Planning a trip from the United States to India in 2026? US passport holders must obtain an approved electronic travel authorization before departure. The Indian eVisa system allows Americans to apply online without visiting an embassy, but errors in documentation, photo format, or passport details can delay approval.
Here’s a clear breakdown of how the Indian eVisa for US citizens works in 2026.
Do US Citizens Need a Visa for India?
Yes. US citizens are required to obtain an approved eVisa before traveling to India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. The electronic visa is linked to your passport and must be approved prior to boarding your flight.
Types of Indian eVisa Available for Americans
US travelers can apply for:
- Tourist eVisa (30 days, 1 year, or 5 years validity)
- Business eVisa
- Medical eVisa
The tourist eVisa is the most commonly selected option for vacations, family visits, and short-term travel.
Documents Required for Indian eVisa (US Passport Holders)
When applying online, you typically need:
- Valid US passport (minimum 6 months validity from arrival)
- Recent passport-size photograph (as per India’s digital specifications)
- Passport bio page scan
- Valid email address
- Debit/credit card for fee payment
Many rejections occur due to incorrect photo size, unclear passport scans, or mismatch in name format. Before submission, double-check the correct ETA format for India and ensure your passport details match exactly.
Processing Time for Indian eVisa in 2026
Standard processing usually takes 3–5 business days. However, during peak seasons or due to application errors, delays are possible. Last-minute travelers often face issues if payment fails or documents are rejected.
If you notice errors after submission or need to retrieve your correct Indian eVisa copy, it’s important to act quickly before your departure date.
Indian eVisa Fees for US Citizens
Fees vary depending on:
- Visa type
- Validity duration
- Government processing charges
The fee is non-refundable, even if the application is rejected due to incorrect information.
Common Reasons for Delay or Rejection
- Name mismatch with passport
- Blurry passport upload
- Incorrect photo background
- Payment failure
- Wrong visa category selection
Small formatting issues can cause major travel disruptions. Many US travelers prefer professional review before submission to reduce risk.
Getting Professional Support for Your Application
If you're unsure about documentation or facing technical errors, using an Indian eVisa assistance service can reduce the risk of rejection. At LeSo, we help travelers review applications, verify document formats, correct data mismatches, and resolve payment or status issues before departure.
For personalized assistance, visit LeSo’s website or contact us via WhatsApp or email at info@leso.co.in. Our team also provides ongoing India eVisa support if you need to reapply, correct details, or track approval status.
Important Travel Tips for US Citizens Visiting India
- Carry a printed copy of your approved ETA
- Ensure your passport has at least two blank pages
- Check arrival airport eligibility under the eVisa scheme
- Apply at least 1 week before departure
Being proactive prevents last-minute stress at the airport.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. How long can US citizens stay in India on a tourist eVisa?
Depending on the visa selected, stays may range from 30 days to multiple years with maximum stay limits per visit.
2. Can I enter India multiple times on a tourist eVisa?
Yes, 1-year and 5-year tourist eVisas allow multiple entries, subject to stay limitations.
3. What if I made a mistake in my Indian eVisa application?
You may need to reapply or correct the issue before travel. In such cases, seeking structured India eVisa support can help avoid rejection.
4. Do I need to print my Indian eVisa approval?
Yes. Although the eVisa is electronically linked to your passport, carrying a printed approval copy is strongly recommended.
