Kempegowda International Airport, located in Bangalore, is an important point of entry into India for travelers from all over the world. If you're planning to travel to India and land at this airport, it's crucial to know the formalities involved in obtaining an e-Visa. In this article, we'll cover the essential information you need to know about applying for an e-Visa for India, the benefits of this electronic visa and the procedures to follow.
What is the e-Visa for India?
L'e-Visa (also known as electronic visa) is a travel authorization issued by the Indian government for foreign nationals wishing to visit India for tourism, business or medical reasons. It allows travelers to avoid going to the consulate or embassy to obtain a physical visa.
Types of e-Visas available
There are three main types of e-Visas for India:
- E-Tourist Visa This type of visa is intended for travelers wishing to visit India for tourism, vacations, visits to historical or spiritual sites, etc.
- E-Business Visa This visa is intended for business travelers wishing to attend meetings, conferences, seminars or conclude commercial contracts in India.
- E-Medical Visa This visa is intended for people who need to travel to India for medical treatment in the country's recognized hospitals and medical centers.
A e-Visa Conference also exists for speakers.
How do I apply for an e-Visa?
There e-Visa application is entirely onlineThis makes the process much easier for travellers. Here are the steps to follow:
- Go to Indian government website dedicated to e-Visa or a visa agency dedicated
- Fill in the form application form, providing all the information required, such as your contact details, passport, travel dates, etc.
- Download documents required, including a recent passport photo and the information page of your passport.
- Make your payment visa fees by credit or debit card.
- Once you have submitted your request, you will receive a confirmation e-mail with your reference number.
- Track the status of your application online using your reference number.
- Once your e-Visa has been approved, you will receive an e-mail containing the e-Visa in PDF format, which you will need to download. print and present on arrival in India.
It is recommended to submit your request at least four days before the planned date of travelbut not more than 120 days before. Treatment time generally varies between 24 and 72 hours. Please note that some visas can only be applied for within 30 days of arrival in India.
The advantages of e-Visa for travel to India
Opting for an e-Visa offers several advantages to travellers:
- A simple application process : Everything is done online, without having to go to the consulate or embassy.
- Speed : Most e-Visa applications are processed within 24 to 72 hours.
- Flexibility e-Visas are available for single, double or multiple entry into India, depending on the traveler's needs.
- Validity : Depending on the type of e-Visa, the validity can be up to one year, allowing longer stays in India.
E-Visa vs traditional Visa: which one to choose?
If you are eligible for an e-Visa, we recommend you choose this option because of its simplicity and speed. However, if you need a visa with a longer validity or multiple entry not available with e-Visa, you'll need to opt for a traditional visa. In this case, you'll need to make an appointment with the consulate or embassy and provide the necessary documents.
Arrival at Bangalore Kempegowda International Airport with an e-Visa
On arrival at Bangalore Kempegowda International Airport, you will need to report to the dedicated immigration counter for e-Visa holders. Don't forget to keep the following documents handy:
- Your valid passport (with at least six months' validity remaining)
- Printing your approved e-Visa
- Proof of sufficient funds to cover the duration of your stay in India
- Details of your accommodation in India (address, contact details, etc.)
- A return or onward ticket
After checking your documents, the immigration officer will stamp your passport, authorizing you to enter India.