Everything You Need to Know About India's Entry Requirements
Heading to India soon? Before you go, there are two important entry requirements to take care of: a Visa and a Digital Arrival Card. Don't worry, we've broken it all down below so you can check these off your list with confidence and get back to dreaming about your trip.
Requirement #1: India e-Visa
Do I Need a Visa?
Yes! All travelers to India must obtain a visa prior to arrival. The good news? It's all done online.
When Should I Apply?
Timing is important here — make sure you apply:
- No more than 30 days before your arrival in India
- At least 4 days before your arrival
Mark those dates on your calendar so you're not caught off guard!
How Much Does It Cost?
The application fee varies depending on your country or nationality. You can check the fee for your specific country directly on the Indian government website under the "Instructions for Applicant" section.
How Do I Apply?
- Head to the official Indian e-Visa portal to submit your application: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/
- Need a little extra guidance? We've got you covered! Check out our India Visa Walkthrough Guide for step-by-step instructions to take the guesswork out of the process.
Requirement #2: India Digital Arrival Card
What Is the Digital Arrival Card?
India has introduced a free digital arrival card to streamline the entry process for all travelers. It replaces the individual paper forms previously used for immigration, health declaration, and customs — all in one easy digital form. Simple, speedy, and stress-free!
When Do I Fill It Out?
The timing window for this one is a little different:
- You can start your application up to 72 hours (3 days) before your first flight
- You must complete it no later than 24 hours before your departure
Here's a helpful tip based on your itinerary:
- If India is your first stop — complete the form before you leave home!
- If India falls later in your tour — you'll fill it out while on the road. No stress — your Tour Director will be happy to help with any questions along the way.
How Do I Apply?
- Complete your Digital Arrival Card at the official link below — it's free! https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/earrival/
- Simply fill in the requested information using your flight details and hotel information.
What Happens After I Submit?
- After completing the form, you'll receive a confirmation email to the address you provide at the end of the application.
- Make sure to have this confirmation email handy when you arrive at customs — along with your passport. You can pull it up on your phone or print a copy, whichever works best for you!
Quick-Reference Checklist
Before you depart for India, make sure you've:
- Applied for your e-Visa (within 30 days, at least 4 days before arrival)
- Completed your Digital Arrival Card (within 72 hours of your first flight, at least 24 hours before departure)
- Saved your Digital Arrival Card confirmation email
- Packed your passport
Where Can I Find More Information?
Additional details about India's entry requirements can be found in your online account or the EF Go Ahead Tours mobile app under the "Entry Requirements" section.
You can also see the most up-to-date entry requirements for the destination(s) you’ll visit on tour by going to goaheadtours.com/entry-requirements and searching your tour name.
Questions?
If you have questions about this entry requirement, send us a message and we'll help you figure out the best path forward!