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Visas and travel modalities to France from India

Inspiration

Reading time: 0 min Published on 4 January 2023, updated on 16 April 2024

Latest Travel Update on France With effect from 1st August 2022 , the rules previously applied to travellers arriving into France no longer apply:

• Travellers do not have any formalities to complete before arriving into mainland or overseas France, and the COVID certificate is no longer required, irrespective of the country or area of origin;
• Proof of a compelling reason for travel can no longer be requested;
• Travellers no longer need to present a sworn declaration stating that they are not infected with COVID-19 and need not pledge to take an antigen test or biological exam upon arrival into France.

GUIDELINES FOR ARRIVAL IN INDIA

It is MANDATORY for passengers to adhere to the below regulations from Government of India. Non-compliance would lead to denied boarding.

• Planning for Travel i. All travellers should:
• Submit complete and factual information in self-declaration form on the online Air Suvidha portal (https://www.newdelhiairport.in/airsuvidha/apho-registration) before the scheduled travel, including last 14 days travel details.
• Upload a negative COVID-19 RT-PCR report* (The test should have been conducted within 72 hrs prior to undertaking the journey) or
• Certificate of completing full primary vaccination schedule of COVID-19 vaccination**.
• Each passenger shall also submit a declaration with respect to authenticity of the report and will be liable for criminal prosecution, if found otherwise. ii. They should also give an undertaking on the portal or otherwise to Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India, through concerned airlines before they are allowed to undertake the journey that they would abide by the decision of the appropriate government authority any post arrival requirement to undergo home/institutional quarantine/ self-health monitoring, as warranted.

Before Boarding iii. Do’s and Don'ts shall be provided along with ticket to the travellers by the airlines/agencies concerned. iv. Airlines to allow boarding by only those passengers who have filled in all the information in the Self Declaration Form on the Air Suvidha portal and uploaded the negative RT-PCR test report or Covid -19 vaccination certificate of having completed the primary vaccination schedule**. v. At the time of boarding the flight, only asymptomatic travellers will be allowed to board after thermal screening. vi. All passengers shall be advised to download Aarogya Setu app on their mobile devices.

During Travel vii. In-flight announcement about COVID-19 including precautionary measures to be followed shall be made at airports and in flights and during transit. viii. During in-flight crew shall ensure that COVID appropriate behaviour is followed at all times. ix. If any passenger reports symptoms of COVID-19 during flight, he/she shall be isolated as per protocol. x. Proper in-flight announcements should be made by the airlines regarding the testing requirements and people who need to undergo such testing to avoid any congestion at the arrival airports.

On arrival xi. De-boarding should be done ensuring physical distancing. xii. Thermal screening would be carried out in respect of all the passengers by the health officials present at the airport. The self-declaration form filled online shall be shown to the airport health staff. xiii. The passengers found to be symptomatic during screening shall be immediately isolated and taken to medical facility as per health protocol. If tested positive, their contacts shall be identified and managed as per laid down protocol# xiv. The following protocol post arrival shall also be followed

• A sub-section (2% of the total passengers in the flight) shall undergo random postarrival testing at the airport on arrival.
• Such travellers in each flight shall be identified by the concerned airlines (preferably from different countries). They will submit the samples and shall be allowed to leave the airport.
• If such travellers are tested positive, their samples should be further sent for genomic testing at INSACOG laboratory network.
• They shall be treated/isolated as per laid down standard protocol. xv. All travellers will self-monitor their health for next 14 days of arrival. xvi. If travellers under self-health monitoring, develop signs and symptoms suggestive of COVID19, they will immediately self-isolate and report to their nearest health facility or call National helpline number (1075)/ State Helpline Number.

For more information and updates, visit: https://www.mohfw.gov.in/

For more information, request you to visit the link below

https://wwws.airfrance.in/information/meilleures-offres/travelrestrictions

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Embassy of India France & Principality of Monaco

• Home ›   Consular ›   e-Visa
• Foreign nationals eligible for e-visa can apply at the official website indianvisaonline.gov.in . The instructions on eligibility, requirements, filling up of the e-Visa forms etc are mentioned in detail on the website. The webpage also provides sub-links ( https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html with information related to “Instructions to Applicants” and “List of countries/nationalities who are eligible to avail e-Visa”.
• An important instruction on the website is the requirement for entry into India upon receipt of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) is that the passport of the traveller should have validity of at least 6 months from the date of arrival in India and it should contain at least 2 blank pages for stamping by the immigrations officer.
• The applicant must travel on the passport which was used to apply for the e-Visa. However, entry will be allowed into India on a new passport even if ETA has been issued on an old passport, provided that the traveller must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued.
• e-Visa has 5 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa(for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa. A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.
• For e-Tourist and e-Business visa, Applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival.
• For e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, Applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 120 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept to 2nd Jan
• Sample eVisa application form is available on the tab near the bottom of eVisa main page.
• Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.
• e-Visa fee is country/Territory specific. Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed. To know the fee applicable on your Country/Territory please (for e-Tourist Visa) and for other e-Visa.
• e-Visa fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
• Applicant should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel. Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey. Applicants can track the status of their application online by clicking VisaStatus
• Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India.
• e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority.
• The e-Visa fee payment status updation may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. In cases, where e-Visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on 'Verify Payment/Pay Visa Fee' tab or by clicking on the link Verify Payment.
• Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries or travellers arriving from these countries must carry YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CARD at the time of arrival in India, otherwise they may be quarantined for 6 days upon arrival in India. Please visit our Ministry Of Health & Family Welfare latest guidelines regarding yellow fever countries here.
• You must travel on the Passport which you have applied for eVisa. Entry will be allowed into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, however in such cases a traveler must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued

The documents required for completing the eVisa application is indicated against each type of eVisa. Please keep all these documents ready at hand before beginning to fill your eVisa application. All documents including Business cards, Invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which the application would be liable for rejection. The entire process may take 10 to 15 minutes to complete the application and make the payment.

Applicants must be fill eVisa application himself/herself and give correct information in each column and take responsibility for the correctness of information provided.

(i)   A short duration e-Visa for tourism, with a one month validity and visa fee of USD 25 has been introduced.  During the tourism off-season (April-June), the visa fee of USD 25 would be further reduced to USD 10.

 (ii)   Validity of the regular e-Visa with fee of USD 80 has been increased from 1 year to 5 years with multiple entry.

(iii)  Fee for one year e-Tourist Visa has been reduced from USD 80 to USD 40.

• For e-Tourist Visa
• Scanned Bio Page of the passport showing the Photograph and Details
• For short term courses, copy of letter from the institute/organization/hospital etc. concerned on its letter-head
• For voluntary work of short duration, copy of letter from the organization concerned on its letter-head
• For e-Medical Visa
• Copy of Letter from the Hospital concerned in India on its letterhead which including the date / tentative date which admission have been suggested .
• For e-Medical Attendant Visa
• For e-Business Visa
• Copy of Business Card
• Any letter of invitation if applicable from indian parties which wish you conduct the business (optional).
• For e-Business Visa visiting "To deliver lecture/s under Global Initiative for Academic Networks (GIAN)"
• Invitation of the host institute to the foreign faculty
• Copy of the sanction order under GIAN issued by the National Coordinating Institute viz. IIT Kharagpur
• Copy of the synopsis of the courses to be taken up by the faculty
• For e-Conference Visa
• Invitation from organizer, which applicant may seek from this organiser.
• Political clearance from Ministry of External Affairs
• Event clearance from Ministry of Home Affairs

The digital photograph to be uploaded along with the Visa application should meet the following requirements:

• Format - JPEG
• Minimum 10 KB
• Maximum 1 MB
• The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
• Photo should present full face, front view, eyes open and without spectacles
• Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Background should be plain light colored or white background.
• No shadows on the face or on the background.
• Without borders.
• Scanned Bio Page of the passport showing the Photograph and Details.
• Format -PDF
• Size : Minimum 10 KB ,Maximum 300 KB
• Other document for Business/Medical Purpose

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France Tourist Visa from India

France is one of the most popular tourist destinations in the world, and for good reason. With its stunning scenery, rich history, and vibrant culture, France has something to offer everyone.

 If you’re an Indian citizen planning a trip to France, you’ll need to apply for a tourist visa.

APPLY NOW: Get your France tourist visa today!

France Tourist Visa Requirements

To apply for a france tourist visa from india, you’ll need the following:.

1.) A valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining . 2.) Forms: A completed France tourist visa application form . 3.) A passport-size photo . 4.) Proof of travel ins urance . 5.) Proof of accommodation in France . 6.) Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in France . 7.) A cover letter explaining your travel plans and why you want to visit France .

France Tourist Visa Fees

The France tourist visa fee from India is 6,551 Indian rupees.

France Tourist Visa Processing Time

The France tourist visa processing time from India is generally 15 days . However, it can take up to 45 days in some cases.

France Tourist Visa Checklist for Indians

Here is a checklist of all the documents you’ll need to submit for your France Tourist visa.

1.) Completed Application Form: Download and fill out the Schengen Visa Application Form electronically. Print it out, sign it, and date it. 2.) Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least 3 months after your intended departure from France and have at least two blank pages for visas. Make sure your passport is in good condition, with no rips, tears, or damage. 3.) Passport-sized Photo: Two recent passport-sized photographs that meet Schengen visa photo requirements: ✔ Size: 3.5 cm x 4.5 cm Background: Plain white or light-colored background ✔ Head size: Must cover 70-80% of the photo frame ✔ Expression: Neutral facial expression with mouth closed and eyes open 4.) Proof of Accommodation: Hotel reservation confirmations, hostel bookings, rental agreements, or proof of invitation from a host in France. 5.) Proof of Travel Insurance: A valid travel insurance policy covering medical expenses, repatriation, and personal accidents for the entire duration of your stay in the Schengen area, with a minimum coverage of €30,000. 6.) Proof of Sufficient Funds: Evidence of sufficient financial means to cover your stay in France and any onward travel. This can be shown through: ✔ Bank statements for the last 3 months ✔ Salary slips for the last 3 months ✔ Income tax returns for the last year ✔ Travel grant or sponsorship letter (if applicable) 7.) Round-trip Flight Tickets or Booking Confirmation: A copy of your flight tickets or booking confirmation showing your arrival and departure dates from France. 8.) Additional Supporting Documents (Depending on your situation): ✔ Employment: If employed, a letter from your employer stating your leave of absence and salary details. ✔ Self-employed: Business registration documents, bank statements, and tax returns for the past year. ✔ Students: Proof of enrollment and a letter from your school confirming your leave of absence. ✔ Minors: A birth certificate and a letter of authorization from both parents or legal guardians, along with their copies of ID. 8.) Travelers with a specific purpose: Additional documents related to your purpose of travel, such as invitation letters, conference registrations, etc. 9.) Optional Documents: ✔ Cover Letter: A personalized letter explaining your travel plans and itinerary in France. ✔ Proof of Previous Travel: Copies of visas and stamps from previous travels (if applicable).

ALSO READ: Your Ultimate Guide to a Switzerland Tourist Visa

France tourist visa application from India

1.) A valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining . 2.) Forms: A completed France tourist visa application form 3.) A passport-size photo 4.) Proof of travel insurance 5.) Proof of accommodation in France 6.) Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in France 7.) A cover letter explaining your travel plans and why you want to visit France

ALSO READ: Ultimate Guide to a Guaranteed Greece Tourist Visa

France Tourist Visa Requirements for Indian Citizens

Indian citizens applying for a france tourist visa must meet the following requirements:.

1.) Must have a valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining . 2.) Must have a cl ean criminal record . 3.) Must be able to prove that they have sufficient financial means to support themselves during their stay in France . 4.) Must have travel insurance that covers medical expenses and repatriation costs . 5.) Must have a valid return ticket or proof of onward travel .

France Tourist Visa Documents Required

Here is a list of all the documents you’ll need to submit for your France tourist visa application from India:

1.) Valid Indian passport with at least 6 months of validity remaining. 2.) Completed France tourist visa application form . 3.) Passport-size photo. 4.) Proof of travel insurance. 5.) Proof of accommodation in France. 6.) Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in France. 7.) Cover letter explaining your travel plans and why you want to visit France.

ALSO READ: How to Plan a Carbon-Neutral Trip to Europe

France Tourist Visa from India Processing Time

How to apply for france tourist visa from india.

To apply for a France tourist visa from India, you can follow these steps:

1.) Visit the official website of the France Visa Application Centre in India. 2.) Create an account and fill out the online visa application form. 3.) Upload all the required documents. 4.) Pay the visa fee. 5.) Schedule an appointment at the nearest Visa Application Centre. 6.) Attend your appointment and submit your application. 7.) Collect your passport and visa once it is processed.

France Tourist Visa Application Form

The France tourist visa application form can be found on the website of the France Visa Application Centre in India. The form is in English and French.

France Tourist Visa Fees from India

The France tourist visa fee from India is 6,551 Indian rupees .

Proof of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in France

You can prove your sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in France by submitting the following documents:

1.) Bank statements showing a minimum balance of INR 50,000 for each day of your stay 2.) A credit card with a sufficient credit limit 3.) A prepaid travel card with a sufficient balance 4.) A sponsorship letter from a friend or family member who is a French citizen or resident

ALSO READ: How to Apply for a Germany Tourist Visa from India

France Tourist visa Cover letter

In your cover letter, you should explain your travel plans and why you want to visit France. 

You should also mention any ties you have to France, such as family members or friends who live there, or previous visits you have made.

France Tourist Visa Success Rate

The France tourist visa success rate from India is high. However, it is important to make sure that you meet all the requirements and submit all the required documents.

France Tourist Visa Rejection Rate

The France tourist visa rejection rate from India is relatively low. However, it can be higher for applicants who do not meet all the requirements or who submit incomplete applications.

MUST READ: Italy Tourist Visa for Indians in 2024

France Tourist Visa Cover Letter Sample

Dear Visa Officer, I am writing to apply for a tourist visa to France. I am a [your profession] and I have been planning a trip to France for many years.  I have always been fascinated by French culture and history, and I am eager to finally experience it in person. I will be travelling to France with my [spouse/partner/family/friends]. We plan to visit Paris, [other cities and towns you plan to visit].  We are particularly interested in seeing the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, and the Palace of Versailles. I am attaching all the required documents to my application. I have a valid Indian passport, proof of travel insurance, proof of accommodation in France, and proof of sufficient financial means to support myself during my stay. I have been working as a [your profession] for [number] years, and I have a monthly salary of INR [amount].  I have also saved up INR [amount] for my trip. I am confident that I will be able to support myself during my stay in France. I have never been to France before, but I have travelled to other countries, such as [list of countries you have travelled to]. I am a responsible and law-abiding citizen, and I have no criminal record. I am very excited to visit France, and I hope that you will grant my visa application. Thank you for your time and consideration. Sincerely, [Your name]

Tips for increasing your chances of getting a France tourist visa from India

1.) Make sure that you meet all the requirements and submit all the required documents. 2.) Be honest and accurate in your visa application. 3.) Write a well-written and informative cover letter. 4.) Dress appropriately and be polite and respectful during your visa interview.

1. What is the best time to visit France?

The best time to visit France depends on your interests. If you want to enjoy the mild weather and avoid the crowds, the best time to visit is during the shoulder seasons of spring (April-May) and fall (September-October).

If you’re interested in winter sports, the best time to visit is during the winter months (December-February).

2. How much money do I need for a trip to France?

The amount of money you need for a trip to France will depend on your travel style and budget. However, a good rule of thumb is to budget around INR 10,000-15,000 per day for accommodation, food, activities, and transportation.

ALSO READ: Your Guide to Spain Tourist Visa from India

3. What are the must-see attractions in France?

Some of the must-see attractions in France include the Eiffel Tower, the Louvre Museum, the Palace of Versailles, the Notre Dame Cathedral , and the Arc de Triomphe.

4. What are some tips for travelling to France?

Here are some tips for travelling to France:

1.) Learn a few basic French phrases. 2.) Be prepared for crowds, especially in popular tourist destinations. 3.) Be aware of your surroundings and take precautions against pickpocketing. 4.) Purchase a travel insurance policy to cover unexpected expenses. 5.) Pack for all types of weather , as France can experience a variety of climates throughout the year.

5. What are the common reasons for France’s tourist visa rejection?

The most common reasons for France tourist visa rejection are:

1.) Incomplete or inaccurate visa application form. 2.) Lack of sufficient financial means to support yourself during your stay in France. 3.) Lack of proof of travel insurance. 4.) Lack of proof of accommodation in France. 5.) Criminal record.

• Best time to visit France
• Budget for a trip to France from India
• France tourist attractions guide
• France tourist visa for Indians
• France visa fees for Indian citizens
• France visa requirements from India
• France visa success rate from India
• How to apply for France tourist visa
• Tourist visa processing time France
• Visa rejection reasons for France

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How to apply for a France visa from India

1: Discover what are the France visa requirements for Indian citizens

• Successful applicants for the France visa from India are rewarded with the travel document they require to enter France (and the 26 other Schengen area countries in Europe) and remain there for 90 days. The first step toward beginning your journey to apply for a France visa from India is to browse the requirements for the France visa for India citizens. Indian applicants who are committed to paying their France visa fees, submitting an application, and meeting the rest of the requirements for the Schengen visa for the India citizens should proceed with step 2. 

2: Give yourself enough time to apply for the France visa from India

• Applicants for the France visa from India should time their application submission to match their date of departure (meaning they should apply so that they receive their France Schengen visa well before they need to leave). If you apply earlier than two weeks before your flight, you may not receive your visa in time to make your plane. On the other hand, if you try to apply for your France visa from India too early (specifically, six months before your departure date) your attempt will be rejected as too far in in the future to be processed.  

3: See where to apply for a Schengen visa France from India & how much does a France visa cost

• France visa from India applicants apply online first, then in person, at the French Embassy and French consulates in India. If you are based in the capital, you will likely apply through the French Embassy in Delhi. Applicants located in Bangalore, Mumbai, Calcutta, and Puducherry have access to the French consulates located in those locations. 
• To arrange your in-person application submission at your France visa from India application destination, please contact Schengenvisas.com.
• A France visa for India citizens costs 80 EUR (for the average Indian applicant). If you are paying in cash—i.e. in person at your application destination—you will likely need to pay in EUR, although sometimes the equivalent of 80 EUR in Indian Rupees is accepted. For complete payment information, see Schengen Visa Fees , and contact us at SchengenVisas.com. 

4: Examine the France visas or types for India passport holders

• Indians who travel to France for tourist, business, or medical reasons, should apply for Tourist, Business, or Medical Schengen visa types, respectively. Visa types therefore reflect an applicant’s purpose for visiting the country they need a visa to enter. France visas and types are numerous (in addition to those listed above). When you apply for your visa, you will mark your France visas and types choice on your application form. See the complete list of types here .

5: Pick your Schengen area entry category for how to get a France visa from India

• A France visa from India that is a  single-entry  will let you enter France one time. This isn’t enough for some applicants, particularly those who expect to travel back and forth between India and France throughout their 90-day visa validity period. These applicants will therefore want to apply for the  multiple entry  Schengen visa (which will allow them to enter and exit the Schengen area at will). Double entry Schengen visa holders from India can make two trips from France/the Schengen area to India (or elsewhere), however, if they try to enter France a third time, they will not be able to. 

6:  Complete the Schengen visa application form for the France visa for India citizens

• Access the online Schengen visa application portal for the France visa from India here .
• Create an account and follow the steps to apply for your France Schengen visa. During your online application process, you will fill out and electronically submit the main application. In addition, you will likely be empowered to electronically pay for your visa as well as schedule a visa appointment. 
• Note that applications for the France visa from India must be completed in French, Spanish, or English. 

7: Fulfill your document requirements for how to apply for a France visa from India

• Main Schengen visa application form (print out of above online doc, plus receipt). 
• Indian passport (or other national valid travel document). 
• Passport photos (in keeping with the photo requirements). 
• Medical travel insurance (evidence of).
• Travel ticket/reservation out of France/the Schengen area (proof of return). 
• Your address in France (Proof of hotel/house accommodation). 
• Schengen visa fee of 80 EUR. 
• Supplemental materials (documents Schengen visa type—tourist, medical, etc.). 

8: Set up a visa interview for the France visa from India

• Schedule your interview for your France visa from India when you apply online (through the French visa portal). Alternatively, contact Schengenvisas.com to arrange an interview at the appropriate destination for the Schengen visa for Indian applicants. 

9: Attend the in-person interview for the France visa from India

• Submission of visa application for france from india (printed out copy of main online form and receipt) as well as rest of the documents/materials required for the France visa from India.
• Payment of the France visa fees for Indian applicants.
• Brief interview for the France visa from India.
• Consent to being fingerprinted and photographed (biometric data collection) for security purposes.

10: Consider the processing time for a France Schengen visa application

• The France visa from India is processed within 60-15 days (typically closer to 15 days than 60). Your Indian passport will remain at the French Embassy/Consulate throughout this ordeal. 

11: Receive a decision on your France visa from India

• If are judged not to have met the France visa requirements for India citizens, you will be rejected for your France visa from India. If this happens, you may contact Schengenvisas.com regarding your options (which are limited to reapplying or appealing the decision). 

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indian Visitors: Key Questions Answered 

Peden Doma Bhutia , Skift

April 23rd, 2024 at 5:39 AM EDT

Destinations value Indian travelers, but lengthy visa processing times lasting months act as significant deterrents. The adoption of these new regulations by European authorities reflects a proactive effort to tackle these concerns, aiming to boost tourism flow.

Peden Doma Bhutia

The European Commission has introduced a new visa “cascade” regime for Indian nationals applying for Schengen visas in India. This regime looks to offer longer-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, based on the applicant’s travel history.

Indian travel agents had been complaining of Schengen visa delays as a major challenge to the summer travel rush from India.

• How does one qualify for the longer duration visas?

The European Commission can issue a two-year multiple-entry visa after a traveler “has obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years.” This demonstrates a positive travel history and compliance with previous visa regulations.

Subsequently, after granting the two-year visa, authorities may issue a five-year visa if the passport has has adequate validity remaining.

• What benefits do holders of these extended visas enjoy?

During the validity period of these visas, holders can enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals within the Schengen area, allowing for short stays of up to 90 days within a 180-day period.

• Which countries are part of the Schengen area?

The Schengen area comprises 29 European countries, including 25 European Union member states: Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. Additionally, Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland are also part of the Schengen area.

• Are there any restrictions or conditions to these visas?

Schengen visas do not grant the right to work within the Schengen area and are for short stays only. Additionally, the visas are not purpose-bound, providing flexibility for travel within the specified period.

Industry Take

Skift also spoke to players in the Indian outbound travel industry to understand what has changed in the new Schengen visa rules.

• How is this different from the earlier visas that Schengen countries offered? Don’t they already offer multi-entry visas with longer duration to Indians?

Mahendra Vakharia, managing director of Pathfinders Holidays, said there was no standard policy of Schengen states for issuing these long-term visas earlier. Switzerland, France, Netherlands, Italy and Spain usually issued long-term visa, but it was all subjective. “With this new policy it should be a standard rule now,” Vakharia said.

• Travelers mainly complain of longer processing times, has that changed?

Here too, there is no standard processing time as it varies from country to country, according to Vakharia. “France and Spain have been processing visas within four days, and then there’s Croatia, which takes 60 days,” he said.

Processing time will not change as of now, it will take time for the visa rules to be enforced, said an industry source, while highlighting that the visa would be especially useful for corporate travelers.

What Promoted The Move?

Speaking on the possible motivations, Vakharia acknowledged various reasons, including administrative capacity constraints at embassies to cater to the huge inflow of applications.

“As there is an overwhelming demand from Indian travelers, the process of securing visa appointments has posed significant challenges , especially for travelers residing in cities lacking VFS Global centers,” he said.

The European Commission said in an statement that the decision reflects the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, aimed at fostering comprehensive cooperation on migration policy. Facilitating people-to-people contacts is a key aspect of this agenda, acknowledging India’s importance as an EU partner.

The decision also reflects a realization of the strong economic benefits derived through the spending power of Indian tourists. As Vakharia aptly puts it, “Why let go of the Golden Indian Goodie Bag?”

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Tags: asia monthly , europe , european commission , European summer travel , european union , india , india outbound , schengen , visa , visas

Photo credit: Park Guell in Spain. Unlike many Schengen countries, Spain has been processing visas within four days for Indian travelers. Mehmet Turgut Kirkgoz / Pexels

• Nationality
• Document Required
• Technical Info for e-Visa
• Payment Related
• Authorized Immigration checkposts through which eVisa holders can travel.

Payment Helpdesk

SBI ePay: +91-22-2753-5773 (24 x 7)                Axis Bank : +91 1800-419-0073 (24 x 7)

Toll free Numbers from:

• USA : 1855 205 5577
• Uk : 0808 178 5040
• Singapore : 800 1206 355
• Australia : 1800 153 861
• UAE : 8000 3570 3218
• Saudi Arabia : 800 850 0000
• Qatar : 00 800 100 348
• Bahrain : 800 11 300

Select option no. 6 on IVR to connect to agents.

From rest of the countries none toll free number to India + 91-40-6717-4100 (Paid Number).

• eVisa Helpdesk (Due to maintenance activity IVRS services are unavailable.)
• eVisa Helpdesk

E-VISA APPLICATION PROCESS

Apply online

Upload Photo and Passport Page

Pay eVisa fee online

Using Credit / Debit card / Payment Wallet

Receive ETA Online

Electronic Travel Authorization/ETA Will be sent to your e-mail

Fly To India

Print ETA and present at Immigration Check Post where eVisa will be stamped on passport.

Government of India makes no provision of charging of any emergency fees or additional fees for grant of any emergency / express e-visa. Those travelling to India are also advised to go through instructions available on the website of Bureau of Immigration at https://boi.gov.in .

eVisa is admissable only under the following categories:

E-tourist visa, e-business visa, e-conference visa, e-medical visa, e-medical attendent visa, e-ayush visa, e-ayush attendent visa.

• e-Emergency X-Misc Visa

1. One Month e-Tourist Visa

One Month (30 Days).

Double Entry, non-extendable and non-convertible

2. One year e-Tourist Visa

One year (365 Days) from the date of grant of ETA.

3. Five years e-Tourist Visa

Five years from the date of grant of ETA.

Maximum stay in India during one Calender Year should not exceed 180 days for 1 year and 5 year Tourist Visa.

One year (365 days) from the date of grant of ETA.

Continuous stay during each visit shall not exceed 180 days. If the intension is to stay for more then 180 days, shall get registered with FRRO/FRO concerned within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days.

Thirty days (30 days) from the date of arrival into India.

Organizers to upload all details & documentation on the MHA website (conference.mha.gov.in)

Sixty days (60 days) from the date of arrival into India.

If the applicant is unable to complete his e-visa application form, he may save the application and may return to complete the application form by clicking the tab at the bottom of page: After your eVisa applications is submitted, the same shall be scrutinized and if any Document/Image is not appropriate, you may be advised on your given e-mail to re-upload the same. To re-upload use the tab at the bottom of the page. Applicant should normally receive this mail within 24 hours.

• Useful Web Links
• Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt. Of India.
• Ministry of External Affairs, Govt Of India
• Ministry of Tourism, Govt Of India
• Bureau of Immigration, Govt Of India
• Incredible India, Govt Of India

Eligibility

• International travellers whose sole objective for visiting India is recreation, sight seeing,casual visit to meet friends and relatives, attending a short term yoga programme,Short term courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine etc. which should not be a formal or structured course/programme (courses not exceeding 6 months duration and not issued with a qualifying certificate/ diploma etc),Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return), medical treatment including treatment under Indian systems of medicine, business purpose, as attendant to e-Medical visa holder, attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop organized by a Ministry or Department of the Government of India, State Governments or UT Administrations etc. & their subordinate/ attached organizations & PSUs and private conferences organized by private persons/companies/organizations.
• Applicant's passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making application for grant of e-Visa.
• International Travellers should have return ticket or onward journey ticket,with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.
• International Travellers having Pakistani Passport or Pakistani origin may please apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.
• Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer travel document holders.
• Not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.
• Not available to International Travel Document Holders other than Passport.

If you are a national of any following countries, you are eligible for eVisa.

• Afghanistan
• Antigua & Barbuda
• Bosnia & Herzegovina
• Cameroon Union Republic
• Cayman Island
• Cook Islands
• Cote d'lvoire
• Czech Republic
• Dominican Republic
• El Salvador
• Equatorial Guinea
• Isle of Man
• Liechtenstein
• Marshall Islands
• Netherlands
• New Zealand
• Niger Republic
• Niue Island
• Papua New Guinea
• Philippines
• Republic of Korea
• Saint Christopher and Nevis
• Saint Lucia
• Saint Vincent & the Grenadines
• Saudi Arabia
• Sierra Leone
• Solomon Islands
• South Africa
• Switzerland
• Trinidad & Tobago
• Turks & Caicos Island
• United Kingdom
• Vatican City-Holy See
• Zambia and Zimbabwe

Documents Requirement & Visa Categories

• General Instructions
• Advisory for Canadian Nationals
• e-Visa has 5 sub-categories viz. e-Tourist Visa(for 30 days/01 year/ 05 years) ,e-Business Visa, e-Medical Visa, e-Medical Attendant Visa and e-Conference Visa. A foreigner (other than those applying for e-Conference Visa) will be allowed to club activities permitted under these categories. Foreigners applying for e-Conference visa will be permitted to club the activities permitted under e-Tourist visa only (validity co-terminus with e-Conference Visa only i.e. 30 days). Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e- Medical Visa.
• For e-Tourist and e-Business visa, Applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival.
• For e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, Applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival with a window of 120 days. Example: If you are applying on 1st Sept then applicant can select arrival date from 5th Sept to 2nd Jan
• Sample eVisa application form is available on the tab near the bottom of eVisa main page.
• Recent front facing photograph with white background and photo page of Passport containing personal details like name, date of birth, nationality, expiry date etc are to be uploaded mandatorily by the applicant. Additionally one more document depending upon the e-Visa type would also be required to be uploaded. The application is liable to be rejected if the uploaded documents and photograph are not clear / as per specification.
• e-Visa fee is country/Territory specific. Bank transaction charges of 2.5% will be charged additionally on applicable e-Visa fees. The fee must be paid at least 4 days before the expected date of travel otherwise application will not be processed. To know the fee applicable on your Country/Territory please Click here (for e-Tourist Visa) and for other e-Visa Click here .
• e-Visa fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA).
• Applicant should carry a copy of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) along with him/her at the time of travel. Please confirm that your ETA status is shown as 'GRANTED' on this website prior to commencement of your journey. Applicants can track the status of their application online by clicking VisaStatus
• Biometric details of the applicant will be mandatorily captured at Immigration on arrival in India.
• e-Visa is non-extendable, non-convertible & not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted and Cantonment Areas. If you intend to visit Protected/Restricted/Cantonment areas, you would require prior permission from the Civil Authority please visit here.
• The e-Visa fee payment status updation may take up to 2 hours due to technical reasons/network delays. Before re-applying, the applicants are requested to wait for 2 hours for payment status updating, after final submission of the application form and payment of the fee. In cases, where e-Visa fee has been deducted but status is not updated, the applicants are advised to verify their payment status by clicking on 'Verify Payment/Pay Visa Fee' tab or by clicking on the link Verify Payment.
• Nationals of Yellow Fever affected countries or travellers arriving from these countries must carry YELLOW FEVER VACCINATION CARD at the time of arrival in India, otherwise they may be quarantined for 6 days upon arrival in India. Please visit our Ministry Of Health & Family Welfare latest guidelines regarding yellow fever countries here.
• You must travel on the Passport which you have applied for eVisa. Entry will be allowed into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport, however in such cases a traveler must carry the old passport on which ETA was issued

The documents required for completing the eVisa application is indicated against each type of eVisa. Please keep all these documents ready at hand before beginning to fill your eVisa application. All documents including Business cards, Invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which the application would be liable for rejection. The entire process may take 10 to 15 minutes to complete the application and make the payment.

Applicants must be fill eVisa application himself/herself and give correct information in each column and take responsibility for the correctness of information provided.

Documents Required: All documents uploaded by the applicant including business cards, invitation letters etc. must be in English language, failing which e-Visa application would be liable for rejection.

The documents required for e-visa are :.

• Scanned Bio Page of the passport showing the Photograph and Details *
• For short term courses, copy of letter from the institute/organization/hospital etc. concerned on its letter-head *
• For voluntary work of short duration, copy of letter from the organization concerned on its letter-head *
• Copy of Letter from the Hospital concerned in India on its letterhead which including the date / tentative date which admission have been suggested .
• Copy of Business Card
• Any letter of invitation if applicable from indian parties which wish you conduct the business (optional).
• Copy of Passport page containing personal particulars *
• Approval of the Government of India in the Ministry of Youth Affairs and Sports (Department of Sports)
• Invitation Letter to foreign sports teams and sports persons to visit India by the concerned Sports Federation/Association in India.
• If the applicant had participated in any commercial sports event during his/her previous visit to India, then documents regarding Tax compliance for the said visit are to be furnished
• If the sports event entails visit to Restricted or Protected Areas in India, below mentioned additional documents are also to be submitted (a) Clearance for holding the event from the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. (b) Political Clearance for holding the event from the Ministry of external Affairs, Government of India. (c) Requisite clearance from the Ministry of Youth Affairs & Sports
• Invitation of the host institute to the foreign faculty
• Copy of the sanction order under GIAN issued by the National Coordinating Institute viz. IIT Kharagpur
• Copy of the synopsis of the courses to be taken up by the faculty
• Invitation from organizer, which applicant may seek from this organiser.
• Political clearance from Ministry of External Affairs
• Event clearance from Ministry of Home Affairs

The digital photograph to be uploaded along with the Visa application should meet the following requirements:

• Format - JPEG
• Minimum 10 KB
• Maximum 1 MB
• The height and width of the Photo must be equal.
• Photo should present full face, front view, eyes open and without spectacles
• Center head within frame and present full head from top of hair to bottom of chin
• Background should be plain light colored or white background.
• No shadows on the face or on the background.
• Without borders.
• Format -PDF
• Size : Minimum 10 KB ,Maximum 300 KB

The applicant has choice of using two option for payment.

• SBI-FAQS-Payment Related
• AXIS-FAQS-Payment Related

SBIePay is the Payment Aggregator service of State Bank of India – India’s Largest Bank and amongst top 50 Banks in the world, which provides bouquet of multiple payment options on a single page for the convenience of the customers.

SBIePay has facilitated the following channels on e-Visa platform:

• Payment Gateway: It seamlessly processes Credit card and Debit Card transactions for all the cards issued internationally by Visa & MasterCard. SBIePay Payment gateway is enabled with BIN identifier which recognises the BIN online when a customer enters the no., which drastically improves the success percentage and reduces customer friction.
• Paypal: SBIePay also facilitates e-Visa customers to make payment through widely popular and accepted Paypal channel.

SBIePay is certified with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ver 3.2, which is the latest version, and which further reinforces our promise of security and safety. The payment system fully supports 3DSecure - Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code, wherever it is applicable. Further, SBIePay is secured using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption which ensures that payment information that travels over the Internet is always encrypted and cannot be viewed by unauthorised individuals.

Yes, SBIePay has enabled international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D Secure authentication.

The applicant enters necessary details on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ , and clicks on 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to SBIePay payment page and is presented with payment options of either entering Card details (Payment Gateway) or Paypal .Applicant enters his card details and clicks ‘Proceed’. Now, either of the below mentioned 2 scenarios will occur:

• 3 D Secure page of the Card Issuerwill be displayed, where applicant must enter 3D Secure Password/OTP.
• Transaction is processed without 3D Secure page. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

If an applicant is presented with a 3D Secure page prompting to enter a password/OTP, this means the Card issuing Bank participates in 3D Secure transaction. If the applicant’s transaction is processed without directing to 3D secure page, he/she should contact the card issuing Bank for support.

In an ideal scenario, once the transaction is processed, the applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with a reference number.

In some rare scenarios it may happen where the application is not shown Payment successful page post completion of transaction, which may be due to a drop in connectivity leading to non-receipt of success response. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund shall be initiated after due reconciliation process to the applicants’ card account.

In rare case of transaction status unknown to the applicant, which is when the applicant has not received success response due to time out or connectivity issue and the account has been debited, we advise the customer not to attempt another transaction immediately and rather provide their Order no. on the e-Visa site after 30 minutes to check the status of the transaction. If the transaction status is showing ‘failed’, then customer may attempt another transaction. Also, the debited amount shall be refunded to the applicants’ card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction.

The banking charges for:

• Payment Gateway Card transactions (both Debit or Credit Card): 2.5%* of the applicable e-Visa fee.
• Paypal: 3.5%* of the applicable e-Visa fee.

*The charges are inclusive of any applicable taxes.

The breakup of transaction charges will be displayed on the Payment page for applicants’ knowledge and to maintain transparency.

At State Bank of India, we are committed to provide best customer services to our customers. Customers can email us at sbiepay[at]sbi[dot]co[dot]in for any queries related to their transaction. Alternatively, SBIePay provides 24*7*365 customer support to all the e-Visa applicants. Applicants can also call us on the below mentioned number(s):

Contact No: +91-22-2753-5773

An applicant can perform multiple times transactions for a single application ID, with a gap of minimum 25 minutes between each transaction. It is advisable that applicant may check the status of the transaction at e-Visa portal before attempting another transaction.

An applicant shall be charged for only once for any successful transaction against an application ID. Any further debits shall be refunded back to the customer after due reconciliation, within seven (7) days of transactions.

Axis Bank is an Internet Payment Gateway Solution allows you to make payments on a 24 X 7 basis from around the world. It accepts all Visa, MasterCard and Maestro cards.

Axis Bank Payment Gateway services facilitates online payments w.r.t. all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.

Axis Bank Payment gateway services is compliant with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) standards. All transactions initiated at Axis Bank Payment Gateway services come with 128 bit security and two factor authentication via MasterCard Secure Code and Verified-by-Visa authentication is enabled.

Axis Bank Payment gateway accepts all international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D secure authentication.

The applicant after filling details on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to Axis Bank payment gateway page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Cardholder enters his card number, expiry date, Name and CVV value and clicks 'Pay Now'. Incase cardholder Bank is enabled for 3D secure, then a page will appear for the cardholder to entire either his/her OTP/3D secure password. Else transaction would be processed. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.

Incase Bank is participating for 3D Secure transaction during transaction a 3D secure page would appear and cardholders have to enter his/her password /OTP.

The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund will have to be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicant's card account.

If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount will have to be refunded to the applicant's card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction. In some cases, If the fund still lies with the card issuing Bank, kindly get in touch with your Bank for such case.

The banking charges are subject to maximum of 2.5% plus applicable taxes on the applicable e-Visa fees. These charges are charged to the applicant at the time of making online e visa fee payment.

Axis Bank provides technical support for all payment related transactions at ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com

Our endeavour is to provide you with a seamless experience on our platform. Please ensure following, before initiating the card payment.

• Using a non-expired card
• Have sufficient balance in your account
• Have sufficient credit card limit on the card being used
• Card is not reported as “lost or stolen”
• Entering the correct OTP. Have access to device for accessing OTP or Static password
• Card supports transactions in INR and USD
• Amount has not exceeded the daily maximum allowed amount by your issuer
• Number of transactions have not exceeded the daily maximum allowed count by your issuer
• Issuer and card not enrolled for 3DS
• Timeout occurred while receiving the OTP from issuer or while entering OTP on the payment page

SBI e-Pay Payment Gateway :-

• SBIePay is the Payment Aggregator service of State Bank of India which provides multiple payment options on a single payment page for the convenience of applicants. SBIePay has enabled Debit and Credit issued by MasterCard and VISA.
• SBIePay facilitates online payments all Credit and Debit Cards issued by MasterCard and VISA.
• SBIePay is certified with Payment Card Industry Data Security Standard (PCI DSS) ver 2.0 certified, which reinforces our promise of security. The payment system fully supports 3DSecure - Verified by Visa and MasterCard Secure Code, wherever it is applicable. Further SBIePay is secured using Secure Sockets Layer (SSL) encryption which ensures that payment information never sent over the Internet unencrypted and cannot be viewed by unauthorised individuals.
• SBIePay has enabled international card issued by MasterCard and VISA both with and without 3D Secure authentication.
• The applicant after filling details on https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ and clicks 'Pay Now'. The applicant is redirected to SBIePay payment page and is presented with payment options like MasterCard and VISA. Applicant enters his card details and clicks “Proceed”. Then the applicant may see one of the two options: i. 3 D Secure page of the Card issuing page for inputing 3D Secure password/OTP ii. Transaction is processed without 3D Secure page. After successful completion of transaction, the applicant is redirected on to the https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/ with a successful receipt of payment.
• The applicant shall be presented with a payment successful page along with reference number. If the applicant does not receive any success message even after card account has been charged, a refund shall be initiated after due reconciliation to the applicants card account.
• If a transaction has failed but the applicants card account is debited more than once, the amount shall be refunded to the applicants card account after reconciliation process within seven (7) days of transaction.
• The banking charges are 2.5% on the applicable e-Visa fees. These charges are charged to the applicant at the time of making online e-visa fee payment.
• SBIePay provides technical support for all payment related transactions at +91-22-2753-5773 is (24 x 7).
• An applicant can perform maximum of three transactions for a single application ID.
• If the applicant cannot succeed in three attempts, a new application is required to be filled and transaction has to be carried out with new application ID.
• An applicant shall be charged for only once against an application ID. Any double/triple debit shall be refunded after due reconciliation within seven (7) days of transactions.

Ans- The following are the eligibility conditions for availing e-Visa services-   i. Nationals of countries listed on the e-Visa website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ are eligible to apply for e-Visa Services.   ii. Foreigners whose sole objective for visiting India is     (a) Recreation and sightseeing     (b) Casual visit to meet friends and relatives     (c) Attending short term yoga programme or short term courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine etc. which should not be a formal or structured course/programme      (courses not exceeding 6 months duration and not issuing a qualifying certificate/diploma etc. to the participants)     (d) Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return)     (e) Medical treatment, including treatment under Indian systems of medicine     (f) As attendant to e-Medical visa holder     (g) Business purpose     (h) Attending a conference/ seminar/ workshop.   iii. Passport should have at least six months validity at the time of making application for grant of e-Visa and a re-entry permit, if that is required under the law of the country of nationality of the applicant.    The passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.   iv. The foreigner should have return ticket or onward journey ticket, with sufficient money to spend during his/her stay in India.   v. Foreigners of Pakistani origin or having Pakistani Passport are not eligible for e-Visa. Foreigners who are not Pakistani nationals, but whose parents or grandparents (either paternal or maternal) was born    in, or was permanently resident in Pakistan, are also not eligible for e-Visa. They may apply for regular Visa at Indian Mission.   vi. Not available to Diplomatic/Official Passport Holders or Laissez-passer/ international travel document holders.   vii. Not available to individuals endorsed on Parent's/Spouse's Passport i.e. each individual should have a separate passport.

Ans- For details regarding procedure for applying, please visit our website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/

Ans- No, https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ is only the official website to apply for the e-Visa Services.    Note - Services of e-Visa are completely online and no facilitation is required by any intermediary / travel agents etc. It is advised not to believe or fall in trap of any such unscrupulous elements who claim    speedy/express grant of e-Visa and charge money for it.    Do not share your personal information with any unauthorized website as it may lead to leakage of your personal data. Only visit the official website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ for e-Visa    service.    For any clarification, you may write us on our email id ' indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in ' or contact us on +91 11 24300666 .

Ans- No, there is no fee other than the processing fee for e-Visa application and it is non-refundable. Please visit our website to know the fee applicable for your country as it is country-specific.

Ans- (i) For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years), e-Business Visa, e-Medical, e-Medical Attendant and e-Conference visa, applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance    of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 120 days in advance from proposed date of travel.    (ii) For e-Tourist Visa (30 days) , applicants of the eligible countries/territories may apply online minimum 4 days in advance of the date of arrival. Such application can be made 30 days in advance from    proposed date of travel.

Ans- Yes. Immediately after you submit your e-Visa application and make the payment, you will receive a confirmation of submission of your application on the email id provided by you while filling up your    application form.

Ans- Your e-Visa application may take 72 hours or more for processing. You will be intimated about your Visa status (Granted or Rejected) on your email id provided by you in the e-Visa application.

Ans- Yes, you may check the status of your e-Visa application by visiting our website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ and clicking on 'Check your Visa Status' Tab provided on the website.

Ans- The validity of e-Visa would be according to the e-Visa service you have requested in the application form as -    For e-Tourist Visa (01 year / 05 years) , the validity would be 365 days / 05 years from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries and Maximum stay in India during one Calender Year should not exceed 180 days.    For e-Tourist Visa (30 days) , the validity would be 30 days from the date of your first arrival in India. Double entries will be granted within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport. Your first    arrival must be between the date of issue and expiry of ETA.    For e-Business Visa , the validity would be 365 days from the date of grant of ETA with Multiple entries and continuous stay during each visit which shall not exceed 180 days and no registration would be    required if stay is for a period of less than 180 days. However, if the intention is to stay for more than 180 days, then the foreigner shall get himself/herself registered with the FRRO/FRO concerned     (https://indianfrro.gov.in) within two weeks after the expiry of 180 days of his/her arrival in India.    For e-Conference Visa , the validity would be 30 days from the date of arrival in India with Single entry.    For e-Medical Visa , the validity would be 60 days from the date of first arrival in India and triple entry will be allowed within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport.    For e-Medical Attendant Visa , the validity would be 60 days from the date of first arrival in India and triple entry will be allowed within the e-Visa validity period stamped on your Passport.

Ans- No, e-Visa is non-extendable and non-convertible.

Ans- You may arrive at 31 designated Airports i.e. Ahmedabad, Amritsar, Bagdogra, Bengaluru, Bhubaneshwar, Calicut, Chennai, Chandigarh, Cochin, Coimbatore, Delhi, Gaya, Goa(Dabolim), Goa(Mopa), Guwahati, Hyderabad,Indore    Jaipur,Kannur, Kolkata, Lucknow, Madurai, Mangalore, Mumbai, Nagpur, Port Blair, Pune, Tiruchirapalli, Trivandrum, Varanasi & Visakhapatnam, and 5 designated seaports (i.e. Cochin, Goa, Mangalore,    Chennai and Mumbai seaports). You may depart from any of the Indian Immigration Check Posts (ICPs).

Ans- Your e-Visa application may take upto 72 hours for processing. For more enquiries on your e-Visa application, you can contact us at +91 11 24300666 or e-mail at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in    The applicants are advised to beware of unscrupulous elements/ travel agents/ intermediaries in this regard. In cases where applicants have been asked for correct details or additional information    where application is incomplete, the same must be sent immediately. If such information is not provided within 72 hours, the application is liable to be rejected.

Ans- Yes, ensure that your child’s passport is valid at-least for next 06 (six) months from the date of arrival in India.

Ans- e-Visa processing fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either Grant or Rejection of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

Ans- No. You have already paid the required processing fee online. The applicants are advised to beware of unscrupulous elements/ travel agents/ intermediaries demanding extra payment.

Ans- This pertains to customs department.

Ans- Make sure you delete the browser history and cookies before trying to make payment. Also try to change the browser if the problem persists.    In case you have already tried more than thrice, then you may have to re-submit the entire application form once again.    Payment Support helpline :-     Axis Bank Technical support. Email address: ecom[at]axisbank[dot]com    Contact No Toll free Numbers from:    USA : 18552055577 UK : 0808178 5040 Singapore : 8001206355 Australia : 1800153861 UAE : 8000 3570 3218 Saudi Arabia : 8008500000 Qatar : 00800 100348 Bahrain : 80011300    For rest of the countries: + 91-40-6717-4100     SBI ePay payment support provides technical support for all payment related transactions at +91-22-2753-5773 (24 x 7).

Ans- Please visit our website https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/ and click on 'Verify Payment/ Pay e-Visa fee'.

Ans - You have to upload the business card along with the details of Indian Firm/Company (which you intend to associate yourself with) for business activities. For Sports Related Activity under e-Business Visa, please refer Instructions for applicant page for the list of documents required.

Ans- Business card means 'a card provided to you by the company you are working for' OR you can also upload 'an invitation letter from the company in India including company's information, address and    phone number in India'.

Ans - A Copy of Letter from the Hospital concerned in India on its letterhead which includes the tentative date of admission/treatment in the hospital mentioning the name, nationality and Passport number of    the patient/ e-Medical Visa applicant.

Ans- For e-Conference Visa, following are the required documents:    (i) Invitation from organizer (mandatory)    (ii) Political clearance from Ministry of External Affairs, Govt of India (mandatory)    (iii) Event clearance from Ministry of Home Affairs, Govt of India (optional)

Ans- You may be allowed entry into India on the new passport even if ETA has been issued on the old passport with the condition that you must carry the new Passport and old passport on which ETA was    issued.

Ans- No, You can only enter through the designated airports/seaports which are listed on the e-Visa website.

Ans- You have to put the Previous visa details in the application form as it is mandatory. You can write NA or Not Available or Not Applicable or any other suitable phrase according to you in the application    form if you do not remember your earlier Visa number/details.

Ans- The Visa on Arrival facility is only for the nationals of Japan, South Korea and UAE (only for such UAE nationals who had earlier obtained e-Visa or regular/paper visa for India). For the nationals of all other    countries eligible for e-Visa, the e-visa application have to be filled online and the applicant must wait till the confirmation/Grant of ETA for travelling to India.

Ans- e-Visa processing fee once submitted is non-refundable as the fee is for processing of the application and is not dependent on either grant or Rejection of the Application.

Ans- Entry by cruise ship is allowed with the ETA through 5 designated seaports namely Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Goa and Mangalore seaports.

Ans- 'Visible identification mark' generally means moles, birthmarks, permanent scars etc. which are visible and can be shown if askd for by the Indian Immigration Authority.

Ans- All the foreigners arriving in India within 6 days of departure from any yellow fever endemic country are required to possess (in original) a valid yellow fever certificate of vaccination.    List of Yellow fever vaccination countries-     https://mohfw.gov.in/sites/default/files/Updated%20List%20of%20Yellow%20Fever%20Endemic%20Countries%20by%20WHO_0.pdf

Ans- The applicant must check all the details including Name, Nationality, Passport Number and Date of Birth, photograph/self image etc before final submission of e-Visa application. The applicant would be    responsible for any discrepancy irrespective of grant/rejection of e-Visa application. However, if any discrepancy found on ETA, e-Visa Support Centre may be contacted at indian-evisa[at]gov[dot]in or     +91 11 24300666 for assistance at least 24 hours before the journey date.

Ans- e-Visa is not allowed for employment. You may apply for a Regular Visa.

Ans- e-Visa is not allowed for NGO activities and journalism purposes. However, Voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or    consideration of any kind in return) are allowed.

Ans- Only two e-Medical Attendant Visas will be granted against one e-Medical Visa (patient).

Authorized Immigration Checkposts

Entry points.

Persons holding eVisa will be allowed to enter into India only through the designated international airports (31) namely :

• Thiruvananthapuram
• Goa(Dabolim)
• Visakhapatnam
• Bhubaneswar

eVisa facility is also been provided for entry at 5 major Indian seaport for cruise tourists:

• New Mangalore

Exit Points

• Bhubaneshwar
• Tiruchirapalli
• Vishakhapatnam
• Attari Road
• Changrabandha
• Gauriphanta
• Kailashahar
• Lalgolaghat
• Srimantapur
• Kawarpuchia
• Bedi Bunder
• Mormagoa Harbour
• Mumbai Seaport
• Nagapattinum
• Nhava Sheva
• Vishakapatnam
• Agati and Minicoy Island Lakshdwip UT
• Vallarpadam
• Krishnapatnam
• Munabao Rail Check Post
• Attari Rail Check Post
• Gede Rail and Road Check Post
• Haridaspur Rail Check Post
• Chitpur Rail Checkpost

Technical information for e-visa: This site is best viewed in Mozilla Firefox,Google Chrome,Internet Explorer (Windows) version 9.0 and above.The applicant must also have Adobe Acrobat Reader version 7.0 or higher installed on your PC in order to download and print the completed application form. This website is compatible with Android and IOS devices.

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How to apply for a France visa from India ?

By: Axel Strauss  Date: 19/12/2023

With an average of roughly 20 million visitors annually, Paris consistently ranks as one of the most visited cities on the planet. France itself, meanwhile, has been the most visited country in the world for decades — with a staggering 90 million international tourist arrivals in 2023 alone.  Among these millions, many happen to be coming from India. Since France is also one of the founding members of the Schengen Zone , Indian passport holders require a Schengen Visa to enter its borders. So if you’re planning a trip to France from India any time soon — locals AXA have all you need to know below. 

• How can I get a France visa from India?  
• What documents do I need for a France visa from India?  
• How much is a France tourist visa fee?  

Where and when can I apply for a France visa in India?

• How to apply for other Schengen countries from India  

How can AXA help?

How can i get a france visa from india.

To apply for a France Schengen visa from India , you’ll basically need to gather a few documents, fill out and submit an application form, pay a fee or two, and schedule and attend an interview at a consulate, embassy, or visa application center.  So, overall, the process for applying for a French Schengen visa from India can be a bit tedious and time-consuming. But it’s also fairly straightforward — and similar to applying for a Schengen Visa from India in general . 

Meanwhile, here’s what Indian passport holders will need to do to apply specifically for France.

What type of France visa from India can I apply for?

First and foremost, you’ll need to figure out which Schengen visa works best for your France visit from India. And this will depend mainly on the nature, purpose, and length of your trip.  There are four basic types of Schengen Visa you can choose from. The most common one is known as the short-stay — aka the Type C (or the “ tourist ”) visa. It is the go-to for Indians vacationing in the most popular country in the world. A Type C visa allows you to travel to France — and all 27 Schengen countries , in fact — for up to 90 days in any 180-day period. 

If you plan to work and/or study in France, then you’ll need to apply for either a business , work , or student Schengen visa.  And if you plan to travel to France frequently, you can opt for a multiple-entry visa.

Is a French visa from India difficult to get?

Well, that depends. The world’s most visited country’s Schengen visas are obviously in high demand. And France’s also happens to be the most popular Schengen visa application among Indian nationals. As such, it also happens to have among the highest rejection rates. For example, nearly 30,000 applications — or about 20% of the total — were rejected in 2022 (according to thehindu.com ). So while France is not among the easiest Schengen countries to get a visa for , it will ultimately come down to your particular situation.  The best thing you can do is make sure you have all your ducks in a row for the application process. In other words — have all the proper and up-to-date documentation, make sure your finances, itinerary, and accommodations are in order, plan ahead, and give yourself plenty of time. And, of course, hope for the best! 

What documents do I need for a French visa from India?

The specific paperwork* needed to apply will also depend on your particular situation. But, generally speaking, you’ll need: 

• a Schengen Visa application form 
• two passport photos (taken within the last three months) 
• your passport (issued less than 10 years ago, valid for at least three months after your planned date of departure from the Schengen territory, and with at least two blank pages) 
• a photocopy of the passport page (or pages) with biometric data (if applicable) 
• travel and medical insurance (covering you up to costs of €30,000) 
• your full travel itinerary 
• proof of paid visa fee (IMPORTANT: your application will not be processed if you don’t include the receipt from the required visa fee) 
• proof of sufficient financial means (for your entire stay in the Schengen area) proof of accommodation (if applicable) 
• a letter of invitation (if applicable) 

Make sure you make some extra A4-size copies of everything just in case too. And DO NOT staple any documents.

What if I want to get a France Visa to work or study?

If you are planning to work and/or study in France (for fewer than 90 days), you’ll likely also need: 

• An employment contract;
• A recent bank statement;
• A no-objection letter from your Indian employer;
• An income tax return;
• Proof of enrolment at an educational institution in France;
• A no-objection letter from your current Indian educational institution (if applicable). 

Meanwhile, if you plan to study in France for more than 90 days, you will need to apply for a national study visa and residency permit — as well as provide proof of enrollment. And for work visas longer than 90 days, you’ll need to obtain a residency permit and provide evidence of a salaried employment contract in France. 

* IMPORTANT NOTE : While AXA is doing its best to provide you with the most reliable and updated information available regarding travel to France, be aware that embassies/consulates may modify their visa rules and regulations at any time. AXA can, therefore, not be held accountable for such changes.

So to learn more about exactly what documents you’ll need for your France visa from India, make sure to consult the official website of France’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs .

How much is a France tourist visa fee from India?

Schengen visa costs are universal — no matter the visa, and no matter where you’re applying from. 

So a single adult Schengen visa for France will cost you €80 (or roughly ₹7,274.70).  The fee for children between the ages of 6 and 12 is €40 (i.e., roughly ₹3,637.35).  And children under the age of 6 can get a Schengen visa for France for free.* 

*In certain cases, the visa fee may also be waived for:

• participants in certain seminars, conferences, sporting, cultural, and/or educational events (25yo or under);
• students/teachers on study and/or training trips;
• certain professionals traveling for scientific research. 

NOTE: You’ll also likely have to pay some extra administrative and/or service fees associated with your visa center and/or the corresponding officials. And these visa fees are not reimbursed if your visa is refused.

How much money do I need to go to France from India?

The sufficient funds required per day when traveling to France, meanwhile, vary as follows: 

• If you have proof of booking a hotel room: €65 (roughly ₹5,831.08) per day of stay
• If you do not have proof of booking a hotel room: €120 (or ₹10,765.80) per day of stay
• If you're staying at someone's place and have proof of an acceptance certificate (or a attestation d'accueil ): €32.50 (or ₹2,915.74) per day of stay.

How much money can I enter France from India with?

According to the official website of the European Union , if you are carrying a sum of money that is equal to or greater than €10,000 (or roughly ₹897,150.00), you will have to declare this to customs upon your arrival in/departure from France. 

According to the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs, French Visa applications submitted in India are examined by the French consulates in Mumbai (Bombay), Puducherry, Kolkata (Calcutta), Bengaluru (Bangalore) , as well as the visa section of the Embassy of France in Delhi . They add that “only the Consulates and the Embassy are authorized to take decisions about visas.​​​​​” 

But don’t worry. While the Consulates and Embassies do the processing, you can begin the application process from home, online, via the company VFS Global. Once you’ve got your documents in order and know what visa you want, just follow their simple step-by-step French visa application guide . 

Then, after you’ve completed the online portion of the process, you’ll be asked to book and attend an in-person interview — for biometrics collection — at a VFS Global center in one of the following locations:

• Kathmandu (Nepal)
• Pune (Poona)
• Bangalore (Bengaluru)
• Calcutta (Kolkata)
• Cochin (Kochi)
• Hyderabad (Haïdarabad)
• Madras/Chennai
• Mumbai (Bombay)
• Puducherry 

PRO TIP: But also make sure to explore VFS Global’s official India-France section as it has a ton of useful info regarding what to expect at the center, how to track your application, and more. 

Meanwhile, AXA has a bit more on where to apply in India in general and where to apply specifically in Mumbai too — just in case.  As far as when to apply, the French Ministry of Foreign Affairs stipulates that: “For short-stay visas , if you hold an Indian passport and are born in India, you must submit your application a minimum of 5 days prior to your scheduled departure . If you submit your application in Kathmandu , you must submit it a minimum of 15 days prior to your scheduled departure . For long-stay visas , you must submit your application 1 month prior to your scheduled departure. ”  And, as with any Schengen visa application, you can not submit it more than 6 months before the scheduled departure .

What is the current wait time for a France visa from India?

French Schengen Visa applications — like all Schengen visa applications — take around 15 days to process . And that’s both in India and anywhere else in the world. 

However, due to France’s high demand (particularly in India) and depending on your specific situation, it may take up to a month or two. Especially during busy periods (i.e., summer, holidays, and so on).  So your best bet is to make sure to give yourself enough time to prepare all the documents above and schedule and be ready for your interview. 

IMPORTANT NOTE: The overseas territories of France (i.e., French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Réunion, French Polynesia, New Caledonia, St Pierre and Miquelon, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, and Wallis and Futuna Islands) are subject to their own bilateral arrangements between the countries concerned. So if your destination is not continental France, you can — and should — learn more about the visa requirements for visiting overseas French territories here.

How to apply for other Schengen countries from India

And in case you’re thinking about visiting other Schengen countries from India, AXA can help you with many of them too. 

• Apply for Switzerland visa from India 
• Apply for Spain visa from India 
• Apply for Germany visa from India 
• Apply for Greece visa from India 
• Apply for Czech Republic visa from India 
• Apply for Belgium visa from India 
• Apply for Italy visa from India 
• Apply for Netherlands visa from India 
• Apply for Portugal visa from India  
• Apply for Denmark visa from India 
• Apply for Iceland visa from India

Well, along with all of the above — there’s one more vital way that AXA can help make your trip to France from India a reality. In fact, it’s a requirement for obtaining your Schengen visa from India, and it’s also what we do best — i.e., provide you with affordable quality travel insurance . 

AXA’s comprehensive Schengen travel insurance plans — starting at as little as 22€ (or roughly ₹1,973.58) — meet all the requirements for obtaining a Schengen visa to France — from India or anywhere else in the world.  An AXA plan can be purchased online in a matter of minutes, and the AXA travel insurance certificate is accepted by all Schengen countries’ embassies and consulates (including France), as well as all the VFS Global centers in India.  The certificate can be downloaded (and/or printed) online instantly too.  

AXA’s plans cover you in all 27 Schengen states (and beyond) — not just in France.  And, finally, in most circumstances, AXA will refund your insurance fees if your visa application is rejected. We’ll only ask that you provide official documentation explaining why your visa was refused (from the relevant embassy, consulate, or visa application center ). 

In other words, if you’re traveling from India to the most visited country on the planet — AXA will help guarantee that your journey is a bon voyage indeed.

RELATED ARTICLES: 

• What is a Schengen Visa?  
• How to fill out a Schengen visa application form  
• How to track your Schengen visa application 
• How to extend a Schengen Visa 
• Is it safe to go to France?  
• How safe is Europe to visit? 
• Easiest countries to apply for a Schengen Visa 
• How to choose the best Schengen travel insurance

What European countries are visa-free for Indians?

Out of Europe’s nearly 50 sovereign nations (Schengen and other ), the only two that currently don’t require Indian nationals to have a visa to enter their borders are Albania  and Serbia .

Are there any COVID restrictions for entering France from India?

No. As of late 2022, all COVID restrictions for visiting France have been lifted. But you should double-check the COVID section of France’s official Ministry of Europe and Foreign Affairs website for the latest info just in case.

What currency is used in France?

France is a member of the Eurozone — and its currency is, therefore, the Euro (€).

Can Indians stay in France for longer than 90 days?

Yes. However, to do so, you’ll need to apply for a long-stay Schengen visa.

What happens if I overstay my visa in France?

The consequences of overstaying your visa range from paying a fine, deportation, jail time, or even being banned from ever visiting France again. Fortunately, AXA is happy to help you avoid all of them .

Get Schengen insurance

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Explained: How New Schengen Visa Rules Ease Europe Travel For Indians

The schengen area comprises 25 countries out of the 27 eu countries except the republic of ireland and cyprus..

A Schengen visa permits a brief stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe.

The European Union (EU) recently introduced a revamped visa system tailored specifically for Indian nationals. This new system offers substantial advantages to Indian citizens, allowing them access to long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas, which can significantly streamline travel plans and enhance the overall experience for those venturing into the Schengen area.

What Is Schengen Visa

The Schengen area comprises 25 countries out of the 27 EU countries except the Republic of Ireland and Cyprus. It includes countries such as Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland. This extensive area not only offers diverse cultural experiences but also facilitates seamless travel across borders for visa holders.

A Schengen visa permits a brief stay of up to 90 days within a 180-day timeframe. This visa may be issued as either a single-entry, enabling one entry into the Schengen area, or a multiple-entry, allowing multiple visits for the duration of its validity.

How The New Rules Affect Indians

Under the new regulations, Indian travellers can now obtain a two-year Schengen visa, a marked improvement from the shorter validity periods previously available. To qualify for this extended two-year visa, applicants must have acquired and appropriately utilised two Schengen visas within the preceding three years. Upon successful utilisation of the two-year visa, travellers can typically expect to be eligible for a five-year Schengen visa, provided their passport maintains sufficient validity.

The new rules essentially say that Indian travellers can move freely within the Schengen member countries for short stays, typically up to 90 days within any 180-day period, without the need for additional permits or authorisations. Under this system, eligible travellers with a proven track record of travel will have simplified access to visas with extended validity, provided their passport's validity permits.

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The 'Cascade' system, as it's termed, is designed to reward frequent travellers with progressively longer visa durations. It begins with a two-year visa, and upon successful use, travellers can potentially qualify for a five-year visa. While these visas do not restrict the purpose of travel, they do not allow the right to work within the Schengen area.

The decision to tweak the rules comes in the broader context of improving relations between the EU and India

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India Tourist Visa for French citizens: Apply for the India Visa now

Are you a French citizen looking to explore the rich cultural heritage and diverse landscapes of India? Remember that you need an India Tourist Visa to visit India.

Well, you're in luck because, in this blog, we'll cover everything you need to know about getting an Indian visa online as a French citizen . Whether you're planning a spiritual retreat in the foothills of the Himalayas or a beach vacation in Goa, we've got you covered.

Plus, we'll share some helpful tips on using our platform to make the application process a breeze. So, what are you waiting for? Get ready for an unforgettable adventure and apply for your India Tourist Visa now ASAP!

Do French citizens need a visa for India?

Yes, French passport holders need an electronic Indian visa to travel to India for tourism purposes. The Indian government requires all foreign nationals, including French citizens, to obtain an India e-visa before entering the country.

However, the good news is that the process of applying for an India tourist visa for French citizens is relatively straightforward with us and can be done online. A few different types of tourist visas are available, so choosing the right one for your travel plans is essential.

Indian visa for French Citizens: Available options for travelers

There are several types of electronic India visa options available for French citizens who wish to travel to India, including:

The Tourist Visa is designed for travelers visiting India for tourism or recreational purposes. It allows for a maximum stay of up to 180 days Per Entry and is valid for six months from the date of issue.

The Business Visa is meant for those traveling to India for business purposes, such as attending a conference or meeting with clients. It allows for a stay of up to six months and is valid for 1 year after arrival date.

The Medical Visa is for travelers seeking medical treatment in India. It allows for a maximum stay of up to 60 days in Total and is valid for six months from the date of issue.

The Conference Visa is meant for those attending a conference or seminar in India. It allows for a maximum stay of up to 30 days and is valid for three months from the date of issue.

Am I eligible to get an India Tourist Visa in France?

To be eligible for an Indian tourist visa as a French citizen , you must meet the following requirements:

You must have a valid passport with at least six months validity from arriving in India.

You must have a return ticket or onward journey ticket and sufficient funds to support your stay in India.

You must not be on the list of blacklisted or restricted nationals.

You must not be visiting India for any prohibited activities.

You must have a precise travel itinerary and the purpose of your visit.

You must apply for the correct type of visa based on your travel plans.

It's important to note that the Indian government may require additional documentation or information depending on the type of visa you are applying for. For example, if you are applying for a medical visa, you may need to provide a medical letter from a doctor in India. If you are applying for a business visa, you may need to provide a letter from your employer. Be sure to check the specific requirements for your visa type before applying.

What is the India Tourist Visa for French citizens?

The India tourist visa for French citizens is a document that allows French nationals to travel to India for tourism purposes, such as sightseeing, visiting family or friends, or participating in cultural activities.

How long is the India Tourist Visa valid for French citizens?

3 different types of tourist eVisas offer different validity periods. Your options are:

The 30 day Double- Entry India Tourist Visa

The one-year India Multiple-Entry Tourist Visa

The 5-year Multiple-Entry India Tourist Visa

It's important to note that the visa's validity period does not determine the duration of stay in India. Check out our blog for comprehensive information on India Tourist e-Visa validity and length of stay .

We also offer a Business e Visa and Medical e Visa ; you'll find information on those categories in separate articles.

The Government of India does not grant visas on arrival.

It's also essential to ensure that the passport used to apply for the India tourist visa is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival in India. If the passport expires during the stay in India, the traveler may be required to leave the country before the visa expiration date.

India Tourist Visa requirements for French citizens

The India tourist visa requirements for French citizens can vary depending on the purpose and duration of your visit.

Necessary documents for the India Tourist Visa for French citizens

French citizens applying for an India tourist visa must provide several documents as part of the application process. The necessary documents for the India tourist visa include the following:

A valid passport at least six months from arrival in India and has at least two blank pages.

Passport-sized photograph in color, taken against a white background.

Completed visa application form providing accurate and detailed information about your travel plans and purpose of visit.

Travel itinerary with information about your flights, accommodations, and activities during your stay in India.

Proof of accommodation in India, such as a hotel booking confirmation.

Proof of financial means to support yourself during your stay in India, such as bank statements or a letter from your employer.

Travel insurance that covers your entire stay in India.

It's important to note that additional documents may be required depending on the purpose of the visit, such as a letter of invitation from a business contact, a business card, or proof of enrollment in a yoga program.

India Tourist Visa requirements for children of French citizens

If you are a French citizen traveling to India with children , you will need additional documentation to get your child’s India visa. This includes:

A copy of the child's birth certificate showing the names of both parents.

A notarized letter of consent signed by both parents or legal guardians authorizing the child to travel to India.

Copies of both parent's passports or other government-issued identification.

If only one parent is traveling with the child, a notarized letter of consent from the other parent is required. If one parent has sole custody of the child, they must provide a court order confirming this.

India Tourist Visa passport requirements for French citizens

When applying for an India tourist visa, your passport must meet these requirements:

Validity : French citizens' passports must be valid for at least six months after arriving in India.

Blank pages : French citizens' passports must have at least two blank pages to allow for the visa to be affixed.

Condition : French citizens' passports must be in good condition, without any damage or tears.

Previous visas : If French citizens have previously been issued an India electronic visa, their new passport must be submitted along with their old passport containing the previous visa.

French citizens must ensure their passports meet these requirements before applying for an Indian tourist visa. Any issues with the passport can delay or even result in the rejection of the visa application.

India Tourist Visa photo requirements for French citizens

The passport photograph must meet specific requirements to be accepted. Here are the photo requirements for the India tourist visa for French citizens:

Size: The photograph must be 2 inches by 2 inches (51mm x 51mm).

Background: The background of the photograph must be white.

Appearance: The photograph must be in color and show the applicant's entire face, with a neutral expression and closed mouth.

Head covering: Head coverings are prohibited except for religious reasons. In this case, the face must be completely visible.

Glasses: If the applicant wears glasses, the lenses must not be tinted, and the frames must not obscure any part of the applicant's eyes.

Printing quality: The photograph must be printed on high-quality photographic paper.

It is important to note that these requirements may vary depending on the specific circumstances of your travel. To ensure your photograph meets all the requirements, use our Passport Photo Service to get recent, government-standard pictures from your home.

India Tourist Visa application: How to apply in France

It couldn't be easier to apply for your Indian e-visa online! The process is straightforward and takes around 10 minutes to complete our simplified visa application . Simply complete these three steps:

Step 1 - Applicants must complete the online form via our website. You will be asked to provide general information about yourself and choose the type of visa you want to apply for.

Step 2 - Verify the information you have already provided is correct and choose the processing option that best suits your needs.

Step 3 - Pay the service fee using PayPal, Venmo, or a credit or debit card. Upload any required documents (passport photograph and a photo scan of your passport).

Once you complete all three steps, just submit your application and sit back and relax while we process your online visa! Wait for your e-Visa to arrive in your email inbox within your chosen timeframe.

Note: During travel, you must carry a printed and electronic copy of your Tourist eVisa to show to immigration officers on arrival so they can see your e-Visa India status.

We recommend installing the iVisa app on your phone so you can keep track of all the required documents electronically. You can even track the status of your application.

India Tourist Visa fee: Cost of the visa for French citizens

There are different prices depending on the processing time and type of tourist visa you apply for. All applicable e-visa fees include the government visa levy and our service fees.

During the application process on our site, you can add services such as an iVisa Plus subscription, Premium Concierge Service, Embassy Registration, or Premium Photo Services.

We also offer iVisa Fee Protection , which allows us to process a new application for no additional processing fee if you are unable to make your trip, as well as the option to get a flight reservation or itinerary that is valid for two weeks and can be used to apply for a visa, as proof of return to show to immigration officers while traveling, for car rental purposes, etc.

All these additional services carry varying costs. Use our application form to check your application's total cost based on your circumstances.

What is the India Tourist Visa processing time in 2023 for French citizens?

There are three processing alternatives, each of which has a different processing time and price depending on the travel needs and the type of visa. Here are the processing options we offer:

Standard Processing - This is the best option if you have more time to wait; it takes 4 days and is also the most economical.

Rush Processing - A little faster; receiving your visa only takes 2 days .

Super Rush Processing - Your visa will be delivered in 30 hours , which is super fast and perfect for anyone in a rush.

How to prepare for the India Tourist Visa interview as a French citizen?

French citizens applying for an India tourist visa are not required to attend an interview as part of the visa application process. The Indian government has implemented an online e-visa system, meaning the visa application is entirely online and does not require an in-person interview.

However, French citizens should be prepared to provide accurate and detailed information about your travel plans and the purpose of your visit as part of the application process. It's crucial to ensure that all information on the application form is truthful and accurate to avoid delays or complications with the visa application.

Here are some tips on how to prepare for the India tourist visa application as a French citizen:

Review the visa requirements carefully before applying to ensure you meet all eligibility criteria and have all necessary documentation.

Gather supporting documentation before starting the application process, such as a copy of their passport, passport-sized photograph, and travel itinerary.

Complete the application accurately and truthfully, providing as much detail as possible about your travel plans and purpose of visit.

Be patient : The India tourist visa application process can take several days, so French citizens should allow sufficient processing time before their planned travel dates.

By following these tips, French citizens can prepare themselves for a smooth and successful India tourist visa application process without needing an interview. If there are some issues with the application, you may be required to attend a mini-interview to verify details; we highly recommend using the steps above to avoid this inconvenience.

My India Tourist Visa application was denied. What should I do?

If you're an iVisa client and your India Tourist Visa application was denied, iVisa can assist you with reapplying . As a professional visa agency, we have experience with visa applications for various countries, including India.

We'll help you review the reason for the denial , guide reapplying, and ensure that your application is complete and accurate.

However, it's essential to note that the Indian embassy or consulate has the final say in the visa application process , and the decision to grant or deny a visa is at their discretion. iVisa cannot guarantee that your visa application will be approved, but we can assist you with the process and give you the best chance of success.

Suppose your application is denied due to an error found in your application after our experts have checked the application. In that case, we'll refund the processing fee you paid us as our experts strive to ensure no mistakes in your applications.

Note: Government fees will not be refunded.

Need more information?

If you need more info about traveling to India for tourism, medical assistance, or business, please contact our customer support team at any time via online chat or email at [email protected] .

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• iVisa is NOT affiliated with any government agency. This site does not provide legal advice and we are not a law firm. None of our customer service representatives are lawyers and they also do not provide legal advice. We are a private, internet-based travel and immigration consultancy provider dedicated to helping individuals travel around the world. You may apply by yourself directly on the various government websites. The source of information: https://boi.gov.in/boi/

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• EU introduces new Schengen visa rules for Indian travellers; industry welcomes the move

New Schengen Visa Rules for Indians: Effective from 18th April 2024, the European Commission has introduced specific regulations governing the issuance of multiple-entry visas to Indian nationals. These rules, part of the newly implemented visa 'cascade' regime, offer easier access to visas with extended validity for travellers with an established travel history residing in India. The travel and tourism industry in India welcomed the move and applaued the initiatve take to ease Schengen visa process for Indian travellers.

• Manas Dwivedi ,
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• Updated On Apr 24, 2024 at 01:30 PM IST

Bhutan lifts mandatory travel insurance requirement for tourists

The mandatory travel insurance requirement by Bhutan government was initially introduced during the Covid-19 pandemic to ensure coverage for unforeseen emergencies, particularly related to medical expenses arising from the pandemic. However, with the situation improving and travel restrictions easing, Bhutan has decided to withdraw this mandatory requirement to enhance tourism accessibility.

UK begins eVisa rollout with plan to replace immigration documents by 2025

The Home Office has started the process by sending emails to holders of physical immigration documents, known as biometric residence permits (BRPs), inviting them to create a UK Visas and Immigration (UKVI) account to access their eVisa. This phased approach will gradually extend to all BRP holders by summer 2024.

• By Manas Dwivedi ,
• Published On Apr 24, 2024 at 02:13 AM IST

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EU eases travel for Indian passport holders with long-term Schengen visas under 'cascade' regime

The european commission had adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to indian nationals amid strengthened relations between india and the eu. indian nationals can avail long-term, multi-entry visas for two years to countries under schengen area..

The European Commission had adopted specific rules on the issuing of multiple entry visas to Indian nationals on April 18, according to an official statement. Under the newly adopted 'cascade' regime, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. 

The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa if the passport has sufficient validity remaining, as per the laws. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals. The decision comes amid strengthened relations under the India-EU Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which seeks comprehensive cooperation on migration policy between the EU and India.

India has emerged as a key partner of the European bloc and both sides are looking to strengthen people-to-people contacts, which explains the changes in the visa regime. Schengen visas allow the holder to travel freely in the Schengen area for short stays of a maximum of 90 days in any 180-day period. The visas are not purpose-bound, but they do not grant the right to work. 

The Schengen area consists of 29 European countries (of which 25 are EU states): Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland and Sweden, along with Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway and Switzerland.

This comes after the UK announced a 55 per cent hike in the salary requirements of British citizens and residents, including those of Indian heritage, who wish to sponsor their relatives on a family visa. The increase in salary thresholds announced by the government will come into effect from Thursday as part of British Prime Minister Rishi Sunak's plan to cut down on immigration levels.

Individuals are now required to have a minimum annual salary of GBP 29,000, up from GBP 18,600 for someone to be sponsored to come to the UK on a family visa. By early next year, this will have increased two more times to match the Skilled Worker visa salary threshold of GBP 38,700. The UK Home Office said it marks the final measure in Sunak and Home Secretary James Cleverly's package to reduce legal migration so they don't "burden the taxpayer".

ALSO READ |  UK enforces 55 per cent hike in salary requirements for sponsoring family visa to control migration

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Now, Indian citizens eligible for multi-entry Schengen visa for longer validity: Here’s all you need to know about the new rules

The new rules, adopted on april 18, have been made in the context of "strengthened relations" under the eu-india common agenda on migration and mobility.

The European Union (EU) has updated visa rules which now allow Indian nationals to get multiple-entry Schengen visas with an extended validity period. Known as t he “cascade” system, the new regime aims to simplify the visa application process for frequent travellers with proven travel history, provided their passport validity allows it.

The new rules, adopted on April 18, have been made in the context of “strengthened relations” under the EU-India Common Agenda on Migration and Mobility, which aims to enhance the relationship between the EU and India by promoting greater interaction between their people. The agenda also emphasises the importance of a collaborative approach to migration policy between the EU and India.

“According to the newly adopted visa “cascade” regime for India, Indian nationals can now be issued long-term, multi-entry Schengen visas valid for two years after having obtained and lawfully used two visas within the previous three years. The two-year visa will normally be followed by a five-year visa, if the passport has sufficient validity remaining. During the validity period of these visas, holders enjoy travel rights equivalent to visa-free nationals,” according to a press statement on the EU website.

Hervé Delphin, ambassador, delegation of EU to India, also posted on X in this regard.

Travel to Europe made easy! ✈️ ⁰🇪🇺 takes another step towards enhancing people-to-people contact with 🇮🇳.⁰New #Schengen #visa regime gives 🇮🇳 frequent travellers access to multi-year visa (up to 5 y.) Europe delivers on the partnership! Know More 👉 https://t.co/6EzlUF8jrR pic.twitter.com/ELhZdCfI83 — Hervé Delphin (@EUAmbIndia) April 22, 2024

What is a Schengen visa?

A Schengen visa is a type of entry permit that allows the holder to visit any of the countries that are part of the Schengen area for a short period of time. It permits the holder to travel freely in the designated area for up to 90 days within 180 days, although they do not grant the right to work.

What are the new rules for Indians?

According to the new rules, if an Indian national has used two visas legally within the past three years, they will be eligible for a long-term, multi-entry Schengen visa, valid for two years.

If the requirements are met and their passport has enough validity, they may be granted a five-year visa. During the validity period of these visas, the holders can travel freely within the Schengen area for short stays, similar to the travel rights of visa-free nationals.

What are the countries under the Schengen visa?

The Schengen area is a region comprising 29 European countries, including 25 EU states such as Belgium, Bulgaria, Croatia, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Germany, Estonia, Greece, Spain, France, Italy, Latvia, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Hungary, Malta, the Netherlands, Austria, Poland, Portugal, Romania, Slovenia, Slovakia, Finland, and Sweden. In addition to these, it also includes non-EU countries such as Iceland, Liechtenstein, Norway, and Switzerland.

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