Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings?

No. Indian immigration requires a business visa for any business-related activities, including meetings, conferences, or site visits. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure travel.

How long can I stay on a business visa?

E-Business Visa allows 60-day stays with multiple entries. Regular business visas can be issued for 6 months to 5 years with varying stay durations per visit, typically 90-180 days.

Do I need an invitation letter from an Indian company?

Yes, always. The invitation must include the Indian company's registration details, purpose of visit, duration, and guarantee of financial responsibility. Self-invitation letters are not accepted.

Can I extend my e-Business Visa while in India?

No. E-Business Visas cannot be extended, converted, or renewed while in India. You must exit the country and apply for a new visa if you need to return.

How to Get a Business Visa for India

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

Check if you qualify for e-Business Visa. Citizens of 169+ countries can apply for e-Business Visa online. Check the official Indian government e-Visa website for your country's eligibility. E-Business Visa allows 60-day stays (multiple entry) and costs $80 USD for most nationalities.
Gather required documents. You need: passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages, recent passport photo (white background, 2x2 inches), business invitation letter from Indian company with their registration details, your company's registration certificate or business license, and bank statements from last 3 months.
Complete the application. For e-Visa: fill out the online form at indianvisaonline.gov.in, upload documents as PDFs, and pay the $80 fee plus service charges. For regular visa: complete Form DS-160 online, print it, and schedule an appointment at the nearest Indian consulate.
Submit and wait for processing. E-Visa applications process in 3-5 business days. You'll receive the visa via email - print 2 copies to carry. Regular visa applications take 7-15 business days and require an in-person appointment or courier submission.
Enter India with proper documentation. Carry printed e-Visa copies, return flight ticket, and business invitation letter. Immigration may ask about your business purpose and duration of stay. E-Business Visa allows multiple entries within its validity period.

Can I use a tourist visa for business meetings?: No. Indian immigration requires a business visa for any business-related activities, including meetings, conferences, or site visits. Tourist visas are strictly for leisure travel.
How long can I stay on a business visa?: E-Business Visa allows 60-day stays with multiple entries. Regular business visas can be issued for 6 months to 5 years with varying stay durations per visit, typically 90-180 days.
Do I need an invitation letter from an Indian company?: Yes, always. The invitation must include the Indian company's registration details, purpose of visit, duration, and guarantee of financial responsibility. Self-invitation letters are not accepted.
Can I extend my e-Business Visa while in India?: No. E-Business Visas cannot be extended, converted, or renewed while in India. You must exit the country and apply for a new visa if you need to return.