The Big Change: More Entry Points
The most recent and impactful change is the expansion of authorised entry points for e-visa holders. In a move announced by the Ministry of Home Affairs in August 2026, India added 11 new locations where international travellers can present their electronic
travel authorisation (ETA). This brings the total number of approved e-visa gateways to 88, comprising 37 airports, 38 seaports, and 13 land crossings. The new additions include two airports—Bhopal in Madhya Pradesh and Tirupati in Andhra Pradesh—and nine land border crossings. The inclusion of these airports provides direct access to central and southern India, while the new land ports facilitate smoother overland journeys from neighbouring countries like Bangladesh, Myanmar, and Bhutan.
What This Means for Your Travel Itinerary
For years, international travel to India has been concentrated around major metropolitan airports like Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru. This latest expansion signals a strategic effort to decentralise tourism and make regional destinations more accessible. Travellers can now plan itineraries with greater flexibility, flying directly into cities like Bhopal to explore the heart of India or into Tirupati, a major pilgrimage site. The addition of land borders like those at Agartala, Moreh, and Attari is a game-changer for overland travellers and those on multi-country South Asian tours, who previously faced more complex visa requirements at these crossings. This move effectively opens up new travel circuits and reduces the need for connecting flights, saving both time and money.
Part of a Broader Simplification Trend
This expansion is not an isolated event but part of a consistent trend of making the Indian e-visa system more user-friendly. Recent enhancements have already made the planning process far more flexible. For instance, the application window was extended, allowing travellers to apply up to 120 days before their intended arrival date, a significant increase from the previous 30-day window. Furthermore, even the short-term 30-day e-tourist visa was updated to permit multiple entries instead of just two, a huge benefit for those planning short trips to neighbouring countries during their stay in India. These cumulative changes demonstrate a clear commitment to removing procedural hurdles for visitors.
Who Can Use the E-Visa System?
The Indian e-visa program has grown dramatically since its inception in 2014. Initially available to citizens of just 43 countries, it now extends to nationals of 172 countries. The system covers several categories, including tourism, business, medical treatment, and conferences. Its efficiency is a major draw, with the government reporting that approximately 95% of e-visa applications are processed within a swift 72-hour timeframe. This reliability and broad eligibility have made the e-visa the default choice for most visitors, with electronic visas now accounting for nearly 78% of all visas issued by India.
How to Apply: A Quick Guide
Applying for an Indian e-visa is a straightforward online process. First, visit the official government website—indianvisaonline.gov.in—to avoid unofficial third-party sites. You will need to complete the online application form with your personal details, passport information, and travel plans. The next step is to upload required documents, which typically include a clear scan of your passport's biographical page and a recent passport-style digital photograph with a white background. After uploading, you will pay the visa fee online using a credit or debit card. Once approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) via email. It is crucial to print a copy of this ETA and carry it with you to present to immigration upon arrival in India.
