First, What Is an E-Visa?
The Indian e-Visa is an electronic travel authorisation that allows citizens of eligible countries to apply for a visa online without visiting an embassy or consulate. Introduced in 2014, the system has streamlined the entry process for millions. The entire
application—from submitting documents to payment—is handled digitally. Once approved, an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is sent via email, which you print and present upon arrival. The system now serves nationals from over 170 countries and accounts for the vast majority of visas India issues. It covers several categories, including tourism, business, medical treatment, and conferences.
The 11 Newly Added Entry Points
The latest expansion adds two airports and nine land ports, bringing the total number of e-Visa enabled entry points to 88. This significantly improves access to central India and various border regions. The new additions are a mix of air and land checkpoints, offering greater flexibility for travellers planning their itineraries. Previously, e-Visa holders were limited to a smaller network of major airports and seaports.
New Airports Now Accepting E-Visas
The two new airports added to the list provide crucial gateways to regions that are rich in culture and pilgrimage. Bhopal Airport in Madhya Pradesh offers a direct entry point to the heart of India, known for its historical sites and natural beauty. Tirupati Airport in Andhra Pradesh makes it easier for pilgrims and tourists to access the famous Tirumala Venkateswara Temple, one of the most visited holy sites in the world.
Nine New Land Ports for Overland Travel
For those travelling overland from neighbouring countries, the addition of nine land ports is a significant development. The newly designated land crossings include: Agartala, Darranga, Dawki, Gede, Ghojadanga, Haridaspur, Jaigaon, Moreh, and the Attari Road border. These ports facilitate easier travel from countries like Bangladesh, Bhutan, Myanmar, and Nepal, opening up new routes for regional tourism and trade.
How the E-Visa Process Works
Applying for an Indian e-Visa is a straightforward process. You must apply online at least four days before your intended date of arrival, with the application window opening 120 days in advance for some categories. You will need to upload a recent front-facing photograph with a white background and a scanned copy of your passport's information page. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your arrival date and have at least two blank pages for stamps. The government states that approximately 95% of e-Visa applications are processed within 72 hours.
Choosing the Right E-Visa
India offers several e-Visa options depending on your travel purpose. The e-Tourist visa is available with 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year validities, all allowing multiple entries. The 1-year and 5-year tourist visas have a maximum stay of 180 days per calendar year. The e-Business visa is typically valid for one year with multiple entries, permitting a continuous stay of up to 180 days per visit. Other categories include the e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant, and e-Conference visas. It is crucial to choose the category that matches the primary purpose of your visit.
