Preparing the right documents is one of the most important steps in applying for your India eVisa. While the process is straightforward, having everything ready before you begin helps you complete your application quickly and accurately. This guide walks you through every document and piece of information you'll need, organized by visa type and requirement category.
India eVisa Requirements Overview
The India eVisa application requires three main categories of information and documents: personal information from your passport, a digital photograph, and visa-type-specific supporting documents. The exact documents you'll need depend on whether you're applying for a Tourist, Business, or Medical eVisa. Some requirements are common to all applicants, while others apply only to specific visa categories.
Before beginning your application, gather everything in one place. This prevents interruptions mid-application and helps ensure you don't forget any documents. Most requirements involve simple digital uploads, which makes the process faster and more convenient than traditional visa applications.
Choosing the Right eVisa Type
Your visa type determines which supporting documents you may need. India offers three primary eVisa categories:
Tourist eVisa
For leisure travelers, sightseeing, and visiting friends and family. Most tourist visitors need only basic documents. This is the most commonly applied eVisa type. Available in 30-day, 1-year, and 5-year options.
Business eVisa
For professionals traveling for business meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or commercial purposes. Business applicants may need additional documentation confirming their professional purpose.
Medical eVisa
For individuals seeking medical treatment at recognized Indian medical facilities. Medical applicants require documentation from a medical facility in India. A medical attendant or caregiver may accompany the patient.
Uncertain which category fits your travel? Review our comprehensive application guide, which explains all three visa types and their eligibility requirements in detail.
Passport Requirements
Your passport is the foundation of your eVisa application. Before you begin, verify that your passport meets the following requirements:
Passport Validity
Your passport must be valid for your intended travel to India. The specific validity requirement may depend on your nationality and travel dates. During the application process, you'll enter your passport expiry date, and the system will verify whether your passport meets the requirements for your travel.
Passport Condition
Your passport must be in good condition. Pages should not be torn, heavily bent, or significantly damaged. The biographical page (the page with your photo and information) must be readable. Any damage to this page—fading, tears, water damage, or stains—may cause delays or require resubmission.
Passport Information Accuracy
All information you enter in your eVisa application must match your passport exactly, including:
- Full name (as it appears on the biographical page)
- Date of birth
- Passport number
- Passport issue and expiry dates
Even small discrepancies can cause application delays or rejection. If your name on your passport differs from your current legal name, you may need to explain this in your application.
Preparing Your Passport Scan
Most eVisa applications require you to upload a clear scan or photograph of your passport's biographical page. This is the first page of your passport that contains your photo, name, and passport number.
What to Include
Your scan must include the entire biographical page. Ensure that:
- The entire page is visible (not cropped or cut off)
- All text is readable and clear
- The photograph is visible
- No important information is obscured or out of focus
Quality Guidelines
To create a usable scan or photograph:
- Photograph in good lighting without glare or shadows
- Use a clean, flat surface to place your passport
- Keep the page straight—don't tilt or angle your camera
- Ensure the entire page fits in the frame
- Avoid using filters or heavy editing
- Save the image in JPG, PNG, or PDF format (Max 2MB)
Common Issues
Passport scans are often rejected due to:
- Blurry or out-of-focus image
- Excessive glare making text unreadable
- Cropped information (corners cut off)
- Rotated image (upside down or sideways)
- Low lighting making details unclear
- Partial page visibility
If your scan is unclear, simply retake it and reupload. Quality matters more than file size.
Passport Photograph Requirements
A recent color photograph is a core requirement for every India eVisa application. This is your primary identification in the system, so the quality and specifications matter.
Photograph Format and Appearance
- Color photograph: Black and white or grayscale images are typically not accepted
- Recent photo: Aim for a photo taken within the last 6 months that accurately reflects your current appearance
- Clear face visibility: Your face should be clearly visible, centered, and occupy most of the frame
- Background: Plain white background is typically required (or very light, neutral background)
- Head position: Face the camera directly; avoid tilting, turning, or angling your head
- Expression: A neutral or natural expression is best (slight smile or closed mouth)
- No obstructions: Your face should not be covered by sunglasses, hats, or hair
- Appropriate clothing: Avoid clothing that blends with a white background
Digital Photograph Specifications
When uploading your photograph:
- Use JPG or PNG format (PDF is not accepted for photos)
- Maximum file size: 2MB
- Ensure the image is clear and well-lit
- Avoid heavy filters, editing, or effects
- Verify that your face is clearly visible and identifiable
Preparing a Photograph That Meets Requirements
Professional photographers can provide photographs meeting these specifications. Alternatively, you can take a high-quality digital photograph using a smartphone camera if you have good lighting. Ensure the background is plain white or very light, and photograph in natural daylight or with good indoor lighting to avoid shadows on your face.
Important Note
Your eVisa photograph must be of you (the applicant). If someone else's photograph is submitted, the application may be rejected, and you may be ineligible to reapply.
Tourist eVisa Documents
Tourists typically need minimal supporting documentation. Your primary requirements are:
Core Tourist eVisa Requirements
- Valid passport with biographical page scan
- Recent color photograph meeting specifications above
- Email address where you'll receive your eVisa
- Payment method (credit or debit card) to pay the visa fee
Additional Considerations
While the basic tourist eVisa doesn't typically require proof of travel plans, itinerary, or financial resources, it's wise to have:
- Your travel dates clearly noted (for your own reference when filling out the application)
- Your intended destination cities in India
- Contact information for your accommodations (for your records)
These aren't uploaded with your application, but knowing them helps you complete forms accurately and ensures consistency across all your travel documents.
Business eVisa Documents
Business travelers need the same core documents as tourists, plus additional professional documentation.
Core Business eVisa Requirements
- Valid passport with biographical page scan
- Recent color photograph meeting specifications
- Email address for communication
- Payment method for visa fees
Business-Specific Documentation
In addition to your passport scan and photograph, business eVisa applicants must provide:
- Business Invitation Letter - A letter from an Indian company or organization inviting you for business purposes
- Business Name Card - Your business card or company identification document
Both of these documents should be uploaded as JPG, PNG, or PDF files (maximum 2MB each).
Professional Information to Prepare
During your business eVisa application, you'll also enter information about:
- Your current occupation/job title
- Your employer name and address
- The purpose of your visit (business meetings, conference, trade fair, etc.)
- Places you plan to visit in India
Having this information ready, along with your Business Invitation Letter and Name Card, helps you complete your application accurately.
Medical eVisa Documents
Medical travelers need core documentation plus medical-specific papers confirming their treatment arrangement in India.
Core Medical eVisa Requirements
- Valid passport with biographical page scan
- Recent color photograph
- Email address for communication
- Payment method for visa fees
Medical-Specific Documentation
In addition to your passport scan and photograph, medical eVisa applicants must provide:
- Hospital Letter - An official letter from an Indian hospital or medical institution
This letter should be uploaded as JPG, PNG, or PDF file (maximum 2MB).
Information to Prepare for Medical eVisa
Before applying, arrange:
- Contact with a medical facility in India where you'll receive treatment
- Official letter from the hospital or medical institution (usually provided by their international patient department)
- Information about any accompanying medical attendant (name, relationship, passport details)
The medical facility will provide the required hospital letter. Most major Indian hospitals have international patient coordinators who can assist with this documentation.
Application Information You'll Need
Beyond documents, your eVisa application requires personal and travel information. Organize this before you begin:
Personal Information
- Full name (exactly as it appears on your passport)
- Date of birth
- Nationality
- Gender
- Marital status
- Passport number and issue/expiry dates
Contact Information
- Email address (you'll receive your eVisa here)
- Mobile phone number
- Residential address
Travel Information
- Intended arrival date in India
- Intended departure date from India
- Primary destination city or cities in India
- Purpose of visit (tourism, business, medical treatment, etc.)
Important Accuracy Note
Everything you enter must match your passport exactly. Discrepancies between your passport and your application (spelling, dates, name variations) can cause delays or require corrections before approval.
Preparing and Uploading Your Files
Your eVisa application is entirely digital. Understanding file requirements helps ensure smooth processing.
File Format and Naming
Common acceptable formats include JPG, PNG, and PDF. Save your files with clear names (e.g., "passport_scan.jpg" or "photograph_2026.jpg") to keep track of what you're uploading.
File Quality
- Clarity: All text and details must be readable
- Color: For photographs, ensure colors are accurate and not oversaturated
- Size: Files should be large enough to show detail (aim for at least 1MB, but larger files are fine if within system limits)
- Orientation: Ensure images aren't rotated or upside down
Upload Process
- Double-check that you're uploading the correct file before confirming
- Verify the file opened successfully after uploading
- If a file fails to upload, try again with a slightly different file size or format
- Most systems allow you to replace files if needed before final submission
Before Submitting Your Application
Review everything once more:
- Verify all personal information matches your passport exactly
- Confirm your email address is correct and monitored regularly
- Ensure your phone number is accurate
- Check travel dates make sense with your intended stay
- Confirm you've selected the correct visa type
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Learning from common errors helps prevent application delays:
Documentation Errors
- Blurry passport scan: If your scan is unclear, retake it with better lighting
- Wrong person's photograph: Always verify you've uploaded your own photograph
- Cropped documents: Ensure the entire document is visible, with no corners or edges cut off
- Upside-down or sideways images: Verify image orientation before uploading
Information Entry Errors
- Name mismatch: Your application name must match your passport exactly (including middle names, hyphens, etc.)
- Date discrepancy: Enter dates exactly as they appear on your passport
- Passport number error: Double-check this crucial detail
- Email typo: You'll receive your eVisa at this address—verify it's correct
- Wrong visa type: Confirm you're applying for the correct category (Tourist, Business, or Medical)
Document Specification Errors
- Passport validity: Verify your passport meets current validity requirements before applying
- Photograph specifications: Ensure your photo is recent, clear, and meets appearance guidelines
- Missing required documents: For Business and Medical eVisas, ensure you've gathered all required supporting documentation
Pre-Submission Verification Checklist
Before you click "Submit," use this checklist to ensure everything is ready:
Documents Preparation
- ☐ Passport scan is clear and complete (entire biographical page visible)
- ☐ Photograph is recent, meets specifications, and clearly shows your face
- ☐ Business documents are prepared (if applying for Business eVisa)
- ☐ Medical facility confirmation letter is ready (if applying for Medical eVisa)
- ☐ All documents are in correct file format (JPG, PNG, or PDF)
Information Verification
- ☐ Name entered exactly as it appears on your passport
- ☐ Date of birth matches your passport
- ☐ Passport number is correct
- ☐ Passport expiry date is accurate and within validity requirements
- ☐ Email address is correct and monitored by you
- ☐ Phone number is current and reachable
- ☐ Travel dates are accurate and reasonable
- ☐ Destination information is correct
Application Details
- ☐ Correct visa type selected (Tourist, Business, or Medical)
- ☐ All required fields are completed
- ☐ No contradictory information entered
- ☐ You've reviewed and agreed to terms and conditions
Fees and Processing
- ☐ You understand the visa type and associated fees
- ☐ You've reviewed current processing options at /visa-fees
- ☐ You have a valid payment method ready (credit or debit card)
- ☐ You understand processing times are calculated from submission date, not approval date
Frequently Asked Questions
Do all visa types require the same documents?
Tourist eVisas require minimal supporting documents (essentially your passport and photograph). Business eVisas require information about your professional purpose, and Medical eVisas require confirmation from a medical facility in India. All require valid identification and payment capability, but the supporting documentation differs by type.
Can I use a phone photograph instead of a professional photo?
Yes, if the quality is sufficient. Your photograph doesn't need to be professionally taken—any recent, clear, color photograph with a white background and clear face visibility will work. Take it in good lighting, use a straight-on angle, and ensure your face occupies most of the frame.
What if I make a mistake on my application?
If you discover an error before submitting, most applications allow you to correct it. After submission, some corrections can be made before approval. Contact the application support if needed. Major errors (like wrong visa type or incorrect passport number) may require reapplication.
Can I apply on behalf of someone else?
Each individual must apply with their own information and documents. Parents can help children prepare documents, but each applicant needs to have their own application. Children need their own passport and photograph for their eVisa.
Where should I check current fees and processing times?
Visit our visa fees page for current pricing and available processing options (regular or express). Fees vary by visa type and processing speed, and currency and exact amounts may change.
How should I prepare my passport scan for upload?
Photograph your passport's biographical page (the page with your photo and information) in good lighting without glare. Ensure the entire page is visible and all text is readable. Save as JPG or PNG. Retake if any part is unclear—clarity is more important than file size.
What if my passport has been damaged or has stains?
A damaged passport can complicate your eVisa application. Stains, tears, or fading on the biographical page may make your information unreadable to the application system. If your passport has significant damage, you may need to renew it before applying. Minor wear is typically acceptable if the information remains clear and readable.
How far in advance should I apply for my India eVisa?
Most applicants apply 2-4 weeks before their intended travel date. This provides time for processing and account for any unexpected delays or requests for corrections. If you need faster processing, express options are available with higher fees. However, starting early gives you peace of mind and flexibility if any issues arise with your application.
What happens if I upload the wrong document?
Most applications allow you to replace files before submission. Review your uploads carefully and delete any incorrect files. If you've already submitted and uploaded wrong documents, contact support—many issues can be resolved by resubmitting the correct documents. For major errors, reapplication may be necessary.
Are there any restrictions on passport age or type?
Your passport must be a valid national passport issued by your government. Some countries issue different passport types (e.g., diplomatic, temporary). Standard national passports are accepted. There's typically no minimum or maximum age for a passport, as long as it's valid and readable.
Can my photograph have a colored background instead of white?
White or very light neutral backgrounds are standard for visa photographs. Colored backgrounds may be rejected or cause delays. If your photograph has a colored background, retake it with a white background if possible. Many photo studios or even a home setup with white bedsheet can work for this purpose.
Preparing Your Application Successfully
The key to a smooth eVisa application is preparation. Gather all required documents, verify all information matches your passport exactly, and ensure all files are clear and properly formatted before you begin. Taking time to organize everything reduces errors and speeds up processing.
Different visa types have different requirements—make sure you understand which documents you need for your specific purpose of travel. When in doubt, it's better to have extra documentation prepared than to be missing something important at submission time.
When you're ready to proceed, start your India eVisa application with all these documents and information prepared. Having everything organized beforehand makes the process quick and straightforward. Good luck with your India journey!