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How to Get an Indian Tourist Visa on Arrival

FAQs about Visas on Arrival in India

By , About.com Guide

How to Get an Indian Tourist Visa on Arrival Sharell Cook

The Indian government introduced an Indian tourist visa on arrival scheme on January 1, 2010. It was initially trialed for citizens of five countries. Subsequently, a year later, it was extended to include a total of eleven countries. Find out more about the scheme in this article.

Who is Eligible for an Indian Visa on Arrival?

Currently, the facility is offered to citizens of the following countries:

  • Finland
  • Japan
  • Luxembourg
  • New Zealand
  • Singapore
  • Cambodia
  • Vietnam
  • Philippines
  • Laos
  • Myanmar
  • Indonesia

Citizens of these countries can still get an Indian visa on arrival even if they live in a different county, as it's based on nationality not country of residence.

However, do note that if your parents or grandparents were born in or lived in Pakistan, you will be ineligible to get a visa on arrival even if you're a citizen of the above countries.

The government has plans to expand the scheme to more countries including Germany, Thailand, Spain, Sweden, France, Norway, Russia, Ukraine, South Africa, Kazakhstan, Brazil, Malaysia and Brunei.

Where Can Indian Visas on Arrival be Obtained From?

The visas are currently only issued at four major Indian airports: Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata. There are plans to extend the facility to Goa, Kochi, Hyderabad and Bangalore airports.

How Long is the Indian Visa on Arrival Valid For?

It's a single entry Tourist Visa that's valid for 30 days, from the time of entry.

How Much Does an Indian Visa on Arrival Cost?

US $60 or an equivalent amount in Indian rupees per person (including children).

What are the Requirements for Getting an Indian Visa on Arrival?

You'll need to produce:

  • Passport with 6 month validity.
  • 2 passport sized photographs.
  • Photocopy of passport.
  • Evidence of adequate funds such as a return ticket from India, and hotel booking confirmation in India if possible.

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