How to Get an Indian Visa for Family Travel

Most families need an e-Tourist Visa for India, which costs $10-80 per person depending on nationality and allows 30-90 day stays. Apply online 4-120 days before travel with passport scans, photos, and family details. Children need separate applications even if traveling on parent's passport.

  1. Check visa requirements for each family member. Visit the official Indian e-Visa portal and check requirements by nationality. US, UK, Canadian, and most European citizens can use e-Tourist Visa. Each person needs a separate application, including infants. Children under 18 traveling with parents still need their own visa.
  2. Gather documents for all travelers. You need: passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages, recent passport photo (white background, 2x2 inches), proof of accommodation (hotel booking or invitation letter if staying with family), return flight tickets, and birth certificates for children under 18.
  3. Complete online applications. Fill out separate e-Visa applications for each family member at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Upload passport scan, photo, and supporting documents. Double-check all names match passports exactly. Processing takes 3-5 business days but can take longer during peak season.
  4. Pay fees and print approvals. Pay by credit card ($10 for most nationalities, $25-80 for others). Print the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) for each person. Carry printed copies to the airport - digital versions may not be accepted by all airlines.
  5. Prepare for arrival. Arrive at designated airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, or others listed on your ETA). Have printed ETA, passport, and return tickets ready. Immigration will take biometrics and photo. Keep ETA copy throughout your stay.
Do children need separate visa applications?
Yes, every person including infants needs their own e-Visa application and fee, even if traveling on parent's passport. Children under 18 must provide birth certificates.
Can we apply for longer stays for family visits?
Tourist visas max out at 90 days for most nationalities. For longer family visits, consider applying for an e-Conference/e-Business visa or traditional paper visa through the consulate.
What if we have different nationalities in our family?
Each family member applies based on their own passport nationality. Fees and validity periods may differ. Check requirements individually for each passport holder.
Can we enter India at any airport?
No, e-Tourist Visas are only valid for specific designated airports. Check your ETA for the complete list - major cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bangalore are included but not all Indian airports.