What is the processing time for a visa to India?

If you want to travel to India for a tourist visit, you will need an official visa. Knowing how long it takes to obtain a visa will allow you to prepare for your trip in good time.

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Indian visa processing time

As we will see in this article, the time required to obtain an Indian visa will vary depending on the type of application made. Indeed, you still have the possibility to apply for a classic visa by going to an embassy or to benefit from a simplified online application with the e-visa.

India visa processing time: key points

  • It takes between 4 and 10 days to obtain a visa for India from the Embassy.
  • It takes an average of 4 days to obtain an India visa online
  • It is possible to obtain a visa for India in a shorter time with the urgent application.
  • It is advisable to apply for an India visa at least two weeks before departure.

What is the typical processing time for a visa application for India?

The first method of applying for a visa to India is not the easiest or quickest but is still available today. If you decide to apply for your visa at the consulate, you should expect a processing time of between 4 and 10 days.

This timeframe varies greatly and will depend on the time of year when you apply. For example, if you apply during the high tourist season, the waiting time can be extended to two weeks. This high season is the winter season which runs from October to February. If, on the other hand, you apply during the low season, i.e. in summer between March and September, the waiting time will be less than one week.

To apply for a regular tourist visa for India, you can apply directly to the Indian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. But you can also delegate this work to a travel agency or to a specialised website acting as an agent. Of course, you should take into account the time spent preparing the various documents required.

It should also be noted that the time limits we have just given you are only indicative and that they may vary more or less significantly over time. Moreover, these deadlines only concern the tourist visa and not the other types of visa.

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How long does it take to get an e-visa for India?

Another popular way to apply for a visa to travel to India is through e-visa. This is a simplified procedure that is done 100% online through a portal authorised by the Indian authorities such as the one we recommend on our website.

The procedure here is very quick and takes only a few minutes by filling in a simple form. This electronic visa covers both tourist and business visas and will save you precious time in obtaining this travel authorisation.

If the original form is in English, some sites like the one we recommend offer a form in your language.

The time taken to obtain an e-visa is also much shorter than for a traditional visa application. Indeed, you will be able to apply for an e-visa for one or more entries in India and with validity periods ranging from 3 days to 5 years. As the online application is faster, you are guaranteed to have your visa for India in less than a week. On average, it takes 4 days from the validation of your application to the receipt of your visa.

This visa will be sent to you by email and you will not lose time with its sending by mail, which is another undeniable advantage. All you have to do is print it and present it when you enter India.

 

When is the best time to apply for a visa for India online?

While the processing time for the India e-visa is fast, it is best to apply early and at least two weeks before your departure to be prepared for any eventuality.

Note that if the application form mentions a date of arrival that is less than 90 days away, your application will be processed immediately. Once obtained, the visa will have a validity period of 30 to 365 days depending on the type of e-visa purchased.

If you have indicated an arrival date that is more than 90 days away, your application will be put on hold and will be processed within 90 days of your departure. It is therefore advisable to allow plenty of time to apply for your visa.

 

How long does it take to get a visa for India depending on the processing time?

Obtaining a visa for India is an important process for international travellers who wish to visit this fascinating country. However, the time it takes to obtain a visa depends on the processing time chosen. Travellers can choose from standard, urgent and priority processing times depending on their travel schedule.

  • Standard processing for an Indian visa can take 4-5 working days. This processing time is designed for travellers who have sufficient time to prepare for their trip and are not pressed for time. This standard processing time may be an appropriate option for travellers who wish to plan their trip with peace of mind and without additional stress.
  • If you are pressed for time, urgent processing may be a more suitable option. It can take 2-3 working days to obtain a visa with urgent processing. This processing time is designed for travellers who need to make last minute travel arrangements or who are on a tight schedule. This urgent processing time may also be an option for travellers who wish to minimise the time it takes to obtain their visa.
  • Priority processing is the fastest processing time for an Indian visa. It can take 1 to 2 working days to obtain a visa with priority processing. This processing time is designed for travellers who have an urgent or pressing need to travel to India. This priority processing time may be an appropriate option for travellers who need to travel to India for urgent medical or business reasons.

It is important to note that actual processing times may vary depending on the application and visa conditions. Therefore, it is always advisable to plan well in advance to avoid any delays or inconvenience to your trip. It is also advisable to check the current visa requirements and consult the relevant Indian consular authorities for more information on visa processing times.

In summary, the time required to obtain a visa for India depends on the processing time chosen. Travellers can choose from standard, urgent and priority processing times depending on their travel schedule. It is important to plan well in advance to avoid any delays or inconveniences to your trip and to check with the authorities for current visa requirements.

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Adeline HARMANT
As a web writer and globetrotter with a passion for travel and tourism, I have acquired in-depth knowledge of the procedures that are essential for travellers. I help travellers to complete all the formalities required for a successful trip, particularly when it comes to obtaining a visa online. With several years' experience in this field, I'd like to offer you some valuable advice to help you discover the world with complete peace of mind.

 

Frequently asked questions

How do I get an e-visa for India?

The process of applying for an e-visa for India is very simple. All you have to do is visit an e-visa website and fill in an online application form. This service is available to certain travellers whose country of residence has signed an agreement with India. Once the application has been validated and the fees paid, the visa is sent to the applicant by email within a maximum of 4 days.

Is it possible to apply for an urgent visa for India?

If you have forgotten to apply for your visa for India and you do not have time to go to the embassy or consulate to apply for your visa in time, you can apply for an e-visa urgently. Some websites allow you to obtain this precious document with an average delay of 48 hours or two working days. But you may have to pay some additional fees.

Is a visa for India required?

Whether you are travelling to India for tourism, business or work, you will need a visa to enter the country. It is therefore highly recommended that you apply for one before your departure so that you do not find yourself unable to take your flight to this destination.