Without knowing the visa fees, planning any trip can be tricky, and India is no exception. Imagine setting up the perfect itinerary, only to be caught off guard by unexpected visa costs. Knowing the exact fees in advance helps you avoid surprises and keeps your budget on track.
This guide breaks down India visa fees, explains the different visa types, and gives you a step-by-step process to make your application smooth and stress-free.
India Visa Types and Fees Explained
There are several factors that determine the cost of your India visa; here’s what you need to know-
1. Visa Type:
Are you applying for a tourist, business, medical, or student visa? The type and duration of the visa affect the cost.
2. Government Fee:
This varies depending on your nationality. Some countries have to pay more, while others might be exempt.
3. eVisa Processing Fee: The speed at which you want to receive your visa impacts the cost. Most platforms offer:
- Standard – Affordable but takes more time.
- Premium – Fastest, but at a premium price.
Detailed Breakdown of India Visa Fees
| Visa Type | Validity | Entry Type | Fee (USD) |
Tourist eVisa | 30 days | Double | $99.99 – $159.99 |
| More than 1 year | Multiple | $129.99 – $169.99 | |
Business eVisa | Up to 1 year | Single/Multiple | $120 – $250 |
| More than 1 year up to 5 years | Multiple | $250 – $650 | |
| Medical eVisa & Medical Attendant eVisa | Up to 6 months | Single/Multiple | $80 – $129 |
| More than 6 months up to 1 year | Multiple | $120 – $200 | |
| Student eVisa | Up to 5 years | Multiple | $80 – $229 |
Employment eVisa | Up to 6 months | Single/Multiple | $130 – $460 |
| More than 6 months up to 1 year | Multiple | $210 – $500 | |
| More than 1 year up to 5 years | Multiple | $350 – $600 |
As visa fees can vary based on your nationality, it’s best to check with the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for the most accurate and current information.
How to Pay for an India Visa
Paying for your India visa is simple and straightforward, with various payment options available depending on your application method.
- Online Payments: You can use credit or debit cards (Visa & MasterCard) to pay your visa fee. Some visa types can also be paid via SBIePay payment gateway, PayPal, GPay, Stripe, or Apple Pay.
- Embassy Payments: If applying through an embassy or consulate, you can pay with cash, bank drafts, or credit cards.
Are India Visa Fees Refundable?
India visa fees are generally non-refundable, even if your application is not approved. This means that once you’ve paid, the fees are unlikely to be returned, regardless of the outcome of your application.
Refunds are only considered in cases of technical errors or mistakes made by the immigration office, but such instances are rare.
In most cases, the fees remain non-refundable if:
- Your application is rejected.
- You decide to cancel your trip after submitting your application.
- You submit incorrect information that affects your application.
How to Apply for an India Visa (Step-by-Step)
Step 1: Visit the Visa Application Platform or App
Start by visiting the official visa application platform or downloading the App. Select your home country and India as your destination to see the available visa options. Choose the visa type that best matches your travel plans.
Step 2: Pay the Fees
Once you’ve chosen your visa, fill in your personal details and proceed to payment. Select a secure payment method that works best for you, ensuring all information is entered correctly.
Step 3: Submit Your Application
Double-check all the information you’ve entered to ensure its accuracy. Upload any necessary documents, such as a scanned passport copy, photographs, or additional travel information. After reviewing, submit your application.
You’ll receive real-time updates on the status of your visa, along with an email notification once your visa is approved.
Common Challenges When Applying for an India Visa
When applying for an India visa, there are a few common issues travelers may face. Here’s how to tackle them.
- Confusing Fee Structure
Many travelers find the different visa types and their costs confusing.
Solution: Use a trusted visa platform that gives you a clear breakdown of the costs upfront so you know exactly what you’re paying for.
- Payment Failures
Sometimes, the payment gateway may experience technical issues that delay your application.
Solution: If this happens, try using a different payment method or apply during off-peak hours (evening GMT) for smoother processing. Also, we offer 24/7 support to help resolve any payment issues.
Conclusion
Knowing India visa fees in advance helps you plan your trip without unexpected costs and keeps you within your budget. Always check the latest visa requirements and apply early to avoid last-minute stress and delays.
Tourists sometimes confuse the validity period and the India eVisa expiration date. Understanding this difference helps you avoid overstaying and visa issues. With this knowledge, go ahead and start your India eVisa application for an exciting journey ahead.
