If you are planning to travel to India, you may need an e-Visa. An Indian e-Visa is an easy and fast way to get permission to enter India. But many people ask, “How long does it take to get an India e-Visa approved?” The answer depends on the type of visa, your country, and how early you apply.
This guide will explain everything you need to know about the e-Visa approval time, documents required, types of visas, and tips to avoid delays.
How Long Does It Take to Get an Indian e-Visa?
Usually, it takes 3 to 5 business days (working days) for an Indian e-Visa to be approved. In some cases, it can be approved in as little as 24 hours, but that is not guaranteed.
Below is a quick chart to help you understand the timeline
Indian e-Visa Processing Time Chart
| Visa Type | Normal Approval Time | Urgent Processing | Validity Period |
|---|---|---|---|
| e-Tourist Visa | 3–5 business days | 24–72 hours | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years |
| e-Business Visa | 3–5 business days | 24–72 hours | 1 year (multiple entry) |
| e-Medical Visa | 1–3 business days | 24–48 hours | 60 days (triple entry) |
| e-Medical Attendant | 1–3 business days | 24–48 hours | 60 days (triple entry) |
| e-Conference Visa | 3–4 business days | Not always available | 30 days (single entry) |
When Should You Apply?
It is best to apply at least 7 days before your travel date. Indian authorities suggest you apply at least 4 days in advance but no earlier than 120 days before arrival (for tourist visas).
For example:
- If you are flying on 15 August, apply between 15 April and 11 August.
- Always allow extra time in case of delays or document problems.
What Documents Are Needed?
To get your Indian e-Visa approved, you must upload clear and correct documents. Here’s a list of what you usually need:
For e-Tourist Visa:
- Scanned passport photo page (PDF format)
- Passport-size photo (recent, white background)
- Return flight ticket (sometimes asked)
- Travel plans or hotel booking (optional)
For e-Business Visa:
- Business card or invitation letter from Indian company
- Passport and photo
For e-Medical Visa:
- Letter from Indian hospital
- Medical documents
- Passport and photo
Important Tip: Always check the official Indian e-Visa portal for the latest rules and file size formats.
Which Countries Can Apply for Indian e-Visa?
As of now, citizens of over 160 countries can apply for an Indian e-Visa. This includes the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most of Europe, and many Asian countries.
You can check your eligibility on the official Indian e-Visa website.
Common Reasons for Delay or Rejection
Many applicants face delays because of simple mistakes. Here are some reasons:
- Blurry passport scan
- Wrong file format or photo size
- Incorrect personal information
- Missing documents
- Name mismatch between passport and form
- Applying too close to travel date
To avoid delays, double-check everything before submitting your application.
Can You Track Your e-Visa Application?
Yes, you can track your application status online.
Go to:
➡️ https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/StatusEnquiry
Enter your Application ID and passport number to check the status.
If it says “Granted,” your visa is approved and ready to download.
How to Download the e-Visa?
Once approved, you will get an email with your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). You must:
- Print the ETA
- Carry it with your passport
- Show it at the immigration counter when you arrive in India
What Happens When You Arrive in India?
When you land in India:
- Go to the e-Visa counter
- Show your printed e-Visa and passport
- Your photo and fingerprints will be taken
- You’ll receive a visa stamp in your passport
Can You Get an Indian e-Visa in 2 Days?
In many cases, yes. If you apply early in the day and your documents are perfect, you might get approval in 24 to 48 hours. But this is not guaranteed.
If your travel is urgent, some third-party visa services offer emergency visa help, but it’s best to apply directly and early.
Tips
- Use the official government website to apply.
- Double-check all details before you submit.
- Use a valid passport (should be valid for 6 months from your date of arrival).
- Apply early, even if you’re not traveling soon.
- Don’t rely on last-minute approvals.
Conclusion
| Question | Answer |
|---|---|
| How long does it take to get an Indian e-Visa? | 3 to 5 business days (usually) |
| Can I get it faster? | Sometimes in 24–48 hours |
| Best time to apply? | At least 7 days before travel |
| Where to apply? | indianvisaonline.gov.in |
| Who can apply? | Citizens from 160+ countries |
FAQs
Q1: Who is eligible to apply?
Citizens of over 160–180 countries are eligible, depending on nationality. Those with Pakistani nationality or ancestry must apply via a traditional visa.
Q2: What are the entry points?
You must enter and exit via the 28 specified airports or 5 seaports authorized for e‑Visa use
Q3:When and how to apply?
- Apply online via the official portal, at least 4–7 days before travel (up to 120 days in advance).
- After approval, print the e‑Visa PDF sent by email.
- On arrival, show printed e‑Visa and passport; immigration stamps a visa sticker
Q4: What if payment fails?
International card payments may be declined by your bank—call your card provider and try again
Q5: Do children need separate e‑Visas?
Yes—every traveler, including minors, must have their own e‑Visa
Q6: Are vaccines required?
No specific vaccines are mandatory for Indian e‑Visa holders, except proof of Yellow Fever vaccine if arriving from an affected country.