India’s electronic visa (e-Visa) system, launched in 2014 and expanded significantly by 2026, now covers 167 countries across various categories like e-Tourist, e-Business, e-Medical, and e-Conference visas. This digital platform allows eligible foreign nationals to apply online to receive approval within 72 hours, and enter through 28 designated airports or 5 seaports. No embassy visit required—perfect for seamless travel to explore India’s heritage, business hubs, or medical tourism. Here are 5 prominent examples of eligible countries, with key details.
1. United States
US citizens top e-Visa users, benefiting from streamlined tourism and business access.
- Types: e-Tourist (30/365 days), e-Business (1 year, multiple entry).
- Requirements: Ordinary passport valid 6+ months, return ticket, funds proof. Fee: $25-$80.
- Why Popular: 1.4M+ annual US visitors; Taj Mahal, Goa beaches draw families. Recent expansions scrapped the 3-visit cap.
2. United Kingdom
UK passport holders enjoy hassle-free entry for short stays.
- Types: e-Tourist (30/365 days, double/multiple entry), e-Business.
- Stay: Up to 180 days/visit. Fee: £23-£70.
- Highlights: British expats love Kerala backwaters, Rajasthan forts. Post-Brexit, e-Visa simplifies vs. traditional stamps.
3. Australia
Aussies flock to India for cricket tours, yoga retreats, and family ties.
- Types: All major e-Visa categories, including e-Medical.
- Processing: 72 hours; multiple-entry options. Fee: AUD 35-110.
- Perks: Direct flights Sydney-Delhi; e-Ayush visa suits Ayurveda seekers.
4. Canada
Canadian travelers access India digitally amid strong diaspora links (1.8M Indian-Canadians).
- Types: e-Tourist/Business/Medical (up to 60 days/180 days).
- Fee: CAD 35-110. No cap on visits now.
- Appeal: Niagara-like Himalayan treks, Diwali festivals in Toronto communities.
5. Japan
Japanese nationals, known for efficient travel, appreciate India’s e-Visa speed.
- Types: e-Tourist (30 days), e-Business.
- Stay: Double-entry options. Fee: ¥3,000-10,000.
- Trends: Rising interest in Varanasi spirituality, Mumbai finance; 2026 tech upgrades promise instant approvals.
Quick Facts on India’s E-Visa (2026)
- Total Eligible: 167 countries (up from 156 in 2025), excluding Pakistani-origin citizens.
- New Additions: e-Ayush visa for wellness tourism.
- Process: Upload photo/passport scan, pay online, get PDF via email.
- Entry Points: Major airports (Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru) + seaports.
- Not Eligible: Afghanistan, North Korea citizens need embassy visas.
