Visa: Know About Different Types of Indian Visas, their Purpose, Process, and More

Different Types of Visa

Tourist Visa

This visa is granted to foreign citizens visiting India for tourist purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or participating in a yoga or meditation retreat. Tourist visas can be obtained for a single or multiple entry and are valid for up to 365 days.

Transit Visa

This visa is provided to foreign nationals passing through India or any other country on their way to other countries. Transit visas are only valid for three days.

Business Visa

This visa is provided to foreign people visiting India for business purposes, such as attending meetings, conferences, or contract negotiations. Business visas are available for single or multiple entries and have a validity period of up to five years.

Partner Visa

A visa that permits foreign nationals to come and live in a country with their partner who is a citizen or permanent resident of that country.

Journalist Visa

A visa that permits international journalists to enter and stay in a country to cover news and events. This visa is sometimes known as a press visa or a media visa.

Marriage Visa

A visa that allows foreign nationals to travel and reside in a country in order to marry a citizen or permanent resident of that country.

Immigrant Visa

A visa that permits foreign nationals to enter and permanently remain in a country. Immigrant visas are often issued to those who have family members who are citizens or permanent residents of that nation, or to individuals who have talents or qualities that are in great demand in that country.

Visa on Arrival

A visa given to foreign people at a country’s port of entry. Short-term visits, such as tourism or business, are usually eligible for visas on arrival.

Diplomatic Visa

Foreign diplomats, consular personnel, and their families are eligible for this visa. Diplomatic visas are valid in India for the term of the diplomat's appointment.

Student Visa

This visa is granted to foreign citizens who wish to study in India at a recognised Indian educational institution. Student visas are typically valid for the duration of the academic program plus one year.

How to Apply for Visa?

You can apply for an Indian visa at an Indian embassy or consulate in your native country. A visa application form, passport-size pictures, and other supporting papers, such as a letter of invitation from an Indian enterprise or educational institution (if applicable), will be required. Visa fees vary based on the kind of visa and the applicant’s nationality.

The Indian embassy will process your visa application after it has been filed. You will be given a visa if your application is approved. After completing your application, you should get your visa within 1-2 weeks.