How to Get Tourist Visas for India as a Couple
Apply for individual e-visas online at least 4 days before travel - couples cannot apply together but the process is identical for both partners. Each person needs their own passport, photo, and application, costing $25-100 depending on nationality and visa duration.
- Check if you need a visa. Most nationalities need a visa for India. Only Nepal and Bhutan citizens can enter visa-free. Check the official Indian visa website for your specific country requirements.
- Choose your visa type. For tourism, get an e-visa (fastest, 30-365 days) or regular tourist visa (up to 10 years). E-visas work for most travelers and process in 3-5 business days. Regular visas take 1-2 weeks but offer longer validity.
- Gather documents for both partners. Each person needs: passport valid 6 months with 2 blank pages, recent passport photo (2x2 inches, white background), proof of residence, travel itinerary, and accommodation details. Married couples should bring marriage certificate.
- Apply separately online. Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in and complete individual applications. You cannot apply as a couple - each person submits their own form. Pay the fee by credit card ($25-100 depending on nationality).
- Upload required documents. Scan and upload passport bio page and recent photo for each applicant. Photos must meet strict requirements: white background, no glasses, neutral expression. Poor quality photos cause rejections.
- Track and receive visas. Check application status online with your reference number. Download and print approved visas - you need physical copies at Indian immigration. Both partners should carry each other's visa details as backup.
- Can we apply for Indian visas together as a couple?
- No, India requires individual applications even for spouses. Each person must complete their own online form and pay separately, but you can coordinate travel dates.
- What if one partner's visa is approved but the other's is rejected?
- The approved partner can still travel. The rejected partner should reapply with corrected documents or contact the consulate. Common rejection reasons are poor photos or incomplete information.
- Do we need to show proof we're married?
- Not required for tourist visas, but carrying a marriage certificate helps if questioned about traveling together. It's especially useful if you have different surnames or passports from different countries.
- Can we extend our visas once in India?
- E-visas cannot be extended - you must leave and reapply. Regular tourist visas can sometimes be extended through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in major cities.