When planning a trip to India, the Indian visa for US citizens, a mandatory travel document allowing entry into India for tourism, business, or transit. Also known as an e-Visa, it’s the key that unlocks everything from the snow-capped peaks of Ladakh to the backwaters of Kerala. Unlike some countries, India doesn’t offer visa-free entry to Americans—so skipping this step isn’t an option. You can’t just show up at the airport and hope for the best. The process is simple, but if you wait until the last minute, you’ll regret it.
The e-Visa, an electronic travel authorization that replaced paper visas in 2015. Also known as India tourist visa online, it’s the most common choice for US travelers. It’s valid for 60 days, allows two entries, and costs $100. You apply online, upload a photo and passport page, and get approval in under 72 hours—sometimes faster. There’s also a 10-year multiple-entry visa for frequent travelers, but most tourists stick with the e-Visa. Don’t confuse it with the older paper visa system—those are gone. And no, you can’t get one at the border. You must apply before you fly.
Some things trip people up. Your passport needs at least six months of validity from your entry date. Two blank pages? Non-negotiable. If your passport is worn, damaged, or has a weird stamp from a past trip, you’ll be turned away. Also, the e-Visa only works at 28 designated airports and five seaports. If you’re entering by land—say, from Nepal or Bhutan—you’ll need a regular visa. And while the visa lets you visit most of India, there are restricted zones in places like parts of Arunachal Pradesh or Ladakh. You’ll need special permits for those, even with a valid visa.
Travelers also mix up visa types. The e-Tourist Visa covers sightseeing and short stays. If you’re going for yoga retreats, volunteering, or medical treatment, you need a different category. And if you’re planning to work or study, forget the tourist visa—it won’t cut it. The system is strict about this. One traveler we heard from got denied boarding because their visa said "tourist" but they were heading to a six-month meditation course. Don’t be that person.
What about safety? The India travel safety, a concern for many Americans planning their first trip. Also known as US citizens travel to India, it’s often exaggerated. Most visitors have smooth, trouble-free trips. The real risks? Pickpockets in crowded markets, overpriced taxis, and monsoon floods—not crime. Stay aware, use trusted apps for rides, and keep copies of your visa and passport. India’s government tracks every e-Visa holder—so if you’re in trouble, help is easier to find than you think.
Below, you’ll find real stories and practical advice from travelers who’ve done this before. From how to fill out the e-Visa form without errors, to what to do if your visa gets delayed, to which airports are easiest for US arrivals—every post here cuts through the noise. No fluff. Just what you need to know before you book your flight.
Get the full breakdown on how long it takes for U.S. citizens to get an Indian visa, what affects processing time, and handy tips for faster approval.