India Tourist eVisa: Common Issues and Solutions

Ah, the allure of India! A land teeming with enchanting sights and rich experiences awaits adventurous souls from all corners of the globe. But wait! Before diving headfirst into this captivating journey, a little thing called the India eVisa demands your attention.

Don't fret, though, because we've got your back! In this blog, we're here to tackle pesky issues that often pop up during the eVisa application process. From deciphering confusing requirements to troubleshooting technical glitches, we can help solve issues on the India eVisa application!

So, get ready to unlock the secrets of the India Tourist Visa and embark on your extraordinary Indian adventure without breaking a sweat. Let's dive right in, shall we?

What is the Indian e-Visa?

The *India e-Visa, also known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), is an online visa facility introduced by the Government of India to simplify the visa application process for eligible foreign nationals. It was launched alongside the existing regular visa services offered by the Indian government. The e-Visa allows travelers to get a visa electronically without visiting an Indian embassy or consulate like you would if you were applying for a regular paper visa.

The Indian e-Visa is available for various purposes, including tourism, business, medical treatment, and attending conferences or cultural events. It offers different categories, such as e-Tourist Visa, e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa (sometimes called the e-medical attendant visa), and the conference visa, depending on the purpose of travel.

To apply for an Indian e-Visa, eligible travelers must complete the Indian visa online application form, provide the required documents, and pay the visa fee. The application is processed electronically, and upon approval, the e-Visa is issued and sent via email. This means that you do not need to visit the Indian embassy or consulate.

The e-Visa allows travelers to enter India through designated airports, seaports, and land ports. The duration of stay and validity of the e-Visa depend on the category chosen during the application process. It's important to note that the e-Visa is typically valid for single or multiple entries within a specified period.

The Indian e-Visa has simplified the visa application process, offering convenience and flexibility for eligible travelers planning to visit India for various purposes. However, it's crucial to carefully review the eligibility criteria, required documents, and specific guidelines for each category before applying for the e-Visa.

Note: the e-Visa is unavailable to Diplomatic or Official Passports, Laissez-passer travel document holders, or International Travel Document Holders. Also, every applicant must have a separate ordinary passport to apply.

The Indian eVisa application process

At iVisa, we aim to make getting your Indian visa online simple and hassle-free. Complete your India visa online application in three easy steps:

• Step 1: Start by completing the online application form on our website. Provide general information about yourself and choose the type of visa you want to apply for.

• Step 2: Once you've completed the form, review your information to ensure everything is accurate. Then, select the processing option that best suits your needs.

• Step 3: Pay the service fee using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit/debit card, and upload any required documents, such as a passport photo and a photo scan of your passport.

After completing these three steps, submit your application and wait for your e-visa to arrive in your email inbox within your selected timeframe.

It's important to note that during your travels, you must carry both a printed and electronic copy of your eVisa to present to immigration officers upon arrival so that they can verify your Indian eVisa status.

We recommend downloading the iVisa app to your mobile device for added convenience. This will allow you to keep track of your documents electronically and even track the status of your application.

Common problems and issues with the India e-Visa application

Applying for an India eVisa can be an exciting step towards exploring the wonders of India. However, the eVisa application process has its challenges. Let’s look at some of the main stumbling blocks and how we can help you overcome them.

Technical issues

Technical issues can be a major source of frustration when applying for an India eVisa. Here are some of the most common technical issues applicants experience:

1. Website glitches

Website glitches and system errors can be frustrating while completing the eVisa application. These issues may manifest as error messages, unresponsive pages, or sudden crashes.

First, ensure you use a reliable website, as fake e-visa websites exist. A few such prominent websites claim to provide E-visas services to visa applicants and mislead applicants with images and home pages that mimic the Government of India's eVisa platform. So be super thorough or opt for reliable sites such as ours.

If you’re experiencing issues on our site. try refreshing the page, clearing your browser cache, or using a different browser. If the problem persists, contact our customer service team. They are available 24/7 to provide prompt assistance and guidance.

2. Difficulty accessing or navigating the application portal

Sometimes, travelers may face challenges accessing or navigating the eVisa application portal. This could be due to slow loading times, broken links, or unclear instructions.

Ensure a stable internet connection, try accessing the portal during non-peak hours, and double-check that you follow the steps outlined in the application guidelines.

Or, opt to use our user-friendly platform instead. We provide e-visas services with a simpler process and detailed step-by-step instructions so you understand the requirements and procedures involved in the eVisa application.

3. Slow processing times and delays in receiving confirmation

Processing times can vary depending on the efficiency of the consular services in your area, and delays in receiving confirmation occur frequently. Check the processing time guidelines provided by the eVisa authorities and be patient.

Visa applicants who apply with us should not panic. We monitor the progress of your application and provide updates regarding any potential delays. If you have yet to hear from us and your visa is taking longer than expected, feel free to reach out to us or check your iVisa app to track the progress of your application in real time.

Document submission and validation

Document submission and validation are crucial in the eVisa application process. Here's how to overcome challenges:

1. Complicated document requirements and formats

The document requirements and formats specified for the India eVisa can be complex and confusing. Understanding what documents are required and in which format can be challenging.

When you apply with us, we provide a detailed document checklist to ensure you provide exactly what we need to process your application.

2. Instances of documents being rejected or deemed invalid

Documents may be rejected or deemed invalid during the eVisa application process. This can lead to delays or even a rejection of the application.

Ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and meet the specified requirements. Pay attention to details such as passport information, travel itineraries, and supporting documents. Remember that if you apply for a new Indian Visa Online because you lost your old passport you will be asked to provide a lost passport police report.

If a document is rejected, review the reason provided by the eVisa authorities, rectify any errors or discrepancies, and promptly resubmit the document.

If you apply through us, our team of experts will check all your documents before submitting them to the Indian visa authorities to ensure they meet the requirements. Keep an eye on your email, as this is where we will contact you if we spot any possible issues before submission.

3. Challenges in uploading or attaching supporting documents

Uploading or attaching supporting documents during the eVisa application process can be frustrating. Technical issues or difficulties in locating the correct files may arise.

Ensure you have digital copies of all required supporting documents before starting the application. Double-check the accepted file formats and sizes.

If you encounter difficulties during uploading, check your internet connection, try using a different device or browser, and verify that the document files meet the specified requirements.

Lack of Support and Communication

Proper support and effective communication channels are essential for a smooth India eVisa application process. However, there are instances where travelers face challenges in accessing support and obtaining the necessary information when navigating the e-visa services provided by the government, including:

1. Limited customer service availability and response times

Travelers may encounter limited availability of customer service or experience delays in receiving timely responses to their queries or concerns, mainly when they apply directly on the Indian e-Visa portal.

To avoid this, opt to apply through us. We promise dedicated customer service via email or live chat to assist you promptly throughout the application process. Our responsive team aims to respond to your queries and concerns promptly, ensuring you have the support you need when needed.

2. Insufficient information or guidance provided to applicants

Numerous applicants have complained about insufficient information and the need for guidance during the eVisa application process.

We understand the importance of providing clear and comprehensive guidance to applicants. Thus, we have carefully created a user-friendly platform with detailed step-by-step instructions.

Additionally, our website offers FAQs and helpful articles to address common questions and provide additional information. Our team even launched a downloadable app to help customers track and manage their visa applications on the go.

3. Language barriers & difficulties seeking clarification

Another major complaint about the application process directly through the government e-visa facility is the language barriers that cause challenges in seeking clarification.

We offer multilingual support, ensuring effective communication and clarification in your preferred language.

Inconsistencies and ambiguities

Navigating through the Indian e-Visa application process on the government website is challenging and filled with inconsistencies and ambiguities. Conflicting information, unclear guidelines, and discrepancies between instructions and procedures create confusion and uncertainty. Common issues applicants complained about include:

1. Conflicting information on the official website or application form

Travelers may encounter conflicting information on the eVisa portal and application form, leading to confusion about the correct procedures or requirements.

We strive to provide accurate and up-to-date information on our platform, ensuring consistency and clarity. Our dedicated team regularly monitors any changes in requirements or processes to provide the most accurate information. In case of conflicting information, contact our customer service for clarification and guidance based on the latest updates and official sources.

2. Unclear guidelines on specific requirements or eligibility criteria

A lack of clear guidelines about the eligibility criteria makes it challenging to understand what to prepare for the India eVisa application. Avoid the confusion and refer to our ultimate India guide that details everything you need to apply.

3. Discrepancies between application instructions and actual processes

Discrepancies between the instructions in the application form and the actual processes can cause confusion and uncertainty during the eVisa application process.

However, opting for our simplified application process ensures you know exactly what to expect. Our team continuously monitors any changes in the eVisa application procedures to provide reliable guidance.

Processing delays, payment issues, and refunds

Excessive waiting times for eVisa approval, instances of rejected applications without clear explanations, issues with the payment page, and challenges in obtaining refunds for rejected or canceled eVisas can create uncertainty and inconvenience. Here are some common issues and how to deal with them:

1. Excessive waiting times for eVisa approval

Travelers may experience excessive waiting times for eVisa approval, which can cause anxiety and uncertainty about the status of their application.

At iVisa, we understand the importance of timely processing and approval. We continuously monitor the progress of your eVisa application and provide updates regarding any potential delays.

While the processing time is ultimately determined by the eVisa authorities, our team works diligently to expedite the process as much as possible.

Additionally, our customer service is available to address any concerns or provide information regarding the status of your application, ensuring that you stay informed throughout the process.

2. Payment failure or rejection

If your payment of the applicable e-visa fees fails or gets rejected, ensure you have entered the correct payment information, including card details, billing address, and security code.

If the issue persists, contact your bank or payment provider to verify if there are any restrictions on your card or account. Make sure you are using a valid payment method.

If you need help making a payment through our site, contact our customer service team for assistance with alternative payment methods.

3. Instances of rejected applications without clear explanations

Receiving a rejection for your e-Visa application without clear answers can be disheartening and leave you unsure of the reasons behind the decision.

We strive to minimize the chances of rejection by carefully reviewing your application before submission. Our team checks for any errors or discrepancies that may lead to rejection.

If your application is rejected, we can guide you and assist you in understanding the reason behind the decision. We can help you assess the rejection notice, identify any issues, and advise you on the necessary steps to rectify the situation and resubmit your application.

4. Challenges in obtaining refunds for rejected or canceled e-Visas

Getting refunds for rejected or canceled e-Visas can be challenging and time-consuming, causing frustration for travelers. It is nearly impossible to get a refund from the government portal.

However, if you're an iVisa client and your Indian Visa application was denied, you can reapply for a new visa with us. 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 on how to reapply, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

However, it's essential to note that the Indian consulate or embassy has the final say in the visa application process, and the decision to grant or deny a visa is at their discretion. At iVisa, we can't 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 reviewed 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.

We also offer an iVisa Fee Protection, which allows us to process a new application for no additional processing fee if you cannot make your trip.

Tips for a smoother e-Visa application process

To ensure a seamless and hassle-free India e-Visa application process, follow these tips:

Apply well in advance to account for potential delays

To avoid complications, apply for your India eVisa well in advance. Processing times can vary, and unexpected delays may occur. Applying early gives you enough time to complete the application, submit the required documents, and receive eVisa approval before your travel dates. We recommend applying at least a few weeks ahead.

Research the application requirements beforehand

Thoroughly research and understand the application requirements before starting your e-Visa application. Familiarize yourself with the necessary documents, eligibility criteria, and any specific guidelines provided by Indian authorities.

As mentioned, we have comprehensive India e-Visa guides and several blogs on our platform explaining the application process, requirements, and tips for a successful application. Use these resources to gain a clear understanding of what's expected.

Double-check document formats and sizes to meet specifications

Ensure your supporting documents adhere to specified formats and sizes. Verify that documents are in the required file formats (PDF, JPEG, or PNG) and meet size limits. We provide document verification services to help you ensure proper formatting and meet requirements. Use these services for peace of mind before submitting your application.

Seek assistance from official support channels if encountering issues

Remember, we are a reputable visa service provider that aims to simplify the e-Visa application process and provide dedicated support alongside our existing visa services.

If you encounter any issues or have specific concerns during your India e-Visa application, don't hesitate to contact our customer service team. They can provide personalized guidance and assistance to ensure a smoother experience.