🛂 India Visa & OCI — the Complete Guide
If you hold a foreign passport, you need an Indian e-Visa or an OCI card to enter India. Here’s how each works, who qualifies, and how to apply.
🛂 e-Visa (short visits)
The Indian e-Visa is applied for entirely online — tourist, business and medical categories, valid for stays from 30 days up to multiple years depending on the type.
Apply on the official portal at least a few days before you fly; you’ll upload a photo and passport page and receive an ETA (Electronic Travel Authorisation) by email.
🪪 OCI card (lifelong entry)
Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) — for people of Indian origin and their spouses — get lifelong, multiple-entry access to India without a visa. It’s the right route if you travel to India regularly.
★ From 08 July 2026, new OCI cards are issued in digital form only (no booklet) — you carry the e-OCI on your phone plus your passport. Existing booklet OCIs remain valid.
OCI requires a passport re-registration (“miscellaneous services”) when a minor turns 20, and after a new passport for those over 50 in some cases — check the current rule before you travel.
🛬 e-Arrival card
India is rolling out an online arrival/e-landing card — file it within the window before landing where required, so keep your flight and stay details handy.
❓ Frequently Asked
Do I need a visa to visit India on a foreign passport?
Yes — foreign passport holders need either an Indian e-Visa (for short visits) or an OCI card (for lifelong entry if you’re of Indian origin). Indian passport holders don’t need one.
What’s the difference between an e-Visa and OCI?
An e-Visa is a time-limited entry permit you re-apply for each trip; an OCI card gives people of Indian origin lifelong, visa-free entry. If you travel to India often, OCI is usually worth it.
Is the OCI now digital?
From 08 July 2026, new OCI cards are issued digitally (e-OCI) rather than as a booklet. You carry it on your phone with your passport. Existing booklet OCIs stay valid.
How early should I apply for an Indian e-Visa?
Apply at least several days before departure. Processing is usually quick but leave buffer for photo/document issues; you must carry the approved ETA when you fly.
🔗 More travel guides
Customs & Duty-Free
Send Money to India
Visitor Insurance
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This is a general guide — rules, fees and allowances change, so always confirm on the official sites linked before you travel. Verified Jul 2026.