If you are a foreign national transiting through India, it is important to be aware that you may require a transit visa. India's strategic location makes it a popular layover destination for international flights, connecting various routes between the East and West. With many airlines having layovers in Indian airports, passengers traveling to different parts of the world often find themselves transiting through India. To ensure a smooth travel experience, it is crucial to understand the requirements and process of obtaining a transit visa.
An India transit visa is a temporary permit for foreign nationals traveling through India to their final destination in another country. It allows a short stay, typically up to 72 hours, while transiting through India, either within the airport or with limited movement outside. The visa permits two entries into India within 15 days of issuance. It serves as a travel facilitator for individuals passing through India en route to their ultimate international destination.
Foreign nationals transiting through India may need an Indian transit visa, depending on their specific travel plans. Here are the key points to consider:
If travelers need to exit the transit area and go through customs, they will require an Indian transit visa. This situation typically arises when they have a layover of several hours or if they need to re-check their luggage for their onward journey.
If passengers plan to spend the night in a hotel located near the airport before catching their connecting flight, they will need an Indian transit visa. This allows them to legally enter India and stay overnight.
If passengers intend to stay within the designated waiting area reserved for international transit passengers, without crossing immigration controls, an Indian transit visa is not required. This means they can comfortably wait for their connecting flight without the need for additional documentation.
To apply for an India transit visa, you must provide the following documents:
1. Online Visa Application Form:
2. Passport:
3. Passport Requirements:
4. Residence Proof or Tax Form:
5. Proof of Sufficient Funds:
6. Onward Travel Evidence:
Please ensure that all submitted documents are self-attested by the applicant.
These requirements are necessary for the processing of your India transit visa application.
India's transit visa remains valid for 15 days from the date of issue, during which it must be used for transit through the country. If the journey is not completed within this period, a new transit visa will be needed.
With a transit visa, you can stay in India for up to 3 days. For double-entry transit visas, each visit allows a stay duration of 3 days.
Please note that this visa cannot be extended, except in cases of extreme emergencies such as strikes, traffic disruptions, inclement weather, or illness.
To apply for an Indian transit visa online, follow the steps below:
Step 1: Visit the Online Visa Application System
Go to the official online Visa Application system.
Step 2: Select Indian Mission
Choose the Indian Mission from where you wish to apply for the visa from the 'Select Mission' tab.
Step 3: Fill in the Application Form
Complete the application form by providing the requested details.
Step 4: Submit the Form
After filling out the form, submit it. The system will generate an Application ID automatically. Remember to keep this Application ID for future communication with the Indian Mission.
Step 5: Appointment and Payment
The system will ask if you want to book an appointment and make the payment online:
Step 6: Appointment Selection
If you choose 'Yes', the system will redirect you to a webpage to select the date and time of your appointment at the Indian Mission.
Step 7: Visa Fee Payment
You will be redirected to the e-payment portal to pay the visa fee. Note that not all Indian Missions abroad offer the e-payment facility. If it is unavailable, kindly submit the application submission fees along with the supporting documents either to the outsourcing agency or directly to the Mission.
By following these steps, you can apply for an Indian transit visa conveniently online.
The application process for India's transit visa usually takes around 2-5 working days, depending on the country where the application is submitted. To check the status of your visa application, you can visit our eVisa website.
The fee for an India transit visa can vary depending on your nationality and the duration of your visa. The cost is typically determined by your country of origin and the season of travel. For a transit visa that allows two entries and a maximum stay of up to three days per entry, the fee generally amounts to USD 80.
India has recently lifted all COVID-19-related travel restrictions, allowing foreign passengers to transit through any Indian airport without the need for COVID-19 testing or Air Suvidha registration. However, all transit passengers will be randomly subjected to a 2% post-arrival testing at the airport, irrespective of their departure location.
Step1: Complete the online application by providing your passport details.
Step2: Submit payment online using a credit card.
Step3: Monitor your email for confirmation of payment and receipt of your eVisa, which will be sent electronically.
