This article was last updated and fact checked on May 23, 2024 by Mani Karthik.
Traveling to India from the USA can be a daunting task, but it doesn’t have to be. With the right planning and preparation, you can make the most of your trip and have an amazing experience.
Here’s everything you need to know about traveling to India from the USA, from visas to vaccinations.
In this article...
Indian visa requirements for US tourists
India is the largest democracy in the world, with a population of more than 1.3 billion people. It’s also one of the fastest-growing economies in the world, with a GDP that reached an estimated $2.4 trillion in 2019.
If you’re interested in experiencing a large, diverse country, with bustling cities and rural villages, then India is worth considering as a destination.
The Government of India has announced that, with effect from April 1, 2021, all international travelers, except those coming from Nepal and Bhutan, will need to possess a negative COVID-19 test report before undertaking their journey to India.
The test report must have been obtained within 72 hours prior to the commencement of travel.
All passengers will also be required to mandatorily fill up and submit self-declaration forms on the online portal prior to their departure.
Apart from the above, all travelers from USA will need to obtain a tourist visa before undertaking their journey to India. The process for obtaining a tourist visa is as follows:
1. Applicants will need to fill out an online application form available on the website of the Embassy of India in Washington D.C.
2. Along with the completed application form, applicants will need to submit their passport (valid for at least six months from the date of travel), two recent passport-size photographs, and the applicable visa fee.
3. Applicants will also need to furnish proof of their onward and return journey tickets, as well as hotel reservations for their stay in India.
4. Once the application is complete, it can be submitted online or in person at the Embassy of India in Washington D.C.
5. The processing time for tourist visas is typically about four to five days. However, it is advisable to apply for the visa well in advance of the planned travel date to avoid any last-minute delays.
Indian visa requirements for tourists from USA are not onerous, and the process for obtaining a visa is relatively straightforward.
However, it is important to note that all travelers from USA will need to possess a negative COVID-19 test report before undertaking their journey to India.
Indian Tourist Visa for Tourists from USA
The Indian Tourist Visa for Tourists from USA is a non-immigrant visa issued by the Government of India to citizens of the United States of America for the purpose of tourism in India.
The tourist visa can be applied for online through the Indian Visa Application website or through the nearest Indian consulate.
The application process is simple and straightforward and requires the submission of a few documents, including a passport-sized photograph and a copy of the applicant’s passport.
Once the application is submitted, the applicant will receive a confirmation email with an application number. This number can be used to track the status of the application online.
Once the application is approved, the applicant will receive an electronic visa, which must be printed out and presented at the time of entry into India.
The Indian Tourist Visa for Tourists from USA is a great way to experience the sights and sounds of India. With its rich culture and history, India is a country that should not be missed.
How to obtain a visa for travel to India from the USA
When traveling to India from the United States, citizens of the United States must obtain a visa in order to enter the country.
There are several types of visas that can be obtained, and the type of visa required depends on the purpose of travel.
For example, those traveling for business purposes will need to obtain a business visa, while those traveling for tourism will need to obtain a tourist visa.
The process for obtaining a visa can vary depending on the country of origin, but generally, travelers will need to submit an application and supporting documents to the Indian consulate or embassy in their home country.
The processing time for a visa can also vary, but it is typically between two and four weeks.
India entry details and exceptions for visitors
All foreign nationals except citizens of Nepal and Bhutan require a valid passport and visa to enter India. Nationals of Maldives can enter India without a visa for a period of up to 90 days.
Indian visas are granted by Indian diplomatic missions (embassies and consulates) abroad. In countries where India does not have a diplomatic mission, visas can be obtained from the nearest British diplomatic mission.
Visas are also available on arrival at certain airports in India for nationals of Bangladesh, Fiji, Kyrgyzstan, Latvia, Lithuania, Maldives, Myanmar, Nauru, Papua New Guinea, Samoa, Serbia, Solomon Islands, Tajikistan, Tonga, Turkmenistan and Tuvalu.
These visas are valid for 60 days from the date of arrival.
There are a number of different types of visas available for India, including tourist visas, business visas, student visas and employment visas. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose of the visit.
Nationals of Afghanistan, Iran, Iraq, Nigeria, Pakistan, Somalia and Sudan are not eligible for visas on arrival and must apply for their visas in advance.
Tourist visas are valid for a maximum of 180 days from the date of arrival. Business visas are valid for a maximum of 180 days from the date of arrival, but can be extended for up to one year.
Student visas are valid for the duration of the course of study, up to a maximum of five years. Employment visas are valid for the duration of the employment contract, up to a maximum of five years.
All foreign nationals must register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) or the Foreigners Registration Officer (FRO) within 14 days of arrival in India. Those staying in hotels should register with the hotel authorities.
Tips for traveling to India from the USA
Assuming you are traveling from the USA to India, there are a few things you should keep in mind to make your trip as smooth as possible.
1. Get your visa well in advance.
You can apply for an e-visa up to 60 days before your travel date, and it is recommended that you do so to avoid any last-minute hiccups.
2. Keep your passport and other important documents handy.
You will need these when going through immigration, so make sure you have them easily accessible.
3. Make sure you have all the necessary vaccinations.
India is a country with a variety of diseases, so it is important to be up-to-date on your vaccinations.
4. Pack light.
You will be doing a lot of walking, and the heat can be unbearable at times, so pack accordingly.
5. Have a loose plan.
India is a vast country with a lot to see and do. It is impossible to see everything in one trip, so it is best to have a general idea of what you want to do and see, and then go with the flow.
6. Be prepared for culture shock.
India is a very different place from the USA, and you will likely experience culture shock at some point. Be patient and open-minded, and you will have a great time.
7. Bargaining is a way of life.
In India, bargaining is expected when buying anything from souvenirs to taxi rides. Don’t be afraid to haggle a bit to get the best price.
8. Be aware of scams.
Unfortunately, there are many scams in India, so it is important to be aware of them. If something seems too good to be true, it probably is.
9. Drink plenty of water.
India is a hot country, and you will need to stay hydrated. Drink bottled water whenever possible, and carry a water bottle with you to stay hydrated throughout the day.
10. Have fun!
India is an amazing country with so much to see and do. Relax, go with the flow, and enjoy your trip.
What to Expect When Arriving in India
Assuming that the tourist is arriving in India for the first time, there are a few things that they should expect.
India is a vast and varied country, so it is difficult to make sweeping statements about the entire nation.
However, there are some generalizations that can be made.
First and foremost, India is a very populous country.
With over 1.3 billion people, it is the second most populous country in the world after China. This means that there will be a lot of people everywhere the tourist goes.
Another thing to expect is the heat. India is a tropical country, so the temperatures can be quite high, especially during the summer months.
The humidity can also be quite intense, so the tourist should make sure to stay hydrated.
The food in India is also quite different from what the tourist is probably used to. Indian cuisine is very spicy, so the tourist should be prepared for that. There are also a lot of vegetarian and vegan options available, as many Indians do not eat meat.
Finally, the tourist should be prepared for the poverty that they will see in India. While there are some very wealthy people in the country, there is also a large population that lives in poverty.
The tourist should not take photos of people living in poverty without their permission, as this can be seen as disrespectful.
Can I travel to India now?
Yes, you can travel to India now. The country has reopened its borders to international travelers and is welcoming visitors with open arms.
There are a few things to keep in mind before you travel, however.
First, make sure you have a valid passport and visa.
Second, check with your airline to see if there are any restrictions on travel to India.
Third, be sure to get travel insurance to protect yourself in case of any unforeseen circumstances.
Lastly, research your destination and plan your trip accordingly. With a little preparation, you can have an amazing and safe trip to India.
Can US citizens travel to India?
Yes, US citizens can travel to India. There are a few things to keep in mind, however.
First, a visa is required. The process for obtaining a visa can be found on the website of the Indian Embassy or Consulate.
Second, although there are no specific restrictions on travel to India, visitors should be aware of the current security situation and exercise caution.
There have been terrorist attacks in India in the past, and the risk of terrorism remains high. Visitors should also be aware of the potential for political unrest and demonstrations.
Do I need a visa to travel to India?
Indian visas are required for all foreign nationals travelling to India, with the exception of nationals of Nepal and Bhutan. The type of visa required will depend on the purpose and duration of your stay in India.
If you are planning to travel to India for business purposes, you will need to apply for a business visa.
This type of visa allows you to stay in India for up to six months and can be extended for up to one year.
If you are planning to travel to India for tourism purposes, you will need to apply for a tourist visa.
This type of visa allows you to stay in India for up to six months.
If you are planning to stay in India for more than six months, you will need to apply for a long-term visa. Long-term visas are typically valid for up to five years and can be renewed.
If you are a student planning to study in India, you will need to apply for a student visa. Student visas are typically valid for the duration of your studies, up to five years.
Once you have obtained your visa, you will need to ensure that your passport is valid for at least six months from the date of your planned arrival in India.
You will also need to provide proof of onward travel, such as a return ticket or an onward ticket to another destination.
Can I travel to India with OCI on my old passport?
Yes, you can travel to India with OCI on your old passport.
However, you will need to carry your new passport with you, as well as your old passport containing the OCI sticker.
At the airport, you will need to present both passports to the immigration officer.
2 comments
I actually have a question about travel times and dates. If I need to arrive in Chennai, India, for an event beginning on August 4 (including one day of rest before the event), on what day should I schedule my departure? I’m a bit confused about change of time zones and duration of flights.
Thank you so much.
Hi Patty, I’d say you need to travel in the last week of July. Not sure how long your flight is but assuming it’s the longest one with ab out 24+ hours, you’d need to be in Chennai atleast on the 2nd of August (which is the 1st of August in US). To be safe, I’d recommend booking the flight on 30th or 31st of July.