the follow-up queries and visit to the FRRO ). Although I might add that every case might just be a tad different in terms of FRRO interactions and their additional document requirements.

In my mail, I got two documents:

1) Stay Visa “RP/RC/ Visa Extended From 20/04/2022 (dd/mm/yyyy) To 19/04/2023 (dd/mm/yyyy”

2) Registration Certificate/Residential Permit [RC/RP] Valid From : 15/03/2022 (dd/mm/yyyy) To 19/04/2022 (dd/mm/yyyy)

Both the documents state in Observations: MARRIED TO AN INDIAN. EMPLOYMENT/BUSINESS/STUDY NOT PERMITTED. FAILURE TO REPORT CHANGE OF ADDRESS WITHIN 8 WEEKS ATTRACTS $ 30 PENALTY.

My queries are:

1) The RC/RP Date is until 19/04/2022 only!

What does this mean? And do I have to worry about this not being for the duration of my VISA Extension expiry; which is 19/04/2023?

2) What does the comment mean – “FAILURE TO REPORT CHANGE OF ADDRESS WITHIN 8 WEEKS ATTRACTS $ 30 PENALTY.” Do I need to do something about it?

Thank you in advance! Regards/ Elena

April 15, 2022 at 4:32 am

Hi Elena, Hope you are doing well. Glad to help. 1) Don’t worry about the RC/RP date. What matters is that you are registered. The visa extension will serve you fine, as it is valid until the next year April.

2) In case you move to an address different from the one mentioned on the visa, but still live in the same city, in that case, you would need to register yourself at a new address through RC/RP. Then they will send you a revised RC/RP with that new address. If you move to a different city altogether, which doesn’t come under the purview of the FRRO where you are registered, it would be a longer process.

May 10, 2022 at 7:54 pm

Good morning I’m south Africa citizen And marriage to India citizen last 21year so many times I was in India the last time I was 5year in India I have to go back to India to look after my family I need 5year visa please help me out Sadiya Saqibuddin Qureshi South Africa Western cape Oudtshroon

May 17, 2022 at 1:19 am

Is it mandatory to endorse spouse name in either my passport or my husband’s passport ? What happens if endorsement is / are not done, can I still get X1 visa extensions while in India from FRRO

Is this really mandatory for me at least ?

Reply with as much information as you can provide

May 18, 2022 at 6:44 am

Hi Maya, No it is not mandatory ay all.

May 19, 2022 at 1:04 pm

Hi Claudia!

Thank you so much for detailed information! Loved it!

I have few questions based on following information.

1. I applied for the visa extension for my wife on 14th April, her X Visa expires on 2nd June. 2. Today is 19th May and I haven’t heard anything from FRRO.

What will happen if we don’t hear from FRRO by 2nd June, neither rejected nor accepted, can we stay in India?

May 23, 2022 at 11:51 am

Hi Pinakin, Yes, your wife can stay in India even if her visa expires, as long as her application is under process. However, do follow up with the FRRO and try to sort it out.

June 7, 2022 at 7:31 am

Hi Claudia, thanks for the wonderful job you are doing in helping the confused lovebirds across borders. I am an Indian and I recently got married to my Bangladeshi wife in Bangladesh. She applied for the Entry Visa through the Indian embassy here in India. However, she got an X-1 visa of 6 months validity and multiple entry (though the Visa mentions “Spouse is an Indian National” as Special Endorsement), instead of the X-2 visa. Are you aware of any changes in the categories? I called up the IVAC, Dhaka and HCI, Dhaka, but they were equally confused. Also, do I need to get my Bangladeshi marriage registered with the Indian embassy here?

June 11, 2022 at 5:27 am

Hi Rizwan, Now a days, they are giving out X-1 mostly. Even I got X-2 the first time, and then X-1. Don’t worry.

I believe you live in Bangladesh. It is always better to register the marriage with the Indian embassy. You never know when that can come handy.

August 2, 2022 at 2:43 pm

Hey Claudia,

Thanks for the incredibly clear writeup.

I have a question that you can perhaps help with!

If my (foreigner) wife has an Entry Visa, and she applies + gets the extension, can she then leave India briefly and come back under the same visa — or will she have to apply for a fresh Entry Visa in her home country all over again?

Best, Gamin

August 8, 2022 at 2:37 pm

Hi Gamin, Yes she can leave and reenter. No new visa is needed for this.

August 9, 2022 at 6:57 am

Claudia, Thanks for the reply. That sounds positive. There’s a little subtlety though. My wife’s original Entry Visa is a single-entry type. Do you happen to know whether the provided extended visa (i.e., after extension) be multiple-entry, despite the original being single-entry?

Regards, Gamin

August 10, 2022 at 1:30 pm

The X visa is usually a multiple entry visa. Any idea why she got a single entry visa? Which FRRO was it? Ideally the visa and the extension should be multiple-entry only. This is the case for every foreigner spouse I know.

December 15, 2022 at 9:56 am

I am applying today (15/12/2022) and at the beginning of this year I was shocked to see that they had given me a single entry visa here in Bangalore after I had explicitly told them I want a multiple entry! I even went to the office and asked why this is the case. Their response? “Well the tourist visa you came in on originally said single, so we assumed you would want another single entry visa”. I don’t understand that logic at all…well hopefully this time extending it will be different!

August 12, 2022 at 6:41 am

Hellow sir,, I have same problem my wife’s visa will expire on 30 August 2022 today 12 August but i applied for extension 30 june 2022 Still frro portal showing under process. Can you please inform me finally what happened with you and when u got extension??

Please help me …thank you.

August 19, 2022 at 6:28 am

Hi Arabinda, As long as it is under process, your wife is fine even if the visa expires. However, do follow up with the police station and the FRRO to see where it is stuck.

September 6, 2022 at 12:37 pm

Do you have a guide on OCI application for a foreigner?

October 15, 2022 at 1:05 pm

Namaskar Claudia, may I ask if the extension via FRRO also applies to the 30 day e-visa? Gracias de antemanos. Katy

October 18, 2022 at 5:44 am

Namaskar Katy. Yes FRRO has that option but I don’t know of anyon who has done it. Please update us if you are able to.

October 16, 2022 at 5:39 am

Extension application > Additional documents requested > “please upload bank statements of all accounts of yourself and your spouse for last one year.”

October 19, 2022 at 4:59 am

Update from FRRO after submitting 1-year of financial data… They asked how we were making money (as the Indian wife doesn’t work), so I said I was doing remote work online.

“as you have stayed for more than 182 days in India your all income including global income is taxable in india. please submit income tax details for processing your application. ”

Awesome… Has anyone else had this experience?

October 19, 2022 at 1:50 pm

It is possible that you would have to pay taxes. Do consult with a CA or tax consultant, and sort it out.

October 31, 2022 at 11:13 am

It’s possible. Then they asked for all my employment contracts. I gave them. Then after a long time they said “please upload clarification for indulging in employment/earning while on x-1 visa.” What does that even mean? I have to work cause my wife doesn’t and we have to live. I don’t know what they’re asking.

The stipulation is that you can’t work *in* India, right? I don’t know… any ideas?

November 3, 2022 at 2:24 pm

That is sort of like a Catch-22 Elron. I honestly don’t know how this is going to turn out. You could write in the clarification that you never worked for an Indian employer.

November 16, 2022 at 8:47 am

For my “clarification for indulging in employment” I wrote a letter saying that because my wife doesn’t work, and since we need to buy food and pay rent, I started online work. (And really, my foreign affairs shouldn’t be any of their business). So after a long pause, they finally just requested the FRO meeting. We went to our city’s DCP office and that went well. They sent a letter to our home-address local police station. We visited the police station. The chief there was just asking a lot of questions about bank accounts and money. Then he yelled at us because we had submitted the required affidavit that my wife (the indian citizen) accepts financial responsibility, “but how can it be possible if she is not earning!” Okay… I didn’t write the laws. Writing a notarized affidavit seems quite anachronistic anyway… The police chief dismissed us. Now we wait. I love this country’s bureaucracy.

November 18, 2022 at 9:15 am

Hello Elron, I understand your frustration and I truly hope that your experience helps everyone else. In the past, a lot of people have asked about this. You should also consult an immigration lawyer just in case.

January 5, 2023 at 3:45 pm

Finally got it. 3 months after applying. A long wait. Referred to “higher authorities” for approval. Then quickly paid and received. Let’s see if the OCI card proves to be difficult too. The problem is, if they ask “What is your employment?”, I can’t just lie, can I? Because without that, then there’s no way to prove an income source. But the fact that I’m working remotely overseas seems to confuse their bureaucracy (even though my remote employment outside of India is none of India’s concern). The OCI card should be a fun process. I can’t wait.

January 6, 2023 at 12:27 pm

So glad to know everything was finally sorted out Elron. Hope the OCI goes through without any setbacks.

Cheers, Claudia

November 24, 2022 at 11:38 am

My husband is here on a 3 months single entry-x1 visa issued from the high commission outside India ,we have filed for the 30 days notice period for our marriage under the special marriage act and we should have the certificate by 15th of Dec ,however in the mean time i applied for registration yesterday and not for visa extension ,today i get an intimation from FRRO that i need to pay 18000 INR for visa extension

please suggest if i should pay or wait until i get my marriage certificate and is the amount 18000 charges for Entry x1 visa extension as i do not see in the website the payment structure

Visa is going to expire on 1st of Jan

please advise

November 28, 2022 at 9:08 am

Hi Sam, Yes, there is no payment structure for this, however, this seems a little too much. If the visa extension is based on marriage then they will definitely need the marriage certificate. However, FRRO does not ask anyone to pay for the visa unless all the documents are in order. So this is a little ironic.

If you are fine with sending some documents, please feel free to send the pic of the visa and the screenshot from FRRO website to [email protected] , and maybe we can give a better reply.

November 29, 2022 at 7:46 am

Dear Mam I have sent you an email with the screen shots of the details

December 3, 2022 at 1:14 pm

Thanks for the helpful article on Visa Conversion! I have applied for Visa Conversion from a tourist visa to an X-1 Visa for my just married spouse. We have also submitted the documents as required on the portal.

The issue is we haven’t received any further confirmation from the portal for almost a week. The expiry date of the tourist visa draws near.

I remember reading somewhere that if a visa conversion process is in continuation, the current visa expiry will not force the Applicant to leave the country. Is it true? Can my wife stay here after the current visa expires since her application is in process?

I shall be grateful for your response.

Thanks and Regards!

December 6, 2022 at 12:56 pm

Hi Tsering, Yes, your wife can stay here as long as her application is under process, even if the current stay expires. Sometimes, these things take time.

All the best, Claudia

December 28, 2022 at 11:33 pm

Hello Everyone Let’s say I’m married from Indian wife and overstayed more than 5 years my pervious Vis was Student Visa I have one daughter she is holding Indian passport as her mother I applied for Visa conversion all process was done they’re visited us at home for notification Visa conversion was deleted and started Exit permit and I have to pay the penalty and book my tickets The problem currently my wife she is in second pregnancy recently and FRRO starting calling me and inform me I have to pay for penalty and booking tickets I told them my situation currently and I told the if there is any guarantee I will not got blocked if travel my country to came with X visa or any other visa I know it’s complicated If anyone have any idea please let me know Thanks

February 19, 2023 at 10:06 pm

Do you know anyone staying in India in X-visa and got an Aadhar card ?

Staying over a year. If yes can you share your experience and how to apply / documents required + how many days to get the card in hand

March 1, 2023 at 10:34 pm

My wife (on X-visa) got e-Aadhaar recently in just 2 days. I would suggest you to visit Aadhaar Seva Kendra (Dhaula Kuan) with your passport and visa extension (FRRO).

Centre opens at 9am, better to be there early and be out in 15mins.

We tried at Inderlok centre, they did not help.

March 10, 2023 at 6:28 pm

My step father (deceased) was Indian and my mother is a OCI card holder. I came here on a student visa, since I grew up abroad. I have applied for X visa conversion because I came back on a tourist visa valid for 6 months as suggested by frro. I had submitted all my documents and was called and interviewed at frro blr. Today I received a mail stating that me application is “Deleted”. What does this mean?

March 15, 2023 at 9:22 pm

Hi Silas, Can you still access your application on the FRRO website? If yes, then the “Deleted” email might be random. If you check the comments, other people have received them too. By the way you should be able to get the OCI card directly as the child of an Indian and OCI holder.

March 28, 2023 at 8:11 am

I am going through your post and it helped me to apply for my son’s X1 visa from India. He got his foreign citizenship while he was in India. We got his foreign passport in India. Surrendered Indian passport and applied for X1 visa.

Now after applying and submitted all requested documents we got payment request today.

Want to know how what’s the next step. Is this last state.

April 3, 2023 at 1:49 pm

Hi KC, Yes, it is the last step. Once you make the payment, your son should get the visa.

November 21, 2023 at 1:06 pm

I’m the same situation, can you please let me know after how many days you got the visa after making the payment for X1. I have made the payment but I have not received any reply. Thanks in advance.

May 8, 2023 at 2:06 pm

GREETINGS FOR THE DAY MAM I APPLIED FOR VISA CONVERSION AND EXTENSION FOR MY WIFE IN FRRO AFTER LONG 25 DAYS THEY ASKED PAYMENT OF 1000 RS ONLY FOR VISA CONVERSION IS THAT THE ACTUAL FEE FOR THE CONVERSION OR THEY PROVIDE EXIT PERMIT ? KINDLY CLARIFY THIS

May 14, 2023 at 11:30 am

Hi Hari, You can pay what they are asking for. I imagine it would be only for the extension. You won’t need Exit permit if you are extending the visa.

May 17, 2023 at 9:22 am

Hi, Thank you for starting this excellent blog and for your informative responses. I have applied for visa and registration extensions for myself and my children. I did the same last year and was granted the extensions and paid INR 8640 for each of us. However, this time the portal is asking me to pay INR 8640 for myself but INR 14400 for my children. Why is there so much of a discrepancy? Any ideas? Thank you.

May 26, 2023 at 10:37 am

Hi Mona, If by children, you mean more than one child, then I think they are getting a discounted extension, right?

May 26, 2023 at 2:08 pm

Thanks for your blog. It is very helpful for first time users like us. My wife recently converted her employment visa into Entry X1 visa. On top it only shows “Service Granted – Visa Conversion” . In the observation section it is mentioned ” Apply for Registration service on new visa earliest if intends to stay more than 180 days”. When applying for registration service from FRRO portal, it mentions one of the documents required is “Surrender Passport” i.e. Passport Surrender Certificate from the Concerned regional passport office along with copy of Cancelled Indian passport. We understand that this should not be applicable for her since she is not having an Indian passport. Please advise.

Also now we are also planning to apply for her OCI card. Can you please suggest whether we should proceed with the registration first and then on completion apply for OCI card or we directly proceed for OCI application??

Thanks in advance.

May 28, 2023 at 7:05 pm

Hi Mrugank, She does not need to register separately. She should already be registered which you can see on her visa. Have you been married for more than 2 years? Then she can apply for the OCI.

June 2, 2023 at 4:19 pm

I appreciate your time and spirit for writing this which is so much helpful.I also want to know what will happen after 5years when x visa cannot be extended any more?how can the foreign spouse keep on staying in India and also visit own country and comeback?

June 7, 2023 at 10:57 am

They could apply for the OCI card after 2 years of marriage, which is valid forever.

June 12, 2023 at 9:21 pm

What if they are not eligible for OCI card as not every country’s citizen can apply for OCI card

Any thoughts on the after process on how to get visa extension after 5 yrs

June 12, 2023 at 9:25 pm

Do police verification happens everytime when you apply for visa extension ?

Can anyone share their experiences too

I am having a very bitter experience

June 14, 2023 at 7:58 am

Yes Maya. They do the verification when you apply for extension. Did you have a bad experience? Is everything ok? Please elaborate.

February 8, 2024 at 2:21 pm

Hi Maya, my husband applied for a visa extension of X1 visa and after submitting all documents, they have now called us to the FRRO office for face to face meeting. Not sure why! What experience did you have?

July 1, 2023 at 4:14 pm

Is X1 still valid once my spouse exits India? If yes, how long before the expiration can it be used for India entry?

July 12, 2023 at 8:59 pm

Hi Mahesh, Yes, it would be valid until the expiry date mentioned on the visa.

December 26, 2023 at 5:02 am

Thanks for the response, Deb. Are you also aware of OCI process for spouse?

July 5, 2023 at 10:27 am

Hi Claudia, i am in process of applying for X1 VISA extension and registration extension for my wife(We married last year in India). While filling the application i see a option “Whether newly born child (born in India only)” . What does this option mean ? Recently we have child so if answer this option as “yes”, it only ask for photo as document requirement and if i choose no then it ask couple of documents. So little bit confused.

July 12, 2023 at 9:08 pm

Hi Hitesh, I think that option is for applying for visas for children born in India. You are applying for your wife, so you can ignore that one.

July 10, 2023 at 5:29 pm

Hi Claudia, My wife apply for x1 visa on June 1st and they sent a police verification on 16 June. After that the application shows under process. Then the police called us on 30 June reconfirmed all the information and the application is still in progress. My wife’s visa is about to end in five days and we plan to travel to the Philippines next month. My question is in case my wife doesn’t get approved until the time we need to travel out of india. Will she face any problems with immigration while leaving the country because technically she’s overstay in India for a while?

July 12, 2023 at 9:05 pm

Hi Sheik, Sometimes it can take time for the visa approval. It is a good idea not to travel while this is pending. As long as she is inside India while the application is under process, she should be fine even if her current visa has expired.

August 14, 2023 at 10:28 am

Documents required from me: 1 AFFIDAVIT 2 FINANCIAL STATEMENT – Financial Guarantee 3 REQUEST LETTER TO EXTEND YOUR VISA – Request letter 4 UNDERTAKING FROM SPOUSE – Undertaking from Indian spouse … I’m confused on what exactly the “Financial Statement” means here.

August 15, 2023 at 10:42 pm

They are referring to the bank statement(s) from the Indian spouse.

September 7, 2023 at 10:55 am

Hi Claudia- after the payment was made for visa extension Was the visa issued immediately? Or was there a waiting period ?

September 11, 2023 at 8:57 pm

Hi Karan, It is usually pretty fast once the payment is done. Maybe a day or two.

September 11, 2023 at 9:40 am

Hey Claudia Nicely expalined. I wanted to ask you – is there any limit to when you can enter india? My wife has a spouse visa. Shes outside India right now. Can she come back 2 days before it expires? I’ll apply for an extension the day she lands.

September 11, 2023 at 8:59 pm

Hi Kitr, Speaking in strictly legal terms, I believe she can enter India 2 days before the visa expires, although they might ask her a few questions in the immigration. I personally would recommend not doing this 2 days before and have some more time, unless it is impossible. All the best, Claudia.

October 3, 2023 at 3:47 pm

Hi. I have indian entry visa extension by paper. Due personal reason I had to go England so I am planning to come back India soon to be with my husband. Can I use certificate e-frro of entry visa extension to come back? It say expire on 08/02/2024. So I am not sure it is invalid since I departed from India before. Thank you.

October 7, 2023 at 3:56 pm

Yes you should be able to use it Raquel.

November 19, 2023 at 8:12 pm

Thank you so much for writing this piece.

My partner is an American citizen on a business visa in India for 5 years.

We are planning to get married in mid 2024 in India and apply for the Visa.

Once she gets the visa X, will her business visa still be valid for her to operate her business?

November 25, 2023 at 6:28 pm

Hi Puneet, She can have only one type of visa. If they give her the X visa, the business visa stands cancelled.

December 4, 2023 at 1:19 am

Dear Claudia, it’s a great insights. I have question, I am marrying to Single solo parent Filipino. By this I understood that my wife will get X1 visa But she has daughter 4 years old from ex partner and she never married. Will the daughter also get the X1 visa?

Kindly reply it’s urgent

December 7, 2023 at 4:45 pm

Hi Varun Your daughter will get X Misc. Visa, so you need to convert her visa into X Misc. Visa category.

December 6, 2023 at 10:35 am

You are doing a stellar job. I have paid for x1 visa more than 15 days ago. After the payment i had an personal meeting at FRO( District SP office) and subsequent police vertification. The police has sent the verification back to FRRO.

After this process, the status on my application in efrro website has been updated to “visa extension” along with ” new visa”.

I have not heard anything from FRRO from then. Normally how long does it take after fee payment and police verification.

January 29, 2024 at 8:28 am

Did you receive your visa extension yet? I have received the personal meeting after making the payment. Could you please let me know how long would it take to get the visa extension if you did receive it?

Thanks, Susan

December 7, 2023 at 4:47 pm

January 10, 2024 at 9:42 pm

Do you know whether spouse name can be printed in resident permit when it’s been issued say during renewal

Ideally father and mother names are printed so possible to add 1 more or maybe replace father name with spouse name

If not for you do you know anyone or have seen

January 22, 2024 at 3:34 pm

They don’t print spouse name on the residence permit but it is there on the OCI.

January 30, 2024 at 3:26 am

My wife is a foreign national. We got married in India and applied for conversion of her tourist e-visa to X1 visa, which was approved without any problems. Then, while her X1 visa was valid, she left India and moved back to her home country and found a job. Since she wasn’t in India, we couldn’t apply for her visa extension on FRRO. I also moved out of India (I am an Indian national) to be with her and both of us are working in her home country, Mexico. I have Mexican work permit. Now, we want to visit India. In this case, what kind of visa should we apply for her? Should it be an online application or at embassy? Is it possible for her to travel on tourist visa? We are yet to complete 2 years of our marriage and therefore, no OCI yet.

January 31, 2024 at 10:46 am

Hi Mayur, She can come with a tourist visa if it is for a short time. If it is for a couple of months or so, I believe it would be a better route rather than going through all the documentation for the X visa.

April 18, 2024 at 12:41 am

Hi! I’m not on a X visa but employment visa. I was granted a stay visa extension from FRRO, which is valid until July 2024. I’m leaving the country and coming back in June 2024. Does anyone know if the visa extension from FRRO can be used to enter the country? Or do I need to apply for a new visa when abroad? I can’t find this information anywhere.

April 21, 2024 at 1:24 am

I work in India with a employment visa. The visa on my passport has expired and I have been granted a “Stay Visa extension” from FRRO.

I’m traveling abroad for work and would like to know if the visa extension granted by the FRRO can be used to enter India again or if I need to have a valid visa in my passport, in which case I need to apply for a visa at the emabassy.

I’m a bit suspicious of being able to enter just with the FRRO visa extension because it’s just a document I got by email.

I’ve been trying to find the answer to my question for weeks now but have been out of luck. I’d love to hear if you have a personal experience of using the FRRO visa extension to enter the country!

April 28, 2024 at 9:15 pm

Hi Ariadne, Yes you can enter with the electronic visa extension. There is no need to go to any embassy and get it stamped as long as it is not expired and issued with the same passport. Feel free to send an email to the FRRO and confirm the same just in case.

All the best, Deb

May 18, 2024 at 12:56 pm

This blog has been very useful for me when I first applied for visa extension. Thank you for explaining the process step by step. By the end of May I’m going to apply for my 2nd extension and I am a bit confused with the list of required documents listed on FRRO portal. This time “registration certificate” is listed which I don’t have. I’ve seen in old comments that it should come as PDF after first visa was granted. I’ve never received it, as few others commenting here. In my entry visa there is also no registration number mentioned – “RCF No./UCF No. : NA”. Any suggestion what should I do in that case? Is it this certificate really needed while applying for the 2nd extension?

May 26, 2024 at 9:32 am

Hi Daria, The registration certificate is basically your first extension. You must have received the email with the PDF of it which would have the details such as the date of expiry, passport number with the logo. The RCF number is your registration number.

Leave a Reply Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Be part of the visa smart tribe

Up-to-date information on visas, and visa experiences from travelers, expats and immigrants.

Winter is here! Check out the winter wonderlands at these 5 amazing winter destinations in Montana

• Travel Destinations

How Long Can I Stay In India On A Tourist Visa

Published: November 7, 2023

Modified: December 28, 2023

by Constantina Spellman

• Plan Your Trip

Introduction

India, with its rich history, diverse culture, and vibrant cities, is a fascinating destination for travelers from around the world. Whether you are planning a leisurely vacation or a pilgrimage to its ancient temples, obtaining the right visa is crucial for a hassle-free entry into the country. Among the various types of visas available, the tourist visa is one of the most common options for those visiting India for recreational purposes.

In this article, we will delve into the details of the Indian tourist visa, exploring the duration of stay allowed, the process for extensions and renewals, as well as the consequences of overstaying on a tourist visa. Additionally, we will provide some useful tips to help you maximize your stay while exploring the wonders of India.

It’s important to note that India has implemented a new e-visa system, which allows tourists to apply for and receive their visa online. This has significantly simplified the application process, making it more convenient for travelers. However, it is still essential to understand the rules and regulations surrounding the duration of stay to avoid any potential complications.

So, if you’re planning a memorable journey to India, let’s dive into the intricacies of the tourist visa and learn how long you can stay in this captivating country.

Overview of Tourist Visa for India

Before embarking on your journey to India, it’s vital to have a clear understanding of the tourist visa requirements. The tourist visa allows individuals to visit India for recreational purposes such as tourism, sightseeing, and visiting friends and family.

The Indian tourist visa is a non-immigrant visa that is granted for a temporary stay in the country. It falls under the category of a short-term visa and is typically issued for a duration of up to 90 days. However, it’s important to note that the duration may vary based on the country of your citizenship and the discretion of the Indian authorities.

To apply for a tourist visa, you will need to provide essential documents such as a valid passport with a minimum of six months validity, a completed visa application form, recent passport-size photographs, proof of financial means to support your stay, and a confirmed return flight ticket.

It’s worth mentioning that individuals of certain nationalities may be eligible for the Indian e-visa, which allows for a shorter duration of stay of up to 30 days, with the option for double or triple entry. The e-visa can be obtained online, providing a convenient and efficient way to secure your visa before arrival.

Once you have obtained your tourist visa, you are ready to embark on your Indian adventure. However, it’s crucial to familiarize yourself with the rules regarding the duration of stay and any potential extensions or renewals.

Now that we have covered the basics, let’s explore the maximum duration of stay permitted on a tourist visa in India.

Duration of Stay Allowed on a Tourist Visa

The duration of stay allowed on a tourist visa for India varies depending on several factors. Typically, a tourist visa is granted for a maximum duration of 90 days. However, it’s important to note that this duration can be further extended under certain circumstances.

Upon entry into India, the immigration officer will stamp your passport with the duration you are permitted to stay. It’s crucial to check your passport stamp and ensure that the number of days granted aligns with your travel plans.

If you wish to extend your stay beyond the initial 90-day period, you can apply for an extension at the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in the city where you are currently residing. The application for an extension should be submitted before your visa expires. The extension allows you to stay in India for an additional period, which is subject to approval.

The extension process typically requires relevant documentation, such as a filled-out application form, proof of financial means to support your stay, a copy of your passport and visa, and any other documents requested by the authorities. It’s important to note that approval for an extension is at the discretion of the Indian authorities, and there is no guarantee that your request will be granted.

Additionally, if you are traveling to India for specific purposes such as medical treatment, business meetings, or academic conferences, you may be eligible for a different type of visa that allows for a longer duration of stay. It’s advisable to consult with the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country to determine the most suitable visa for your specific travel needs.

It’s important to bear in mind that overstaying on a tourist visa in India can have serious consequences. Let’s explore the implications of overstaying in the following section.

Extensions and Renewals of Tourist Visa

If you find yourself needing to extend your stay in India beyond the initial duration granted on your tourist visa, there are processes in place to facilitate extensions and renewals. It’s crucial to be aware of these procedures to avoid any legal complications.

To extend your stay in India, you will need to visit the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in the city where you are currently residing. It’s important to begin the extension process before your visa expires. The extension allows you to legally prolong your stay in the country, subject to approval.

The extension process typically involves submitting an application form, paying the required fees, and providing relevant documentation. The documents may include a filled-out application form, proof of financial means to support your extended stay, a copy of your passport and visa, and any other documents requested by the authorities.

It’s important to note that the approval of visa extensions is at the discretion of the Indian authorities. The decision is based on various factors such as the purpose of your stay, your financial stability, and your adherence to the immigration regulations. Therefore, it’s crucial to provide all the necessary documents and demonstrate valid reasons for the extension.

If your visa extension is approved, you will be granted a new duration of stay in India. It’s important to keep in mind that even with an approved extension, the total duration of stay cannot exceed a specific limit, as determined by the Indian government.

In some cases, you may find it more convenient to return to your home country and apply for a new tourist visa if you wish to stay longer in India. This process is known as visa renewal. By departing from India and reapplying for a new tourist visa, you can start your stay afresh with a new duration of stay permitted.

It’s worth mentioning that the rules and procedures for visa extensions and renewals may vary slightly depending on the specific circumstances and the discretion of the Indian authorities. Consulting the FRRO or the Indian embassy/consulate in your home country is advisable to ensure you have the most accurate and up-to-date information on the extension or renewal process.

Now that we understand the extension and renewal processes, let’s explore the potential consequences of overstaying on a tourist visa in India.

Overstaying on a Tourist Visa in India

Overstaying on a tourist visa in India can have serious consequences, and it is crucial to adhere to the stipulated duration of stay granted on your visa. If you exceed the allowed period, you may face various legal and administrative complications.

Firstly, overstaying on a tourist visa is considered a violation of Indian immigration laws. The Indian authorities take visa overstays seriously and may impose penalties and fines for the duration of unauthorized stay. These fines can accumulate and become quite substantial, depending on the length of overstay.

Furthermore, overstaying on a tourist visa can also result in future difficulties in obtaining visas for India or even other countries. Immigration authorities of other countries may consider the overstaying record when evaluating future visa applications, which could lead to visa rejections or increased scrutiny during the application process.

Moreover, if you overstay on a tourist visa in India for an extended period, you may be subject to an immigration ban or restriction, preventing you from entering the country for a specified period. This can significantly impact future travel plans and limit your ability to visit India in the future.

In some cases, overstaying on a tourist visa can also lead to detention and deportation. If the authorities discover your overstay, you may be detained, questioned, and deported from India. This can result in significant inconvenience, financial expenses, and even reputational damage.

Therefore, it is crucial to strictly adhere to the stipulated duration of stay granted on your tourist visa. If you find that you need to extend your stay, it is advisable to follow the proper procedures for visa extension or renewal, as discussed in the previous section.

Now that we understand the potential consequences of overstaying, let’s explore some tips to maximize your stay on a tourist visa in India.

Consequences of Overstaying on a Tourist Visa

Overstaying on a tourist visa in India can have several serious consequences. It’s crucial to understand the potential legal and administrative ramifications to avoid any complications during your stay in the country.

First and foremost, overstaying on a tourist visa is considered a violation of Indian immigration laws. As a result, you may be subject to fines and penalties for each day of unauthorized stay. These fines can accumulate and become quite substantial, depending on the length of your overstay. Additionally, you may be required to pay the fines before you are allowed to leave the country.

Moreover, overstaying on a tourist visa can also have long-term implications for your future travel plans. Immigration authorities of other countries may take into account your record of visa overstays when evaluating future visa applications. This can result in visa rejections or increased scrutiny during the application process, making it more challenging to visit other countries in the future.

In addition to financial penalties and potential travel restrictions, overstaying on a tourist visa in India can lead to legal consequences. If the immigration authorities discover your overstay, you may be detained, questioned, and potentially deported from the country. This can result in significant inconvenience, financial expenses, and even reputational damage.

Furthermore, an overstay on a tourist visa can lead to an immigration ban or restriction. This means that you may be prohibited from entering India for a specified period of time, making it difficult or even impossible to visit the country in the future. This can have a significant impact on your travel plans and opportunities.

To avoid these consequences, it is essential to keep track of the duration of stay permitted on your tourist visa and make necessary arrangements if you need to extend your stay. It’s advisable to apply for an extension or renewal before your visa expires to ensure legal compliance and a smooth travel experience.

Now that we have explored the potential consequences of overstaying, let’s move on to some valuable tips for maximizing your stay on a tourist visa in India.

Tips for Maximizing Your Stay on a Tourist Visa in India

India offers a wealth of experiences and attractions that you wouldn’t want to miss during your visit. To make the most of your stay on a tourist visa, consider the following tips:

• Plan your itinerary: India is a vast country with diverse attractions. Research and plan your itinerary in advance to ensure you can explore the places you want to visit within the permitted duration of your tourist visa.
• Be mindful of your visa’s validity: Keep track of your visa’s expiration date and plan your departure accordingly. Remember to factor in any potential processing time required for an extension or renewal if needed.
• Consider e-visa options: If you are eligible for an e-visa, take advantage of the convenience it offers. The e-visa allows for a shorter duration of stay, making it ideal for shorter trips or if you prefer flexibility in your travel plans.
• Apply for extensions in advance: If you wish to extend your stay, initiate the extension process well before your visa expires. This will allow for sufficient time to gather the required documents and avoid any last-minute complications.
• Adhere to immigration regulations: Familiarize yourself with Indian immigration regulations and follow them diligently. This includes adhering to the specified duration of stay and complying with any other visa requirements.
• Stay informed: Keep yourself updated on any changes in visa policies or procedures that may affect your stay. Regularly check the official websites of the Indian embassy or consulate for the most accurate and up-to-date information.
• Consult with immigration authorities: If you have any doubts or questions regarding your visa status or requirements, reach out to the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) for guidance and clarification.
• Make the most of your time: India offers a diverse range of cultural, historical, and natural attractions. Prioritize your must-see places and experiences to ensure you make the most of your stay within the permitted duration.
• Immerse in the local culture: Engage with the local culture, interact with locals, and participate in festivals or events to truly experience the essence of India. Immerse yourself in the rich traditions, cuisines, and vibrant local communities.
• Document your journey: Capture the memories of your Indian adventure through photographs, journaling, or blogging. Share your experiences to inspire others and create lasting memories of your time in India.

By following these tips, you can make the most of your stay on a tourist visa in India and create unforgettable memories in this incredible country.

With proper planning, adherence to visa regulations, and a sense of adventure, your stay in India on a tourist visa can be a fulfilling and enriching experience.

Safe travels!

Obtaining the right visa and understanding its terms and conditions is crucial for a smooth and enjoyable trip to India. The tourist visa allows individuals to explore the wonders of the country for a specific duration, typically up to 90 days. It is important to adhere to the duration of stay granted on your visa and take necessary steps to extend your stay if needed.

Overstaying on a tourist visa in India can lead to various consequences, including financial penalties, travel restrictions, and potential legal complications. It is essential to familiarize yourself with the visa regulations and follow them diligently to avoid any issues during your stay.

To maximize your stay on a tourist visa in India, plan your itinerary in advance, be aware of your visa’s validity, and consider applying for an extension if needed. Stay informed about any changes in visa policies and consult with immigration authorities for guidance and clarification.

During your stay in India, make the most of your time by immersing yourself in the local culture, exploring the diverse attractions, and capturing the memories of your journey. India offers a multitude of experiences that will leave a lasting impression.

Remember, a trip to India on a tourist visa is an opportunity to explore the rich heritage, vibrant cities, and breathtaking landscapes of this incredible country. By respecting the visa regulations and making wise choices, you can have a fulfilling and memorable experience that will stay with you for a lifetime.

Safe travels and enjoy your time in India!

• Privacy Overview
• Strictly Necessary Cookies

This website uses cookies so that we can provide you with the best user experience possible. Cookie information is stored in your browser and performs functions such as recognising you when you return to our website and helping our team to understand which sections of the website you find most interesting and useful.

Strictly Necessary Cookie should be enabled at all times so that we can save your preferences for cookie settings.

If you disable this cookie, we will not be able to save your preferences. This means that every time you visit this website you will need to enable or disable cookies again.

Here's how to get a visa to visit India

Dec 20, 2023 • 6 min read

From applying for an e-Visa to extending your stay, here's what you need to know about entry requirements for India © beavera / Getty Images

With its dense tapestry of cultures and landscapes, India feels like dozens of countries rolled into one, but a single visa will cover you for travel across more than 3 million sq km (more than a million sq miles) of territory, taking in everything from steamy jungles to the high passes of the Himalayas.

Every Indian state is as large and diverse as a nation, so take your time navigating this enormous and fascinating country. The good news is that visas are easy to obtain and allow plenty of time for exploring.

Here’s everything you need to know about visa requirements for India, from the application process for e-Visas to overland travel and extending your stay.

You'll probably need a visa to go to India

Almost everyone needs a visa to visit India , but for most nationalities, tourist visas are easy to obtain online or through your local Indian embassy or consulate. Citizens of 166 countries – including most nations in the EU and EEA, the UK, the US, Australia and New Zealand, and many countries in Asia, Africa, the Middle East and Latin America – can apply for an e-Visa before traveling via a simple online form .

Applying online is a fairly painless process, and it will save you hours compared to applying in person at an embassy or through a visa agency (in countries where Indian embassies no longer issue visas directly). Tourist e-Visas are available with a validity of 30 days, one year or five years, with the one- and five-year visas allowing for multiple entries for a maximum stay of 180 days on each visit.

For one- and five-year tourist visas, applications are accepted up to 120 days in advance of travel. The 30-day visa allows two entries into India, which is handy if you’re planning a side trip to Nepal , and you can apply up to 30 days in advance of travel. All e-Visas take at least 72 hours to process, so be sure to apply in plenty of time (at least 4 days in advance is recommended).

Applying online is the most hassle-free way to obtain a visa

The Indian government’s online e-Visa portal can be used to apply for tourist visas, business visas, and visas for medical treatment and attending conferences. The cost and duration of the visa vary depending on your nationality, and you may need to show proof of return travel arrangements and sufficient funds to support yourself during your trip.

Rules for non-tourist visas can be complex. Business travelers usually need to provide letters of introduction from Indian companies and organizations that they plan to meet. Assuming you meet the requirements, business visas are usually valid for multiple entries over the space of one year.

Working for an Indian company is more complicated. You’ll need an employment visa and a work permit, and most people need a firm job offer and assistance from an Indian employer to complete the paperwork. As with all visa requirements, the situation is subject to change; contact your local Indian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date information.

Applying for a tourist e-Visa is fairly straightforward

To apply for an Indian e-Visa, visit the government’s official e-Visa portal . You’ll need to upload a digital passport-style photo and copies of your passport ID pages, and pay the visa fee, which varies depending on your nationality.

Your passport must be valid for six months beyond the date of entry, and you’ll need two spare pages for the visa, which will be physically stamped into your passport on arrival. Assuming your application is accepted – which is the case for most applicants – you’ll receive a digital Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), which you should print out and carry with you when you travel, so you can present it to the immigration authorities on arrival. 

Enter India via air or sea on your e-Visa

E-Visas allow entry to India through 25 designated airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Thiruvananthapuram (Trivandrum), Bengaluru (Bangalore), Hyderabad, Kochi (Cochin), Goa, Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Gaya, Jaipur, Lucknow, Trichy (Tiruchirappalli), Varanasi, Kozhikode (Calicut), Mangaluru (Mangalore), Pune, Nagpur, Coimbatore, Bagdogra, Guwahati, Chandigarh and Visakhapatnam.

They’re also valid for entry via the designated seaports at Mumbai, Chennai, Kochi, New Mangalore and Mormugao (in Goa).

Apply for a visa before you travel to enter India overland

If you plan to enter India overland – for example, from Nepal or Pakistan – you’ll need a visa stamped into your passport before you leave home, which you’ll need to obtain from the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country, or through an approved visa application office.

If you plan to visit India and Nepal on the same trip, get a multiple-entry visa – it used to be possible to arrange a new Indian tourist visa through the Indian Embassy in Kathmandu , but the authorities may now insist on a two-month gap before issuing a new visa.

There’s no need to worry about applying for a visa for Nepal in advance – they’re available on arrival at border crossings (bring passport photos and US dollars to pay the fee).

If you can't apply for an e-Visa, get one in person in advance

Contact your local embassy or consulate to check the application process in your country; the Indian Ministry of External Affairs maintains a list of diplomatic missions online. It’s best to apply for a visa in your home country – obtaining an Indian visa from an embassy in another country can be tortuously slow, assuming it’s possible at all. Fees and the permitted duration of stay will vary depending on your nationality.

As an alternative to applying through an Indian embassy or consulate, you may be able to apply for a visa through a visa agency – however, this tends to be more expensive than applying directly. In practice, many of these agencies just collect together applications and then send over a staff member to the embassy to apply in person.

Student visas are available to those on full-time courses in India

Student visas are reserved for people enrolled in approved full-time educational courses in India (which can include training courses in yoga, meditation, and traditional Indian art forms). Student visas are valid for up to five years, depending on the length of the course, but the rules are strict, and you’ll need documentation from the institution where you are studying to apply. The Ministry of Home Affairs provides some information online, but contact your local Indian embassy or consulate for the most up-to-date requirements.

Extending your stay in India is for exceptional circumstances only

E-Visas cannot be extended, but other types of visas can, though only in exceptional circumstances, such as medical emergencies or theft of your passport. To apply, you’ll need to use the government’s special online portal , providing evidence of a valid reason for extending your stay in India (e.g., a letter from the hospital where you are being treated or a police report).

You may then be called in for an in-person interview at the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in Delhi. If there is a fee, it will be made clear during the application process.

Some border areas in India require additional travel permits

Under a system carried over from British colonial rule, special permits (known as “protected area permits” or “restricted area permits”) are required to visit many areas close to India’s disputed external borders with China , Pakistan and other territories – a zone known as the “inner line.” Applying for these permits outside India is tricky, but you can apply locally in India without too much difficulty.

Permits are especially important for highly sensitive border areas (which tend to be off-limits to all travelers). Applications can be made through local government offices or local travel agencies; contact the state government offices for these regions to get the latest information. In some areas, you may need to register with the local Foreigners Regional Registration Office on arrival, but this is an easy process.

This article was first published Mar 12, 2022 and updated Dec 20, 2023.

Explore related stories

Tips & Advice

Sep 20, 2024 • 6 min read

Stretching from Central Asia to the jungles of Vietnam, China is a land of endless travel opportunities. Here's what you need to know about getting a visa.

Sep 10, 2024 • 11 min read

Sep 10, 2024 • 12 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 8 min read

Sep 9, 2024 • 13 min read

Sep 4, 2024 • 13 min read

Aug 30, 2024 • 12 min read

Aug 29, 2024 • 7 min read

Aug 20, 2024 • 13 min read

Renewal or extension of the visa for India

While staying in India as a foreign national, your travel plans may change. If you want to spend more time in the country than your visa allows, you will probably have questions about extending your India visa.

The rules for extending your stay depend largely on what type of visa you have . Not all visas can be renewed.

Temporary visitors will generally have to get a new visa , which is quick and simple to do online.

Can I extend my 30-day tourist e-Visa in India?

No, the e-Visa can only be used for the duration indicated . For tourist e-Visas, this will either be for 30-day stays, 90-day stays, or 180-day stays.

It is not possible to extend a stay with an India e-Visa.

If you wish to spend more time in India, you will have to leave the country briefly and apply for a new e-Visa to return. This is usually quicker and simpler than applying for an extension for a different sort of visa.

Which types of India visa can I renew or extend?

Although e-Visas cannot be renewed, certain types of Indian visa can be extended .

If you have any of the following long-term visas , for example, you can apply for an extension from within India:

• Residence permit
• Student visa

How can I apply for an India visa extension?

You can apply for an India visa extension at the Foreigner Registration Office (FRO) or the nearest Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) . In some cases, it may be possible to do online.

You will need to provide the relevant supporting paperwork for the type of visa you need to extend. This will include your passport and current visa, as well as items like proof of residency, an invitation letter, contracts, and any other necessary documents.

None of the electronic visas can be extended . Once you enter India, they are valid for the indicated duration.

To renew an India e-Visa , it is necessary to reapply online for a new one.

When will I need to renew my India visa?

If you are visiting India with an e-Tourist Visa, e-Business visa, or e-Medical visa, you will need to abide by the conditions of your visa .

If you have a 1-month tourist e-Visa , you must leave India within 30 days. After this, you may reapply online to get a new one. This is simple to do and rapidly processed — you will receive your new visa within 1–4 days of applying.

Travelers with a 1-year tourist e-Visa may make multiple trips to India and stay for up to 90 or 180 days, depending on their nationality. Once the year is up, the visa will expire. Rather than renewing it, simply apply for a new one via the online system.

The same applies to those with a business, medical or medical attendant e-Visa . Once the visa expires, apply again online.

Foreign nationals living in India who need to renew their work visa or residence permit and those studying in India who need to renew their student visa should apply for the extension in good time.

You must apply at least 60 days before your visa is due to expire.

Can I convert my current India visa to a different type of visa?

Yes, in many cases, it is possible to apply for a different type of visa during your stay in India. It depends on the type of visa you currently have, the type of visa you want, and your other circumstances.

If you plan to stay in India in the long term , this may be the right path for you.

If you are visiting India on holiday or while backpacking , it is generally easier to temporarily leave, get a new tourist e-Visa online, and return.

Related News

Flying to Indian Airports with the e-Visa

Vaccines Needed and Recommended to Travel for India

India Visa on Arrival: All You Need to Know

• Call us: +91-859-543-1267

[email protected]

A Comprehensive Guide to Indian Visa Extension Everything You Need to Know

Understanding the Process of Indian Visa Extension

Extending an Indian Visa Extension involves several steps, but the process may vary based on the type of visa and the specific circumstances.

Here’s a general overview of how it typically works:

Which Indian Visa is Eligible for Extension in India?

All types of Indian visas can be extended, except for the e-Visa. However, not all regular Visas are eligible for an extension. Typically, eligibility for extensions varies based on the purpose of the visit and the initial visa category. Here are some common Types of Visas that may be eligible for extension:

Visas That Can Typically Be Extended:

• Tourist Visa (e-Visa): Generally, tourist visas are not extendable. However, in exceptional cases due to unforeseen circumstances (like a medical emergency or unavoidable reasons), the Ministry of Home Affairs may grant an extension. Such extensions are not routine and require strong justification.
• Business Visa: Extensions for business visas may be considered under specific circumstances, such as completing pending business activities or unforeseen business needs.
• Employment Visa: If you’re continuing your employment with the same employer or if there’s a valid reason such as a change in job, extension might be possible.
• Student Visa: Students continuing their studies or requiring additional time to complete a course may be eligible for an extension.

Medical Visa: If the medical treatment extends beyond the visa validity period, an extension might be granted based on medical reasons.

Important Notes:

• Government Discretion: Visa extension decisions are subject to the discretion of the Indian government. The decision is based on various factors, including the purpose of extension, compliance with visa regulations, and current policies.
• Specific Criteria: Each visa category might have specific criteria for eligibility for extension, and these can change based on the prevailing rules and regulations.

Always refer to official Indian government sources or consult with the Foreign Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Indian embassy/consulate in your home country for the most accurate and updated information regarding the extension of a particular visa type.

Understanding the Indian Visa Extension Process and Requirements

The process and requirements for extending an Indian visa can vary depending on the type of visa and your specific circumstances. However, here’s a general overview of the process and common requirements:

Process for Extending an Indian Visa:

• Determine Eligibility: Confirm if your visa type is extendable. Not all visa categories are eligible for an extension.
• Early Planning: Initiate the extension process well before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying.
• Application Form: Fill out the extension application form available on the Indian government’s official website or the Foreign Regional Registration Office (FRRO) website.
• Passport: Ensure your  Passport  has sufficient validity for the intended extension period.
• Photographs: Have recent passport-sized photographs ready.
• Supporting Documents: These may include a cover letter explaining the reason for the extension, travel itinerary, proof of funds, evidence supporting the need for an extension (if applicable to your visa type), etc.
• Visit the FRRO or FRO Office: Depending on your location in India, you may need to visit the Foreign Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners’ Registration Office (FRO). Submit the required documents and pay the fee.
• Biometrics and Interview: You might be required to provide biometrics (fingerprints) and attend an interview at the FRRO/FRO office. This is to verify the information provided and the purpose of your extension.
• Processing Time: The processing time can vary. It may take a few weeks to process your application.
• Decision: Once your application is processed, a decision will be made on whether to approve or deny the extension.
• download Your Extended Visa: If approved, download your extended visa from your registered email. 

Requirements for Indian Visa Extensions:

• Valid Passport: Your passport should have sufficient validity beyond the intended extension period.
• Completed Application Form: Fill out the visa extension application form accurately and completely.
• Photographs: Provide recent passport-sized photographs as per specifications.
• Cover letter explaining the need for an extension.
• Travel itinerary.
• Proof of funds to support your stay (bank statements, etc.).
• Relevant documents substantiating the reason for the extension (such as medical certificates for medical visas, employment-related documents for employment visas, etc.).
• Compliance: Ensure you adhere to all visa regulations during your stay and throughout the extension process.
• Stay Updated: Policies and procedures can change. Keep yourself informed through official government sources or authorized agencies.

Always verify the specific requirements and procedures for your visa category and seek updated information from official Indian government websites or immigration authorities before proceeding with your visa extension application.

Frequently Asked Questions About Indian Visa Extension

Certainly! Here are some frequently asked questions regarding Indian visa extensions:

1. Can all types of Indian visas be extended?

No, not all types of Indian visas are eligible for extension. Tourist visas, in particular, are generally not extendable except in exceptional cases due to unforeseen circumstances. Other visas like business, employment, student, and medical visas might have provisions for extension under specific circumstances.

2. How early should I apply for a visa extension?

It is advisable to start the extension process well before your current visa expires. Applying early can help prevent overstaying and ensure sufficient time for processing, avoiding potential penalties.

3. What documents are typically required for a visa extension in India?

Commonly required documents include:

• Completed the application form for  Visa Extension .
• Valid passport with adequate remaining validity.
• Recent passport-sized photographs.
• Cover letter explaining the reason for the extension.
• Supporting documents depending on the visa type (travel itinerary, proof of funds, employment-related documents, medical certificates, etc.).

4. Where should I apply for an Indian visa extension?

Depending on your location in India, you might need to visit the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners’ Registration Office (FRO) to apply for a visa extension.

5. Can I stay in India while my visa extension application is being processed?

If you have applied for an extension before your current visa expires, you might be granted an extension on “stay granted on the basis of a pending application” until a decision is made on your extension request. This is subject to specific conditions and is typically granted by the FRRO/FRO.

6. How long does it take to process an Indian visa extension?

The processing time can vary. It might take a few weeks to process your visa extension application. It is advisable to check with the authorities or immigration office for the estimated processing time.

7. What happens if my visa extension application is denied?

If your extension application is denied, you’re expected to leave the country before your current visa expires to avoid overstaying, which could lead to penalties or legal consequences.

8. Can I extend my Indian visa multiple times?

Extensions for certain visa types may be granted multiple times, but it depends on the specific visa category, the reason for extension, and adherence to visa regulations.

9. Is there an option for expedited processing of visa extensions?

Expedited processing may be available in certain cases, but it’s subject to the discretion of the immigration authorities and might involve additional fees.

10. Can I work or engage in activities while my visa extension is being processed?

Engaging in activities that are not permitted under your current visa category while waiting for an extension might lead to complications. It is advisable to adhere to the conditions of your current visa until the extension is approved.

Always consult official sources or immigration authorities for the most accurate and updated information regarding Indian visa extensions , as policies and procedures can change over time.

Tips and Recommendations for a Smooth Indian Visa Extension Process

Sure, here are some tips and recommendations to facilitate a smoother visa extension process in India:

1.  Plan Ahead:

Initiate the extension process well in advance of your visa’s expiration date to avoid any last-minute rush or potential overstaying.

2. Understanding Eligibility:

Verify if your visa type is extendable and the specific conditions or criteria for extension. Not all visas are eligible for extension.

3. Collect Required Documents:

Collect all necessary documents in advance, such as completed application forms, passport with adequate validity, recent passport-sized photos, a cover letter explaining the extension reason, and any supporting documents based on your visa category.

4. Follow Guidelines and Procedures:

Adhere strictly to the guidelines and instructions provided by the Foreign Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or the Foreigners’ Registration Office (FRO) regarding the application process.

5. Be Truthful and Accurate:

Provide truthful and accurate information about your application and during any interviews or interactions with immigration authorities.

6. Stay Updated:

Keep yourself informed about any changes or updates to visa regulations or extension procedures from official government sources or authorized agencies.

7. Apply Early for Indian Visa Extension:

Submit your extension application well in advance of your visa’s expiry date to allow ample time for processing.

8.  Follow Current Visa Conditions:

Abide by the conditions of your current visa until the extension is granted. Engaging in activities not allowed under your current visa could complicate the extension process.

9.  Be Patient:

Understand that visa processing times can vary. Please be patient while waiting for a decision on your extension application.

10.  Seeking Assistance if Needed:

If you encounter difficulties or have specific queries, seek guidance from legal experts or immigration consultants who specialize in Indian visa matters.

11.  Maintain Communication:

If there’s a need for further clarification or additional information during the processing of your application, promptly respond to any inquiries from the immigration authorities.

12.  Keep Records:

Maintain copies of all documents submitted and any communication exchanged during the visa extension process for your reference.

13.  Plans for Contingencies:

Be prepared for the possibility of your extension application being denied and have plans in place to leave the country before your current visa expires, if necessary.

14.  Follow Local Laws:

While awaiting your visa extension, continue to abide by local laws and regulations to avoid any legal issues.

By following these tips and recommendations, you can navigate the visa extension process more smoothly and increase the chances of a successful extension in India.

Related Posts

Delay in FRRO Registration and Visa Extension in India

Understanding the Process of Indian Visa Extension All Visas have their stay Validity. If any foreign national visiting Indian and stay more than 180 days…

How to Apply an Overseas Citizenship of India OCI card In India

How To Apply For An Indian OCI Card Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) is a card given to Persons of Indian Origin and a Person…

How to Get an Exit Visa Permit in India

How to Obtain an Indian Exit Visa Permit Every year millions of international tourists and non-resident Indians arrive in India, down from about 18 million…

A Comprehensive Guide to Exit Visa Permits in India

A Complete Guide to Exit Visa Permit in India: Everything You Need to Know All the Information You Need to Know About Indian Exit Visa…

Leave a Comment Cancel Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

Save my name, email, and website in this browser for the next time I comment.

Request a Consultation

We’ll get back to you within the day to schedule a quick Consultation call. We can also communicate over Phone Call or WhatsApp if that’s easier for you.

Address: New Delhi, India

+91 859 5431267

+91 844 8774183

The most trusted Immigration agent in India who Provide Immigration assistance and FRRO Application Filling Services in Pan India. 

Quick Links

• FRRO Address

Quick Services

• Employment Visa Registration And Extension Assistance
• Exit Visa Permit Assistance
• Overseas Citizenship of India(OCI)
• Entry(X-1) Visa Extension Assistance
• Attestation and Apostille
• Refund Policy
• Privacy Policy
• Terms and Conditions

We are independent private immigration agents and have no integration with Government Authorities.

Copyrights @2023 Reserved And Developed By Miracle Tech Solution

Select Your Language

Select your currency.

• AED United Arab Emirates Dirham
• AFN Afghan Afghani
• ALL Albanian Lek
• AMD Armenian Dram
• ANG Netherlands Antillean Guilder
• AOA Angolan Kwanza
• ARS Argentine Peso
• AUD Australian Dollar
• AWG Aruban Florin
• AZN Azerbaijani Manat
• BAM Bosnia-Herzegovina Convertible Mark
• BBD Barbadian Dollar
• BDT Bangladeshi Taka
• BGN Bulgarian Lev
• BIF Burundian Franc
• BMD Bermudan Dollar
• BND Brunei Dollar
• BOB Bolivian Boliviano
• BRL Brazilian Real
• BSD Bahamian Dollar
• BWP Botswanan Pula
• BZD Belize Dollar
• CAD Canadian Dollar
• CDF Congolese Franc
• CHF Swiss Franc
• CLP Chilean Peso
• CNY Chinese Yuan
• COP Colombian Peso
• CRC Costa Rican Colón
• CVE Cape Verdean Escudo
• CZK Czech Republic Koruna
• DJF Djiboutian Franc
• DKK Danish Krone
• DOP Dominican Peso
• DZD Algerian Dinar
• EGP Egyptian Pound
• ETB Ethiopian Birr
• FJD Fijian Dollar
• FKP Falkland Islands Pound
• GBP British Pound Sterling
• GEL Georgian Lari
• GIP Gibraltar Pound
• GMD Gambian Dalasi
• GNF Guinean Franc
• GTQ Guatemalan Quetzal
• GYD Guyanaese Dollar
• HKD Hong Kong Dollar
• HNL Honduran Lempira
• HTG Haitian Gourde
• HUF Hungarian Forint
• IDR Indonesian Rupiah
• ILS Israeli New Sheqel
• INR Indian Rupee
• ISK Icelandic Króna
• JMD Jamaican Dollar
• JPY Japanese Yen
• KES Kenyan Shilling
• KGS Kyrgystani Som
• KHR Cambodian Riel
• KMF Comorian Franc
• KRW South Korean Won
• KYD Cayman Islands Dollar
• KZT Kazakhstani Tenge
• LAK Laotian Kip
• LBP Lebanese Pound
• LKR Sri Lankan Rupee
• LRD Liberian Dollar
• LSL Lesotho Loti
• MAD Moroccan Dirham
• MDL Moldovan Leu
• MGA Malagasy Ariary
• MKD Macedonian Denar
• MNT Mongolian Tugrik
• MOP Macanese Pataca
• MUR Mauritian Rupee
• MVR Maldivian Rufiyaa
• MWK Malawian Kwacha
• MXN Mexican Peso
• MYR Malaysian Ringgit
• MZN Mozambican Metical
• NAD Namibian Dollar
• NGN Nigerian Naira
• NIO Nicaraguan Córdoba
• NOK Norwegian Krone
• NPR Nepalese Rupee
• NZD New Zealand Dollar
• OMR Omani Rial
• PAB Panamanian Balboa
• PEN Peruvian Nuevo Sol
• PGK Papua New Guinean Kina
• PHP Philippine Peso
• PKR Pakistani Rupee
• PLN Polish Zloty
• PYG Paraguayan Guarani
• QAR Qatari Rial
• RON Romanian Leu
• RSD Serbian Dinar
• RUB Russian Ruble
• RWF Rwandan Franc
• SAR Saudi Riyal
• SBD Solomon Islands Dollar
• SCR Seychellois Rupee
• SEK Swedish Krona
• SGD Singapore Dollar
• SHP Saint Helena Pound
• SLL Sierra Leonean Leone
• SOS Somali Shilling
• SRD Surinamese Dollar
• SVC Salvadoran Colón
• SZL Swazi Lilangeni
• THB Thai Baht
• TJS Tajikistani Somoni
• TOP Tongan Pa anga
• TRY Turkish Lira
• TTD Trinidad and Tobago Dollar
• TWD New Taiwan Dollar
• TZS Tanzanian Shilling
• UAH Ukrainian Hryvnia
• UGX Ugandan Shilling
• USD United States Dollar
• UYU Uruguayan Peso
• UZS Uzbekistan Som
• VND Vietnamese Dong
• VUV Vanuatu Vatu
• WST Samoan Tala
• XAF CFA Franc BEAC
• XCD East Caribbean Dollar
• XOF CFA Franc BCEAO
• XPF CFP Franc
• YER Yemeni Rial
• ZAR South African Rand
• ZMW Zambian Kwacha

India Tourist eVisa: Apply online now

How to apply: tourist evisa.

Complete our easy online application and pay with credit card or PayPal

No need to deal with the embassy. We do it for you so you don't lose valuable time

Present your Passport and the Document we provide upon entry to destination country

Learn More: Tourist eVisa

What you need to know.

The India Tourist eVisa permits international travelers to enter India for tourism purposes

Your passport needs to be valid for at least six months after you enter India and have at least two blank pages

This eVisa isn’t allowed at every port of entry in India, keep reading to learn which ports of entry allow this visa

Apply today for the India Tourist eVisa with us

Last updated: April 2024

Ready to immerse yourself in the vibrant culture and breathtaking beauty of India? The India Tourist eVisa is an essential requirement. With us, applying for this eVisa is as easy as pouring a cup of chai.

Apply online for the India Tourist Visa or use our handy app for an even smoother experience.

What is the India Tourist eVisa?

The India Tourist eVisa is an electronic authorization that allows travelers to enter and explore India for tourism purposes.

The online application process eliminates the need for physical paperwork and visits to embassies or consulates.

Officially known as the "e-Tourist Visa," it provides a convenient and quick way to secure travel permissions for those looking to experience India's rich cultural heritage and stunning landscapes.

What you can do with the India Tourist Visa:

Visit tourist sites across India.

Attend cultural and festival events.

Take short-term yoga or cooking classes.

Visit family or friends.

What you cannot do with the India Tourist Visa:

Work or volunteer.

Enroll in long-term educational courses.

Engage in journalistic activities.

Conduct business or start a business.

Enter protected or restricted areas without special permission.

Who requires the India Tourist eVisa?

The India Tourist eVisa is available to citizens of many countries, including the United States, the United Kingdom, Canada, France, Australia, Germany, Sweden, Denmark, Switzerland, and the Netherlands.

To see if you are eligible, please check at the top of this page, where you can input your nationality to determine your visa requirements.

Requirements to apply for an India Tourist Visa:

Travel purpose: Your visit must be for tourism purposes such as sightseeing, meeting friends or family, or attending a short-term yoga program.

Passport validity: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your date of entry into India.

Digital photo: You must provide a digital photograph that meets the eVisa requirements.

Email address: An email address is required to receive the eVisa electronically.

Payment method: A credit or debit card is needed to pay the eVisa processing fee online.

By providing these details and meeting the conditions, you can apply for the India Tourist eVisa comfortably and efficiently.

Visa-exempt: Who doesn't need to apply for India Tourist eVisa?

Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan do not require a visa to enter India. These travelers can enter, live, and work in India without a visa. For all other nationalities, a visa or eVisa is typically necessary to travel to India. For specific conditions and a full list of visa-exempt countries, please check the eligibility section at the top of this page.

Do children also require the India Tourist eVisa?

Yes, children require an India Tourist eVisa just like adults. The application process is the same for minors, and they must have a visa to enter India regardless of their age.

When applying for a visa for a minor, legal guardians need to provide additional documents:

A copy of the minor’s birth certificate.

Copies of the passports of the child's parents or legal guardians.

A consent letter signed by both parents or legal guardians, which authorizes the child's travel to India.

These extra steps ensure the safety and proper documentation of minors traveling to India.

India Tourist eVisa validity: How long can I stay in India?

Here are the options for the India Tourist eVisa we offer, along with their validity and entry types:

30-day double-entry visa: This eVisa allows two entries into India and is valid for 30 days, so you must use it to enter India within that time. You also have 30 days max stay from the date of your first entry.

1-year multiple-entry visa: This visa is valid for one year from the date of issuance. You can enter India multiple times during the year, and it permits stays of up to 90 days per visit for most nationalities, except for the U.S., UK, and Canada, who can stay for up to 180 days per visit. The maximum stay for all nationalities is 180 days per year.

5-year multiple-entry visa: This eVisa offers the greatest flexibility. Valid for 5 years from the date of issue, it allows multiple entries, with each stay capped at 90 days. Except for those from the U.S., UK, and Canada, who can stay for up to 180 days. The maximum stay within a year for all nationalities is 180 days.

For comprehensive information on your India Tourist e-visa validity check out our blog .

For both the 1 and 5-year India visas, you need to ensure that your first entry into India is within 120 days from the date the visa is issued. Plan your trips according to these rules to make the most of your India Tourist Visa.

How to read your Tourist Visa validity

Validity period: How long can your visa be used for.

Max stay: The longest you can stay in India each time you visit.

Expiry date: This depends on which visa type you have.

For example:

If you've got a 30-day India Tourist eVisa, and the expiry date is March 14:

The latest date you can enter India is March 14, 2024.

This is the expiry date of your visa. From this date, you're allowed to stay in the country for up to 30 days.

If you've got a 1-year or 5-year India Tourist eVisa, and the expiry date is March 14:

The latest date you can leave India is March 14, 2024.

The expiry date, in this case is the date by which you must depart India.

You can stay in India for as long as your maximum stay but not longer than the validity period.

Can I extend my India Tourist eVisa?

Generally, the India Tourist eVisa cannot be extended. Tourists are expected to adhere to the validity period specified on their eVisa—either 30 days, 90 days per visit on the 1-year visa, or 90 days per visit on the 5-year visa.

If you need to stay longer than the terms of your original visa due to exceptional circumstances, you must apply through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) in India. For detailed procedures and exceptions, it’s advisable to consult the official Indian government immigration website .

India Tourist eVisa required documents

To apply for the India Tourist eVisa online, you generally need:

Passport : A scan of the information page of your valid passport, which must have at least six months of validity from the date of arrival in India and at least two blank pages.

Photograph : A recent passport-style color photo, which can be uploaded during the application process.

Email address : To receive the visa confirmation.

Payment method : Credit or debit card for the visa fee payment.

Additional documents:

Depending on your circumstances and the purpose of travel, you may also need:

Travel itinerary : Details of your stay, including flight bookings and accommodation.

Financial proof : Statements or other documents showing you have enough funds for your stay.

Invitation letter : If visiting friends or family, an invitation letter may be required.

Note : This is a general list, and we will send a complete list of required documents via email upon application. This service ensures you are fully prepared for your application.

Once your visa is approved:

Confirmation delivery : You will receive an email containing your eVisa in PDF format.

Recommendation : We recommend printing out the eVisa and carrying it along with your passport when you travel to India, as immigration officers will want to see a copy upon your arrival.

We will be in touch by email if we need any more information from you during the application process.

India financial requirements

For the India Tourist eVisa, applicants should provide proof of financial stability to cover their stay in India. This can typically be shown with:

Bank statements : Recent statements indicating sufficient balance.

Sponsorship letter : If someone is sponsoring your trip, a letter from them stating their commitment to cover your expenses is accompanied by their financial documents.

These financial documents help demonstrate that you can support yourself during your visit to India. We will guide you on how to provide these proofs effectively as part of our visa application services.

India Tourist eVisa costs and processing times

The cost of processing your visa depends on the chosen validity and your nationality.

For those exempt from government visa fees, the only cost incurred will be our iVisa service fee. Countries exempt from the government fees include:

Argentina Cook Islands Fiji Micronesia Indonesia Jamaica Kiribati Marshall Islands Myanmar Mauritius Nauru Niue Papua New Guinea Palau Solomon Islands Seychelles Tonga Tuvalu Uruguay Vanuatu Samoa South Africa

You can check if you should expect to pay government fees at the top of this page. Note: all nationalities applying through us will still need to pay our processing fees. You will be shown a detailed breakdown of the costs during your application.

Typically, the processing time for an India Tourist eVisa ranges from 2 to 5 days. However, in certain cases, it might extend to a few weeks.

Opting for our services can streamline and expedite this process, making it more efficient and less time-consuming for you.

Benefits of applying for India Tourist eVisa with us

When you apply for your India Tourist eVisa with us, you get more than just guidance. You get:

Do you have more questions about India Tourist eVisa?

If you want to learn more about India Tourist eVisa or have questions about the application process, we’re here to help.

Our dedicated online team of customer service agents is available via online chat, or you can speak with them via WhatsApp .

Steve J, USA | July 2, 2024

I'm planning a three-month backpacking trip across India, and my tourist eVisa just got approved. But I noticed the visa isn't valid for the full duration of the trip I outlined in my application. What I want to know is, why doesn't the visa validity cover my entire trip? Does that mean I'll have to cut my trip short and leave India once it expires?

Martin, iVisa | July 3, 2024

The India Tourist eVisa's validity may not align perfectly with your travel plans due to the preset maximum durations and entry rules associated with different visa types.

For example, if you were issued a one-month visa, you can’t stay longer than 30 days in the country. Even if you have a 1-year or 5-year visa, each stay cannot exceed the stipulated maximum duration (usually 180 days per visit).

If your visa doesn't cover the entire duration of your planned stay, you'll need to either adjust your travel dates or explore options for extending your visa in India, though extensions might not always be possible for eVisas.​

Barbara F, USA | July 9, 2024

I’ve got a one-year multiple-entry tourist eVisa for India, which is awesome because there's so much I want to see and do! But, it turns out each visit can't be longer than 180 days. I was really hoping to stick around longer than that. Is there any way to extend my stay while I’m there? What do I need to do, and how much will it cost?

Martin, iVisa | July 9, 2024

Generally, the 1-year tourist eVisa doesn't allow stays longer than 180 days per entry. If you wish to stay longer, you would need to leave India and re-enter if your visa type allows multiple entries. Direct extensions of a tourist eVisa within India are not typically granted. You might need to check if a different type of visa is more suitable for longer stays or consider structuring your visits within the allowed limits.​

Katie L, UK | July 15, 2024

I’m going to India in a couple of weeks. Can I use my flight tickets as proof that I have enough money for the trip, or do I need to show something else for the visa application? Just want to make sure I get everything right!

Cami, iVisa | July 17, 2024

Flight tickets can serve as part of your proof of intent to leave India, which is helpful for your visa application. However, they can’t be used to prove your financial means. To do this, you’ll need to provide bank statements, payslips, or other financial documents to show that you can support yourself during your stay in India.​

Unforeseen events happen and can change your travel plans. This is why we understand you may want to request a cancellation of your visa application and a credit for the amount paid. However, these are the iVisa refund policy guidelines:

If your application has not been reviewed by our team , nor submitted to the government for approval, then you will receive a credit for the full amount of the iVisa processing fee and government fee .

If your application has been reviewed by our team but has not yet been submitted to the government for approval, you will receive a credit for the full amount of the government fee .

If your application has been submitted to the government for approval or a visa is already issued , unfortunately, no credit is available.

• India Tourist eVisa: Common issues and solutions
• Indian Medical Visa for Citizens of Australia: See how to get it
• India Visa for Chinese citizens - Everything you need to know
• How to get an India visa for Russian citizens
• How to apply for an Indian Medical Visa as a Canadian citizen
• India eVisa for German citizens
• India Tourist Visa for South Korean citizens: Apply for the India Visa now
• India Tourist Visa for Australian Citizens: Apply for the India Visa Now
• India eVisa for Colombian Citizens
• India visa for Sri Lankan citizens
• Learn More - India Tourist eVisa
• Learn More - India Business eVisa
• Learn More - India Medical eVisa

happy customers

assistance when needed

+50,000 reviews

years of experience

approval rate

India visa extension - what you need to know before applying?

Table of contents, why has india offered to extend the visa of foreign nationals already in the country, has india extended the visas of foreign nationals who are outside india, who should apply for visa extension in india, how to extend india visa in india, can you opt for tourist visa extension india, is it possible to have a medical visa extension in india, is it possible to go for an india employment visa extension, what of the evisa extension india can it be extended, how much is it to get extension visa to stay in india more than 6 months.

• Share this post

Get your visa with one click

Ready to get visa assistance without waste time.

We provide assistance for obtaining travel, education, and business travel visas to any country in the world.

• Our bloggers
• Our services
• Visa Policy
• Partnerships
• Travel Medical Insurance
• AI Travel Specialist
• Turkiye - Dubai Visa
• Embassies.org
• [email protected]
• +971 50 505 8065 | +971 56 501 7979
• +994508333816
• Jumeirah Lakes Towers, Fortune Tower, 13th floor, Office 1304

The Straits Times

• International
• Print Edition
• news with benefits
• SPH Rewards
• STClassifieds
• Berita Harian
• Hardwarezone
• Shin Min Daily News
• Tamil Murasu
• The Business Times
• The New Paper
• Lianhe Zaobao
• Advertise with us

Thailand launches new visa to woo digital nomads

BANGKOK – Thailand’s Foreign Ministry is promoting the new Destination Thailand Visa (DTV) in a bid to attract foreign nationals to work remotely while travelling around the country.

Announcing the initiative on Sept 19, Foreign Minister Maris Sangiampongsa said the DTV is designed to cater to the preferences of digital nomads seeking extended stays in Thailand.

By working remotely from Thailand, these individuals can contribute to the local economy by spending at vendors’ businesses, restaurants, hotels and tourist attractions.

“The DTV will facilitate foreigners who wish to stay in Thailand for an extended period and work remotely,” Mr Maris said.

He noted that some hotels in Phuket have already introduced special packages tailored to digital nomads.

Foreigners applying for the DTV can enjoy a hassle-free experience, with a simplified visa application process and extended stay options.

The visa allows for stays of up to 180 days per visit, with the possibility of extending a stay for another 180 days.

As for the current visa exemption system and its possible abuse, Mr Maris said the Foreign Ministry is implementing the Electronic Travel Authorisation system .

This system will enhance security and streamline immigration procedures for visitors with visa exemptions. Applicants who use it will receive a unique QR code to present to immigration officials upon arrival.

Mr Maris added that the Foreign Ministry is actively negotiating a joint tourist visa policy with five Asean countries.

This initiative aims to encourage more tourists to visit the region and aligns with the government’s “Six Countries, One Destination” scheme to promote Thailand as a regional tourism hub.

“Think of the Schengen visa, which allows tourists to travel to several European countries under one visa stamp,” Mr Maris said. THE NATION/ASIA NEWS NETWORK

Join ST's Telegram channel and get the latest breaking news delivered to you.

• Travel planning
• Travel and leisure

Read 3 articles and stand to win rewards

Spin the wheel now