India Business eVisa (1 Year)

Required documents and information

• Valid passport (typically 6+ months validity and blank pages)
• Recent digital passport-style photo
• Active email address for updates and instructions
• Planned arrival and departure details
• Accommodation or host details in India (as applicable)
• Travel purpose details matching the selected visa category

Entry notes and travel tips

Compliance notes

• e-Visa approval and border entry are separate decisions; final admission is determined by Indian immigration authorities.
• Eligible entry points, document requirements, and travel rules can change. Check the latest official and airline guidance before departure.
• Government processing timelines and approval outcomes vary; avoid non-refundable travel commitments until authorization is confirmed where possible.

Travel tips

• Travel insurance is strongly recommended for medical emergencies, delays, and trip interruptions.
• Set up an eSIM or mobile data plan before departure so you can access maps, bookings, and messages on arrival.
• Keep digital and printed copies of your passport, visa approval, flight itinerary, and accommodation details.
• Use passport details exactly as shown on the passport and keep all travel dates consistent across documents.

Common questions

When should I apply for an India visa?

The e-Visa can be applied for starting 120 days before travel, and should be ordered 2-4 days in advance. Traditional visas take 7-10 days. ETAs officially take 4 days, but often take 1-2 days.

How long does India visa processing take?

Standard processing is 7-10 business days. E-visas officially take 96 hours but often arrive in 1-2 days.

How long is an India visa valid?

Traditional visas can be requested for 6 or 12 months.

How long is the India e-Visa valid?

An India ETA is always valid for one year from issuance.

What is the e-Arrival Card for India?

The digital entry form replacing the paper equivalent to ensure smoother entry.

When is the e-Arrival Card mandatory?

Mandatory from Oct 1, 2025. Apply early.

Difference: e-Arrival Card vs. India Visa

The e-Arrival Card is an additional document, not a replacement. You need both.

Deadline for e-Arrival Card

Must be filled out at least 72 hours before flight.

What if I don't have an e-Arrival Card?

You must complete it at the airport, causing delays.

How does 1a Visum Service assist?

Choose the option during application and we handle both Visa and Arrival Card.

Do I need a new e-Arrival Card per trip?

Yes, it is limited to a single entry.

How much does an India visa cost?

Costs include service fees, consular fees, and shipping. Standard service fee is 58 EUR + VAT. Consular fees vary (e.g. Tourist is 128.99 EUR).

What does an e-Visa cost?

India ETA costs 130 EUR with our service. Sent via email so no shipping.

Additional services?

We can fill the online application for you for 48 EUR + VAT.

Where can I apply?

Via our Visa Service in Berlin (Joachimsthaler Straße 19, 10719 Berlin).

Adresses in Berlin, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Munich?

We have offices in Berlin and Frankfurt. Besides, there are Indian embassies or consulates in those cities.

Traditional or e-Visa?

E-Visa is cheaper and generally matches the conventional conditions but restricts entry to specific airports/seaports.

Photo requirements?

Biometric, both shoulders visible. 5x5cm for traditional, pure white background. For e-Visa, a standard biometric passport photo (3.5x4.5cm) with a bright background suffices.

How do I apply?

For traditional, fill out the English Indian Govt form or use our German form and we do it. For ETA, use our online form.

What is needed for conventional visa?

Signed application, 2 photos (5x5cm), original passport. Tourist: cruise itinerary if applicable. Business: dispatch letter and Indian invitation.

How to apply for ETA?

Fill out our ETA form.

What is needed for ETA?

Passport scan and a color biometric photo. Business needs a business card scan. Medical needs clinic letter.

What does ETA look like?

Shows name, photo, passport number, visa type, entry info. Ask for a sample.

Must I print it?

Yes, and keep it during your stay. Black and white is fine. Print two copies.

Is there a Visa on Arrival?

No. The ETA is sometimes called that, as the stamp is given at the airport, but you must have the ETA beforehand.

Can I enter India without a visa?

No, a visa is mandatory.