Visa-Free Entry to India for Specific Nationals
India extends a warm welcome to citizens of Bhutan, Maldives, and Nepal, granting them a generous 90-day stay without the need for a visa. Travelers from these nations can enter India from any corner of the globe, enjoying this privilege.
However, it’s important to note that individuals arriving from mainland China, irrespective of their nationality, are required to obtain a visa prior to their entry into India. India maintains this policy for travelers originating from mainland China.
India offers specific visa exemptions for individuals holding a Persons of Indian Origin Card (PIO Card) who are nationals of the following countries:
- Afghanistan
- Bangladesh
- Bhutan
- China
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- Sri Lanka
If you fall into one of the categories that enable you to apply for a PIO Card (such as having held an Indian passport, being married to an Indian citizen, or having Indian ancestry), you can bypass the standard visa application process.
Visa on Arrival for Select Countries
Only three countries benefit from India’s visa-on-arrival facility, meaning their citizens can obtain a visa upon arrival without the need for prior application. These countries are:
- Japan
- South Korea
Citizens of Japan and South Korea can acquire a visa on arrival, allowing them a 30-day stay, provided they are not of Bangladeshi or Pakistani origin.
Additionally, citizens of the United Arab Emirates (UAE) can also obtain a visa on arrival. However, this is applicable only to UAE nationals who have obtained either an electronic visa or a paper visa to travel to India. In all other cases, travelers must apply for a different visa type to visit India.
Explore Various Indian Visa Types
India offers a range of visa categories to cater to diverse visitor needs, including:
- Employment Visa: For highly skilled individuals intending to work in India, valid for up to 5 years or the contract period, and extendable within India.
- Tourist Visa: Suited for individuals traveling to India for tourism, with a validity of 30 days and no extension within India.
- Research Visa: Geared towards individuals conducting research in any field, with a validity of 5 years and the option for extension within India.
- Medical Visa: For individuals seeking medical treatment in India at recognized specialized hospitals and treatment centers, valid for 1 year.
