Electronic Visa Authorization ETA/e-Visa is the fastest and most convenient way to cross the border into India in 2025/2026. In this detailed guide, you will learn about all types of e-visas, new categories, list of documents, step-by-step instructions for processing, processing times and important rules for entering the country

The Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), better known as e-Visa, is the most convenient way to enter India in 2025/2026. The entire process from application to entry is done online, and you will get your passport stamped upon arrival.

This guide will explain everything you need to know, from choosing your e-Visa category to filling out the application form, costs, and going through immigration at the airport.

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What is an ETA/e-Visa to India?

An ETA/e-Visa is an electronic authorization that is applied for online; once approved, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is sent to your email address, and the visa is stamped in your passport upon arrival in India.

Types of e-Visa in India

India offers several categories of e-Visas:

- e-Tourist Visa

Suitable for tourism, leisure, visiting relatives or friends, short-term courses, non-commercial cultural and recreational activities.

- e-Business Visa

For business meetings, negotiations, participation in exhibitions and conferences, technical and consulting trips without employment.

- e-Medical Visa

For foreigners coming to India for medical treatment.

- e-Medical Attendant Visa

For accompanying patients (up to two people).

- e-Conference Visa

For participation in officially approved conferences.

New categories of e-Visas for India

In November 2025, India introduced four new types of e-Visas - transit, mountaineering, cinematography and entry. They are designed to simplify and expedite the process of travel authorization for eligible foreigners. All categories are available online and do not require a visit to a consulate.

- Electronic Transit Visa

This type of e-visa is designed for travelers transiting through India to another country. Travelers who already have a confirmed onward ticket can apply.

Key features: allows up to two entries into India, valid for 30 days from the date of issue of the ETA, and must have an onward ticket.

- Electronic Mountaineering Visa

This visa is for foreigners planning to participate in mountaineering expeditions or trekking programs. Before applying, you must obtain permission from the Mountaineering Foundation of India.

What you should know: single entry, validity period - up to 6 months from the date of issue of the ETA, applied after receiving official permission for climbing or trekking.

- E-Film Visa

Intended for directors, crew members and other professionals coming to India to shoot films, TV series or documentary projects. It is possible to apply only with permission from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting of India.

Key features: Multiple entry, valid for 1 year from the date of issue of ETA.

- E-Entry Visa

This type of visa is available to: persons of Indian origin, spouses of Indian citizens, dependents of foreign nationals holding certain visa categories.

Features: Multiple entry, valid for 3 months from the date of first entry.

Nationalities eligible for an e-Visa to India

A wide range of countries are eligible to apply for an e-Visa for India, including most countries in North America, Europe and Asia, as well as many from South America, Africa and Oceania.

Examples include the United States of America, Canada, Australia, Japan, Germany, France, South Korea, the United Kingdom, Brazil, Mauritius, Kyrgyzstan, and Ukraine.

However, the list is broader and specific conditions may vary, so it is best to check the official Indian Visa online portal before applying for it to get the most up-to-date and complete information.

Required documents for e-Visa in India

A universal package of documents for obtaining an electronic visa to India includes:

- Passport valid for at least 6 months from the date of entry.

- Scan of the first page of the passport (clear, color).

- Passport-sized photo.

- Completed online application form.

- Additional documents confirming the purpose of the trip: e-Business - invitation from the company, e-Medical - letter from the clinic, e-Conference - confirmation of registration.

How to apply for an e-Visa in India: step-by-step instructions

The procedure for obtaining an electronic travel permit includes several stages:

Step 1. Go to the official website

Log in to the government portal: indianvisaonline.gov.in. Avoid third-party sites - they charge additional service fees.

Step 2. Select the e-Visa category

Select the type of trip: tourist, business, medical, etc.

Step 3. Fill out the form

Indicate: personal details, passport details, planned dates, place of residence in India (may be a hotel).

Step 4. Upload photos and scans

The site will prompt you for the format, size and requirements.

Step 5. Pay online

Payment by bank card. The amount depends on your citizenship and visa type.

Step 6. Receive an ETA by email

After approval, you will receive a confirmation letter.

Step 7. Print or save the PDF to your phone.

Step 8. Upon arrival in India

Show your passport and ETA, undergo biometrics (fingerprints + photo) and get a stamp in your passport - this is your visa.

Important! In 2025, India will introduce an electronic arrival card (e-Arrival), which must be filled out online before immigration control. This procedure speeds up the border crossing.

How long does it take to process an e-Visa application in India?

On average: from 24 hours to 3-4 days. It is recommended to submit documents at least 4-7 days before the trip.

Common mistakes when submitting documents for an e-Visa in India

- Application through third-party sites (overpayment).

- Incorrect photo format.

- Incorrect entry/exit dates.

- Passport with less than 6 months of validity.

- Hotel booking that does not match the dates.

e-Visa is one of the most convenient ways to travel to India: quickly, easily and without visiting the consulate. The main thing is to apply through the official website and carefully fill out the application form.

Plan your trip to India (or any destination) with ease! 

The Visit World Travel Guide gives you a complete step-by-step checklist for visas, travel rules, required documents, and insider tips – all in one PDF. 

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Let's remind you! South Africa is moving to a digital border control format. We have already talked about the new Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) system: launch dates, implementation stages, processing rules and key benefits for tourists and business travelers.

Photo – Freepik

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