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India: The boom in electronic visas

Several countries have chosen an entirely digital process to issue visas to travelers visiting the country: the electronic visa or e-visa. This allows people wishing to go to certain countries, such as India, the United States or Australia, to receive a visa in a simplified manner for a short stay.

Electronic visas are on the rise and allow you to spend a stay in a foreign country without any hassle.

What is an electronic visa?

This is a machine-readable electronic passport. Under certain conditions, it must include a digital identity photo and an integrated chip. The e-visa is a document certifying that the holder is authorised to enter and stay in the foreign country concerned (Turkey, Georgia...). It replaces the visa issued on entry to the country and can be obtained electronically (online). Once the application has been approved, the applicant receives the e-visa by e-mail. They must print it out and keep it with their passport at all times.

The electronic visa is valid if the purpose of travel is tourism, medical or commercial.

Electronic Visa for India

As with other countries, it is necessary to obtain a visa to enter Indian territory. The Indian Embassy issues a tourist visa to visitors for a period of 30 days (double entries) or 90 days with multiple entries, i.e. it is possible for the visitor to enter several times. India during the validity of the visa (365 days or 5 years depending on the type of visa). Thanks to e-Visa, it is much easier to obtain a visa in India than before.

For the visa to be effective, you must complete the application at least 4 days before travel. To do this, you must complete an online application, in English. If you do not wish to go through an agency, then you must scan a recent, color ID photo of the requested dimensions. Please note, the slightest error may result in the request being refused.

By going through an agency, you pay a few euros more but it can be much simpler. All you have to do is send your passport and a few documents to the agency. You can collect your visa on the same day of your trip or have it sent to your home a few days before.

To obtain the electronic visa, you may also need the return ticket to prove that you will leave the country visited before the end of the visa. Chances are you will be asked for it before boarding the plane or upon arrival in the foreign country. You may even be refused entry if you don't have it!