onerideaway
INDIA
TOURIST VISA: TYPES, DEADLINES AND PROCEDURES
In January 2021, while we were on a ski tour in the Durmitor mountains near Zabljak, Montenegro, we met a beautiful black dog who liked to spend his days running on the snow-covered mountains. While we can't imagine sharing our trip with a four-legged companion, the one we call Lucky today knows how to make us fall in love.
At this point, we have no idea what traveling with a dog entails and we can't imagine all the adventures we'll experience together.
In this article, we try to address the constraints that traveling with a dog entails. We develop various themes including the question of administrative procedures for crossing land borders, the risks that we may encounter, access to quality dog food and the limitations that we must face when we a dog. It is aimed at those travelers who, like us two years ago, are about to adopt a dog and at those future travelers who already have a dog and are getting ready to hit the roads.
TYPES OF TOURIST VISAS
India offers several types of visas to suit the needs of travelers, including tourist visa, business visa, medical visa, student visa, work visa, and transit visa. For those traveling to India for tourism purposes, the most convenient options are the e-visa and the regular tourist visa. Both of these options offer great flexibility to plan enjoyable stays in India.
E-Visa (Electronic Visa)
Features :
-
Validity: 30 days, 1 year or 5 years.
-
Length of stay: Up to 90 days per visit, with a maximum of 180 cumulative days per year (for 1-year or 5-year visas).
-
Number of entries: Double or multiple depending on the type.
-
Processing time: 3 to 5 business days.
-
Price: Varies depending on nationality and duration of visa.
-
Extension: Not allowed.
Benefits :
-
Fast and convenient: Apply online without going to the embassy.
-
Multiple entries: Ideal for those planning to leave and return to India.
-
Flexible duration options: Suitable for both short stays and repeat visits.
Disadvantages:
-
Limited to certain points of entry: Valid only at specific airports and ports.
-
Non-extendable: Unable to extend the visa duration once in India.
-
Not eligible for all: Certain nationalities cannot benefit from it.
Regular Tourist Visa
This visa is issued by an Indian embassy or consulate and is suitable for travelers who need more flexibility.
Features :
-
Validity: From 3 months to 5 years.
-
Length of stay: Maximum 90 days per visit, and 180 cumulative days per year.
-
Number of entries: Single, double or multiple.
-
Processing time: 5 to 30 business days, depending on the country.
-
Price: Generally higher than the e-visa.
-
Extension: Not allowed.
Benefits :
-
No entry restrictions: Usable from any authorized arrival point.
-
Various durations: Perfect for long stays.
Disadvantages:
-
Longer procedure: Requires appointments and additional documents.
-
More expensive: The price increases with the duration of validity.
-
Little flexibility: Especially when applying from Pakistan or Nepal.
Specificity of Visa Applications in Pakistan
Diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan complicate the process. Applications are often subject to strict screening, including interviews or security checks, and can be rejected for no apparent reason.
Required documents:
Passport and copy of Pakistani visa.
Pakistan entry stamp.
Bank statements for the last 3 months.
Cover letter explaining the trip.
Hotel reservation and detailed itinerary.
5x5 ID photo.
Procedure :
Documents must be submitted to Visatronix, the official agency that forwards the files to the Indian Embassy. Processing time varies between 7 and 21 days (average 8 days). Cost: USD 100 for a 3-month visa.
Specificity of Visa Applications in Nepal
Although simpler than in Pakistan, obtaining a visa from Nepal can also take time due to high demand. The process also requires careful planning.
Required documents:
Original passport and copy of Nepalese visa.
Copies of old Indian visas with stamps.
Hotel booking in India.
5x5 ID photo.
Procedure :
Applications should be submitted at the Indian Visa Service Center in Kathmandu. Processing time is 4-6 weeks. Cost: USD 100 for a 4-month visa.
Choosing the right type of visa depends on the traveler's profile and needs. The e-visa is a quick and flexible solution for short or frequent visits, but those who need more freedom or are planning a long stay can opt for a regular tourist visa. However, travelers from Pakistan should expect more complex procedures, while those from Nepal should anticipate possible delays. Careful planning is therefore essential to fully enjoy your stay in India.