Tourist Visa

General Information on Tourist Visa

Foreign nationals who wish to visit India purely for leisure purposes — such as exploring tourist attractions, visiting family and friends, or participating in short recreational activities — can apply for a Tourist Visa.
This visa is intended strictly for non-business and non-residential visits.

Important:
Applicants must travel only for the purpose stated in their visa application. Engaging in activities outside the scope of the approved visa category may result in legal penalties or deportation.

Who Can Apply?
This visa is suitable for individuals:

• Visiting India for tourism, sightseeing, or meeting loved ones
• Undergoing brief medical treatments, including in traditional Indian medicine systems
• Participating in informal short courses (e.g., language, music, dance, cooking, arts)
• Involved in voluntary work (maximum of 1 month, without any monetary compensation)

Note: Journalists planning to visit India — even for tourism — must apply for a Journalist Visa.

Key Information:

• The Tourist Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible, except in specific cases.
• The visa validity begins from the date of issue, not the date of travel.
• Biometric enrolment (fingerprint and photo) is mandatory for applicants of long-term Tourist Visas (e.g., 5-year visas).
• Business-related activities are not allowed under this visa category. Travelers with business purposes must apply for a Business Visa.

Document Checklist

Checklist & Application Forms:

Before applying, please refer to the relevant checklist for your visa category. The checklist outlines the specific forms and supporting documents required for your application. In some cases, multiple forms may be needed.

Instructions:

• A separate application form must be completed for each individual applicant
• Refer to the checklist to ensure all required documents are prepared and attached
• All forms must be accurately filled and signed where applicable
  
  

Important Documents:

• Tourist Visa Checklist
• Common Documents for Indian Visa
• Application Guidelines & Upload List
• Application Form for Bangladeshi Nationals
• Travel Itinerary
• Photograph Requirements

Additional Requirements for Chinese Passport Holders:

All applicants holding a Chinese passport must also submit:

• A copy of their E-ticket to India
• A bank balance certificate
  These are in addition to the documents listed in the general checklist above.

Fees Details

• Other nationals may refer to the attached PDF for details.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. Who is eligible for a Tourist Visa to India?
   Anyone visiting India for leisure, tourism, sightseeing, casual visits to friends or relatives, or to attend informal short-term programs like yoga, arts, or cooking classes can apply.
2. Can I work or attend business meetings on a Tourist Visa?
   No. Tourist Visas strictly prohibit professional or business activities. For such purposes, a Business Visa must be obtained.
3. Is a Tourist Visa extendable or convertible?
   No, Tourist Visas are non-extendable and non-convertible, except in rare circumstances.
4. When does the visa validity start — from the date of travel or issue?
   The visa starts from the date of issue, not from your travel date. Plan your trip accordingly.
5. Do I need to submit biometrics for a Tourist Visa?
   Yes, applicants for long-term Tourist Visas (e.g., 5-year validity) are required to complete biometric enrolment (fingerprint and photo).
6. Can I take up a short course on a Tourist Visa?
   Yes, as long as the course:
   • Is not more than 6 months
   • Does not lead to a formal certificate or diploma
   • Is related to areas like local language, music, dance, arts, or cooking
7. Can I volunteer in India on a Tourist Visa?
   Yes, short-term voluntary work (up to 1 month) is allowed, provided there is no monetary compensation involved.
8. I am a journalist traveling for tourism — can I apply for a Tourist Visa?
   No. Journalists, even if visiting for tourism, must apply for a Journalist Visa.