India is a captivating and diverse country that attracts millions of visitors every year. It is a land of contrasts, where ancient traditions coexist with modern innovations, where vibrant colors and aromas fill the streets, where spirituality and diversity are celebrated. However, due to the Covid-19 pandemic, India has imposed various restrictions and regulations on international travel. Only certain countries have established air travel arrangements or air bubbles with India, allowing limited flights and passengers to enter the country.
One of the first points you should know before visiting India as a foreigner is that you need a visa to enter the country. You can apply for an e-visa or a regular visa online or at an Indian embassy or consulate in your country.
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Check if your country is eligible for a visa. Here is a list of countries that are allowed to enter India:
Afghanistan, Bahrain, Bangladesh, Bhutan, Brazil, Botswana, Cambodia, Canada, Congo, Ethiopia, Finland, France, Germany, Ghana, Hong Kong, Iceland, Indonesia, Israel, Japan, Kazakhstan, Kenya, Laos, Luxembourg, Maldives, Mauritius, Myanmar, Nepal, New Zealand, Nigeria, Russia, Serbia, Singapore, South Africa, Spain, Tanzania, Tunisia, Turkey, UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-visa or regular/paper visa for India), UK (only for such UK nationals who had earlier obtained e-visa or regular/paper visa for India), USA (only for such US nationals who had earlier obtained e-visa or regular/paper visa for India), Zambia, Zimbabwe
Note: This list is based on the latest information available as of 13 April 2023. However, it may change depending on the Covid situation and the bilateral agreements between India and other countries. Therefore, it is advisable to check the official website of the Indian government or the embassy/consulate of the country you are planning to visit before booking your tickets and applying for a visa. You should also follow the rules and regulations of both countries regarding Covid testing, vaccination, quarantine, and health monitoring.
What is an E-visa? What documents are needed to apply for one?
An e-visa is an electronic authorization that you can obtain online by filling out a form and paying a fee. It is valid for 60 days from the date of arrival and allows you to enter India twice for tourism, business, or medical purposes. You can apply for an e-visa at least four days before your departure date and up to 120 days in advance.
You will need to submit your:
· passport details,
· personal information,
· travel itinerary,
· photograph,
· and other documents depending on the type of e-visa.
You can check the official website of the Indian government for more details on how to apply for an e-visa.
What is a Regular Visa? What documents are needed to apply for one?
A regular visa is a sticker that you need to get from an Indian embassy or consulate in your country. It can be valid for up to 10 years and allows you to enter India multiple times for various purposes. You can apply for a regular visa at least two weeks before your departure date and up to six months in advance.
You will need to submit your:
· passport,
· passport-sized photo,
· proof of travel itinerary,
· proof of sufficient funds,
· and other documents depending on the type of visa.
· You will also need to print, sign, and submit the completed application form along with the supporting documents and the passport to the Indian Visa Application Center (IVAC) or directly to the Indian Mission on the scheduled date of interview.
You can check the status of your visa application on the link for Visa Enquiry. You can also check the official website of the Indian government for more details on how to apply for a regular visa.
Some additional points to keep in mind when applying for an Indian visa are:
· You should have a passport that is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India and has at least two blank pages for stamping.
· You should have a return or onward ticket and enough money to cover your expenses during your stay in India.
· You should not engage in any activities that are incompatible with your visa category, such as working, studying, or volunteering without proper authorization.
· You should register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) within 14 days of arrival if you are staying longer than 180 days or if you have a student, research, employment, or medical visa.
· You should abide by the laws and regulations of India and respect its culture and customs.
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