How Long Is an Indian Visa? Validity, Types, and Rules for Travelers

When you apply for an Indian visa, a travel authorization issued by the Government of India that lets foreign nationals enter and stay in the country for a defined period. Also known as an India tourist visa, it’s your ticket to explore everything from the Himalayas to Kerala’s backwaters without legal hassle. The most common visa for tourists is valid for 180 days from the date of first entry, but the clock doesn’t start ticking until you land in India — not when you get approved. That means you can plan your trip months ahead and still get the full six months on the ground.

Not all Indian visas are the same. A standard tourist visa lets you stay up to 180 days, but if you’re from the US, UK, Canada, or Australia, you might qualify for a 10-year multiple-entry visa — yes, ten years. That’s right. You can visit India as often as you want over a decade, as long as each stay doesn’t exceed six months. There’s also the e-Visa, which is faster to get online and works for tourism, business, or medical trips. But here’s the catch: e-Visas are only valid for 60 days per entry and allow two entries within a calendar year. If you plan to stay longer or come back often, the 10-year paper visa is the smarter pick.

Extensions are possible, but not easy. If you’re already in India and want to stay past your visa’s end date, you’ll need to visit the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) with proof of why you need more time — medical reasons, flight delays, or personal emergencies. No one gets an extension just because they’re having fun. And if you overstay? You’ll face fines, possible detention, or even a ban from re-entering India. Don’t risk it.

Visa rules change based on your nationality. Citizens of Nepal and Bhutan don’t need a visa at all. For others, it’s not just about how long you can stay — it’s about what you can do while you’re here. You can’t work, volunteer, or enroll in school on a tourist visa. If you’re planning to teach English, start a business, or study Hindi, you’ll need a different type of visa. Always check the official Indian government portal before booking flights.

What about kids? Minors need their own visa, even if they’re listed on a parent’s passport. And if you’re traveling with a pet, that’s a whole other set of rules — but that’s a story for another day.

Below, you’ll find real traveler stories and practical advice about navigating Indian visa rules — from how to avoid common mistakes to which countries have the easiest application process. Whether you’re planning a two-week getaway or a six-month road trip on a rented bike, knowing your visa timeline makes all the difference.