Do I need a visa to travel to India?
Yes, a visa is mandatory to enter India. Two main options: the e-Tourist Visa (up to 60 days, €69, apply online 10-120 days before) or the Regular Visa (up to 6 months, process through VFS center).
The two types of tourist visa
E-Tourist Visa : valid for a maximum of 60 days with 2 entries. Application exclusively on indianvisaonline.gov.in, between 10 and 120 days before departure. Cost approximately €69. Confirmation by email to print and present on arrival.
Regular Visa : valid for 6 months with multiple entries (maximum stay 90 days). Online application then document submission at a VFS centre. More complex procedure but more reliable.
Required documents
- Valid passport 6 months after return with 3 blank pages (including 2 facing each other)
- Photocopy of passport identity pages
- 2 identity photos 5x5 cm format
- For minors: photocopy of family book, parents' identity documents, signed travel authorisation
Areas with special restrictions
Certain territories require special permits : Sikkim in the north, the Lakshadweep Islands and Andaman in the south.
Key points
The standard visa (Regular) is recommended as it is more reliable than the e-visa. Regularly check regulations as they change frequently. An emergency procedure exists in exceptional cases (medical emergency, death).