Indian Visa for U.S. Citizens: Types, Fees,  & Processing Information

Due to the purpose of visiting, India has different visas for American citizens. Having knowledge about more than one visa, fee, and processing time is useful in order to make your experience a swift, hassle-free experience.

Types of Indian Visas for U.S. Citizens

Business Visa (B): For conferences, meetings on business, or negotiations. The business visa can also be issued for 10 years on multiple entries, just like the tourist visa.

Entry Visa (X): For people of Indian origin or for travelling to India to meet their kin. The entry visa can be of any range of durations, as per the case of the applicant himself.

Employment Visa (E): For personnel employed in an Indian firm or business firm in the US. The employment visa will generally be for the tenure of the contract of employment, up to five years.

Student Visa (S): For students coming to study academic courses in India. The student visa is valid for the length of the course or five years.

Medical Visa (MED): For individuals who wish to obtain medical attention in India. A medical visa is usually granted for a period not exceeding six months and may be renewed based on either the patient's condition or status.

Visa Fees

The fees for U.S. citizen visas are different based on the period and type of visa:

Tourist and Business Visas: Single or multiple entry in 10 years: $160.

Entry Visa:

Not exceeding six months: $100.

Over six months but not exceeding one year: $140.

Over one but not exceeding five years: $220.

Employment and Project Visas:

Not exceeding six months: $140.

More than six months but not exceeding one year: $220.

Between one and five years: $220.

Student and Research Visas:

For course duration or five years: $100.

Medical and Medical Attendant Visas:

Up to but not exceeding six months: $100.

Six months and up to but not more than one year: $140.

Keep in mind that visa fees can fluctuate, and occasionally there is an extra consular fee. Always better to check the most recent cost prior to applying.

Application Process

The Indian visa application has some quite important steps: 

Fill in the online application: Fill out a visa application form, available on the Indian official government visa website.

Gather Supporting Documents: Supporting documents depending on the kind of visa can consist of a valid passport, recent photos, evidence of residence, and supporting documents depending on the kind of visa.

Submit the Application: Submit the application using the services of the authorised visa service provider, like VFS Global, by post or in person.

Pay the Visa Fee: Pay the fee for the visa at the application centre or online, depending on how the application is submitted

Appear for an Interview (if required): A face-to-face interview at the consulate can be required for some classes of visas.

Get the Visa: Once approved, the visa will be stamped onto your passport and sent back to you.

Smooth Application Tips

Check Accuracy: Carefully check all data on your application and supporting papers for accuracy and completeness.

Apply Early: Apply well in advance of your travel date to allow processing time and slack.

Stay Informed: Keep up with official Indian embassy or consulate websites on current visa policy and regulations