India Visa - Rules & Regulations
The Government of India issues Tourist Visas to foreigners who do not have a residence or occupation in India. These visas are specifically intended for recreational, sightseeing, casual visits to friends and relatives, and similar non-work-related purposes. Any other activities are considered in violation of this visa’s terms.
Tourist Visas are usually granted for a duration of 6 months and cannot be extended or converted into other visa types. Extension requests are considered based on the applicant’s nationality. Proof of financial status must be provided as part of the application process.
Tourists traveling in groups of at least four members can be eligible for collective tourist visas, provided they are under the supervision of a recognized travel agency.
To prevent the misuse of Tourist Visas, the Indian government has imposed certain restrictions:
- For foreign nationals holding Tourist Visas with multiple-entry privileges, there should be a minimum 2-month gap between two visits to the country on such a visa.
- If a foreign national needs to visit India again within 2 months of their last departure, special permission from the relevant Mission/Post is required, and approval is granted after assessing the individual case. These travelers must register with the FRRO/FRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office/Foreigners Registration Office) within 14 days of arrival, and an endorsement will be made on the visa sticker.
- Foreign nationals applying for a Tourist Visa within one month of the expiry of their previous Tourist Visa will have their cases referred to the MHA (Foreigners Division) for clearance before a new Tourist Visa is granted. This restriction does not apply to PIO/OCI cardholders and foreigners holding business, employment, student, or other categories of visas.