Planning a trip to India? US citizens can visit India through an Indian eVisa which is considerably easier to apply than a regular paper visa. There are different types of e-Visas, so you can opt for the one that best suits your purpose of travel and specific requirements.
Learn in this comprehensive guide about Indian e-Visa from USA, including types of Indian e visas, eligibility, requirements, documents, application process and processing time. You can apply with confidence with Documitra. We can assist you throughout the application process, from documentation to final visa application submission.
Indian eVisa Types
India offers several e visa categories to US citizens. You can opt for the visa category that aligns with your purpose of travel, requirements, and eligibility.
E Tourist Visa India
- 30-Day e Tourist Visa India: It is a double-entry visa issued for short-term tourism. This visa type is valid for 30 days from the date of arrival.
- 1-Year e Tourist Visa India: It is a multiple-entry visa issued for tourism related purposes. It stays valid for 365 days from the date of issue. You can stay for a maximum of 180 days.
- 5-Year Indian eTourist Visa: Multiple-entry visa. Remains valid for 5 years. Allows a maximum stay of 180 days per calendar year.
e-Business Visa
- Validity: Valid for 1 year with multiple entries. Allows a stay of 180 days per visit.
- Purpose: Granted for business meetings, expansion, trade, exploration of commercial opportunities, or other business-related visits.
e-Conference Visa
- Validity: From the date of arrival it stays valid for 30 days.
- Purpose: For participating in international conferences, seminars, or workshops.
e-Medical Visa
- e-Medical Visa: Granted for medical treatment at a recognized Indian hospital or medical facility. Allows 3 entries within a 60-day period from the date of first arrival in India.
- e-Medical Attendant Visa: Issued to family members or caregivers of a patient with e-medical visa. It is limited to 2 applicants per patient.
Other Specialized e-Visa Categories
- e-Ayush Visa: For short-term medical treatment or wellness programs under traditional Indian systems of medicine, such as Ayurveda or Yoga.
- e-Mountaineering Visa: For applicants cleared from Indian Mountaineering Foundation.
- e-Entry Visa: For individuals of Indian origin and certain eligible applicants.
Documents Required for eVisa India
To apply for Indian e visa you should compile the following documents:
- Passport: Copy of passport’s bio page. Your passport should have a validity of minimum 6 months from the date of your arrival in India.
- Photograph: A recent color photograph taken against plain white background.
Additional Documents Based on Visa Category
Based on the e-visa category you are applying for, you will have to submit additional documents:
- e-Business Visa: Copy of your business card, business invitation letter, official records, etc.
- e-Medical Visa: Invitation letter from the hospital or medical institution.
How to Apply for eVisa India from USA
You can apply for eVisa India through the official Indian Visa Online Portal.
Step 1: Visit the Portal
Visit the official Indian Visa Online website. Click on the ‘Apply for e-Visa’ option.
Step 2: Application
Select your US nationality, enter passport details and select the appropriate Indian eVisa type. (e-Tourist visa, e-Business visa, or e-Medical visa).
Step 3: Submit Documents
Upload a copy of your passport’s bio page and a recent photograph with a white background.
Step 4: Pay the Fees
Pay the applicable fees using a credit card, debit card, or payment wallet.
Step 5: Approval
If approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) in around 3 to 5 business days. You will receive the ETA in your email. You should download and print the ETA for travel.
Processing Time for Indian e-Visa
Processing an Indian e-Visa for US passport holder usually takes around 3 to 5 working days. However, the processing time can extend due to some factors, such as peak travel seasons, backlogs, document errors, etc.
- Standard Processing: 3 to 5 working days from submission
- Application Window: Apply at least 4 to 10 days before you plan to travel
E Tourist Visa India Fees
The fees for e tourist visa India are as follows:
| Visa Type | Amount |
| 30 Day Tourist e-Visa | $10 (Apr to Jun) $25 (Jul to Mar) |
| 1-Year Tourist e-Visa | $40 |
| 5-Year Tourist e-Visa | $80 |
Additional Costs: A 2.5% bank transaction cost will be applicable to all online payments.
Practical Tips to Apply for Indian eVisa from USA
Consider these points while applying for Indian e-Visa from USA:
- Correct Visa Category: Determine the correct visa category based on your purpose for travel, eligibility and requirements.
- Proper Documentation: Compile the necessary documents before applying to save time and get approval accordingly.
- Consistent Information: The information provided on the online application form must match the details of the supporting documents.
- Apply Early: You should apply early, preferably as soon as you finalize the plan for travel. This helps you avoid unnecessary delays.
- Print the ETA: Once you receive the ETA, you should download and print. Carry it during immigration.
Need Help with Indian eVisa from USA?
It is wise to take professional assistance in applying for Indian e-Visa from USA. Documitra has a team of professionals with years of experience in documentation and visa assistance. We take care of your application, from eligibility checks to final submission, significantly increasing your chances of approval.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, US citizens require a pre-approved visa or e-visa before travelling to India. You should determine the correct visa category you need based on your purpose of travel and requirements.
Yes, you can apply for 30-day e-tourist visa from USA, provided that you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes purpose of travel, duration of stay, valid passport, etc.
Yes, you can apply for e-Entry visa from USA, provided that you meet the eligibility criteria. This includes principally that you are a person of Indian origin, or spouse of Indian national.
You can apply for Indian eVisa in USA on the official Indian Visa Online Portal. There select the e-Visa category. Fill the details and pay the applicable fee. You will receive an ETA once your application is approved.
After application submission, it can take around 3 to 5 working days to receive an ETA for eVisa India in India. However, it can take longer due to a few factors, including peak travel seasons, missing documents, etc.
You should apply at least 4 to 10 days before you plan to travel. You should consider additional waiting times during peak travel season, application errors, and other factors in the processing time.
