Can I convert a tourist visa to business visa while in India?

No, you cannot convert visa types within India. You must exit the country and apply for a business visa from outside India.

What's the difference between e-Business visa and regular business visa?

E-Business visa is faster (3-5 days) but limited to 180 days single entry. Regular consulate business visa takes longer (7-15 days) but offers multiple entries and longer validity up to 10 years.

Do I need the invitation letter before applying?

Yes, the invitation letter from an Indian company is mandatory for business visa applications. You cannot apply without it.

Can I attend conferences on a business visa?

Yes, business visas cover conferences, trade shows, business meetings, and commercial activities. This is the correct visa type for business events.

What if my passport has less than 6 months validity?

India requires 6+ months passport validity. Renew your passport before applying for the visa, as applications with shorter validity will be rejected.

How to Get a Business Visa for India

Apply online through the Indian government's e-Visa portal or at an Indian consulate. You'll need an invitation letter from an Indian company, proof of business registration, and a valid passport with 6+ months validity. Processing takes 3-5 business days for e-Visa or 7-15 days for consulate applications.

Get your invitation letter. Contact your Indian business partner to provide an official invitation letter on company letterhead. Must include your full name as in passport, purpose of visit, duration, dates, and inviting company's registration details.
Gather required documents. Collect passport (valid 6+ months), recent passport photo, proof of your company registration, bank statements from last 3 months, return flight booking, and the invitation letter.
Choose application method. For stays under 180 days, use the e-Visa portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in. For longer stays or multiple entries, apply at an Indian consulate or authorized visa center.
Complete the application. Fill out the online form completely. Upload clear scanned copies of all documents. Double-check passport number and dates match exactly.
Pay visa fee. Pay online using credit/debit card. US citizens pay $80 for e-Business visa. Fees vary by nationality and visa type.
Submit and track. Submit application and save your reference number. Check status online using the tracking system. You'll receive visa approval via email.

Can I convert a tourist visa to business visa while in India?: No, you cannot convert visa types within India. You must exit the country and apply for a business visa from outside India.
What's the difference between e-Business visa and regular business visa?: E-Business visa is faster (3-5 days) but limited to 180 days single entry. Regular consulate business visa takes longer (7-15 days) but offers multiple entries and longer validity up to 10 years.
Do I need the invitation letter before applying?: Yes, the invitation letter from an Indian company is mandatory for business visa applications. You cannot apply without it.
Can I attend conferences on a business visa?: Yes, business visas cover conferences, trade shows, business meetings, and commercial activities. This is the correct visa type for business events.
What if my passport has less than 6 months validity?: India requires 6+ months passport validity. Renew your passport before applying for the visa, as applications with shorter validity will be rejected.