India is a popular destination for tourists from all around the world. With its diverse cultures, rich history, and magnificent architecture, it attracts millions of visitors each year. To visit India, international travellers must have a valid visa. The Indian visa application process has become much easier with the introduction of the Indian Visa On Arrival system.
Introduction to Indian Visa On Arrival
The Indian Visa On Arrival, also known as the Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA), is an electronic visa system that allows international travellers to apply for a visa on arrival in India. The ETA is a type of electronic authorization that is granted by the Government of India to foreign nationals who wish to visit India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. It is an easy and convenient way to apply for a visa, as you can do so from the comfort of your own home before you travel to India.
Eligibility for Indian Visa On Arrival
The Indian Visa On Arrival is available to citizens of 43 countries, including Japan, Australia, United States, Canada, and many others. To be eligible for the Indian ETA, you must meet the following criteria:
- You must have a valid passport that has at least six months of validity remaining from the date of arrival in India.
- You must have a return ticket or onward journey ticket.
- You must have sufficient funds to support your stay in India.
- You must not have any criminal record or pose a threat to national security.
Types of Indian Visa On Arrival
There are two types of Indian ETA:
- Tourist ETA: This type of visa is for foreign nationals who wish to visit India for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting friends and relatives, and attending cultural events.
- Business ETA: This type of visa is for foreign nationals who wish to visit India for business purposes, such as attending business meetings, conferences, and trade fairs.
Indian Visa On Arrival Process
The Indian Visa On Arrival process is simple and straightforward. Follow these steps to apply for an Indian ETA:
- Visit the official Indian visa website and create an account.
- Fill out the online application form with the required information, such as your personal details, passport information, and the purpose of your visit.
- Upload a recent passport-sized photo and your passport bio page.
- Make the payment for the visa fee using a credit or debit card.
- Receive your ETA within three to five working days.
Indian Visa Application Process
In case you are not eligible for the Indian Visa On Arrival, you can still apply for an Indian visa through the traditional visa application process. Here is how you can do it:
- Visit the nearest Indian embassy or consulate in your country.
- Fill out the visa application form with the required information, such as your personal details, passport information, and the purpose of your visit.
- Submit your visa application along with the required documents, such as your passport, passport-sized photos, return ticket, and proof of sufficient funds.
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Pay the visa fee.
- Wait for the visa processing time, which varies depending on the embassy or consulate.
Fees for Indian Visa On Arrival
The fee for the Indian ETA varies depending on the type of visa you are applying for and the duration of your stay in India.
