For foreigners visiting India, the required documents vary based on the type of visa being applied for. However, there are common documents generally required for all visa types.
General Documents for All Visas:
- Valid Passport: The passport should be valid for at least six months from the date of application and have at least two blank pages.
- Visa Application Form: Completed and signed visa application form. This can be filled online or manually depending on the visa application process.
- Photographs: Recent passport-sized color photographs (usually 2-4). Check specific requirements for dimensions and background color.
- Visa Fee: Payment of the applicable visa fee, which varies based on visa type and duration.
Additional Documents Based on Visa Type:
Tourist Visa:
- Travel Itinerary: Detailed itinerary including flight details, accommodation bookings, and planned activities.
- Proof of Financial Means: Bank statements or financial documents showing sufficient funds to cover the stay in India.
- Return Ticket: Evidence of a return or onward journey ticket.
Business Visa:
- Invitation Letter: Letter of invitation from an Indian company detailing the purpose of the visit, dates, and business activities.
- Business Documents: Proof of business activities, such as company registration and details of the Indian business partner.
- Proof of Employment: Employment letter from the applicant’s current employer.
Employment Visa:
- Employment Contract: Copy of the employment contract with an Indian employer.
- Company Registration: Proof of the Indian company’s registration and details.
- Qualifications: Copies of educational and professional qualifications relevant to the job.
Student Visa:
- Admission Letter: Confirmation of admission from the Indian educational institution.
- Proof of Financial Support: Evidence of funds to cover tuition fees and living expenses in India.
- Educational Documents: Academic records and certificates.
Medical Visa:
- Medical Report: Letter from a recognized medical institution in India confirming the need for treatment.
- Proof of Financial Means: Evidence of funds for treatment and stay in India.
Research Visa:
- Approval Letter: Letter of approval from an Indian research institution or university.
- Research Proposal: Detailed description of the research project.
Conference Visa:
- Invitation Letter: Invitation from the conference organizers or host organization in India.
- Conference Details: Information about the conference, including agenda, dates, and venue.
Journalist Visa:
- Letter of Assignment: Assignment letter from the media organization the journalist represents.
- Proof of Employment: Credentials of employment as a journalist or media professional.
Entry (X) Visa:
- Proof of Relationship: Documents proving Indian origin, marriage, or relationship with Indian citizens (if applicable).
Transit Visa:
- Proof of Onward Travel: Flight tickets showing transit through India and onward destination.
Film Visa:
- Film Production Details: Details of the film project, including the script, production schedule, and approval from Indian authorities.
Intern Visa:
- Internship Offer Letter: Letter from the Indian organization offering the internship.
- Proof of Educational Background: Documentation supporting the educational qualifications relevant to the internship.
e-Visa:
- Online Application: Completed application form submitted online.
- Digital Photograph and Passport Scan: Scanned copy of passport and recent photograph as per e-Visa requirements.
Other Considerations:
- Medical Certificate: For some visas, especially medical or employment visas, a medical certificate may be required.
- Proof of Residence: For certain visa types, proof of residence in the home country might be needed.