India’s vibrant Diwali celebrations and pleasant winter weather create the perfect backdrop for an unforgettable journey. Whether you’re drawn to witness the spiritual ghats of Varanasi adorned with thousands of diyas, experience the royal grandeur of Rajasthan’s illuminated palaces, or explore the backwaters of Kerala under clear winter skies, India welcomes you during its most enchanting season.
The good news? Getting to India has never been easier thanks to the streamlined e-Tourist Visa system.
India e-Tourist Visa: Commonly asked questions
Q: I’m confused about 30-day vs 1-year visa – which should I choose?
A: For peace of mind, many travelers recommend the 1-year visa. It costs slightly more but gives you flexibility – you can travel anytime within 365 days. The 30-day visa expires exactly 30 days from issue date (not arrival), causing stress if flights get delayed.
Q: Can I change my travel dates after getting the visa?
A: With 1-year and 5-year visas, yes – you can travel anytime within the validity period regardless of dates on your application. With 30-day visas, you must arrive before the ETA expires (30 days from issue).
Q: What’s is double entry vs multiple entry in Indian e-visa?
A: 30-day visas only allow double entry (you can enter India twice). 1-year and 5-year visas allow multiple entries, but you can’t stay more than 180 days per calendar year.
Application Process and Timing
Q: When exactly should I apply for my India visa?
A: For 30-day visas: Apply 4-30 days before travel (not earlier or you’ll lose days of validity). For 1-year/5-year visas: Apply 4-120 days before travel.
Q: How long does processing actually take?
A: Officially 72 hours, but many get approved within 12-48 hours. Some forum users report getting visas in under 24 hours even on weekends. Peak seasons may take longer.
Q: My visa got rejected because of photo issues – what went wrong?
A: Photo rejections are a common problem.
Requirements: JPEG format only, 10KB-1MB file size, white background only, no shadows, recent photo (within 6 months), neutral expression, both ears visible. Use a professional photo service if you’re unsure.
Q: Can I take the photo myself or do I need a professional?
A: You can take it yourself using a smartphone against a white wall, but many forum users recommend professional services after DIY photos got rejected. Ensure no shadows and proper lighting.
Q: I applied multiple times for the same trip – is this a problem?
A: Yes, this is a major rejection reason! Never submit multiple applications for the same trip. Choose one visa type and stick with it. The system flags duplicate applications.
Q: What should I put for “reference in India” if I don’t know anyone?
A: Put your hotel details. If you haven’t booked yet, make a refundable booking just for the visa application.
Q: I listed “journalist” as my profession and got rejected – why?
A: Journalists need special visas even for tourism. If you work in media, consider listing “writer,” “editor,” or another profession you might have.
Q: Do I really need to print the visa? Can’t I just show it on my phone?
A: You MUST print the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Airlines and immigration won’t accept phone displays. Print multiple copies and keep them with your passport.
Q: What exactly is an ETA vs the email confirmation?
A: The ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) is your actual visa document with your photo. The initial email confirmation is just acknowledgment. Check the status page to download your ETA.
Q: Can I work or do business on a tourist visa?
A: Absolutely not! Tourist visas are strictly for tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends/relatives, and short yoga programs. Any business activity can result in deportation.
Q: Can I extend my tourist visa while in India?
A: No extensions are possible for e-Tourist visas. You cannot convert them to other visa types either. You must exit India before the visa expires.
Q: How soon can I return to India after my visa expires?
A: There’s no mandatory gap between visits anymore. However, you’re still limited to 180 days per calendar year for multi-year visas.
Q: My payment keeps failing – what should I do?
A: Enable international transactions on your card, use credit cards (higher success rate), notify your bank beforehand, and apply during off-peak hours when the system is less congested.
Q: My visa is taking longer than expected and I fly tomorrow – what can I do?
A: Unfortunately, there’s no emergency processing for e-visas. Contact the embassy for emergency visa services (paper visa), but this requires physically visiting and may take several days.
Q: I made a mistake on my application – can I fix it?
A: You cannot modify submitted applications. If it’s minor (like spelling), it might still be approved. For major errors, you may need to submit a new application after the first is processed.
Q: I have a criminal record – can I still get an India visa?
A: Minor offenses (especially if expunged) typically don’t prevent approval. Be honest in your application – lying is worse than the offense itself.
Q: Do children need separate visas?
A: Yes, every traveler including infants needs their own e-Tourist visa and must pay the full fee.
Q: I have dual citizenship including Pakistani – can I use e-visa?
A: No, anyone with Pakistani connections (including parents/grandparents born in Pakistan) cannot use e-visa and must apply through embassies.
At Documitra, we understand that your travel plans shouldn’t be delayed by confusing forms or unclear instructions. Many travellers face issues with document uploads, photo rejections, or missed details. We handle the entire Tourist eVisa process for you and make it hassle free for you.
