India e-Visa Guide 2026: How to Apply Without the Stress

For most tourists, entering India means an e-Visa — applied for entirely online, no embassy visit needed. This guide walks through eligibility, the application, costs and the mistakes that trip travellers up.

Always apply through the official government portal: indianvisaonline.gov.in. Dozens of look-alike sites charge huge markups — this guide is general information, not a substitute for the official rules.

Who can use the e-Visa?

Citizens of over 160 countries are eligible for the Indian e-Visa, including the UK, US, Canada, Australia, and most of the EU. It's issued for tourism, business, medical and conference purposes.

Types of tourist e-Visa

Fees vary by nationality and season, and are usually lowest for the 30-day option. Check current pricing on the official portal when you apply.

How to apply — step by step

1. Apply 4–7 days before travel (and no more than 30 days before, for the short visa).
2. Fill the online form with your passport details.
3. Upload a passport-style photo and the photo page of your passport.
4. Pay the fee by card.
5. Receive your ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) by email — usually within 72 hours.
6. Print it and carry it; immigration stamps the actual visa on arrival.

Requirements checklist

• Passport valid for at least 6 months with two blank pages.
• A recent digital passport photo (white background).
• A return or onward ticket.
• Proof of sufficient funds may be requested.

Common mistakes to avoid

• Using an unofficial site — they overcharge and sometimes fail to file.
• Photo rejections — follow the size and background rules exactly.
• Applying too early for the 30-day visa (the clock can start wrong).
• Wrong arrival airport — e-Visa entry is only via designated airports and seaports.