Almost all international visitors — dealers, distributors, buyers and exhibitors alike — need a visa before flying to India; there is no visa on arrival for trade travellers. Apply online for an e-Business visa on the Government of India e-Visa portal (USD 80, one-year multiple entry, decision usually within 72 hours, file at least four days before departure) if you will be negotiating, staffing a stand or signing contracts. Shorter leisure-focused trips can use the 30-day e-Tourist visa (USD 25); nationalities outside the e-Visa system apply for a regular business visa at an Indian mission, typically 5–10 working days. Carry a printed e-Visa approval, a passport valid at least six months beyond arrival, and a hotel address plus invitation letter, as immigration officers at Delhi, Chandigarh and Amritsar frequently ask for proof of accommodation and purpose of visit.
Estimated cost: Varies by visa type and nationality (check official site).
Processing: Varies by nationality; apply several weeks before travel.
One-year multiple-entry e-Business visa allowing continuous stays of up to 180 days. Apply on the Government of India e-Visa portal, upload a passport photo and business invitation or company letter, and carry a printed copy of the approval when you land. Double-entry for many nationalities within the 30-day window. Not intended for stand staffing or commercial negotiations — choose the e-Business
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