Deep coverage14 verified routes across visit, study, work, investment, family and more.
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Select the passports you hold to see short-stay access and per-route eligibility for India.
4 routes
Visit
Short stays: tourism, transit, business trips, medical, pilgrimage.
Tourist Visa
India e-Tourist Visa (eTV)
Online tourist visa for recreation, sightseeing, casual visits to friends and relatives, short-term yoga programmes, short courses (language, music, dance, arts, cooking), short-duration voluntary work, and medical treatment including Indian systems of medicine. Three sub-variants exist: a 30-day double-entry visa (USD 25 from July to March, USD 10 from April to June), a 1-year multiple-entry visa (around USD 40), and a 5-year multiple-entry visa (around USD 80); fees vary by nationality and a 2.5% bank charge is added. The 1-year and 5-year variants permit a maximum aggregate stay of 180 days per calendar year; the 30-day variant is valid 30 days from first arrival. Apply online at least 4 days before arrival (up to 120 days ahead, 30 days for the 30-day variant). Not convertible to other categories and not extendable; the holder must leave and re-apply. FRRO registration is not required for tourist e-Visa stays.
Passport bio pageScanned first (bio) page of a passport valid at least 6 months from arrival with two blank pages.
Recent photographRecent colour photograph with white background (face clearly visible).
Online applicationCompleted e-Visa application submitted on the official portal.
Return/onward ticketConfirmed return or onward travel ticket.
Proof of fundsOptionalEvidence of sufficient money to spend during the stay.
Business Visitor Visa
India e-Conference Visa
Online visa to attend a conference, seminar, workshop or similar event organised by a Government ministry/department, PSU, UN/specialised agency, or an officially approved private body. Valid 30 days from arrival with single entry; it cannot be clubbed with any activity other than tourism. Requires an invitation from the organiser plus mandatory political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs (and, where applicable, event clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs). Apply at least 4 days before arrival, up to 120 days ahead. Fee varies by nationality plus a 2.5% bank charge. Not available to foreign government officials, who must use a regular Conference Visa.
Passport bio pageScanned bio page of a passport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Recent photographRecent colour photograph with white background.
Conference invitationInvitation letter from the organiser of the conference/seminar/workshop.
Political clearance (MEA)Political clearance from the Ministry of External Affairs, Government of India.
Event clearance (MHA)OptionalEvent clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs where required.
Business Visitor Visa
India e-Business Visa
Online business visa for foreign nationals visiting India to sell or purchase goods, attend meetings, set up an industrial or business venture, recruit staff, participate in exhibitions or trade fairs, give expert lectures, or serve as a buyer. Valid 365 days from the date of grant of the Electronic Travel Authorisation, with multiple entries; continuous stay during each visit must not exceed 180 days, and FRRO/FRO registration is required only if the aggregate stay exceeds 180 days in a calendar year. The fee depends on nationality (commonly around USD 80-100) plus a 2.5% bank charge. Apply online at least 4 days before arrival, up to 120 days in advance. It does not authorise employment or money-making business in India and does not convert to a residence status.
Passport bio pageScanned bio page of a passport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Recent photographRecent colour photograph with white background.
Business card / invitationBusiness card and a letter or invitation from the Indian company/organisation being visited.
Inviting company detailsName, address and nature of business of the Indian entity, with the purpose of the visit.
Online applicationCompleted e-Business visa application on the official portal.
Medical Treatment Visa
India e-Medical Visa (with e-Medical Attendant)
Online visa for foreign nationals seeking medical treatment at recognised and reputed Indian hospitals or treatment centres, including under Indian systems of medicine. Valid 60 days from first arrival with triple entry. Up to two e-Medical Attendant visas may be granted to family members accompanying the patient against one e-Medical visa, with matching validity. The fee varies by nationality plus a 2.5% bank charge. Apply at least 4 days before arrival (up to 120 days ahead). Where treatment requires a longer stay, the patient must convert to or apply for a regular paper Medical Visa, which can be extended; FRRO registration is required for stays beyond 180 days.
Family: Up to two attendants (e.g. spouse, close relative) via e-Medical Attendant visa.
Passport bio pageScanned bio page of a passport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Recent photographRecent colour photograph with white background.
Hospital letterLetter from the Indian hospital/treatment centre on its letterhead confirming the appointment and treatment.
Online applicationCompleted e-Medical visa application on the official portal.
Patient visa copy (attendant)OptionalFor e-Medical Attendant applicants: copy of the patient's e-Medical visa and proof of relationship.
Not yet researched
Transit Visa
Pilgrimage Visa
2 routes
Study & Training
Universities, language courses, internships and exchanges.
Student Visa
India Student Visa (Study)
For bona fide foreign students pursuing regular, full-time studies at a recognised Indian educational institution. Issued for the duration of the course up to a maximum of five years, multiple entry, and extendable in India through the FRRO. Full-time or part-time employment is completely prohibited. Students staying more than 180 days must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival. Dependants of student-visa holders may obtain a dependent Student Visa (S-X). Not available as an e-Visa; applicants apply on paper. There is no direct permanent-residence route; study time does not itself confer settlement.
Study: Full-time study at the recognised institution named in the visa.
Family: Dependants eligible for dependent Student (S-X) Visa, no work rights.
Processing time
7 days
Validity
1,825 days
Document checklist (6)
Visa application formSigned paper visa application form with photograph (white background, ~5x5 cm).
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with at least two blank pages.
Admission letterOriginal admission/enrolment letter for a full-time course from a recognised Indian institution.
Institution registration certificateOptionalRegistration/recognition certificate of the educational institution.
Proof of financial capabilityEvidence the student can meet expenses (bank statements, scholarship or sponsor letter).
PhotographsTwo recent identical colour photographs with white background.
Internship / Trainee Visa
India Intern Visa
For foreign nationals undertaking an internship with an Indian company, educational institution or NGO after completing graduation or post-graduation, where the gap between completing studies and starting the internship does not exceed two years. Valid for a maximum of 12 months (or the internship period, whichever is shorter) and renewable once for a further 12 months, with re-application required after a two-year gap before a fresh intern visa. Internships with companies require minimum remuneration of INR 7.80 lakh per annum; internships with educational institutions and NGOs have no minimum-pay floor. Grants are capped per Indian Mission (50 per year, 100 where the Indian-origin population exceeds one million). FRRO registration applies for stays over 180 days. No PR route.
Work: Internship work only with the named host; not general employment.
Processing time
7 days
Validity
365 days
Document checklist (5)
Visa application formSigned paper visa application form with photograph.
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Internship offer letterOffer from the Indian company/institution/NGO stating duration and stipend (INR 7.80 lakh p.a. minimum for companies).
Proof of graduationDegree certificate showing completion of graduation/post-graduation within the past two years.
Host undertakingSponsoring letter from the host organisation accepting responsibility for the intern.
Not yet researched
Language Course Visa
Exchange Program Visa
2 routes
Work & Self-Employment
Digital nomad, freelance, skilled employment and company transfers.
Skilled Work Visa
India Employment Visa
For highly skilled and qualified professionals engaged or appointed by an Indian company, organisation or NGO. The core requirement is a gross annual salary above USD 25,000; this floor is waived for foreign specialist chefs/ethnic cooks, non-English language teachers and translators, embassy staff, and is lower for certain teaching faculty (INR 9.10 lakh) and for honorary NGO work. The visa is normally granted multiple-entry for one year initially (or the term of the contract), extendable year-to-year in India up to a maximum of five years from initial issue, subject to good conduct, continued employment and income-tax filing. Holders staying over 180 days must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival. Not a direct path to permanent residence; long-term settlement runs through OCI eligibility for those of Indian origin.
Work: Work only for the sponsoring employer/assignment named in the visa.
Family: Dependants may obtain an Entry (X) Visa co-terminus with the employment visa.
Processing time
7 days
Validity
365 days
Min. income / month
$25,000
Document checklist (7)
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Visa application formCompleted paper visa application form with photograph.
Employment contract / appointment letterContract or appointment letter from the Indian employer stating salary (above USD 25,000 p.a.), allowances and tax liability.
Proof of qualificationsEducational and professional certificates evidencing the specialised skill.
Company registration proofProof of incorporation/registration of the Indian employer entity.
Resume / CVOptionalDetailed resume of the applicant.
Sponsoring letterLetter from the Indian employer undertaking responsibility for conduct and repatriation.
Intra-Company Transfer Visa
India Project Visa
A dedicated category for highly skilled foreign engineers, technicians and specialists coming to execute projects in the power and steel sectors. It is sponsored by the Indian project company and tied to the specific project, with a validity linked to the project duration (commonly issued for one year and extendable, capped to the project term). It does not permit ancillary work outside the named project, and holders staying over 180 days must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days. No path to permanent residence; the visa ends with the project.
Work: Only the named project in the power/steel sector; no other work.
Family: Dependants may obtain a dependent Entry (X) Visa.
Processing time
7 days
Validity
365 days
Document checklist (6)
Visa application formSigned paper visa application form with photograph.
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Project contract / appointmentContract or appointment letter from the Indian project company in the power or steel sector.
Project reportProject report and details of the work the specialist will perform.
Proof of qualificationsEvidence of technical/specialist qualifications and experience.
Company sponsorship letterSponsoring letter from the Indian company undertaking responsibility.
Not yet researched
Digital Nomad Visa
Freelancer Visa
Self-Employment Visa
Startup / Entrepreneur Visa
Seasonal Work Visa
1 route
Invest & Capital
Golden visas, real estate, citizenship by investment, passive income.
Business Investor Visa
India Business Visa (paper)
Multiple-entry visa for foreign nationals establishing an industrial or business venture, making investments, travelling frequently for long-term business, recruiting manpower, attending board meetings, or serving as partners/directors of an Indian company. Indian missions can issue it for up to five years (up to ten years with six-month stay cap for US nationals); each continuous stay must not exceed 180 days, and shorter grants can be extended in India up to five years. Applicants must show financial standing and expertise, and the proposed business must be lawful; it does not permit money-making employment. Aggregate stays over 180 days in a calendar year require FRRO/FRO registration. Suited to investors and entrepreneurs rather than employees.
Family: Family may apply for dependent Entry (X) Visa.
Processing time
5 days
Max stay
180 days
Validity
1,825 days
Document checklist (6)
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Visa application formCompleted paper business visa application form with photograph.
Invitation from Indian companyLetter from the Indian business partner stating nature of business, duration and places to be visited.
Proof of financial standingBank statements or company financials showing capacity to do business in India.
Sponsoring company letterLetter from the applicant's own company describing their position and purpose of travel.
Business registration documentsOptionalProof of business/venture registration where an Indian venture is being set up.
Not yet researched
Golden Visa (Residence by Investment)
Residence by Real Estate
Citizenship by Investment
Non-Lucrative / Passive Income Visa
No verified routes yet
Retire & Lifestyle
Retirement visas and working holiday schemes.
Not yet researched
Retirement Visa
Working Holiday Visa
2 routes
Family & Origin
Reunification, spouse routes and ancestry-based repatriation.
Family Reunification Visa
India Entry (X) Visa
Family/entry visa for persons of Indian origin without an OCI card, for foreign spouses and dependent children of Indian citizens or of OCI/foreign nationals holding long-term Indian visas, and for certain people coming for purposes not covered by other categories. Typically issued multiple-entry for up to five years (often co-terminus with the principal's visa) and extendable through the FRRO; stays over 180 days require FRRO/FRO registration within 14 days. X-1 holders of Indian origin may take up employment (including with NGOs) without converting to an Employment Visa, on giving 10 days' prior notice to the FRRO. It is the standard dependent visa attached to Employment, Business, Student and Research visa holders. No standalone PR route, though Indian-origin holders may separately pursue OCI.
Family: This is itself the dependent/family visa for spouse and children.
Processing time
7 days
Validity
1,825 days
Document checklist (6)
Visa application formSigned paper visa application form with photograph.
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Proof of relationshipMarriage certificate (spouse) or birth certificate (child), apostilled/legalised.
Principal's status proofCopy of the Indian citizen's passport, or the principal's OCI card / Indian visa being depended upon.
Proof of Indian originOptionalFor PIO applicants: documentary evidence of Indian origin (e.g. former Indian passport, ancestor's records).
Sponsor letterOptionalLetter from the principal/sponsor confirming financial support during the stay.
Ancestry / Repatriation
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI)
Available
Former Indian citizens (on/after 26 Jan 1950) and their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren register online for a lifelong visa and residence-like status (no political rights); persons with Pakistani or Bangladeshi ancestry are excluded.
Talent, religious, humanitarian, media, official and permanent residence.
Talent / Highly Skilled Visa
India Research Visa
For professors and research scholars wishing to pursue research in India, including at universities and recognised institutions. The competent authority for granting the visa is the Indian Mission/Post, but clearance is normally obtained from the Department of Education (or relevant ministry) before issuance, which lengthens processing. The visa period is restricted to the duration of the approved project or five years, whichever is less, multiple entry, extendable through the FRRO; holders staying over 180 days must register with the FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival. PhD scholars enrolled in a degree programme generally use a Student Visa instead. No direct permanent-residence route.
Study: Research at the affiliated institution; degree PhDs use a Student Visa.
Family: Dependants may obtain a dependent Entry (X) Visa.
Processing time
30 days
Validity
1,825 days
Document checklist (6)
Visa application formSigned paper visa application form with photograph.
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Research synopsisDetailed synopsis and outline of the proposed research subject and methodology.
Affiliation/invitation letterLetter from the Indian institute of affiliation confirming the research project and supervision.
Academic credentialsProof of academic standing (degrees, CV, list of publications).
Ministry clearanceOptionalClearance from the concerned ministry/Department of Education where required.
Journalist / Media Visa
India Journalist Visa
For professional journalists and photographers travelling to India for work, and for film crews making documentaries or films. Granted typically for up to three months' stay. Routine processing is a few days, but documentary/film projects require a two-step process: first a Government of India clearance (often 2-8 weeks) covering synopsis, treatment, locations, schedule, crew and equipment, after which the mission issues a 'No Objection' and the J visa, with customs permits for equipment. Journalists seeking to join an Indian media organisation as staff must instead apply for an Employment Visa. No path to residence; the visa is short-term and non-convertible.
Work: Only journalistic/filming activity described in the application; not local employment.
Processing time
5 days
Max stay
90 days
Validity
90 days
Document checklist (6)
Visa application formSigned paper visa application form with photograph.
PassportPassport valid at least 6 months with two blank pages.
Media accreditation / employer letterPress accreditation card or letter from the media organisation describing the nature of work.
Synopsis and treatment (filming)OptionalDetailed synopsis, treatment, shooting schedule and location list for documentary/film projects.
Equipment list (filming)OptionalList of filming equipment for customs clearance.
Government clearance / NOC (filming)OptionalGovernment of India clearance and No Objection letter for documentary filming.
Long-Term Residence Permit
Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) Card
OCI is India's principal long-term residence route for the global Indian diaspora (it is not citizenship and confers no voting rights). Eligible: people who were Indian citizens on/after 26 Jan 1950 or eligible to become so, those from territories that joined India after 15 Aug 1947, and their children, grandchildren and great-grandchildren, plus foreign spouses of Indian citizens or OCI holders after two years of continuous marriage; descendants of Pakistani or Bangladeshi citizens are excluded. An OCI card grants a multiple-entry, multipurpose lifelong visa to live, work and study in India with lifelong exemption from FRRO registration, and parity with NRIs in many economic, financial and educational matters (excluding agricultural land purchase). The fee for fresh registration from outside India is USD 275 (INR 15,000 from within India). OCI holders may apply for Indian citizenship after five years as an OCI and one year of residence in India.
Work: Live, work and study in India without a separate work permit (some restricted/research roles need permission).
Study: Full study rights with NRI parity for admissions.
Residency: OCI is itself a lifelong residence right; Indian citizenship possible after 5 years OCI + 1 year residence.
Family: Spouse (2 years' marriage) and descendants may each hold their own OCI.
Government fee
$275
Processing time
60 days
Document checklist (6)
PassportCurrent foreign passport valid at least 6 months.
Online OCI applicationCompleted two-part online application on the OCI services portal with photograph and signature.
Proof of Indian originEvidence such as a current/former Indian passport, or the Indian-origin parent's/grandparent's Indian passport or domicile certificate.
Relationship documentsBirth/marriage certificates linking the applicant to the Indian-origin ancestor or Indian-citizen/OCI spouse.
Marriage certificate (spouse route)OptionalFor spouse applicants: marriage certificate plus proof of two years' continuous marriage.
Current photograph and signatureRecent photograph (white background) and signature scan meeting portal specifications.
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