Can I get a visa on arrival in India?

Visa on arrival is only available to citizens of Japan, South Korea, and UAE at specific airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad). All other nationalities must obtain visa in advance.

What's the difference between e-Tourist and regular tourist visas?

E-Tourist Visas cost less ($25-80), process faster (72 hours), but limit you to 90 days and 2 entries per year. Regular tourist visas cost more ($100-190) but offer longer stays, multiple entries, and extension possibilities.

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

No. E-Tourist Visas cannot be extended under any circumstances. You must leave India and apply for a new visa if you want to return.

Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through India?

Yes, unless you're staying in the international transit area and continuing within 24 hours on the same airline. If you want to leave the airport or stay overnight, you need a transit visa or tourist visa.

How to Get a Visa for Luxury Travel to India

Most travelers need an e-Tourist Visa ($25-80) or regular tourist visa ($100-190) for India, with luxury travelers often preferring the 5-year multiple entry option for frequent visits. Apply 4-120 days before travel through the official government portal or VFS Global, ensuring your passport has 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.

Determine your visa type. Choose e-Tourist Visa for stays up to 90 days ($25-80 depending on nationality) or regular tourist visa for longer stays or multiple entries. Luxury travelers often prefer the 5-year multiple entry visa ($100-190) for flexibility with spontaneous trips.
Check passport requirements. Ensure your passport has at least 6 months validity from entry date and minimum 2 blank pages. Indian authorities are strict about this - they will deny boarding if requirements aren't met.
Gather required documents. Prepare passport scan, recent photo (2x2 inches, white background), proof of funds ($50+ per day), return flight tickets, and hotel confirmations or invitation letter. Luxury hotel bookings often streamline this process.
Apply through official channels. For e-Tourist Visa, use indianvisaonline.gov.in. For regular visas, apply through VFS Global or Indian consulates. Avoid third-party sites charging premium fees - they use the same system.
Pay and submit application. Pay visa fee online (credit/debit cards accepted) and submit application. E-Tourist Visas are processed within 72 hours, regular visas take 5-10 business days.
Track and collect visa. Monitor application status through the portal. E-Tourist Visas are emailed as PDFs - print and carry the document. Regular visas are returned via VFS Global or must be collected from consulates.

Can I get a visa on arrival in India?: Visa on arrival is only available to citizens of Japan, South Korea, and UAE at specific airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Kolkata, Bengaluru, Hyderabad). All other nationalities must obtain visa in advance.
What's the difference between e-Tourist and regular tourist visas?: E-Tourist Visas cost less ($25-80), process faster (72 hours), but limit you to 90 days and 2 entries per year. Regular tourist visas cost more ($100-190) but offer longer stays, multiple entries, and extension possibilities.
Can I extend my e-Tourist Visa while in India?: No. E-Tourist Visas cannot be extended under any circumstances. You must leave India and apply for a new visa if you want to return.
Do I need a visa if I'm just transiting through India?: Yes, unless you're staying in the international transit area and continuing within 24 hours on the same airline. If you want to leave the airport or stay overnight, you need a transit visa or tourist visa.