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5 ways to enter

India visas

India family visa

Online routes cover student dependants and people of Indian origin or their spouses. India also lists a regular visa for foreign nationals of Indian origin.

Ways to get a India family visa

  1. Student dependant e-Visa

    eVisa

    Eligible dependants of students under the online student and family categories. China's listed online route is production investment.

    Valid for
    1 year.
    Entries
    Multiple entries.

    Passports that qualify (126)

    1. Check that your nationality and family purpose qualify.
    2. Apply online between 4 and 120 days before arrival.
    Apply on the official website

  2. Indian origin or spouse e-Visa

    eVisa

    Eligible people of Indian origin and their spouses under the miscellaneous or entry category. China's listed online route is production investment.

    Stay
    Up to 3 months.
    Valid for
    3 months.
    Entries
    Multiple entries.

    Passports that qualify (126)

    1. Check that your nationality and purpose qualify.
    2. Apply online between 4 and 120 days before arrival.
    Apply on the official website

  3. Visa for foreign nationals of Indian origin

    Visa needed

    Foreign nationals who can prove that they are of Indian origin.

    Valid for
    5 years.
    Entries
    Multiple entries.
    Fee
    Costs vary by consulate and region. Service providers may charge an extra fee.
    1. Prepare the application and proof of Indian origin.
    2. Submit it to an Indian consulate in person or by post, or through a designated provider where available.

  4. Visa-free residence with an Indian overseas citizenship or origin card

    No visa needed

    Foreign nationals holding a valid Overseas Citizen of India card or Persons of Indian Origin Card.

    Stay
    No limit.

  5. Separate online family and entry routes for Afghan nationals

    eVisa

    Afghan nationals in the listed groups: business dependants, children of medical visa holders, stepchildren of Indians, dependants of international officials, parents of student visa holders, and people of Indian origin or their spouses.

    Entries
    Multiple entries.

    Passports that qualify (1)

Who needs it

Student dependants, people of Indian origin and their spouses can use the relevant family or entry route if eligible.

Who doesn't

Eligible Overseas Citizen of India and Persons of Indian Origin card holders can live in India without a visa.

How to apply

  1. Check that your nationality and family purpose qualify for an e-Visa.
  2. Apply online between 4 and 120 days before arrival.

Good to know

  • The miscellaneous e-Visa for people of Indian origin or spouses has a listed validity and stay of 3 months.
  • A separate Afghan online module covers several family and dependant situations.

Questions

Do I need a family visa for India?

Student dependants, people of Indian origin and their spouses can use the relevant family or entry route if eligible. Eligible Overseas Citizen of India and Persons of Indian Origin card holders can live in India without a visa.

What are the ways to get a family visa for India?

There are 5 options: Student dependant e-Visa (an online visa); Indian origin or spouse e-Visa (an online visa); Visa for foreign nationals of Indian origin (a visa from an embassy); Visa-free residence with an Indian overseas citizenship or origin card (no visa at all); Separate online family and entry routes for Afghan nationals (an online visa).

Who can go to India without a family visa?

Foreign nationals holding a valid Overseas Citizen of India card or Persons of Indian Origin Card.

Can I apply online for India?

Yes: Student dependant e-Visa, Indian origin or spouse e-Visa and Separate online family and entry routes for Afghan nationals. Eligible dependants of students under the online student and family categories. China's listed online route is production investment.

How long is a India family visa valid?

1 year for the family e-Visa listed with the student category. Entries: Multiple entries for e-Visas..

How do I apply for a India family visa?

1. 1. Check that your nationality and family purpose qualify for an e-Visa. 2. 2. Apply online between 4 and 120 days before arrival.

Does my passport change whether I need a family visa for India?

Yes. Rules depend on the country that issued your passport. Open the India visa page and choose your passport for a plain answer.

Can a family visa for India be refused?

Yes. Officials can refuse a visa or entry, even after you apply. Give true answers, bring the documents asked for, and keep proof of your onward trip and money.

Where do I check the latest India family visa rules?

On India's official immigration or foreign ministry website, or at its embassy. Rules change, so check close to your trip.

Can I change my family visa once I am in India?

Often you cannot switch visa type inside the country. Ask the immigration office before you travel if you might need to.

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