Indian Visa Guide

Guidance for international students · Updated January 2026

Almost every international student who joins us in Rishikesh enters India on the e-Tourist Visa (e-Visa) — a fast, fully online visa available to citizens of 160+ countries. This guide explains the visa types, how to apply from your country, the documents you need and what to expect on arrival.

1. Which Visa Do You Need?

For attending a yoga teacher training as a participant, the e-Tourist Visa is the standard choice. It comes in three durations:

• 30-day e-Tourist Visa — short trips; double entry.
• 1-year e-Tourist Visa — multiple entry; ideal if you may travel in and out or take longer/back-to-back courses.
• 5-year e-Tourist Visa — multiple entry; for frequent visitors.

Note: visa rules can change and depend on your nationality and course length. For long or formal study programmes, confirm the correct category with the Indian embassy in your country. If you're unsure which visa suits your booking, our admissions team will guide you.

2. Are You Eligible for the e-Visa?

• Citizens of 160+ countries are eligible — including the USA, UK, Canada, Australia, most of Europe, and many countries in Asia, Africa, South America and the Middle East.
• Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of arrival, with at least two blank pages.
• A few nationalities are not covered by the e-Visa and must apply for a regular (sticker) visa at an Indian embassy/consulate — see Step 6.

3. Documents You'll Need

• A scan of your passport bio/photo page (PDF, clear and complete).
• A recent passport-style photograph — square, plain white background, face clearly visible (JPEG).
• A working email address and a debit/credit card for the fee.
• Your arrival details and an address in India (you can use our campus address — provided on booking).
• Some nationalities may be asked for extra documents during the online form.

4. How to Apply — Step by Step

1. Go to the official portal: indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa.
2. Choose e-Visa → e-Tourist Visa and select your duration (30-day / 1-year / 5-year).
3. Fill in your personal and passport details exactly as they appear in your passport.
4. Upload your passport scan and photograph in the required format.
5. Pay the visa fee online by card. Fees vary by nationality (and sometimes season).
6. Submit the application. You'll receive an Application ID by email.
7. Wait for approval — you'll get the Electronic Travel Authorisation (ETA) by email.
8. Print the ETA and carry it with you to show at immigration.

5. Fees & Processing Time

• Fees depend on your nationality and the visa duration — the exact amount is shown on the official portal during your application.
• Processing typically takes a few business days; apply early to be safe.
• Pay only on the official government site — avoid third-party "agents" charging inflated service fees.

6. If Your Country Isn't Eligible for the e-Visa

A small number of nationalities must apply for a regular paper (sticker) visa instead:

• Apply through the Indian Embassy, High Commission or Consulate in your country (or their authorised visa centre, e.g. VFS Global).
• This usually means submitting your passport in person or by post, with forms, photos and the fee.
• Start earlier than for an e-Visa, as embassy processing takes longer.
• Check your local Indian mission's website for exact requirements.

7. On Arrival in India

• Enter through a designated e-Visa airport or seaport (major airports including Delhi and Dehradun's nearest hubs are covered).
• At immigration, present your passport and the printed ETA.
• Your photo and fingerprints (biometrics) are taken at the immigration counter.
• Keep your accommodation address handy for the arrival form.

8. Important Tips

• Enter your details exactly as in your passport — mistakes can cause rejection.
• Don't overstay your visa. Note the validity and exit before it expires.
• Keep digital and printed copies of your visa, passport and travel insurance.
• Visa policies change — always confirm current rules on the official portal or with the Indian embassy before booking flights.

This guide is for general information only and is not legal or immigration advice. Visa rules are set by the Government of India and can change at any time. Always verify current requirements on the official portal or with your nearest Indian embassy/consulate.