American citizens need an e-Visa before travelling to India for tourism.

• Government fee Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application.
• Processing / card charge Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top.
• Third-party sites Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal.

We deliberately do not publish fee amounts: they differ by visa type and nationality and change often, and a stale number is worse than none. Check the current amount on the official source.

• PassportMust be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India and have at least two blank pages for stamping.
• Digital PhotographRecent front-facing photograph with a white background, no shadows, and specific dimensions (2x2 inches).
• Scanned Passport Bio PageA clear scanned copy of the passport page containing personal details.
• Return or Onward Journey TicketProof of confirmed return or onward travel from India.
• Proof of Sufficient FundsEvidence to cover expenses during the stay in India.
• Accommodation DetailsHotel bookings or address of host in India.

1. 1
   Visit the official Indian e-Visa Application Portal.

   Apply for e-Visa
2. 2
   Fill out the e-Visa application form accurately and completely.
3. 3
   Upload your recent digital photograph and scanned passport bio page according to specifications.
4. 4
   Pay the e-Visa application fee online using a credit/debit card.
5. 5
   Receive your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email, typically within 72 hours.
6. 6
   Print the ETA and carry it with you when traveling to India. Present it to the immigration authorities upon arrival.

• Incomplete or inconsistent application form.

  How to avoid: Double-check all fields for accuracy and ensure consistency between the application and supporting documents.

• Incorrect or blurry uploaded documents (photo, passport scan).

  How to avoid: Ensure all uploaded documents meet the specified requirements for resolution, format, and content. Use a high-quality scanner or camera.

• Passport validity less than six months from the date of arrival.

  How to avoid: Ensure your passport is valid for at least six months beyond your intended date of arrival in India. Renew your passport if necessary before applying.

• Misrepresentation of purpose of visit.

  How to avoid: Clearly state your true purpose of visit. If traveling for business, apply for an e-Business Visa, not an e-Tourist Visa.

• Previous visa violations or overstays in India.

  How to avoid: Always adhere to visa conditions and departure dates. Past violations can negatively impact future applications.

• Insufficient funds to cover expenses during the stay.

  How to avoid: Provide clear proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself throughout your planned trip to India.

• Always carry a physical or digital copy of your e-Visa and passport bio-page during your stay.
• Be mindful of local customs and dress codes, especially when visiting religious sites.
• Stay hydrated and take precautions against heat and mosquitoes, particularly in warmer regions.
• Use reputable transportation services and pre-booked accommodation where possible for safety and convenience.

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

  No, e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible to other visa types while you are in India. You must depart India before your e-Visa expires.

• Can I work or study in India on an e-Tourist Visa?

  No, an e-Tourist Visa is strictly for tourism, recreation, sightseeing, and casual visits. It does not permit any form of employment, business activities (other than those covered by an e-Business visa), or study.

• What should I do if my e-Visa application is rejected?

  If your e-Visa application is rejected, you may apply for a regular visa at an Indian Embassy or Consulate in the United States. Ensure all documents are correct and complete for the regular visa application.

• Is a transit visa required for a layover in India?

  A transit visa is generally not required if you remain within the airport's international transit area and do not pass through immigration. However, if you need to leave the airport or your layover is long, check with the airline or Indian authorities.

• What is the maximum continuous stay for US citizens on a 1-year or 5-year e-Tourist Visa?

  For US citizens, the continuous stay during each visit on a 1-year or 5-year e-Tourist Visa should not exceed 180 days.

• My passport expires in 5 months - can I still apply for India?

  No, your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of your arrival in India to be eligible for an e-Visa. You will need to renew your passport before applying. Ensure your renewed passport has at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.

• I'm traveling next week, is it too late to apply for an e-Visa?

  Applying for an e-Visa at short notice for travel next week might be too late, as processing can take several business days. It is recommended to apply at least 4 days before your travel date. For the most accurate processing times, please check the official Indian e-Visa website.

• I am self-employed, what documents do I need to show for my e-Visa application?

  As a self-employed applicant for an e-Visa, you generally need to provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay. This might include recent bank statements or a letter from your bank. Specific document requirements can vary, so always refer to the official e-Visa portal for the latest guidelines.

• I am traveling to India with my children, do they need their own e-Visas?

  Yes, every traveler, including children, must have their own individual e-Visa to enter India. Each child's application must be completed separately. Ensure all required documents, such as a passport and photo, are submitted for each child.

• If I leave India for a side trip to Nepal, can I re-enter on the same e-Visa?

  Yes, the e-Tourist Visa for American citizens typically allows for multiple entries within its validity period. This means you can leave India for a side trip to a neighboring country like Nepal and re-enter India using the same e-Visa. However, you must ensure your e-Visa is still valid and you adhere to the maximum continuous stay limits.

• How much does an India visa cost for American citizens?

  You pay online when you apply. The total is usually the government e-Visa fee plus any card or processing charge. Government fee: Set by the destination and charged when you submit the e-Visa application. Processing / card charge: Some official portals add a small payment-handling charge on top. Third-party sites: Unofficial sites charge far more for the same application — always apply on the official portal. Fees change regularly, so confirm the current amount on the official source linked on this page before you apply.

• Do I need a separate visa for Taj Mahal, Agra, or does this cover all of India?

  You do not need a separate visa for any individual city. Entry rules are set nationally, not city by city, so a India visa is valid for the whole country — including Taj Mahal, Agra, Jaipur, Goa and Kerala. Apply once for India and you can travel anywhere inside it, up to the permitted length of stay.