If you’re traveling to India from the United States, you’ll need to apply for an Indian visa. You can do this by submitting an online application that will be reviewed and approved within days, if not hours! Once your visa is approved, you’ll be able to print it out and apply it to your passport at the nearest embassy in your area. This simple step-by-step guide will walk you through the process of applying for an Indian visa online, no matter where you are in the world! Indian Visa Online Application
How to apply online
Once you’ve determined which type of visa you need, go to your local Indian Embassy’s website. You can locate it by Googling Indian Embassy + your country or city. Be sure to check out visa requirements to determine if you have everything in order before beginning. Since each country is different, make sure to follow the instructions specific to your area. For example, if you’re applying from outside India then don’t forget to bring two passport photos with you when you submit your application. Once completed, some applications can be submitted online but others will require a print-out. Double-check with your local embassy before beginning.
Tips while filling the application form
You can either fill all fields or choose the ‘Leave blank’ option if you don’t want to provide some information. If you do not know what specific data should be entered in a particular section, select ‘Leave blank’. You will be prompted to provide the required information when you check your Indian Visa Application Online status online. To save time, enter only the information which is mandatory for processing your visa. In the case of applications containing incomplete details, it may take longer to process them in comparison with applications that have all complete details in place from start itself.
The type of visa you need depends on your nationality.
Some countries allow visitors to enter without a visa, but you may need to register with authorities within 14 days of arriving. For example, visitors from most Western countries do not need a visa to visit India, but they must register with authorities within two weeks of their arrival. If you’re planning on staying longer than 180 days (i.e., six months), you’ll need to apply for a visa at your local Indian consulate or embassy; these take some time to process so it’s best to plan ahead.
What are the documents required? Here is a checklist.
Getting an Indian visa can be tedious, time-consuming, and downright stressful. But thankfully there’s a way to speed up the process: online. If you plan on visiting India in 2013 or beyond, there’s no reason not to do your paperwork online—you’ll save both time and money.
How much time does it take?
Applying for a visa to India is often a complex and confusing process. Depending on where you are applying from, it can take more than two weeks for your application to be reviewed, which is why I highly recommend that you apply early. However, if you’re willing to pay extra, you can expedite your application processing by paying an additional fee. But regardless of whether or not you need to expedite your application review time, rest assured that VFS Global handles everything related to your visa application in great detail; they will provide detailed instructions specific to your situation at every step of the way. VFS Global agents are also available around-the-clock via email if any questions come up.
Other things you should know before applying.
You may need a visa to enter India. Getting your visa ahead of time will save you hassles, but if you don’t have enough time, go straight to a Visa Application Center (VAC) when you arrive in India. There are consulates around the world where you can submit your documents. Make sure that you know what documents and photos they require before applying. Some VACs may have their own forms, but all should accept applications that come on Form 6C (pdf). If you’re traveling frequently or for extended periods, it might be best to get your visa renewed regularly—while it might sound like a hassle at first, getting it taken care of is much simpler than standing in line at an embassy each time.
