India

Visa & Entry Requirements

All foreign nationals require a valid visa to enter India unless they hold a passport from a country with a specific visa-free or visa-on-arrival arrangement. India operates two primary pathways for most travelers: the e-Visa system for eligible nationalities and regular visas issued by Indian embassies, high commissions, and consulates abroad.

Your eligibility, required documents, and the type of visa you need will depend on your nationality and the purpose of your visit. Always verify current requirements through the official Ministry of External Affairs visa services page, linked on this page, before making any travel arrangements.

eVisa / Electronic Travel Authorization

India's e-Visa program is available to citizens of more than 160 countries and covers three main categories: Tourist, Business, and Medical. Applications are submitted entirely online through the official Indian e-Visa portal, linked on this page, without the need to visit an embassy or consulate in most cases.

The e-Visa is typically linked electronically to your passport, so no physical sticker or stamp is required prior to travel. You should apply through the official portal only — avoid third-party services that may charge additional fees. For the most current information on eligibility, supported entry points, and any conditions attached to your e-Visa, refer to the official e-Visa portal linked on this page.

Visa on Arrival & Visa-Free Travel

India offers a Visa on Arrival facility for citizens of select nationalities at designated international airports. This program is limited in scope, and not all travelers will qualify. If you believe you may be eligible, confirm your nationality's status and any conditions through the official immigration bureau resources or the Ministry of External Affairs visa services page, both linked on this page, well in advance of travel.

Passport Validity & Entry Rules

Most countries, including India, require that your passport remain valid for a minimum period beyond your intended date of departure. While a general international standard is six months of remaining validity, you should confirm the exact requirement for your nationality through the official links on this page before booking travel.

Ensure your passport has sufficient blank pages for entry and exit stamps, and carry printed or digital copies of your visa approval alongside your travel documents when you arrive.

Passport Services for Citizens

Indian citizens requiring a new passport, renewal, or passport-related services should visit the official Passport Seva portal, linked on this page. Services are managed through a network of Passport Seva Kendras (PSKs) across India. Indian citizens residing abroad can access passport services through the nearest Indian embassy, high commission, or consulate in their country of residence.

Immigration & Customs

Upon arrival in India, all travelers must pass through immigration inspection and present their valid passport, visa or e-Visa approval, and any supporting documentation requested by immigration officers. India's Bureau of Immigration oversees entry and exit processes; their official portal is linked on this page.

Customs regulations govern what you may bring into and take out of India, including rules on currency declaration and restricted goods. Review current customs requirements through the official immigration resources linked on this page before you travel.

Embassies & Consulates

India maintains a broad global diplomatic presence. Our directory includes missions such as the Embassy of India in Abu Dhabi, the Consulate General of India in Dubai, the High Commission of India in Canberra, the High Commission of India in Ottawa, the Embassy of India in Berlin, the Embassy of India in Paris, the High Commission of India in London, and the India Visa & Consular Application Centre (VFS Global) in London. These missions can assist with visa applications, consular services, and emergency assistance for Indian nationals abroad.

Foreign nationals in India can access consular support from their own country's diplomatic mission. Our directory features 8 foreign diplomatic missions based in India. Contact details and appointment procedures are best confirmed directly with the relevant mission.

Emergency Assistance Abroad

Indian citizens who encounter an emergency abroad — including lost or stolen passports, arrest, or a medical crisis — should contact the nearest Indian embassy, high commission, or consulate as their first point of contact. A global directory of Indian missions is available through the Ministry of External Affairs, linked on this page.

Foreign travelers experiencing an emergency within India should contact their own country's embassy or consulate. Always keep a copy of your passport, visa, and emergency contact numbers separate from your original documents when traveling.