Can I get a visa on arrival in India?

No. India eliminated visa-on-arrival in 2014. You must have an approved e-Visa or regular visa before boarding your flight.

What if my e-Visa application is rejected?

You can reapply immediately if you fix the error, or apply for a regular visa through an Indian consulate. Common rejection reasons are incomplete forms, poor photo quality, or passport validity issues.

Can I extend my e-Visa while in India?

No. E-Visas cannot be extended. You must exit India before expiry and apply for a new visa if you want to return.

Do I need yellow fever vaccination for an India visa?

Only if you're arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. Most travelers from US, Europe, Australia don't need it.

How to Get Your First Visa for India

Most travelers need an e-Visa, which costs $10-80 depending on duration and takes 2-5 business days to process. Apply online at least a week before travel with a passport photo, passport scan, and completed application.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan don't need visas. Everyone else does. Check the official Indian visa portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in) for your country's requirements.
Choose your visa type. Tourist e-Visa is easiest for most travelers. 30-day costs $10, 1-year costs $40, 5-year costs $80. Business e-Visa costs $80. Medical e-Visa costs $80.
Gather required documents. You need: passport valid for 6+ months with 2 blank pages, recent color photo (2x2 inches, white background), passport bio page scan, proof of return ticket, and hotel booking or invitation letter.
Complete online application. Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in (never third-party sites). Fill out the form completely - any blank fields will cause rejection. Double-check all passport details match exactly.
Pay and submit. Pay with credit/debit card. You'll get an application ID - save this. Processing takes 2-5 business days for e-Visa.
Download and print visa. Check your email for approval. Download the ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) and print 2 copies. Carry both when traveling - one for arrival, one backup.

Can I get a visa on arrival in India?: No. India eliminated visa-on-arrival in 2014. You must have an approved e-Visa or regular visa before boarding your flight.
What if my e-Visa application is rejected?: You can reapply immediately if you fix the error, or apply for a regular visa through an Indian consulate. Common rejection reasons are incomplete forms, poor photo quality, or passport validity issues.
Can I extend my e-Visa while in India?: No. E-Visas cannot be extended. You must exit India before expiry and apply for a new visa if you want to return.
Do I need yellow fever vaccination for an India visa?: Only if you're arriving from a yellow fever endemic country. Most travelers from US, Europe, Australia don't need it.