Can I get a visa on arrival in India?

No, India discontinued visa on arrival for most countries. You must get an e-Visa before traveling or apply at an Indian consulate.

What if my visa application is rejected?

You lose the fee and must reapply with correct documents. Common rejections happen due to poor photo quality or incomplete forms. Check requirements carefully before applying.

Do I need a visa for connecting flights through India?

If you're staying in the international transit area for under 24 hours, no visa needed. If you want to leave the airport or stay longer, you need a transit visa.

Can luxury travel agents handle visa applications?

Many high-end travel agencies and hotel concierges can assist with visa applications for a fee ($50-200). They handle paperwork but you still provide the documents and photos.

How to Get a Visa for Luxury Travel to India

Most travelers need an e-Visa ($25-80) applied for online 4-120 days before arrival, with luxury travelers often choosing the 5-year multiple entry option ($80). Processing takes 3-5 business days, and you'll need a passport with 6+ months validity, recent photo, and return flight details.

Check if you need a visa. Citizens of most countries need a visa for India. Only Nepal and Bhutan nationals can enter visa-free. Check the official Indian visa website or your embassy for current requirements.
Choose your visa type. For luxury travel, the e-Tourist Visa is usually best. Pick 30-day single entry ($25), 1-year multiple entry ($40), or 5-year multiple entry ($80). Luxury travelers often choose the 5-year option for flexibility.
Gather required documents. You need: passport with 6+ months validity and 2 blank pages, recent color photo (2x2 inches, white background), confirmed return flight ticket, and hotel reservation or invitation letter.
Apply online. Go to indianvisaonline.gov.in (the official site). Fill out the application completely - incomplete forms are rejected. Upload your photo and passport scan. Pay the visa fee plus $3 processing fee.
Wait for processing. Standard processing is 3-5 business days. Rush processing (24-72 hours) costs extra $20-50. You'll receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email.
Print your ETA. Print the ETA and carry it with your passport. Immigration officers at airports will verify this document. Also save a digital copy on your phone as backup.

Can I get a visa on arrival in India?: No, India discontinued visa on arrival for most countries. You must get an e-Visa before traveling or apply at an Indian consulate.
What if my visa application is rejected?: You lose the fee and must reapply with correct documents. Common rejections happen due to poor photo quality or incomplete forms. Check requirements carefully before applying.
Do I need a visa for connecting flights through India?: If you're staying in the international transit area for under 24 hours, no visa needed. If you want to leave the airport or stay longer, you need a transit visa.
Can luxury travel agents handle visa applications?: Many high-end travel agencies and hotel concierges can assist with visa applications for a fee ($50-200). They handle paperwork but you still provide the documents and photos.