Can I apply for an Indian business visa if I don't have a company invitation yet?

No. The business invitation letter from an Indian company is mandatory and must be submitted with your application. You cannot apply without it, unlike tourist visas.

How long can I stay in India on a business visa?

Up to 180 days per visit. Most business visas are issued for 1 year with multiple entries allowed, but each individual stay cannot exceed 180 days.

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

No. You must exit India and apply for a business visa from outside the country. Tourist and business visas cannot be converted or extended into each other.

What if my business visa application is rejected?

Visa fees are non-refundable if rejected. Common rejection reasons include insufficient documentation, invalid invitation letters, or previous visa violations. You can reapply after addressing the issues.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for an Indian business visa?

Only if you're traveling from or have transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days of arrival in India. Check CDC yellow fever country list before travel.

How to Get a Business Visa for India

Apply online through the official Indian visa portal at least 4-10 business days before travel. You'll need your passport, business invitation letter, and company registration documents. Most business travelers get a 1-year multiple entry visa that costs $160-280 depending on your nationality.

Gather required documents. You need: passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages, recent passport photo, business invitation letter from Indian company (must include their company registration details and purpose of visit), your company's registration certificate or business license, bank statements from last 3 months, and proof of accommodation in India.
Complete online application. Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in and fill out Form DS-160. Upload your documents as PDFs under 1MB each. Pay the visa fee online ($160 for US citizens, $280 for UK citizens). Print the confirmation page - you'll need it.
Schedule biometrics appointment. Book an appointment at a Visa Application Center (VAC) in your city. Bring printed application, passport, and confirmation page. Biometrics (fingerprints and photo) take 15 minutes. Some locations offer same-day processing for extra fees.
Submit and track application. After biometrics, your application goes to the consulate. Track status online with your reference number. Processing takes 4-10 business days for regular service, 1-3 days for expedited (additional $50-100 fee).
Collect your passport. Pick up from VAC or arrange courier delivery ($15-25). Check visa validity dates and entry conditions immediately. Business visas are typically 1 year multiple entry, allowing 180 days per visit.

Can I apply for an Indian business visa if I don't have a company invitation yet?: No. The business invitation letter from an Indian company is mandatory and must be submitted with your application. You cannot apply without it, unlike tourist visas.
How long can I stay in India on a business visa?: Up to 180 days per visit. Most business visas are issued for 1 year with multiple entries allowed, but each individual stay cannot exceed 180 days.
Can I convert a tourist visa to business visa while in India?: No. You must exit India and apply for a business visa from outside the country. Tourist and business visas cannot be converted or extended into each other.
What if my business visa application is rejected?: Visa fees are non-refundable if rejected. Common rejection reasons include insufficient documentation, invalid invitation letters, or previous visa violations. You can reapply after addressing the issues.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for an Indian business visa?: Only if you're traveling from or have transited through a yellow fever endemic country within 6 days of arrival in India. Check CDC yellow fever country list before travel.