USA to India Visa

Getting an E-visa online is the most convenient and viable option. It is a safe, secure, trusted, and preferred method for getting a visa for India digitally without the need to visit a Visa Application Center. But what exactly is an Indian E-visa in this blog we will learn about an E-visa, the types of E-visa, the application process, etc.

What is an Indian E-visa?

Indian E-visa stands for Electronic travel authorization which allows foreigners to visit India for different purposes like sightseeing, casual visits, meeting friends who are citizens of India, meeting family, business activities, medical treatments that include Indian systems of medicine, etc. The Indian e-visa can be easily acquired online and is available for citizens from around 170 countries with specific terms and conditions customized according to their travel objectives.

Getting an E-visa online is the most convenient and viable option. It is a safe, secure, trusted, and preferred method for getting a visa for India digitally without the need to visit a Visa Application Center. For an Indian Electronic visa procedure online you have to ask and answer a lot of questions. An additional benefit to this is that the traveler does not have to visit any local Indian Embassy/ Consulate or any other High Commission to access an Indian visa as they can do it online.

With the help of an eTA, an individual can travel to any country without physically stamping their passport. This new authorization strategy is named as an eVisa India (Indian Visa Online)

Benefits and Eligibility of Indian Visa

You might need an India visa for multiple reasons like tourism, sightseeing, or to visit friends and relatives. You can apply for an Indian visa online only if you meet the eligibility criteria. Although a person needs to provide some proof to get an Indian visa, there are several benefits of having an Indian visa.

➜ Benefits of an Indian Visa

There are several benefits to holding an Indian visa such as:

• Even if your passport expires, an India visa allows you to enter India multiple times with the same visa.
• You may get through customs faster when you come to India if you get an electronic visa.
• An India visa sticker has security features in it. Such as a chemical-sensitive paper, an Ashoka chakra in the background, and micro lettering.
• An e-visa is easier to apply for than a regular visa. You can apply online from anywhere and the processing time is usually quick. Also, you don’t need to keep waiting at the airport after arriving in India.
• Foreign investors with a business visa may get Pemrnanet Residency Status (PSR) if they fulfill certain criteria. A PSR is valid for 10 years and can be extended for another 10 years.

➜ Eligibility of Indian Visa

You need to meet certain criteria to be eligible for an India visa. Here are the eligibility requirements for an India visa:

• You must be visiting for 60 days or less.
• Must have enough funds to spend during your stay.
• You must not be considered as an undesirable person.
• Must not be a persona non grata to the Government of India
• You must have a valid passport with at least six months of validity.

From Where Can I Enter India With an E-Visa?

Any E-visa holder can enter India through the following designated international airports and seaports.

Ahmedabad	Bagdogra	Bangalore	Calicut	Chandigarh
Chennai	Coimbatore	Cochin	Delhi	Goa
Gaya	Goa	Guwahati	Hyderabad	Jaipur
Kolkata	Lucknow	Mangalore	Mumbai	Nagpur
Pune	Trichy	Trivandrum	Varanasi	Visakhapatnam

For cruise tourists, e-visa entry is permitted through major Indian seaports including Chennai, Cochin, Mormugao, Mumbai, and New Mangalore.

When it’s time for you to depart India, e-visa holders can exit from any authorized Immigration check post located across the country. Keep in mind that entry is restricted to specific airports and seaports, so plan your journey accordingly.

If you’re also considering traveling to the UK, you might find our Complete Guide to Securing Your UK Visa from the USA helpful, as it provides step-by-step instructions for obtaining a UK visa alongside your plans for India.

Types of an Indian E-visa?

There are several types of India visas such as:

➜ E-Tourist Visa - An E-tourist visa is a popular choice among leisure travelers and permits short-term stays. It is ideal for tourists exploring India&rsquo's rich culture, history, and natural beauty.

➜ E-Business Visa - It eases and simplifies the process for business-related visas. It is tailored for business professionals who want to attend meetings and conferences or who want to inspect investment opportunities in India.

➜ E-Conference Visa - The E-Conference Visa is designed for those people who are attending any conferences, workshops, or seminars in India. This visa makes it easier for them to take part in international events that are being hosted in the country.

➜ E-Medical Visa - This visa provides more attainable access to medical treatments in India. It is crafted for those who are searching for specialized medical care and procedures. This E-visa India makes the process easier for the patients and their companies.

➜ E-Medical Attendant Visa - This India visa ensures that the patients receive the support they need during their medical journey. It allows parents or any attendant to be with the patient who is receiving medical treatment in India.

➜ E-Emergency X-Misc Visa - This visa helps during unforeseen situations like medical emergencies or urgent visits to India for any purpose that is not covered in other categories and it is only available to Afghan Citizens and is reserved for some unexpected or instant circumstances.

Validity of Different Types of Indian E-visa

The validity of each India visa online will vary depending on the Indian e-visa you apply for. Here is the list of the length of validity depending on the type of e-visa:

Type of India E-Visa	Duration	Number of Entries
E-Tourist Visa	One month	Double Entry
	One year from the date of permit of ETA	Multiple Entry
	Five years from the date of grant of ETA	Multiple Entry
E-Business Visa	One year from the date of permit of ETA	Multiple Entry
E-Conference Visa	Thirty days from the date of arrival in India	Single Entry
E-Medical Visa	Sixty days from the date of arrival in India	Triple Entry
E-Medical Attendant Visa	Sixty days from the date of arrival in India	Triple Entry
E-Emergency X-Misc Visa	Six Months	Single Entry

Indian Visa Application Process

Follow these steps to complete the application process for an Indian visa:

Step 1. Finish the Indian Visa Application Process

The first step in the application process is to navigate to the official Indian Visa website and fill out the application form. Give relevant details, Passport Information, and all the necessary information. Recheck all the information and verify all things the visa application requires and then submit it further to avoid any kind of delay or rejection.

Step 2. Handle the Payment

After submitting the application form go ahead to the payment section. You can pay the fees in 132 different currencies according to your convenience. The Indian visa fees will vary depending on the nationality and the Type of Visa you are applying for. Select a payment method that suits you best such as Credit or Debit cards or a PayPal account. Ensure that you receive a receipt for payment after paying the fees.

Step 3. Upload the Documents

Once you complete the payment online successfully you will then receive a confirmation mail along with a link requesting you to upload the additional documents. Depending on the type of visa you will have to upload some required documents such as passport-sized photos, proof of residence, copies of previous Indian visas, etc. Ensure that every document is uploaded according to the specific requirements.

Step 4. Patiently Wait for Your E Visa India Approval e-visa India

Generally, the processing time for e-visa in India ranges from one to four days. You should keep checking your email to get updates about the status of your visa. If it gets approved you will receive your e-visa India in PDF format through mail.

Step 5. Get ETA Online

You will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) online after your visa has been approved. You must keep it safe because It will confirm your eligibility to travel to India.

Step 6. Print A Physical Copy

Getting your ETA printed to keep a physical copy is highly advised. You may have to present a hard copy of your ETA throughout various stages during your journey including check-in at the airport.

Step 7. Prepare For The Journey

Pack your bags and fulfill your dreams of traveling to India with your approved ETA and important travel documents. Make sure to carry both physical and digital copies of your ETA along with all the other relevant documents for reference and verification purposes.

Step 8. Register with the FRRO

If your stay exceeds a specific duration which is usually 180 days due to any specific reason then you may have to register with the Foreign Regional Registration Office(FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO).

How To Check The Application Status Of An Indian Visa From USA

Follow these steps to track the status of your Indian visa application from the USA:

Step 1. Navigate To The VFS Global Website - VFS Global is the outsourcing partner for the Indian Consulates in the USA for visa applications. You can use the tracking system of VFS Global to track the status of your Indian visa application.

Visit the VFS Global Indian Visa tracking page

Step 2. Provide Some Required Details - When you click on the link, you need to enter your VFS Global application reference number. You will get the ARN when you submit your visa application to V FS Global online. You will get the number via email or it will be mentioned on your VFS receipt. Also, provide your birth date.

After entering all the required details, click on the “Track” or “Submit” option to check the status of your application.

Step 3. Track The Application Status - The status of your application will now be displayed on the screen, It could be any one of the following:

• Under Processing: Your application is still under processing.
• Approved: A decision has been made on your visa and it is ready to be dispatched.
• Rejected: Your application has been rejected due to some mistakes. In such a case, you will be instructed on how to reapply or appeal.
• Ready For Pickup: Your visa is ready to be collected. (if you chose to collect your visa in person at the VFS center)

If you have not received any update yet, make sure to check your mail including the spam folder for notifications from VFS Global or Indian Consulate.

Step 4. Check Delivery Status Via Courier Service - If your visa gets approved and dispatched, you will receive a tracking number for tracking delivery status for the courier service that is handling the delivery of your passport and visa. It includes FedEx, DHL, and USPS. Use that tracking number on the courier’s website to track the delivery status of your passport and visa.

Step 5. Track Status Via The Indian Visa Online Portal (if applicable) - If you applied for your visa on the Indian government's e-visa portal or directly through the Indian Consulate in the USA. you can track the status through the Indian Visa online portal by entering your application reference number.

Step 6. Contact The Indian Consulate or VFS Global (if necessary) - If you cannot track the status or if the tracking system is not showing any updates on your application, you can contact VFS Global or the Indian Consulate where you have submitted your visa application. Below is the information to contact:

➜ VFS Global Contact Information (USA):

• Phone: +1 800-919-4331 (USA)
• Email: info.ind@vfshelpline.com

Indian Consulate Contact Information (depending on your jurisdiction):

➜ Indian Consulate in New York:

• Phone: +1 212-774-0600 (Consular Section)
• Email: consular.newyork@mea.gov.in

➜ Indian Consulate in San Francisco:

• Phone: +1 415-668-0683 (Consular Section)
• Email: consular.sanfrancisco@mea.gov.in

➜ Indian Consulate in Chicago:

• Phone: +1 312-595-0405 (Consular Section)
• Email: consular.chicago@mea.gov.in

➜ Indian Consulate in Houston:

• Phone: +1 713-626-2148 (Consular Section)
• Email: consular.houston@mea.gov.in

➜ Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C.:

• Phone: +1 202-340-1982 (Consular Section)
• Email: consular@indiandc.org

Step 7. Check Email Notifications - Once your application is processed, you will get a notification mail from VFS Global or the Indian Consulate about the status of your visa. Ensure to keep checking your inbox and spam folders regularly.

The notifications will notify you when your visa has been dispatched for delivery or when it is ready for pickup.

Alternatively, you can visit the Visament’s track status portal to track the status of your visa application swiftly. We have an easy and customer-friendly process.

What Documents Are Required For an E-visa India?

You will have to submit some essential Indian visa documents depending on the type of visa you are applying for. From your passport to an immigration document you have to provide everything. You must always verify the checklist to make sure that you do not miss out on any document. Here is a list of documents that you need to provide for your e-visa India application:

• Passport-Sized Photographs: Provide any relevant passport-sized photographs which are taken not more than three months ago that measure 2*2 inches in size.
• Valid Passport: You must provide a passport that has a minimum validity of six months beyond your planned exit date from India. It should have at least two blank pages for the endorsements and visa stamps.
• Old Indian Visas: Add copies of any previous Indian visa that you have had no matter if they are expired.
• Proof Of Income: Gather your financial documents like bank statements, pay slips, employment letters, proof of employment, income tax returns, or any other relevant financial proof. This is to verify your financial capability while you stay in India.
• Proof of Residence: You must submit a copy of your national identity card from your home country to provide proof of your residency. It should show your name, photographs, and all the relevant personal information. Also, make sure to provide a recent utility bill that is not older than six months to provide more evidence about your current residence.
• Air Ticket: Add a copy of your air ticket for both the arrival and departure.

You May Also Like to Read: US to Canada Visa

What is the Processing Time for an E-visa in India?

The e-visa India processing time varies depending on several factors such as the type of visa, your nationality, etc. It typically takes 1 to 3 working days to process travel visas E-tourist visas and e-business visas. For an e-conference visa, the time will vary depending on the particular event so applying in advance would be a smart move. E-medical and e-medical attendant visas have a shorter processing time generally 2 to 4 business days.

If you have any urgency then the Indian authorities may speed up the processing time of e-emergency X-Misc visas. However, it is important to look at the latest processing times and requirements before applying on the official Indian government website or the Indian embassy or consulate in your country.

How Much Will An India E-Visa Cost Me?

Just like the processing time the Indian visa fees will also vary depending on the e-visa you choose and your nationality. The Indian government decides the fees for e-visas for nationals of different countries, which may sometimes differ.

To know the exact cost of any e-visa India or an India to USA Visa you can visit the official website of the Indian embassy or consulate of your country or the Indian e-visa website.

Can I Exceed The Validity of My Indian E-visa?

No, you can not extend your Indian e-visa as they are non-extendable. Extensions are not available for e-visas so you will have to depart from the country and apply for a new visa if you intend to stay longer. However, you should know that e-medical visas may get a grant for an extension for up to 6 months depending on the case and its merits. For that one must connect with the concerned Foreign Regional Registration Office( FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Office (FRO). You can also contact visament for fast Visa Renewal Services.

Is It Possible To Convert My Indian E-visa To Any Other Visa?

E-visas are generally non-convertible to any other visa category but it has some exceptions. One exception is the possibility of conversion if any foreign national who holds an e-visa gets married to an Indian national, person of Indian origin (PIO), or an OCI cardholder during the validity of their visa.

In such situations, their e-visas can be converted into entry visas by a concerned Indian authority. Keep in mind that these conversions are subject to approval and specific conditions. Contact the relevant Indian authorities to get more information.

Who Can Apply For an Indian E-Visa?

If you are a citizen of any of these below-mentioned countries then you are eligible to apply for an Indian E-visa:

Albania	Andorra	Angola	Antigua and Barbuda	Argentina
Armenia	Aruba	Australia	Austria	Azerbaijan
Bahamas	Barbados	Belarus	Belgium	Benin
Bolivia	Bosnia and Herzegovina	Brazil	Brunei Darussalam	Bulgaria
Cabo Verde	Cambodia	Canada	Chile	Colombia
Comoros	Cook Islands	Costa Rica	Croatia	Cuba
Cyprus	Czech Republic	Denmark	Dominica	Dominican Republic
Djibouti	Ecuador	El Salvador	Equatorial Guinea	Estonia
Fiji	Finland	France	Gabon	Gambia
Georgia	Ghana	Greece	Grenada	Guatemala
Haiti	Honduras	Hungary	Iceland	India
Indonesia	Israel	Italy	Ivory Coast	Jamaica
Japan	Jordan	Kenya	Kiribati	Kosovo
Latvia	Laos	Lebanon	Liberia	Lesotho
Lithuania	Luxembourg	Madagascar	Malaysia	Malta
Mexico	Moldova	Monaco	Mongolia	Montenegro
Morocco	Mozambique	Myanmar	Namibia	Netherlands
New Zealand	Nicaragua	Niger	Nigeria	Oman
Panama	Paraguay	Peru	Philippines	Poland
Portugal	Romania	Rwanda	Saint Lucia	Saint Kitts and Nevis
Samoa	Senegal	Serbia	Seychelles	Singapore
Slovakia	Slovenia	Solomon Islands	South Africa	South Korea
Spain	Sri Lanka	Sudan	Suriname	Sweden
Switzerland	Syria	Taiwan	Tanzania	Thailand
Trinidad and Tobago	Tunisia	Turkey	Uganda	Ukraine
United Arab Emirates	United Kingdom	United States	Uruguay	Vanuatu
Venezuela	Vietnam	Yemen	Zambia	Zimbabwe