E-visa vs traditional visa — which to choose
For most tourists visiting India, the e-visa is the right choice — simpler, faster, and available online without embassy visits. The traditional sticker visa is mainly needed for longer stays, multiple entries over extended periods, or nationalities not covered by the e-visa system.
E-Tourist Visa (most visitors)
Apply at indianvisaonline.gov.in. Available in 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year versions. Cost: $25-80. Processing: 3-5 business days. Maximum stay per entry: 90 days for 1-year and 5-year visas. Can enter India twice on the 30-day version.
Traditional Tourist Visa (longer stays)
For stays beyond 180 days or if your nationality requires it. Apply at the Indian embassy or consulate in your home country. Typically allows 6 months per entry, multiple entries, valid for 10 years. Requires in-person application with passport, photos, bank statement, travel itinerary. Processing: 5-10 business days. Cost varies by nationality.
Extending your visa in India
Tourist visas generally cannot be extended inside India. If you want to stay longer, you must leave and re-enter. Some travelers do “visa runs” to Nepal or Sri Lanka to get a fresh entry stamp — this works but is scrutinized if done repeatedly.
Arrival at the airport
Print your e-visa approval and have it ready at check-in (airlines may ask for it) and at immigration. The immigration queue at busy Indian airports (especially Delhi) can be long — allow extra time when connecting to onward flights.