1. What is Visa on Arrival to India?
Visa on Arrival to India is a facility that allows citizens of certain countries to obtain a visa upon arriving at an Indian airport. This means travelers do not have to apply for a visa in advance through the traditional embassy or consulate process. Instead, they can complete the necessary paperwork upon landing in India and receive their visa efficiently. It’s important to note that this facility is available for a limited number of countries, and the duration and conditions of the visa on arrival may vary depending on the traveler’s nationality. Additionally, travelers must meet specific eligibility criteria, such as having a passport valid for at least six months and a return or onward ticket. It is advisable to carefully check the eligibility requirements and process for Visa on Arrival before traveling to India.
2. Which countries are eligible for Visa on Arrival in India?
Citizens of the following countries are currently eligible for Visa on Arrival (VoA) in India:
1. Japan
2. South Korea
3. Sri Lanka
4. Myanmar
5. Indonesia
6. Maldives
7. Thailand
8. Vietnam
It is important to note that the list of eligible countries for VoA can change, so it is recommended to check the most up-to-date information with the Indian government’s official website or consulate before planning your trip. Additionally, travelers must meet certain criteria and conditions to avail of the Visa on Arrival facility in India, such as having a valid passport, return ticket, confirmed accommodation, and sufficient funds for their stay.
3. What are the requirements for obtaining a Visa on Arrival in India?
To obtain a Visa on Arrival in India, travelers must fulfill specific requirements:
1. Eligibility: Visa on Arrival is available for citizens of certain countries who are visiting India for tourism, short business trips, and medical purposes. It is essential to check if your country qualifies for this type of visa.
2. Passport: Travelers must have a passport with a validity of at least six months from the date of arrival in India. The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping.
3. Return Ticket: Travelers must have a return ticket or onward journey ticket, along with sufficient funds to support their stay in India.
4. Application Form: The visa on arrival application form must be completed online before travel and submitted along with the required documents.
5. Fees: Payment of the visa fee is required upon arrival in India.
6. Biometric Data: Travelers may need to provide biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, upon arrival in India.
7. Approval: The Visa on Arrival is subject to approval by the Indian immigration authorities upon arrival at the designated airports in India.
It is essential to carefully review and fulfill all requirements to ensure a smooth visa on arrival process when entering India.
4. How long is the Visa on Arrival valid for in India?
The Visa on Arrival (VoA) for India is typically valid for a maximum period of 60 days from the date of arrival in the country. The duration of stay permitted under this visa can vary depending on the traveler’s nationality and purpose of visit. However, most VoAs are granted for a period of either 30 days or 60 days. It’s important to note that the validity and duration of stay for the Visa on Arrival can also be subject to the discretion of the Indian immigration authorities at the port of entry. Travelers should ensure they comply with the conditions of their visa and depart India before the expiration of their visa to avoid any legal issues.
5. Can I extend my Visa on Arrival in India?
Yes, it is possible to extend your Visa on Arrival in India under certain circumstances. Here are the key points to consider:
1. The Visa on Arrival can be extended for a maximum period of up to 60 days beyond the initial 30 days stay.
2. Extension of the Visa on Arrival is granted at the discretion of the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) in India. It is advisable to apply for the extension well before the expiry of the initial visa validity.
3. You will need to provide valid reasons for the extension such as medical emergency, business reasons, or other unforeseen circumstances that require you to stay longer in India.
4. Extension fees and requirements may vary depending on your nationality and the specific circumstances of your stay. It is recommended to check with the FRRO for the most up-to-date information and guidance on the extension process.
5. It is important to comply with the visa regulations and procedures to avoid any potential issues or overstay penalties while in India.
6. What is the process for applying for a Visa on Arrival in India at the airport?
To apply for a Visa on Arrival in India at the airport, you need to follow these steps:
1. Fill out the Arrival Card: Upon arrival in India, you will be given an Arrival Card that you need to fill out with your personal details and purpose of visit.
2. Proceed to the Visa on Arrival counter: Head to the Visa on Arrival counter at the airport where you will be guided through the application process.
3. Present required documents: You will need to present your passport with at least six months validity, return or onward ticket, proof of sufficient funds, and a passport-sized photograph.
4. Pay the visa fee: The visa fee for Visa on Arrival varies depending on nationality and duration of stay. It is usually payable in cash, so make sure you have the necessary currency with you.
5. Wait for processing: Once you have submitted all the required documents and paid the fee, your application will be processed by the immigration authorities.
6. Receive your visa: If your application is approved, you will be issued a visa on the spot, allowing you to enter India. Make sure to check the details on the visa to ensure they are correct before proceeding with your travel plans.
It’s important to note that not all nationalities are eligible for a Visa on Arrival in India, so you should check the official government website or with the Indian embassy in your country beforehand to confirm your eligibility and requirements.
7. What is the fee for obtaining a Visa on Arrival in India?
The fee for obtaining a Visa on Arrival in India differs based on the nationality of the traveler. As of my last update, the fee ranges from $10 to $100 USD. It is important to check the current fee structure on the official website of the Indian Government or the Indian Embassy/Consulate in your country before planning your travel. Additionally, the fee is typically payable in cash, so it is recommended to have the exact amount ready in the accepted currency upon arrival in India to expedite the visa processing. Please note that the fee for the Visa on Arrival is separate from any additional entry fees or taxes that may be applicable.
8. Can I apply for a Visa on Arrival multiple times in India?
No, individuals are not allowed to apply for a Visa on Arrival multiple times in India. The Visa on Arrival scheme in India permits eligible foreign nationals to obtain a visa upon arrival for a single entry. Once the visa is utilized and the traveler exits the country, they would need to apply for a fresh visa if they wish to re-enter India. It is important to note that the Visa on Arrival is intended as a one-time convenience for travelers who meet the eligibility criteria, and it is not a multiple-entry visa. If a traveler requires multiple entries into India, they would need to apply for the appropriate type of visa through the regular application process.
9. Can I apply for a Visa on Arrival if I hold a passport from a country not eligible for the scheme?
No, unfortunately, you cannot apply for a Visa on Arrival (VoA) if you hold a passport from a country that is not eligible for the scheme. The Visa on Arrival scheme in India is specifically designed for citizens of certain countries who are allowed to obtain a visa upon their arrival at select airports in India. This facility is not extended to nationals of countries that are not on the list of eligible nations. Therefore, if your country of citizenship is not included in the list of countries eligible for the Visa on Arrival scheme, you will need to apply for a regular visa through the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country before traveling to India.
10. Are there any restrictions on activities allowed under the Visa on Arrival in India?
Yes, there are restrictions on the activities allowed under the Visa on Arrival in India. Here are some key limitations:
1. Employment: The Visa on Arrival in India does not permit engaging in any form of employment or paid activities while in the country. Visitors are not allowed to work, seek employment, or earn any form of income during their stay on this visa.
2. Business Activities: The Visa on Arrival is typically meant for tourism, recreation, casual visits with friends and relatives, or short-term medical treatment. It does not allow visitors to conduct business activities such as attending meetings, conferences, or signing contracts.
3. Research or Journalism: Engaging in research work, journalism, or any form of media-related activities requires a specific visa category in India and cannot be pursued under the Visa on Arrival.
4. Missionary or Mountaineering Activities: The Visa on Arrival does not permit participation in activities related to missionary work, mountaineering expeditions, or any other form of specialized travel that falls outside the scope of tourism or medical treatment.
It is important for travelers to adhere to the restrictions imposed under the Visa on Arrival in India to avoid any legal complications or visa violations during their stay in the country.
11. Can I convert a Visa on Arrival into a different type of visa while in India?
No, you cannot convert a Visa on Arrival into a different type of visa while in India. Visa on Arrival is a specific category of visa that allows travelers to obtain a visa upon arrival at the airport in India. It is intended for short-term visits for tourism, medical treatment, or casual business purposes. If you wish to stay longer in India or need a different type of visa such as a work visa or student visa, you would need to apply for that specific visa type through the regular visa application process before traveling to India. Converting a Visa on Arrival into another visa type is not permissible under Indian visa regulations. If you require a different type of visa, it is recommended to apply for it in advance through the appropriate channels.
12. Can I bring my family members on a Visa on Arrival to India?
Yes, you can bring your family members on a Visa on Arrival (VoA) to India. Each family member will need to apply for a separate VoA depending on their nationality. Here are some important points to consider when bringing family members on a VoA to India:
1. Eligibility: Ensure that each family member meets the eligibility criteria for the VoA, including holding a passport from an eligible country and meeting other requirements such as having a return ticket.
2. Application process: Each family member will need to apply for the VoA individually upon arrival at select airports in India. They will need to fill out the necessary forms and provide required documents.
3. Fees: There are fees associated with the VoA for each family member, which must be paid upon arrival in Indian currency.
4. Duration of stay: The VoA allows for a stay of up to 60 days in India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. Ensure that each family member adheres to the permitted duration of stay.
5. Renewal or extension: If your family members wish to extend their stay beyond the initial period granted by the VoA, they may need to apply for an extension through the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO).
Overall, bringing your family members on a Visa on Arrival to India is possible as long as they fulfill the requirements and follow the necessary procedures upon arrival.
13. What documents do I need to carry while applying for a Visa on Arrival in India?
When applying for a Visa on Arrival in India, it is important to ensure that you have all the necessary documents to facilitate a smooth process at the immigration counter. The following documents are essential to carry:
1. Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India and should have at least two blank pages for stamping.
2. Visa fee: Carry sufficient funds to pay for the visa fee upon arrival in India. This fee varies depending on the nationality of the traveler.
3. Return flight ticket: It is advisable to carry a copy of your return flight ticket as proof of your intention to leave India within the visa validity period.
4. Proof of accommodation: Provide evidence of where you will be staying during your visit in India, such as a hotel reservation or a letter of invitation from a host.
5. Passport-sized photograph: Carry a recent passport-sized photograph of yourself for visa processing.
6. Supporting documents: Depending on your nationality and the purpose of your visit, you may be required to provide additional supporting documents such as a letter of invitation, travel itinerary, or proof of sufficient funds.
By ensuring you have all the necessary documents in place, you can expedite the Visa on Arrival process and enter India with ease.
14. Are there any medical requirements for obtaining a Visa on Arrival in India?
Yes, there are certain medical requirements for obtaining a Visa on Arrival in India. Travelers applying for a Visa on Arrival must have a Yellow Fever vaccination certificate if they are arriving from, or have been in transit through, a Yellow Fever endemic country. This requirement is particularly important for travelers coming from Africa or South America where Yellow Fever is prevalent.
Additionally, it is recommended that travelers be up to date on routine vaccinations before traveling to India. These may include vaccinations for measles, mumps, rubella, tetanus, diphtheria, pertussis, and influenza. Travelers should also take precautions against illnesses such as malaria, dengue fever, and typhoid, depending on the regions they plan to visit in India.
It is advisable for travelers to consult with their healthcare provider or a travel medicine specialist well in advance of their trip to ensure they have all necessary vaccinations and medications for a safe and healthy journey to India.
15. Can I enter India through any airport with a Visa on Arrival?
No, you cannot enter India through any airport with a Visa on Arrival. As of now, the Visa on Arrival facility is available only at designated international airports in India. Travelers holding an e-Visa or a Visa on Arrival can enter India through the following designated airports:
1. Ahmedabad
2. Amritsar
3. Bagdogra
4. Bengaluru
5. Bhubaneshwar
6. Calicut
7. Chennai
8. Chandigarh
9. Cochin
10. Coimbatore
11. Delhi
12. Gaya
13. Goa
14. Guwahati
15. Hyderabad
16. Jaipur
17. Kolkata
18. Lucknow
19. Mangalore
20. Mumbai
21. Nagpur
22. Pune
23. Tiruchirappalli
24. Trivandrum
25. Varanasi
It is important to note that the availability of Visa on Arrival facility at these airports may be subject to change, so it is recommended to check the latest information on the official website of the Indian government or with the respective embassy or consulate before making travel plans.
16. Can I travel domestically within India with a Visa on Arrival?
No, you cannot travel domestically within India using a Visa on Arrival. The Visa on Arrival is specifically for foreign nationals arriving in India from another country and is meant for entry into India only. Once you are in India and wish to travel domestically from one state to another, you do not need a visa as long as you have a valid identification document such as a passport or a government-issued ID. Domestic travel within India is generally unrestricted for both Indian citizens and foreign visitors who are already in the country, regardless of their visa status. Therefore, a Visa on Arrival cannot be used for domestic travel within India.
17. Can I work or study with a Visa on Arrival in India?
No, you cannot work or study with a Visa on Arrival in India. The Visa on Arrival (VoA) is typically issued for tourism, casual business visits, and for meeting friends and relatives. It is not intended for engaging in work or study activities. If you plan to work or study in India, you would need to apply for the appropriate visa category that allows for such activities, such as an Employment Visa or a Student Visa respectively. It’s important to ensure that you have the correct visa type to avoid any potential legal issues during your stay in India.
18. What is the process for reporting a lost passport with a Visa on Arrival in India?
If you lose your passport with a Visa on Arrival in India, the process for reporting and dealing with this situation can be quite challenging. However, it is crucial to act quickly and follow the necessary steps:
1. Report the lost passport to the nearest Indian police station: You should report the loss of your passport immediately to the local police station. They will provide you with a police report or FIR (First Information Report) which is essential for further procedures.
2. Inform your embassy or consulate: Contact your country’s embassy or consulate in India to report the loss of your passport. They will guide you on how to proceed with obtaining a new passport.
3. Visit the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) or Foreigners Registration Office (FRO): You will need to visit the nearest FRRO or FRO office to report the loss of your passport and apply for an exit visa. They will provide you with the necessary paperwork and guidance on how to proceed.
4. Apply for a new visa: Once you have a new passport, you will need to apply for a new visa to exit the country legally. This process may involve additional paperwork and fees.
It is essential to act promptly and follow the guidance of the authorities to ensure a smooth and timely resolution to the loss of your passport with a Visa on Arrival in India.
19. Can I travel outside of India and re-enter with a Visa on Arrival?
Yes, with a Visa on Arrival (VoA) for India, you are generally permitted to travel outside of India and then re-enter during the validity period of your visa. However, there are a few key points to keep in mind:
1. Multiple Entries: Most VoA for India allow for multiple entries within their validity period. This means you can exit and re-enter India multiple times as long as your visa remains valid.
2. Validity Period: It is important to check the specific validity period of your Visa on Arrival. Make sure that your visa is still valid for re-entry when you plan to return to India.
3. Permissible Duration: While VoA typically allows for stays of up to a certain duration (usually 30 days), ensure that you do not exceed this period during each entry.
4. Check Visa Conditions: It’s advisable to review the terms and conditions of your VoA to understand any restrictions or requirements for re-entry, such as a minimum gap between exits and entries.
By following these guidelines and ensuring your VoA remains valid and complies with all regulations, you should be able to travel outside of India and re-enter without any issues.
20. Are there any specific rules or guidelines to follow while using a Visa on Arrival in India?
Yes, there are specific rules and guidelines to follow when using a Visa on Arrival in India:
1. Eligibility: The Visa on Arrival facility is available to travelers from select countries who meet certain criteria. It is essential to check if your country is eligible for Visa on Arrival in India.
2. Passport Validity: Your passport must have at least six months validity from the date of arrival in India. It should also have at least two blank pages for immigration stamps.
3. Purpose of Visit: The Visa on Arrival is typically granted for tourism, business, or medical purposes. Ensure that you have the necessary documentation to support your reason for visiting India.
4. Arrival Ports: The Visa on Arrival can only be availed at designated international airports in India. Make sure you arrive at one of these specified airports to obtain your visa.
5. e-Visa Application: Prior to your travel, it is advisable to apply for an e-Visa to expedite the immigration process upon arrival in India. This will save you time and hassle at the airport.
By adhering to these rules and guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and hassle-free experience when using the Visa on Arrival facility in India.