India continues to be one of the world’s most visited destinations in 2026 — from the heritage corridors of Rajasthan to the beaches of Goa and the spiritual circuits of Varanasi. To simplify travel, the Government of India offers an electronic travel authorization system known as the Indian eVisa.
This guide explains how to apply for an Indian eVisa in 2026, common mistakes to avoid, document requirements, entry rules, and how to ensure your approval is airport-ready.
What Is the Indian eVisa?
The Indian eVisa is an official electronic travel authorization issued online to eligible foreign nationals. Once approved, travelers receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) that must be presented at immigration upon arrival in India.
It is available under categories such as:
- e-Tourist Visa
- e-Business Visa
- e-Medical Visa
- e-Conference Visa
Travelers must enter India through authorized airports or seaports designated for eVisa holders.
Who Can Apply for an Indian eVisa in 2026?
Foreign nationals from eligible countries can apply online before travel. You may apply if:
- Your nationality is listed under India’s eVisa program
- Your passport is valid for at least 6 months from arrival
- You have a return or onward journey ticket
- You are entering through an authorized checkpoint
Travelers with OCI cards or diplomatic passports must follow separate rules.
Step-by-Step Process to Apply for Indian eVisa (2026)
Step 1: Choose the Correct Visa Category
Select the appropriate visa type based on your travel purpose (tourism, business, medical, etc.). Applying under the wrong category is one of the most common reasons for delays.
Step 2: Prepare Required Documents
You will typically need:
- Scanned passport bio page
- Recent passport-style photograph (as per specifications)
- Additional documents depending on visa category (business card, hospital letter, etc.)
Ensure your photo meets the official dimensions and background requirements. Incorrect uploads often lead to processing issues.
Step 3: Complete the Online Application Form
Fill out the online application carefully. Details must match your passport exactly, including:
- Full name (as per passport)
- Passport number
- Date of birth
- Nationality
Even minor spelling mismatches can cause immigration complications.
Step 4: Pay the Government Fee
Fees vary depending on nationality and visa category. Payment is completed online during the application process.
Step 5: Receive Your ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
If approved, you will receive your ETA via email. Before boarding your flight, verify that your document includes:
- Clear photograph
- Visible QR code or barcode
- Correct passport details
- Approved visa category
- Validity dates
Many travelers face boarding issues because they do not carry the correct ETA format for India. If your document appears incomplete, you may need to retrieve your correct Indian eVisa copy before departure.
Processing Time in 2026
Most Indian eVisa applications are processed within 3–5 business days, though delays may occur during peak travel seasons. It is recommended to apply at least 7–10 days before travel.
Common Mistakes to Avoid
- Uploading an incorrect photo size
- Entering passport number incorrectly
- Selecting the wrong visa type
- Not checking entry airport eligibility
- Traveling with a partially downloaded ETA
Travelers occasionally discover errors only at airport check-in. In such cases, professional India eVisa support may help resolve formatting or documentation concerns before travel.
Entry Rules at Indian Airports
Upon arrival, immigration officers will:
- Verify passport validity
- Scan your ETA
- Capture biometrics (fingerprints and photo)
- Stamp your passport
Entry is granted at designated eVisa airports and seaports only. Land border entry is generally not permitted for standard eTourist visa holders unless officially authorized.
When Should You Seek Application Assistance?
Even small errors — incorrect photo size, passport detail mismatches, or an improperly formatted ETA — can lead to boarding issues.
LeSo provides structured Indian eVisa assistance support, including application review, document format checks, ETA verification, and correction guidance before travel. If you’d prefer a quick review before submitting — or need help resolving a document issue — you can reach out to us via our Website or on WhatsApp.
Final Checklist Before You Fly
- Passport valid for 6+ months
- Printed ETA copy
- Return/onward ticket
- Hotel or address details
- Correct visa category
- Entry via authorized checkpoint
Review every detail carefully to avoid last-minute complications at departure airports.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. How long is the Indian eTourist Visa valid in 2026?
Depending on the type selected (30-day, 1-year, or 5-year), validity varies. Always check the approval letter for your specific validity period.
2. Can I enter India through any airport with an eVisa?
No. Entry is allowed only through designated international airports and select seaports approved for eVisa travelers.
3. What if my ETA does not show a QR code?
Airlines may deny boarding if the document format appears incomplete. You may need to verify or retrieve your correct Indian eVisa copy before departure.
4. Can I extend my Indian eVisa?
In most cases, eTourist visas are non-extendable and non-convertible. Check current regulations before planning a longer stay.
5. How early should I apply for the Indian eVisa?
It is recommended to apply at least 7–10 days before travel to account for processing time and corrections, if required.
