With the recent changes in US immigration policies and the increased number of US citizens travelling to India, it is imperative that you get your Indian visa done before leaving for your trip. Contrary to what most people think, there are Indian visa documents required but they are not needed when you’re travelling to USA with a US passport.
What is an Indian Visa?
An Indian visa is a passport-style travel document that allows citizens of India to visit other countries for a period of up to six months. In order to obtain an Indian visa, you will need to provide a valid passport and two original documents that prove your identity and citizenship. The most common documents used to prove Indian identity are your birth certificate and a government- issued identification card. Indian citizens who hold passports from other countries also require a visa in order to visit India. Indian Visa Documents Required
There are several eligibility requirements for obtaining an Indian visa. You must be at least 18 years old, have a valid passport, and not be a security threat or public health hazard. Additionally, you must meet the requirements set by the country you wish to visit. For example, some countries require that you have proof of financial stability in order to obtain an Indian visa.
How do I apply for an Indian Visa?
If you are planning to visit India, you will need an Indian visa. The documents that you will need to apply for an Indian visa depend on your nationality. You can find the required documents on the Indian Embassy or Consulate website.
There are a few things that you will need in order to apply for an Indian visa:
- Your passport with at least six months validity remaining (you may be able to get a six-month extension before your trip).
- A completed Indian visa application form (available online or from the embassy or consulate).
- Two passport-sized photos (taken within the last six months)
- Proof of financial support for your trip, such as a valid bank statement, letter of credit, or airfare purchase confirmation. If you are applying for a business/tourist visa, you will also need evidence of investment or revenue generated by your business in India. Indian Visa Eligibility
- Payment of processing fees (which vary depending on which country you are applying from and whether you have any criminal convictions). Fees range from $60-$160 USD (although this may change depending on the time of year).
- A physical copy of your passport scan (if applying from abroad).
- Proof of onward travel arrangements (a hotel reservation, ticket information, etc.). This is usually not required if you are travelling as part of a tour group or organised trip, but is recommended if traveling independently.
How to make sure my application is complete?
To make sure your application is complete, here are the documents you will need:
- A passport with at least 6 months validity after your intended date of departure from India.
- Two recent passport-style photographs (4 inches by 4 inches). The photographs must be signed and dated.
- Your visa application form (downloadable from the Indian High Commission website).
- Proof of residence in India for the previous 12 months (a utility bill, bank statement, lease agreement, or proof of ownership of a property in India). If you are a student, you must also provide proof of enrollment at an Indian educational institution.
- Evidence that you have sufficient funds to cover your stay in India (a recent bank statement showing an account balance of at least $2,000 USD or equivalent in Indian currency).
- Proof of travel insurance valid for the entire duration of your stay in India (a copy of your policy document or a letter from your insurance company stating that you are covered for the duration of your stay).
What are the requirements for an Indian Visa?
If you are a citizen of India, or if you will be visiting India for any purpose, you will need to obtain a visa. The requirements for an Indian visa depend on the type of visa that you require.
Minimum Requirements For A Tourist Visa:
-A passport valid for at least six months after your intended date of departure from India
-A return ticket or proof of onward travel
-Proof of sufficient funds (for example, a letter from your bank confirming that you have enough money to support yourself during your stay in India)
-Your visa application form completed and signed by all necessary parties (this can be found online at the Indian Embassy website)
Minimum Requirements For A Business Visa:
-Business registration documents (in case your business is registered with the government) and an official letter from the business owner confirming the nature of your business and the dates of your visit (minimum two months before your scheduled arrival in India)
-Copies of all relevant licenses, certificates, or permits (if applicable)
-A letter from the organization where you will be working stating that you are qualified for the job and providing contact information for someone in India who can vouch for your employment eligibility
-Two recent passport photos, taken within six months of each other
What documents are required for your immigration application in India?
To immigrate to India, you will need to provide the requisite documents. The most important of these is a valid passport. Other required documents include:
-A visa application form (available from the Indian Embassy or Consulate where you are applying)
-Two recent passport-sized photos
-Proof of citizenship (if not a citizen of India)
-Your original birth certificate or other identification document
-A return ticket and any accompanying documents