Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings?

No. Tourist visas prohibit business activities including meetings, conferences, or trade activities. Always get a business visa for any commercial purpose.

What if I don't have a business invitation letter?

You must have an invitation from a registered Indian company. If attending a conference, the organizer can provide this. For exploring business opportunities, contact the Indian trade office for guidance.

How long can I stay on a business visa?

e-Visa allows up to 180 days per visit within the 1-year validity. Regular business visa stays depend on the specific visa issued but typically allow 90-180 days per visit.

Can I extend my business visa while in India?

Business e-Visas cannot be extended. Regular business visas may be extendable through FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) but approval isn't guaranteed.

How to Get an Indian Business Visa

Apply for an Indian business visa online through the official e-Visa portal or at an Indian consulate. You'll need a business invitation letter from an Indian company, proof of business registration, and supporting documents. Processing takes 3-10 business days for e-Visa, 5-15 days for regular visa.

Choose your visa type. Business e-Visa (up to 1 year, multiple entry, $80) for most business trips. Regular business visa (up to 5 years, $160-200) if you need longer validity or your nationality isn't eligible for e-Visa.
Gather required documents. Business invitation letter from Indian company with their registration details and purpose of visit. Your company's business registration certificate. Bank statements from last 3 months. Passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages. Recent passport photo (white background, 2x2 inches).
Fill out the application. Complete application online at indianvisaonline.gov.in for e-Visa or download form from your nearest Indian consulate. Be precise with dates and business details. Any discrepancies can cause delays.
Pay the fee and submit. Pay online with credit/debit card for e-Visa. For regular visa, pay at consulate (cash or money order, varies by location). Submit documents online for e-Visa or in-person/by mail for regular visa.
Track and receive your visa. Check application status online using reference number. e-Visa arrives by email as PDF - print 2 copies to carry. Regular visa is stamped in passport and returned by mail or pickup.

Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings?: No. Tourist visas prohibit business activities including meetings, conferences, or trade activities. Always get a business visa for any commercial purpose.
What if I don't have a business invitation letter?: You must have an invitation from a registered Indian company. If attending a conference, the organizer can provide this. For exploring business opportunities, contact the Indian trade office for guidance.
How long can I stay on a business visa?: e-Visa allows up to 180 days per visit within the 1-year validity. Regular business visa stays depend on the specific visa issued but typically allow 90-180 days per visit.
Can I extend my business visa while in India?: Business e-Visas cannot be extended. Regular business visas may be extendable through FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) but approval isn't guaranteed.