India e-Visa for U.S. Citizens — Complete Online Application Guide

This page is dedicated exclusively to U.S. passport holders applying for an India e-Visa. Learn how to apply online, required documents, eligibility, and visa validity — everything you need in one place.

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Why U.S. Citizens Need an India e-Visa

All U.S. citizens traveling to India for tourism, business, or medical purposes must obtain an approved e-Visa prior to arrival. The e-Visa system allows American travelers to complete the entire visa process online — without visiting an embassy or consulate.

Documents & Requirements for U.S. Citizens

Before you begin your application, gather the following mandatory documents to prevent delays or rejections.

Mandatory Documents

  • Valid U.S. passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.
  • Recent passport-style photo (white background) in JPEG format — unedited.
  • Scanned copy of passport bio page in PDF or high-resolution image.
  • Active email address to receive the e-Visa and correspondence.
  • Valid payment method (credit/debit card or PayPal).

Additional Documents (By Visa Type)

  • Tourist: Itinerary or hotel booking (optional but helpful).
  • Business: Invitation letter from an Indian company, contact details, and business card.
  • Medical: Hospital appointment letter, treatment plan, and contact details of the provider.

Available Indian e-Visa Types for U.S. Citizens

Tourist e-Visa

For leisure, sightseeing, and visiting family/friends. Options include 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year durations with single or multiple entries depending on the selection.

Business e-Visa

For business meetings, trade, conferences, and company visits. Typically valid up to 1 year with multiple entries.

Medical e-Visa

For medical treatment in recognized hospitals. Allows up to 3 entries and usually valid for 60 days from arrival.

India Tourist e-Visa for U.S. Citizens

The India Tourist e-Visa allows U.S. citizens to visit India for tourism, family visits, cultural events, or short yoga retreats. It’s a convenient, paperless visa issued electronically and linked directly to your passport. Once approved, travelers can explore India’s historic landmarks, beaches, and diverse culture without visiting the embassy.

Types & Validity

Documents Required

Application Process

  1. Complete the online form at Online Visa.
  2. Upload the required documents and photograph.
  3. Pay the e-Visa fee securely online.
  4. Receive your approved e-Visa via email within 2–3 business days.
  5. Print and carry the e-Visa during travel to India.

Entry Points for Tourist e-Visa

U.S. travelers can enter India using a Tourist e-Visa through 29 airports and 5 seaports authorized for e-Visa entry. Major airports include Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata.

India Business e-Visa for U.S. Citizens

The India Business e-Visa allows U.S. citizens to visit India for business meetings, trade fairs, establishing partnerships, or conducting business ventures. It simplifies the process for entrepreneurs and executives traveling to India for commercial purposes.

Validity & Stay Duration

The Business e-Visa is valid for 1 year with multiple entries, and each stay can be up to 180 days per visit.

Required Documents

Who Can Apply

U.S. citizens attending conferences, participating in trade exhibitions, or exploring business opportunities in India are eligible.

India Medical e-Visa for U.S. Citizens

The Medical e-Visa enables U.S. citizens to travel to India for medical treatment at recognized and specialized hospitals. India is a global leader in affordable, high-quality healthcare, and the e-Visa ensures a fast-track entry process for patients.

Key Details

Documents Required

Step-by-Step India e-Visa Application for U.S. Citizens

Follow these steps to complete your application accurately and quickly.

1. Fill Application

Complete the online form with personal, passport and travel details. Ensure all names match your passport exactly.

2. Upload Documents

Upload valid passport scan and photo. Check file format and clarity to avoid rejection.

3. Pay & Receive e-Visa

Pay fees online and receive confirmation. Approved e-Visa will be emailed — print and carry it along with your passport.

Processing typically takes 48–72 hours but times can vary. Apply at least 5–7 days before departure for safety.

Eligible Countries for Indian e-Visa (160 Countries)

While this site focuses on U.S. citizens, the e-Visa program is available to citizens from over 160 countries. Below is the full list for reference.

Afghanistan, Albania, Algeria, Andorra, Angola, Antigua & Barbuda, Argentina, Armenia, Australia, Austria, Azerbaijan, Bahamas, Bahrain, Barbados, Belarus, Belgium, Belize, Benin, Bhutan, Bolivia, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Botswana, Brazil, Brunei, Bulgaria, Burkina Faso, Cambodia, Cameroon, Canada, Cape Verde, Chile, China, Colombia, Comoros, Costa Rica, Croatia, Cuba, Cyprus, Czech Republic, Denmark, Djibouti, Dominica, Dominican Republic, Ecuador, Egypt, El Salvador, Estonia, Fiji, Finland, France, Gabon, Gambia, Georgia, Germany, Ghana, Greece, Grenada, Guatemala, Guyana, Haiti, Honduras, Hungary, Iceland, Indonesia, Iran, Ireland, Israel, Italy, Jamaica, Japan, Jordan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Kiribati, Kuwait, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Latvia, Lebanon, Lesotho, Liberia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Madagascar, Malawi, Malaysia, Maldives, Mali, Malta, Marshall Islands, Mauritania, Mauritius, Mexico, Micronesia, Moldova, Monaco, Mongolia, Montenegro, Morocco, Mozambique, Myanmar, Namibia, Nauru, Netherlands, New Zealand, Nicaragua, Niger, Nigeria, North Macedonia, Norway, Oman, Palau, Palestine, Panama, Papua New Guinea, Paraguay, Peru, Philippines, Poland, Portugal, Qatar, Romania, Russia, Rwanda, Saint Kitts & Nevis, Saint Lucia, Saint Vincent & Grenadines, Samoa, San Marino, Saudi Arabia, Senegal, Serbia, Seychelles, Sierra Leone, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, Solomon Islands, South Africa, South Korea, Spain, Sri Lanka, Suriname, Sweden, Switzerland, Taiwan, Tajikistan, Tanzania, Thailand, Togo, Tonga, Trinidad & Tobago, Tunisia, Turkey, Tuvalu, Uganda, Ukraine, United Arab Emirates, United Kingdom, United States of America, Uruguay, Uzbekistan, Vanuatu, Vatican City, Venezuela, Vietnam, Zambia, Zimbabwe.

Comprehensive Guide & Extra Information for U.S. Passport Holders

Travel Tips for U.S. Citizens Visiting India

  • Keep a printed and digital copy of your e-Visa and passport at all times.
  • Purchase travel/medical insurance covering international care.
  • Prefer bottled water and avoid uncooked street food if you have a sensitive stomach.
  • Use trusted transportation (prepaid taxis, official rideshare apps).
  • Register with the U.S. State Department "Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)" for safety alerts.

Common Reasons for e-Visa Rejection (and How to Avoid Them)

  • Blurry, old, or incorrect passport photo — provide a recent, clear image.
  • Incomplete or inconsistent information (names/dates not matching passport).
  • Uploading a cropped or low-resolution passport scan.
  • Applying with an expired passport or insufficient validity.
  • Using unsupported file formats — follow upload instructions carefully.

Approval Tips

  • Double-check all names, passport numbers, and dates before submitting.
  • Ensure photos meet the specified dimensions, background, and quality.
  • Keep copies of payment confirmations and application reference numbers.
  • Respond promptly to any requests for additional information.

India Entry & Exit Guidelines for U.S. Citizens

  • Carry a printed copy of your approved e-Visa and present it to immigration along with your passport.
  • Retain exit/entry stamps; do not overstay your authorized period.
  • Declare any goods or high-value items if required by customs regulations.
  • Be aware of currency import/export rules; carrying large sums of cash may require declaration.

Quick Facts About India for American Travelers

Time Zone:

Indian Standard Time (IST) — UTC +5:30. No daylight savings.

Currency:

Indian Rupee (INR). Major cards accepted in cities; keep cash for local markets.

Emergency:

Dial 112 for general emergencies. 100 for police, 102 for ambulance/medical.

Frequently Asked Questions (India e-Visa for U.S. Citizens)

1. Can U.S. citizens apply for an Indian e-Visa online?

Yes. U.S. citizens can apply online for the India e-Visa through official government-authorized websites like eVisaIndians.com.

2. How long does it take to get an Indian e-Visa approved?

The approval process usually takes 2–3 business days after successful submission, excluding weekends and holidays.

3. What types of Indian e-Visas are available for U.S. citizens?

Tourist, Business, Medical, and Conference e-Visas are available for U.S. citizens depending on the travel purpose.

4. What documents are required for U.S. citizens applying for an Indian e-Visa?

You need a valid U.S. passport, recent photograph, passport bio-page scan, and payment method. Additional documents may apply for Business or Medical visas.

5. How long is the Indian e-Visa valid for U.S. passport holders?

The Tourist e-Visa is valid for 1 year (multiple entries), Business e-Visa up to 1 year, and Medical e-Visa up to 60 days.

6. Can U.S. citizens get a Visa on Arrival in India?

No, Visa on Arrival is not available for U.S. citizens. You must apply for an e-Visa before traveling to India.

7. Can the Indian e-Visa be extended or converted?

No, e-Visas cannot be extended, converted, or changed to another visa type once issued.

8. What is the processing fee for the India e-Visa for U.S. citizens?

The fee varies depending on the visa type and duration, typically starting at USD 125 for Tourist e-Visas.

9. What are the entry points for e-Visa holders in India?

You can enter through 29 designated airports and 5 seaports authorized for e-Visa entry.

10. Can U.S. citizens travel to India for yoga or volunteer work?

Yes, you can apply for a Tourist e-Visa for short yoga programs or volunteer activities under one month.

11. What happens if my India e-Visa is rejected?

You may reapply after correcting the reason for rejection. Ensure your documents and details are accurate and consistent.

12. Is a printed copy of the e-Visa required at the airport?

Yes, you must carry a printed copy of your approved e-Visa for verification at immigration upon arrival.

13. Can minors or children apply for an Indian e-Visa?

Yes, each child requires a separate e-Visa application, even if traveling with parents.

14. Do I need travel insurance for India?

While not mandatory, travel insurance is strongly recommended to cover health and travel emergencies.

15. Can I re-enter India multiple times with one e-Visa?

Yes, depending on visa type. Tourist and Business e-Visas allow multiple entries within the validity period.

16. What vaccinations are required to travel to India?

No mandatory vaccinations are required, but CDC recommends shots for Hepatitis A, Typhoid, and routine immunizations.

17. Can I enter India through land borders with e-Visa?

No, entry through land borders is not permitted with an e-Visa. Only authorized airports and seaports are allowed.

18. Can I travel to restricted areas with an e-Visa?

No, restricted or protected areas require special permits from Indian authorities.

19. How early should I apply for the India e-Visa before travel?

It is recommended to apply at least 4 to 7 days before your travel date to avoid any delays.

20. What should I do if I make an error in my application?

Contact customer support or reapply with correct information. Errors in passport details can lead to rejection.

21. Do dual citizens (U.S. + another country) need to apply differently?

No, you must apply using your U.S. passport if you intend to travel as a U.S. citizen.

22. Can I use my e-Visa to work in India?

No, e-Visas do not permit any kind of employment. For jobs, a proper employment visa is required.

23. Can I stay in India longer than the e-Visa validity?

No, overstaying is a legal offense in India. Always exit before your visa expiry date.

24. Is biometric verification required for e-Visa holders?

Yes, biometric data is collected at the airport upon arrival as part of the entry process.

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