📄 e-Visa vs. Tourist Visa: What You Need to Know
Not sure whether to apply for an e-Visa or a regular Tourist Visa for India? You’re not alone. With different rules, durations, and processing times, understanding the key differences between these visa types can save you time, money, and last-minute stress.
In this thread, we cover:
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Eligibility for e-Visa vs. Tourist Visa
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Application process and turnaround time
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Fees, validity, and duration of stay
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Port of entry restrictions and extensions
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Which option is best for different travel plans
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Real experiences from fellow travelers
Whether you're planning a short trip or an extended adventure, this discussion will help you choose the right visa and prepare accordingly.
What You Need to Know Before You Travel 🇮🇳
When planning a trip to India, two common visa options for travelers are the e-Visa and the Regular Tourist Visa (Sticker Visa). While both allow tourism, they differ in process, duration, and flexibility. Here's a breakdown to help you choose the right one:
🔍 Quick Comparison Table
| Feature | e-Visa | Tourist Visa (Sticker Visa) |
|---|---|---|
| How to Apply | Online at indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa | Through Indian Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global |
| Visa Type | Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) | Visa sticker on passport |
| Eligibility | Citizens of 160+ countries | All nationalities (must apply through embassy) |
| Purpose | Tourism, short business, medical | Tourism only (in this case) |
| Processing Time | 3–5 business days | 7–15 working days (varies by country) |
| Stay Duration | 30 days (Single Entry), or 1–5 years (Multiple Entry for some) | Usually 6 months, can be extended in special cases |
| Entries Allowed | Single, Double, or Multiple (based on duration) | Multiple |
| Extension Allowed? | ❌ No extension | ✅ Possible in some cases |
| Where to Enter | 28 designated airports & 5 seaports only | Any international port of entry in India |
| Cost | $10–$100 USD (depends on country & duration) | Varies by nationality (often higher than e-Visa) |
| Re-entry Validity | Gap of 2 months may apply on some e-Visas | No such restriction |
✅ e-Visa: Best For You If...
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You plan to stay less than 90 days
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You’re visiting for tourism, short medical treatment, or business
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You want a faster and paperless application process
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Your country is eligible for e-visa
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You’ll enter India through a major airport or seaport
🛑 Limitations:
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Not valid for land border crossings
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Cannot be extended or converted
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Not suitable for long stays, study, or employment
✅ Tourist Visa (Sticker): Best For You If...
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You want to stay more than 90 days
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You’re entering India by land border (e.g., Nepal, Bangladesh)
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You’re applying from a country not eligible for e-visa
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You prefer flexibility for multiple entries and longer validity
🛑 Limitations:
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Slower process, requires embassy visits or mailing documents
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May cost more
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Processing time can be uncertain during peak seasons
📌 Final Tips
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Apply for an e-Visa at least 7 days before travel
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For long trips, repeated visits, or overland entry, a tourist sticker visa is better
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Always print your e-Visa (ETA) and carry it along with your passport
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Double-check entry points and visa conditions before booking flights
