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India Tourist Visa for US Citizens: Apply for the India Visa Now
iVisa
11 min read
Updated on Feb 17, 2024

Embarking on a journey to India? Don't forget to apply for your India tourist visa before your trip!

From the iconic Taj Mahal to the lively streets of Mumbai, India promises a captivating experience. Let us assist you in ensuring a hassle-free journey by guiding you through the burdensome paperwork.

This guide is tailored to help US citizens heading to India understand the visa requirements and application process. So prepare to apply for your India visa now and start your adventure!

Indian Henna Hands

Do US citizens need a visa for India?

Yes, US citizens need a visa before traveling to India. The visa is a mandatory entry requirement for US citizens. It allows them to legally enter and stay in India for tourism, business, medical purposes, or other short-term visits.

India visa for US citizens: What are your options?

There are many types of visas to choose from depending on the purpose of your trip. Here are the India e-visa options we offer for US citizens:

  • The e-Tourist visa is for those visiting India for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting friends and family, or attending cultural events.

  • You'll need an e-Business visa if you're traveling to India for business purposes, such as attending conferences, meetings, or trade fairs.

  • e-Medical visa: This visa is for those seeking medical treatment in India. It's issued to the patient and two attendants and is sometimes called the e-medical attendant visa.

  • The Indian Embassy Visa is a visa issued by the Embassy of India or its consulates to foreign nationals who wish to visit India for various purposes such as tourism, business, education, employment, medical treatment, or family visits.

  • Conference visa: This visa is for those attending international conferences in India.

It's essential to apply for the correct type of visa to avoid any issues or delays during your travel.

Am I eligible to get an Indian Tourist Visa in the US?

The Indian tourist visa is available to citizens of various countries, including the United States. US citizens visiting India for tourism can apply for an Indian tourist visa. The eligibility criteria to get an Indian tourist visa for US citizens include the following:

  • Citizenship: Applicants must hold a valid US passport, as the passport serves as the primary travel document for US citizens. The passport should remain valid for at least six months beyond the intended stay in India.

  • Purpose of visit: The tourist visa is specifically designed for individuals traveling to India for recreational or sightseeing purposes, visiting friends or relatives, or participating in yoga/meditation retreats. It doesn't cover employment, business, or long-term stays.

  • Entry points: US citizens can enter India through various designated ports of entry, including international airports, seaports, and land border checkpoints. The chosen entry point should be specified during the visa application process.

  • Validity and duration: The Indian tourist visa grants permission to stay in India for a specific period. The validity and duration of the visa can vary based on factors such as the applicant's intended stay, the type of visa, and the discretion of the Indian authorities.

  • Previous visits: There are no specific restrictions on the number of times a US citizen can apply for an Indian tourist visa. However, adhering to the visa rules is crucial, including the maximum duration of stay allowed per visit.

  • Compliance with visa regulations: US citizens must comply with all visa regulations during their stay in India. This includes respecting the visa's validity period, adhering to the permitted activities, and following any additional conditions specified by the Indian authorities.

What is the India Tourist Visa for US citizens?

The India tourist visa for US citizens is an official authorization granted by the government of India that allows US citizens to visit India for tourism purposes. It's a temporary visa that permits US travelers to explore the diverse attractions, immerse themselves in the rich culture, and experience the wonders of India.

The tourist visa for US citizens is mainly for recreational and sightseeing activities, visiting friends or relatives, participating in yoga/meditation retreats, or engaging in casual business activities. It doesn't permit individuals to work or engage in long-term employment in India.

You can apply for the visa through the government's e-visa portal (which can be complicated) or use our simplified online application process.

How long is the India Tourist Visa valid for US citizens?

3 different types of tourist visas offer different validity periods. Your options are:

  • The 30-day Double-Entry India Tourist Visa

  • The 1-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

  • The 5-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

Click here to learn more about the India Tourist eVisa validity and length of stay.

We also offer the Business e Visa, the Medical e Visa and the Embassy Visa; you'll find information on these categories in separate articles.

Note: All e-Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. The Indian government doesn't issue visas on arrival.

India Tourist Visa application: How to apply in the US?

It couldn't be easier to apply for your India visa online! The process is straightforward and takes around 10 minutes to complete our simplified Indian visa application in three steps. They are:

  • Step 1 - Applicants must complete the online form via our website. You'll be asked to provide general information about yourself and choose the type of visa you want to apply for.

  • Step 2 - Verify the information you have already provided is correct and select the processing option that best suits your needs.

  • Step 3 - Pay the service fee using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit or debit card. Upload any required documents (a passport photo and a photo scan of your passport).

Once you complete all three steps, please submit your application and sit back and relax while we process your visa! Wait for your e Visa to arrive in your email inbox within your chosen timeframe.

Note: During travel, you must carry a printed and electronic copy of your Tourist eVisa to show to immigration officers on arrival so they can see your India e-Visa status.

We recommend installing the iVisa app on your mobile device so you can keep track of your documents electronically. You can even track the status of your application and receive real-time alerts.

How to prepare for the India Tourist Visa interview as a US citizen?

US citizens may be required to attend an interview as part of the India tourist visa application process. The interview is usually conducted at the nearest Indian Embassy or Consulate. It aims to determine the applicant's eligibility for the visa. The interview can cover various topics, such as the purpose of the trip, the intended duration of stay, and the applicant's ties to their home country.

The Indian Embassy or Consulate often contacts the applicant to schedule an interview after completing the online visa application and submitting supporting documents. The interview is typically conducted in person and may involve biometric data collection.

To prepare for the India tourist visa interview, US citizens should keep in mind the following tips:

  • Be honest: It's essential to answer all questions truthfully and accurately during the interview. Providing false information can result in the rejection of your visa application.

  • Know your trip details: US citizens should have a clear idea of their itinerary, including the places they plan to visit, the duration of their stay, and their mode of transportation.

  • Show ties to your home country: Demonstrating ties to the US, such as employment, family, or property ownership, can help establish the applicant's intent to return to their home country after the trip.

  • Dress appropriately: Dressing appropriately and professionally can help make a good impression during the interview.

  • Bring relevant documents: It's essential to bring all relevant documents to the interview, such as your passport, visa application form, and supporting documents.

  • Be prepared to explain: The interviewer may ask questions about any inconsistencies or discrepancies in the application or supporting documents. US citizens should be prepared to explain such issues.

  • Stay calm and confident: Maintaining a calm and confident demeanor during the interview can help create a positive impression and increase the chances of a successful visa application.

In conclusion, while US passport holders may be required to attend an interview as part of the India tourist visa application process, proper preparation and following the guidelines will increase the chances of a successful outcome.

India Tourist Visa fee: Cost of the visa for US citizens

Different processing times have different prices depending on your travel needs and the type of Indian e-visa you're applying for. All applicable e-visa fees include the government visa levy and our e-visa processing fee.

During the application process on our site, you can add services such as an iVisa Plus subscription, Premium Concierge Service, Embassy Registration, or Premium Photo Services.

We also offer iVisa Fee Protection, which allows us to process a new application for no additional processing fee if you're unable to make your trip, as well as the option to get a flight reservation or itinerary that's valid for two weeks and can be used to apply for a visa, as proof of return to show to immigration officers while traveling, for car rental purposes, etc.

All these additional services carry varying costs. Use our application form to check your application's total cost based on your circumstances.

What is the India Tourist Visa processing time for US citizens?

There are three processing alternatives, each with a different processing time and price depending on your travel needs and type of visa. Here are the processing options we offer:

  • Standard Processing - This is the best option if you have more time to wait; it takes 4 days and is also the most economical.

  • Rush Processing - A little faster; receiving your visa only takes 2 days.

  • Super Rush Processing - Your visa will be delivered in 30 hours, which is superfast and perfect for anyone in a rush.

India Tourist Visa requirements for US citizens

Understanding the necessary documents, specific requirements for children, and passport requirements is crucial to ensuring a smooth and hassle-free application process. Let's dive in and confirm you have all the information you need for a successful visa application.

Necessary documents for the India Tourist Visa for US citizens

  1. Valid passport: Your passport should have a minimum validity of six months beyond your intended stay in India. It must have at least two blank pages for visa stamping.

  2. Completed visa application form: Complete the online application form accurately with all the required information.

  3. Passport-size photograph: Provide a recent, color photograph that meets the specifications outlined by the Indian Embassy or Consulate. Our convenient digital photo service makes it easy to get one that meets all government criteria.

  4. Proof of US residency: Provide a copy of your US residency proof, such as a valid US visa or permanent resident card (Green Card).

  5. Travel itinerary: Submit a detailed travel itinerary, including flight reservations, accommodation bookings, and planned activities in India.

  6. Financial documents: Provide proof of sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India. This can include bank statements, pay stubs, or any other document demonstrating your financial capability.

  7. Visa fee payment: Pay the applicable visa fee per the instructions from the Indian Embassy or Consulate.

India Tourist Visa requirements for children of US citizens

In addition to the documents mentioned above, children of US citizens applying for an Indian tourist visa will require the following:

  • Birth certificate: Provide a copy of the child's birth certificate as proof of parentage.

  • Consent letter: If the child travels without both parents, a consent letter from the non-accompanying parent(s) is required, authorizing the child to travel to India.

  • Parents' documents: Submit copies of both parents' passports, visas, and other relevant identification documents.

India Tourist Visa passport requirements for US citizens

To meet the passport requirements for getting an Indian tourist visa, US citizens should ensure the following:

  • Validity: The passport should be valid for at least six months beyond the intended duration of stay in India.

  • Blank pages: The passport should have at least two blank pages for visa stamping purposes.

  • Condition: The passport should be in good condition, without damage or tampering.

  • Previous Indian visas: If you have traveled to India, include copies of your previous Indian visas, if applicable.

India Tourist Visa photo requirements for US citizens

You must provide a recent passport-size photograph that meets specific requirements. The India Tourist Visa photo requirements for US citizens require that the picture:

  • be a recent color photograph taken against a white or light-colored background.

  • must be printed on high-quality photo paper, clear and focused.

  • be the correct size, which is 2 inches by 2 inches (50 mm x 50 mm).

  • Show the entire face of the applicant, with the head centered in the frame and both ears visible. The applicant shouldn't wear any headgear or glasses in the photograph except for religious reasons.

  • should not be digitally altered in any way.

It's important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your trip. To ensure your photograph meets all the requirements, use our Passport Photo Service to get recent, government-standard pictures from home.

India Street Crowd

My India Tourist Visa application was denied. What should I do?

If you're our client and your India Tourist Visa application was denied, we can assist you in reapplying. As a professional visa agency, we have experience with visa applications for various countries, including India.

We'll help you review the reason for the denial, guide you through the reapplication process, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

However, it's essential to note that the Indian embassy or consulate has the final say in the visa application process, and the decision to grant or deny a visa is at their discretion. We cannot guarantee that your visa application will be approved, but we can assist you with the process and give you the best chance of success.

Suppose your application is denied due to an error found in your application after our experts have checked it. In that case, we'll refund the processing fee you paid us as our experts strive to ensure no mistakes in your applications.

Note: Government fees will not be refunded.

Need more information?

If you need more info about traveling to India for tourism, medical assistance, or business, please contact our customer support team anytime via online chat or email at [email protected].

Disclaimer
  • iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://boi.gov.in/boi/

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