Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1.1 What is an Indian eVisa?
An Indian eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization issued by the Government of India. It allows eligible travelers to enter India for tourism, business, medical treatment, or to attend conferences — without visiting an embassy or consulate.

  • ✔️ 100% online process
  • ⚡ Fast processing (1–5 business days)
  • 🛂 No passport submission required

1.2 What’s the difference between an eVisa and a physical visa?

Feature eVisa Physical Visa
Application Method Online only In-person at Embassy/Consulate
Processing Time 1–5 business days 3–4 weeks or more
Cost Generally lower Typically higher
Visa Format PDF sent by email Sticker/stamp in your passport
Best for Tourism, short business/medical Long stays, work, study, volunteering

1.3 When do I need to apply for a physical visa?
Apply for a physical visa if:
• Your nationality is not eligible for an eVisa
• You plan a long stay (e.g., work, study, volunteering)
• Your eVisa is denied
• You have a criminal record or complex travel history

1.4 Can I get Visa on Arrival instead of applying online?
Visa on Arrival is only available to citizens of Japan, South Korea, and the UAE (under specific conditions).
👉 Even if you're eligible for Visa on Arrival, we highly recommend applying for an eVisa in advance — to avoid long queues at the airport and reduce the risk of entry delays or denial.

1.5 Can I apply for an Indian eVisa?
Citizens of over 160 countries are eligible.
👉 Use our eligibility checker tool below:

🔍 Check Your Visa Eligibility

Select your nationality and visa type to check if you're eligible for an Indian eVisa.

👉 Click here to apply online
👉 Click here to Apply via Email

1.6 Can Online Visa Express help with physical visa applications?
Yes. If you're a resident of Northern Italy (Valle d’Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna), we assist with physical visa applications at the Indian Consulate in Milan.

  • Document pre-check
  • Form preparation
  • Consular payment & appointment booking
  • Biometric support
  • DHL handling (if needed)

👉 Click here for the complete procedure

1.7 Do minors need their own eVisa?
Yes. All travelers, including minors listed in a parent’s passport, require individual eVisas.

1.8 Can I apply for multiple people at once?
Yes! Add additional travelers using the "Add Person" button in the online form, only for same journey and visa category.

1.9 Can I edit my application after submission?
In most cases, no. But if your application hasn’t been submitted to authorities yet, we might still be able to help. Contact us immediately.

1.10 Do I need to print my eVisa?
Yes. Print a copy and carry it with your passport when traveling — it’s required at immigration.

1.11 Can I extend or convert my eVisa?
No. Indian eVisas are non-extendable and non-convertible.

1.12 What can’t I do with an eVisa?
❌ You cannot:
• Work or engage in paid employment
• Enter protected or restricted areas without special authorization
• Act as a journalist, photographer, or filmmaker without prior permission
• Participate in missionary or mountaineering activities
📌 Some destinations require a PAP or RAP.

1.13 When should I apply?
• eTourist (30 Days): max 30 days before arrival
• eTourist (1 or 5 Years): up to 120 days before arrival
• Other eVisas: up to 120 days in advance

1.14 Is my data safe?
🔒 Your data is safe! We use secure systems and follow GDPR standards. Your info is used solely to process your visa and is never sold.

📄 For full details, read our Privacy Policy

1.15 Can I get help with my application?
Of course! Our support team replies fast via email and WhatsApp. Northern Italy residents also get full consular visa assistance.
✉ Message us now

2.1 What types of Indian eVisas are available?
🧳 eTourist Visa (30 days, 1 year, or 5 years)
💼 eBusiness Visa (1 year)
🏥 eMedical Visa + Attendant (60 days)
🎤 eConference Visa (30 days)

⚠️ IMPORTANT: Must have Before Applying for an Indian eVisa
• Passport valid 6+ months
• At least 2 blank pages
• Passport-style photo
• Clear passport bio page scan
Additional docs depending on type (business letter, medical certificate, etc.)

2.2 What are the Optional Supporting Documents?

While not always mandatory, providing these documents can strengthen your application and help avoid delays:

  • Round-trip Flight Tickets: Show your arrival and departure dates. If not booked yet, a flight reservation or itinerary is sufficient.
  • Hotel Booking/Accommodation Proof: Confirmed hotel reservations, Airbnb bookings, or an invitation letter if staying with friends/family in India.
  • Proof of Funds: Recent bank statements (last 3 months) showing sufficient funds to cover your stay. Recommended: €100-150 per day of stay.
  • Travel Insurance: While optional, comprehensive travel insurance covering medical emergencies is highly recommended.
  • Cover Letter: A brief letter explaining the purpose of your visit, itinerary, and ties to your home country (especially helpful for business visas).
  • Previous Indian Visas: Copies of previous Indian visas if you've traveled to India before.

Note: Immigration officers may request these at entry. Having them ready can expedite your arrival process.

2.3 Yellow Fever Certificate
Required if traveling from endemic countries. 🔗 WHO list

3.1 How long does it take?
⏳ Standard: 2–5 days
⚡ Express: 24h

3.2 Can I get my eVisa faster?
Yes — Express service (€14.90)

3.3 What's the total cost?
Government Fee: Varies by nationality and visa type (see calculator below)
Service Fee: €44/applicant
Our service fee includes: Document review, application support, formatting assistance, and submission

👉 Calculate Your Government Fee:

💰 Calculate Your Visa Fee

Select your nationality and visa type to see the government visa fee.

Government fee varies by nationality
Duration and entry type affects the fee

3.4 When and How Do I Pay?

Payment Timeline:

  1. Step 1: You submit your application form and documents (no payment required)
  2. Step 2: Our team reviews and verifies your application (typically within 24 hours)
  3. Step 3: Once verified, we send you a payment request via email
  4. Step 4: You complete payment using your preferred method
  5. Step 5: We submit your application to Indian authorities immediately after payment confirmation

Accepted Payment Methods:

  • 💳 Credit/Debit Cards: Visa, Mastercard, American Express (instant processing)
  • ⚡ SEPA Instant Transfer: Real-time bank transfer within Europe (instant processing)
  • 🏦 Bank Transfer/Wire Transfer: Traditional bank transfer (may take 1-3 business days to clear)
  • 💰 PayPal: Secure online payment (instant processing)

Important Payment Notes:

  • ✅ All prices shown in EUR (€) include service fees but government fees are in USD ($)
  • ✅ You'll receive a payment confirmation and receipt immediately after payment
  • ✅ Your application is only submitted to authorities AFTER payment is confirmed
  • ⚠️ For express processing, ensure payment is completed quickly to maintain the 24-hour timeline

3.5 Refund & Denial Policy
✅ Refund before approval
✅ Refund/resubmission if our error
❌ No refund after submission
❌ No refund for refusals at govt discretion

📄 For full details, read our Refund & Denial Policy

4.1 How to Apply Online (Recommended Method)

Our streamlined online application process makes getting your Indian eVisa simple and fast:

📝 Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
  • Click "Apply Now" on our homepage
  • Fill in all required fields across 3 easy steps:
    • Step 1: Personal information, family details, and occupation
    • Step 2: Passport details, visa type, travel information, and travel history
    • Step 3: Upload documents and review all information
  • Upload required documents (passport scan, photo, etc.)
  • Review all information carefully before submission
  • Average completion time: 15-20 minutes
✅ Step 2: Our Expert Team Reviews Your Application
  • We check all information for accuracy and completeness
  • We verify that all documents meet government requirements
  • We format everything according to official standards
  • If any issues are found, we contact you immediately for corrections
  • Review time: Typically within 24 hours
💳 Step 3: Secure Payment
  • Once verified, you'll receive a payment request via email
  • Pay securely using your preferred method (card, bank transfer, PayPal)
  • Receive instant payment confirmation
🚀 Step 4: Submission to Indian Authorities
  • We submit your application directly to the Indian government portal
  • You receive a submission confirmation with your application reference number
  • Track your application status through our system
📧 Step 5: Receive Your eVisa
  • Once approved, your eVisa is sent directly to your email (PDF format)
  • Print your eVisa and carry it when traveling to India
  • Keep a digital copy on your phone as backup

⏱️ Processing Time:

  • 🕐 Standard Processing: 2-5 business days after submission
  • ⚡ Express Processing: 24 hours (additional €14.90)

4.2 How to Apply via Email (Alternative Method)

Prefer to apply by email? No problem! Follow these steps:

  1. Download the Application Form:
    • Get our PDF application form from our website
    • Fill it out completely on your computer or print and fill by hand (use CAPITAL LETTERS)
  2. Prepare Your Documents:
    • Scan your passport bio page (clear, color scan)
    • Prepare passport-style photo (JPEG format, white background)
    • Gather any additional documents based on your visa type
  3. Download & Sign Privacy Consent Form:
    • Download from our website
    • Read, sign, and scan the form
  4. Email Everything to Us:
    • Email Address: info@onlinevisaexpress.com
    • Subject Line Format: URGENT - [Your Name] - [Arrival Date] OR NOT URGENT - [Your Name] - [Arrival Date]
    • Attach: Completed application form, passport scan, photo, privacy form, additional documents
    • Example Subject: "URGENT - John Smith - 15/12/2025"
  5. Confirmation & Next Steps:
    • We'll confirm receipt within 24 hours
    • Our team reviews your application
    • You receive payment request → Pay → We submit → You get eVisa

⏱️ Processing Time: Same as online method (2-5 days standard / 24h express)

💡 Pro Tip: The online method is faster and reduces errors since the form has built-in validation. However, email method works great if you prefer offline form filling or have connectivity issues.

Registration is optional, but highly recommended!

Creating a free account gives you access to many helpful features:

📊 Track Your Applications

Monitor your visa status in real-time from your personal dashboard. Get notifications at every step.

📝 Save Time on Future Applications

Auto-fill forms with your saved information. Apply for renewals in just minutes instead of starting from scratch.

📂 Access All Your Visas

Download your approved eVisas anytime, anywhere. Never lose your visa documents again.

💰 Get 10% Discount on Renewals

Registered users save 10% on service fees when renewing or applying for additional visas.

🎉 Ready to Create Your Free Account?

Join thousands of travelers who trust Online Visa Express for their visa needs. It takes less than 2 minutes!

Create Free Account Already have an account? Login here

What information do I need to register?

  • Full name (as in passport)
  • Email address (for login and notifications)
  • Password (secure and unique)
  • Phone number (for account security)

Your account is protected with industry-standard encryption and 2-factor authentication is available for extra security.

6.1 How will I receive my eVisa?

  • 📧 Your eVisa will be sent to your email address as a PDF attachment
  • ⏰ Delivery time: Within 2-5 business days (standard) or 24 hours (express) after submission
  • 🗂️ Important: Check your spam/junk folder if you don't see it in your inbox
  • 📱 The email will also include your application reference number for tracking
  • 💾 If registered on our platform, you can also download it from your account dashboard

6.2 What should I do immediately after receiving my eVisa?

✅ Verification Checklist:
  1. Print Multiple Copies:
    • Print at least 2 color copies (recommended: 3 copies)
    • Keep one in your carry-on luggage
    • Keep one in your checked baggage (as backup)
    • Give one to a family member/companion
  2. Double-Check All Information:
    • Verify your full name matches your passport exactly
    • Confirm passport number is correct
    • Check visa validity dates (entry window and duration of stay)
    • Verify your nationality and date of birth
    • Confirm visa type and number of entries
  3. Save Digital Copies:
    • Save PDF on your phone
    • Upload to cloud storage (Google Drive, Dropbox, iCloud)
    • Email a copy to yourself for easy access
  4. Check for Errors:
    • If you find ANY error, contact us immediately (within 24 hours)
    • Do NOT travel with an incorrect eVisa - you will be denied entry

6.3 What happens when I arrive at the Indian airport?

🛂 Immigration Process at Indian Airport:
  1. Queue at Immigration:
    • Look for "eVisa" or "Foreigner" counters (NOT "Indian Passport" line)
    • Have your documents ready: passport + printed eVisa + arrival card (given on flight)
  2. Document Check:
    • Immigration officer will verify your eVisa against their system
    • They may ask questions about your visit (purpose, duration, accommodation)
    • Be honest and confident in your answers
  3. Biometric Collection:
    • Your fingerprints will be scanned (both hands)
    • Your photograph will be taken
    • This is standard procedure for all eVisa travelers
  4. Entry Stamp:
    • If approved, you'll receive an entry stamp in your passport
    • This stamp shows your allowed duration of stay
    • Important: Check the stamp immediately - it indicates your exit date
  5. Collect Baggage & Exit:
    • Proceed to baggage claim
    • Clear customs if you have goods to declare
    • Welcome to India! 🇮🇳

6.4 What if my passport changes after I receive my eVisa?

⚠️ Important Passport Information:
  • If you get a new passport BEFORE traveling:
    • Your eVisa is linked to your OLD passport number
    • Option 1 (Recommended): Carry BOTH old and new passports when traveling to India. Show both at immigration.
    • Option 2: Apply for a new eVisa with your new passport details (additional fees apply)
  • If your passport is lost/stolen:
    • You MUST apply for a new eVisa with your new passport
    • Contact us immediately - we can help expedite the process
  • If your name changes (marriage, etc.):
    • You'll need to apply for a new eVisa with updated details
    • Carry supporting documents (marriage certificate, etc.)

6.5 Can I extend my eVisa while in India?

❌ No. Indian eVisas are non-extendable and non-convertible. You must exit India before your visa expires. If you overstay:

  • You may face fines and penalties
  • You could be banned from re-entering India
  • Legal action may be taken

Plan your trip duration carefully! If you need to stay longer, you must exit India and apply for a new visa.

Understanding eVisa Refusals

While rare, eVisa applications can be refused by the Indian government. Here's everything you need to know:

📊 Good News: The approval rate for eVisas is very high (over 95%) when applications are complete and accurate. Our expert review process helps minimize refusals.

7.1 Common Reasons for eVisa Refusal:

  • ❌ Incomplete or Incorrect Information: Missing fields, typos, mismatched data
  • ❌ Poor Quality Documents: Blurry passport scans, non-compliant photos
  • ❌ Previous Visa Violations: Overstayed previous visas, violated visa conditions
  • ❌ Security Concerns: Criminal record, suspected illegal activities
  • ❌ Incomplete Travel History: Gaps or inconsistencies in travel information
  • ❌ Passport Issues: Passport expiring within 6 months, damaged passport, insufficient blank pages
  • ❌ Dual Nationality Issues: Holding Pakistani or Bangladeshi origin passports
  • ❌ Employment in Sensitive Fields: Military, intelligence, or certain government positions
  • ❌ Previous Deportation: From India or other countries
  • ❌ Blacklisted: Name matches security watchlists

7.2 What Happens If My eVisa Is Refused?

Step-by-Step Process:
  1. Notification:
    • You'll receive an email notification of the refusal
    • The Indian government rarely provides detailed reasons for security purposes
    • We'll contact you immediately if we see any issues during processing
  2. Review & Analysis:
    • Our team will review your application to identify potential issues
    • We'll advise whether reapplication is possible or if you need a physical visa
  3. Your Options:
    • Option A: Correct errors and reapply for eVisa (if refusal was due to correctable errors)
    • Option B: Apply for a physical visa through Indian Embassy/Consulate (if eVisa is not suitable)
    • Option C: Submit additional documentation to support your case

7.3 Can I Reapply After a Refusal?

  • ✅ Yes, in most cases - especially if the refusal was due to documentation errors or missing information
  • ✅ Wait 3-5 business days before reapplying
  • ✅ Correct all identified errors
  • ✅ Provide additional supporting documents
  • ❌ However: If refused for security reasons, criminal record, or blacklisting, you may not be eligible for any Indian visa

7.4 How We Support You After a Refusal:

🇮🇹 For Northern Italy Residents

Full Consular Visa Assistance:

  • We handle your physical visa application at the Indian Consulate in Milan
  • Document preparation and verification
  • Appointment booking and payment
  • Biometric appointment support
  • DHL document handling (if needed)
  • Status tracking until visa issued

Regions Covered: Valle d'Aosta, Piemonte, Lombardia, Veneto, Trentino-Alto Adige, Friuli Venezia Giulia, Liguria, Emilia-Romagna

Additional service fee applies

🌍 For Other Locations

Expert Guidance & Support:

  • Detailed explanation of refusal reasons
  • Step-by-step guidance for embassy application
  • Document checklist for physical visa
  • Form filling assistance
  • Tips for successful interview (if required)
  • Email and WhatsApp support

We'll guide you through the entire process even though we can't physically represent you

7.5 Refund Policy for Refused eVisas:

💰 Refund Conditions:
  • 🛡️ If the refusal was our error:
    • Full refund of our service fee, OR
    • Free resubmission with corrections
  • ✅ If you cancel BEFORE we submit to authorities:
    • 100% refund of service fee
    • Government fee refunded if not yet paid
  • ❌ No refund if:
    • You provided incorrect or false information
    • You have a criminal record or security issues
    • Refusal was due to government discretion/policy
    • Application was already submitted to Indian authorities
    • You violated previous visa conditions
  • ⚠️ Government fees are NEVER refundable once submitted to Indian authorities (this is government policy, not ours)

Read Full Refund Policy

7.6 How to Avoid Refusal:

✅ Our Quality Assurance Process:
  1. Pre-Submission Review: We check every application before submission
  2. Document Verification: We ensure all documents meet government standards
  3. Error Detection: Our system flags common mistakes automatically
  4. Expert Review: Human review by visa specialists
  5. Correction Requests: We contact you if anything needs fixing BEFORE submission

Result: Over 95% of our applications are approved on the first attempt!

7.7 Need Help After a Refusal?

Don't panic! Contact us immediately at:

We'll analyze your case and provide the best path forward.

8.1 Which Airports and Seaports Can I Use for Entry with an eVisa?

⚠️ IMPORTANT: You can ONLY enter India through designated Immigration Check Posts (ICPs). Entry through land borders or other ports is NOT permitted with an eVisa.

✈️ Designated Entry Airports (31 Airports):

  • Ahmedabad
  • Amritsar
  • Bagdogra
  • Bengaluru
  • Bhubaneswar
  • Calicut
  • Chandigarh
  • Chennai
  • Cochin
  • Coimbatore
  • Delhi
  • Gaya
  • Goa (Dabolim)
  • Goa (Mopa)
  • Guwahati
  • Hyderabad
  • Jaipur
  • Kannur
  • Kolkata
  • Lucknow
  • Madurai
  • Mangalore
  • Mumbai
  • Nagpur
  • Port Blair
  • Pune
  • Tiruchirapalli
  • Trivandrum
  • Varanasi
  • Vijayawada
  • Visakhapatnam

🚢 Designated Entry Seaports (5 Seaports):

  • Cochin
  • Goa (Mormugao)
  • Mangalore
  • Mumbai
  • Chennai

8.2 Where Can I Exit India?

Good news! You have MORE exit options than entry options:

✈️ Exit via Airports: 34 designated airports (all 31 entry airports PLUS):

  • Kannur
  • Mangalore
  • Vijayawada

🚢 Exit via Seaports: 26 designated seaports including:

  • Chennai
  • Cochin
  • Mormugao (Goa)
  • Mumbai
  • Mangalore
  • Visakhapatnam
  • Kolkata
  • Tuticorin
  • New Mangalore
  • Port Blair
  • Nagapattinam
  • Krishnapatnam
  • Mundra
  • Kandla
  • Sikka
  • Bedi
  • Magdalla
  • Bhavnagar
  • Dahej
  • Hazira
  • Dhubri
  • Karimganj
  • Moreh
  • Raxaul
  • Jogbani
  • Haridaspur

🚫 Land Border Exits: NOT permitted with eVisa. You must exit via designated airports or seaports only.

8.3 Can I Travel Freely Inside India?

✅ YES! With your eVisa, you can travel freely throughout most of India. You can visit multiple cities, states, and tourist destinations without any additional permits.

Popular Destinations You Can Visit:

  • 🕌 Delhi, Agra (Taj Mahal), Jaipur (Golden Triangle)
  • 🏖️ Goa beaches
  • 🏔️ Kerala backwaters
  • 🌆 Mumbai, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata
  • 🏰 Rajasthan palaces and forts
  • 🏔️ Most of Himachal Pradesh
  • 🙏 Varanasi, Rishikesh, Haridwar
  • 🏝️ Most beach destinations

8.4 What Are Restricted/Protected Areas?

⚠️ Special Permits Required (PAP/RAP):

Some areas require a Protected Area Permit (PAP) or Restricted Area Permit (RAP) due to security or environmental concerns:

🏝️ Andaman & Nicobar Islands:
  • ✅ Port Blair and surrounding areas: No special permit needed with eVisa
  • ⚠️ Restricted Islands: Some islands require RAP:
    • North Sentinel Island (completely prohibited)
    • Nicobar Islands
    • Some tribal reserve areas
  • 📝 How to get RAP: Apply through local Deputy Commissioner's office in Port Blair
🏔️ Arunachal Pradesh:
  • Entire state requires Protected Area Permit (PAP)
  • Apply online or through Indian Missions abroad
  • Usually granted for organized tours
  • Processing: 4-6 weeks
🏔️ Sikkim Border Areas:
  • ✅ Most of Sikkim: No permit needed
  • ⚠️ Border areas near China/Tibet require PAP:
    • Nathula Pass
    • Tsomgo Lake area
    • North Sikkim (Yumthang Valley, Gurudongmar Lake)
  • 📝 Can be obtained through tour operators in Gangtok
🏔️ Parts of Jammu & Kashmir and Ladakh:
  • ✅ Srinagar, Gulmarg, Pahalgam: Generally accessible
  • ⚠️ Some border areas and military zones require permits
  • 🚨 Security Note: Check current travel advisories before visiting
🏔️ Parts of Himachal Pradesh:
  • ✅ Shimla, Manali, Dharamshala, Dalhousie: No permit needed
  • ⚠️ Some tribal and border areas (Kinnaur, Spiti, Lahaul) may require permits
🏔️ Parts of Manipur, Mizoram, and Nagaland:
  • Certain areas require PAP/RAP due to tribal areas
  • Capital cities usually accessible
  • Apply through State Government offices

8.5 How to Obtain Special Permits:

  1. Before Your Trip:
    • Apply through official state government websites
    • Allow 4-6 weeks for processing
    • Provide itinerary, accommodation proof, and purpose of visit
  2. Through Travel Agencies:
    • Many tour operators can arrange permits as part of package tours
    • Easier for group travel
    • Additional fees apply
  3. On Arrival (Limited Cases):
    • Some permits can be obtained locally (e.g., Sikkim permits in Gangtok)
    • Bring passport, visa copies, and photos
    • May take 1-2 days
💡 Pro Tips:
  • Always carry multiple photocopies of your passport, eVisa, and any permits
  • Check the latest travel advisories for restricted areas before planning your trip
  • Book with registered tour operators for protected areas - they often handle permits
  • Some areas have daily visitor limits, so book in advance
  • Military zones and wildlife sanctuaries have additional restrictions

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