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India Expands e-Visa Program 2025: Four New Traveller Categories Added

November 25, 2025 5:48 am

India Expands e-Visa Program 2025: Four New Traveller Categories Added

In a significant move, India has expanded its electronic visa program by introducing four new categories. This expansion simplifies the entry process for travelers, enhancing convenience and efficiency for visitors heading to the country for various purposes.

The Indian Government now offers these additional e-visa options:

e-Transit
e-Mountaineering
e-Film
e-Entry

The aim is to streamline the visa application process further, reducing the need for in-person consulate visits while speeding up approval times.

Benefits for Travelers

Eligible foreign nationals can now complete their e-visa applications fully online. Once approved, they will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). This authorization allows them to enter India and have the visa stamped upon biometric verification at the airport. Typically, processing times for these e-visas range from 24 to 72 hours—much quicker than traditional visa routes.

Overview of New e-Visa Categories

e-Transit Visa

Designed for international travelers transiting through India to a third destination.
Allows two entries and is valid for 30 days from the ETA date.
Requires a confirmed onward ticket.

e-Mountaineering Visa

For those intending to undertake climbing or trekking expeditions in India.
This single-entry visa is valid for up to six months from the ETA date.
Applicants must obtain clearance from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation.

e-Film Visa

Tailored for filmmakers and crew members aiming to shoot in India.
Valid for one year from the ETA date and allows multiple entries.
Requires clearance from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.

e-Entry Visa

For individuals of Indian origin, spouses of Indian nationals, or dependents of specific visa holders.
This multiple-entry visa is valid for three months from the first entry.

Application Process

Travelers from eligible countries can apply for these e-visas online. The process involves:

Filling out the e-visa form and submitting the necessary documents.
Securing any required clearance from relevant ministries.
Obtaining an ETA before traveling.
Upon arrival in India, applicants will provide their biometric data at the airport, and their visa will be stamped.

Why This Matters

This enhancement reflects India’s commitment to modernizing its immigration system. By simplifying the process and expanding the range of online visa types, India aims to boost tourism and promote various sectors, including filmmaking and adventure sports.

Conclusion

With the introduction of these new e-visa categories, traveling to India has become more accessible than ever. Whether you’re visiting for tourism, embarking on a film project, or reconnecting with family, the online application process is straightforward. Just gather your documents, connect to the internet, and your visa could be ready in just a few days.