29th Airport in India Now Accepting e-Visas for Travelers
Discover how India’s Kannur International Airport is now the 29th gateway to accept e-Visas, simplifying entry for Kerala-bound travelers, including visa requirements and health protocols.
Traveling to South India’s Kerala region? The new Kannur International Airport is now India’s 29th airport to allow entry via e-Visa, as confirmed by the airport’s operating authority in The Hindu. Here’s everything you need to know.
Kannur Airport Joins India’s e-Visa Network
The Kannur International Airport is now the 29th airport in India to accept electronic visas (e-Visas) for entry, expanding access to international travelers heading to Kerala. It joins three other airports in the state—Calicut, Cochin, and Trivandrum—already offering e-Visa services.
The airport’s operations manager has outlined that travelers using e-Visas will follow a dedicated immigration queue, separate from those with traditional visas, ensuring a streamlined process for digital entry.
Entry Requirements for Travel to India
Travelers, including Europeans and business visitors, are required to obtain a visa to enter India. While visas can be secured through Indian embassies, consulates, or visa centers, the e-Visa system enables travelers to apply online quickly and efficiently.
Currently, visitors from France are still required to present a negative PCR test taken within 72 hours of departure. Quarantine requirements were lifted on 14 February 2022; however, starting 1 June 2022, travelers from 117 countries were exempted from PCR testing.
Before departure, all travelers must complete an Self Health Declaration form, available by downloading a negative COVID-19 test certificate or full vaccination proof (for exempted countries) via India’s Air Suvidha portal.
Types of Indian e-Visas Available
Citizens of 157 countries, including France, Belgium, Switzerland, and all EU nations, are eligible for an Indian e-Visa. The online application requires filling out a questionnaire and uploading a passport biodata page and a photo ID.
e-Visa fees vary by travel type and season. For example, a 30-day tourist e-Visa costs approximately $10 between April and June, rising to $25 during other months.
A 180-day multiple-entry business e-Visa is priced at about $80, while a medical e-Visa valid for up to 120 days also costs $80.
COVID-19 Health Declarations Upon Departure
Travelers leaving India must also submit a Self-Health Declaration form, downloadable from the Air Suvidha portal. Staying updated with official health advisories is advised to ensure compliance with India’s evolving travel protocols.
