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India

Asia

India offers a diverse and affordable destination for digital nomads with rich culture, growing tech hubs, and extensive e-visa options. While there is no dedicated digital nomad visa, the e-Tourist visa allows stays up to 90-180 days per visit with multiple entry options for 1 or 5 years. Popular destinations include Goa for beach vibes, Bangalore for tech community, and Rishikesh for wellness. Remote work on tourist visas operates in a gray area, while the business e-visa is more suitable for legitimate remote work activities.

9
Visa Types
57
Nationalities visa-free
🪪Your Passport:

Visa requirements vary by nationality

🎫 Available Visa Types

⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist

e-Tourist Visa (1 Year)

Multiple entry tourist visa valid for 1 year from grant date. Each visit limited to 90 days (180 days for US, UK, Canada, Japan nationals). Popular choice for digital nomads and repeat visitors.

365 days
Duration
$41
— fee
+$200 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓Multiple entries throughout the year
✓Valid for 1 year from date of grant (not from first entry)
✓US, UK, Canada, Japan nationals can stay up to 180 days per visit
✓Other nationalities can stay up to 90 days per visit
✓Ideal for frequent visitors and digital nomads doing visa runs
📋 Requirements (6)
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from arrival date
  • •At least 2 blank pages in passport for immigration stamps
  • •Recent passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background)
  • •Scanned copy of passport bio page (PDF, max 300KB)
  • •Return or onward journey ticket for each entry
  • •Proof of sufficient funds for stay
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 72 hours (typically 24-48 hours)
  1. 1Visit the official e-visa portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in
  2. 2Select e-Tourist Visa and choose 1-year option
  3. 3Fill in the online application form with personal details
  4. 4Upload passport photo and passport bio page scan
  5. 5Pay the visa fee online using credit/debit card or PayPal
  6. 6Wait for ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) via email within 72 hours
  7. 7Print the ETA and carry it when traveling to India
  8. 8Present ETA at immigration upon arrival
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Apply 4-120 days before planned first arrival
  • •Great for digital nomads with flexible travel plans
  • •Can combine with trips to Nepal, Sri Lanka for visa runs
  • •Keep track of total days spent to avoid overstaying
  • •Consider business e-visa if your activities involve any work
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
Tourist

e-Tourist Visa (5 Years)

Long-term multiple entry tourist visa valid for 5 years. Each visit limited to 90 days (180 days for US, UK, Canada, Japan nationals). Best value for frequent travelers to India.

1825 days
Duration
$82
— fee
+$200 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓Multiple entries for 5 years
✓Best value for frequent India travelers
✓US, UK, Canada, Japan nationals can stay up to 180 days per visit
✓Other nationalities can stay up to 90 days per visit
✓No need to reapply for years
📋 Requirements (6)
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from arrival date
  • •At least 2 blank pages in passport for immigration stamps
  • •Recent passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background)
  • •Scanned copy of passport bio page (PDF, max 300KB)
  • •Return or onward journey ticket for each entry
  • •Proof of sufficient funds for stay
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 72 hours (typically 24-48 hours)
  1. 1Visit the official e-visa portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in
  2. 2Select e-Tourist Visa and choose 5-year option
  3. 3Fill in the online application form with personal details
  4. 4Upload passport photo and passport bio page scan
  5. 5Pay the visa fee online using credit/debit card or PayPal
  6. 6Wait for ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) via email within 72 hours
  7. 7Print the ETA and carry it when traveling to India
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Best value if you plan multiple trips over several years
  • •If passport will expire within 5 years, you can still use visa with both passports
  • •Keep accurate records of all entries and days stayed
  • •Ideal for digital nomads who base themselves in Asia
⭐Recommended for Digital Nomads
business

e-Business Visa

Electronic business visa for attending meetings, conferences, trade fairs, or conducting business activities. Valid for 1 year with multiple entries and up to 180 days continuous stay. More suitable for digital nomads than tourist visa.

365 days
Duration
$82
— fee
+$200 additional

✅ Key Benefits

✓More appropriate for remote work than tourist visa
✓Covers business meetings, conferences, trade activities
✓Multiple entry for 1 year
✓Up to 180 days continuous stay
✓Can conduct business-related activities legally
📋 Requirements (7)
  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from arrival date
  • •At least 2 blank pages in passport for immigration stamps
  • •Recent passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background)
  • •Scanned copy of passport bio page (PDF, max 300KB)
  • •Business card or company letterhead
  • •Invitation letter from Indian business (if applicable)
  • •Proof of business activities or self-employment
📝 Application Process
✓ Online Application⏱ 72 hours (typically 24-48 hours)
  1. 1Visit the official e-visa portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in
  2. 2Select e-Business Visa category
  3. 3Fill in the online application form with business details
  4. 4Upload required documents including business proof
  5. 5Pay the visa fee online
  6. 6Wait for ETA via email within 72 hours
  7. 7Print the ETA and carry it when traveling to India
Apply Online

💡 Pro Tips

  • •Better option for digital nomads than tourist visa
  • •Keep documentation of your business activities
  • •Can include attending coworking spaces and networking events
  • •Have business cards and company information ready for application

e-Tourist Visa (30 Days)

TouristPopular

Short-term electronic tourist visa for quick visits, valid for 30 days from arrival with double entry. Ideal for short trips and initial exploration of India.

30d
Duration
$36
— fee
+$30 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱72 hours (typically 24-48 hours)
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
e-Visa application fee (July-March)Standard season fee
$25—
e-Visa application fee (April-June)Off-peak season reduced fee
$10—
Bank transaction charges2.5% of visa fee for card payments
$1—
Additional (estimated)
Travel insurance (30 days)Recommended coverage
$30—
Required Total
$36—
+ Additional (estimated)
$30—
Estimated Total
$66—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity from arrival date
  • •At least 2 blank pages in passport for immigration stamps
  • •Recent passport-size photograph (2x2 inches, white background)
  • •Scanned copy of passport bio page (PDF, max 300KB)
  • •Return or onward journey ticket
  • •Proof of sufficient funds for stay

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Visit the official e-visa portal at indianvisaonline.gov.in
  2. 2Select e-Tourist Visa and choose 30-day option
  3. 3Fill in the online application form with personal details
  4. 4Upload passport photo and passport bio page scan
  5. 5Pay the visa fee online using credit/debit card or PayPal
  6. 6Wait for ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization) via email within 72 hours
  7. 7Print the ETA and carry it when traveling to India
  8. 8Present ETA at immigration upon arrival at designated airports/seaports

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Non-extendable and non-convertible
  • •Not valid for visiting Protected/Restricted/Cantonment Areas
  • •Cannot work or engage in employment activities
  • •Entry only through designated airports and seaports
  • •Not available for Pakistani passport holders or those of Pakistani origin

💡 Tips

  • •Apply at least 4 days before planned arrival (30-day window)
  • •Take advantage of April-June reduced pricing if possible
  • •Ensure your photo meets exact specifications to avoid rejection
  • •Keep printed copy of ETA even if you have digital version
  • •Biometrics will be captured upon arrival at immigration

e-Medical Visa

Special Program

Electronic visa for medical treatment in India including Ayurvedic treatment. Valid for 60 days with triple entry. Can be extended up to 6 months on case-by-case basis.

60d
Duration
$82
— fee
+$100 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱72 hours
🔄Extendable +180d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
e-Medical Visa application feeStandard fee varies by nationality
$80—
Bank transaction charges2.5% of visa fee
$2—
Additional (estimated)
Medical travel insuranceHighly recommended
$100—
Required Total
$82—
+ Additional (estimated)
$100—
Estimated Total
$182—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Letter from hospital/medical institution in India
  • •Medical documents describing condition and treatment plan
  • •Proof of sufficient funds for medical expenses
  • •Passport-size photograph and bio page scan

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Obtain letter from Indian hospital or medical institution
  2. 2Visit the official e-visa portal
  3. 3Select e-Medical Visa category
  4. 4Upload medical documentation and hospital letter
  5. 5Pay the visa fee online
  6. 6Receive ETA via email

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Treatment purpose only
  • •Must have supporting hospital documentation
  • •Extension requires medical necessity proof

💡 Tips

  • •India offers affordable world-class medical care
  • •Popular for cardiac, orthopedic, and Ayurvedic treatments
  • •Medical Attendant visa available for accompanying family

Employment Visa

Work

For foreign nationals employed by Indian companies. Requires employer sponsorship and minimum salary of USD 25,000 per year. Initially valid for 1 year, extendable up to 5 years.

365d
Duration
$150
— fee
+$50 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱10-20 working days
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Employment Visa fee (varies by nationality)Embassy fee varies significantly by country
$150—
FRRO registrationMandatory within 14 days of arrival
$0—
Additional (estimated)
Document legalizationIf documents require authentication
$50—
Required Total
$150—
+ Additional (estimated)
$50—
Estimated Total
$200—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Employment contract from Indian employer
  • •Proof of qualifications and specialized skills
  • •Company registration documents
  • •Employer sponsorship letter
  • •Police clearance certificate
  • •Proof of minimum salary requirement

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Secure employment offer from Indian company
  2. 2Employer obtains necessary approvals if required
  3. 3Gather all required documents with translations if needed
  4. 4Apply at Indian Embassy or Consulate in home country
  5. 5Attend visa interview if required
  6. 6Wait for visa processing (10-20 working days)
  7. 7Register with FRRO within 14 days of arrival in India

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Tied to specific employer
  • •Cannot change jobs without new visa process
  • •Must meet minimum salary requirement
  • •Must register with FRRO within 14 days
  • •Not available for Pakistani nationals

💡 Tips

  • •Start the process well in advance as it takes time
  • •Ensure all documents are properly notarized/apostilled
  • •Keep copies of all documents for FRRO registration
  • •E-visa is not available for employment - must apply at embassy

Student Visa

Education

For foreign nationals pursuing full-time academic programs at recognized Indian institutions. Valid for duration of course or up to 5 years, whichever is less. Includes yoga, dance, music, and Buddhist studies.

365d
Duration
$196
— fee
+$150 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱2-4 weeks
🔄Extendable +365d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Student Visa fee (varies by nationality)Approximately USD 108 for US citizens (1 year)
$108—
EU citizen fee (1 year)Approximate fee for EU nationals
$88—
Additional (estimated)
Health insuranceAnnual coverage recommended
$150—
Required Total
$196—
+ Additional (estimated)
$150—
Estimated Total
$346—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Admission letter from recognized Indian institution
  • •Proof of financial means to cover tuition and living expenses
  • •Academic transcripts and certificates
  • •For medical courses: NOC from Ministry of Health
  • •Passport-size photographs

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Apply for admission through Study in India portal or directly to institution
  2. 2Receive admission offer letter with course details
  3. 3Register on Study in India portal if applicable
  4. 4Apply for student visa at Indian Embassy/Consulate
  5. 5Submit all required documents
  6. 6Wait for visa processing (2-4 weeks typically)
  7. 7Register with FRRO within 14 days if staying over 180 days

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Cannot work during studies (limited exceptions)
  • •Must maintain full-time student status
  • •Must register with FRRO if staying over 180 days
  • •Cannot convert to employment visa directly

💡 Tips

  • •New e-Student visa launched in January 2025 for streamlined process
  • •Study in India portal offers centralized application to 160+ institutions
  • •Popular for yoga teacher training and Ayurveda courses
  • •Living costs in India are very affordable for international students

e-Conference Visa

business

Electronic visa for attending conferences, seminars, and workshops organized by government ministries, state governments, or PSUs. Single entry for up to 30 days.

30d
Duration
$82
— fee
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱72 hours
🔄No extension
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
e-Conference Visa feeStandard fee varies by nationality
$80—
Bank transaction charges2.5% of visa fee
$2—
Required Total
$82—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Invitation/confirmation from conference organizers
  • •Conference registration details
  • •Passport-size photograph and bio page scan

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Receive invitation from conference organizers
  2. 2Visit the official e-visa portal
  3. 3Select e-Conference Visa category
  4. 4Upload invitation letter and conference details
  5. 5Pay the visa fee online
  6. 6Receive ETA via email

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Single entry only
  • •Maximum 30 days
  • •Only for government/PSU organized events
  • •Non-extendable

💡 Tips

  • •Apply at least 4 days before planned arrival
  • •Keep conference invitation letter handy for immigration
  • •Can do tourism during the 30-day validity

Regular Tourist Visa (Embassy)

Tourist

Traditional paper visa obtained through Indian Embassy or Consulate. Available in various durations up to 10 years for US and Japanese nationals. Useful when e-visa is not available for your nationality.

365d
Duration
$120
— fee
+$25 additional
📍Apply: Embassy
⏱5-15 working days
🔄Extendable +90d
View full details
💰 Cost Breakdown
USDUSD
Required
Visa fee (varies by nationality and duration)Typical fee; can range from USD 60-160
$100—
VFS service feeIf applying through VFS Global
$20—
Additional (estimated)
Courier return serviceTo have passport returned by courier
$25—
Required Total
$120—
+ Additional (estimated)
$25—
Estimated Total
$145—
💡 Costs may vary. Additional costs are estimates and may not all apply to your situation. Always verify current fees with official sources.

📋 Requirements

  • •Valid passport with at least 6 months validity
  • •Completed visa application form
  • •Two passport-size photographs
  • •Proof of accommodation in India
  • •Return flight booking
  • •Proof of financial means
  • •Travel itinerary

📝 Application Steps

  1. 1Complete online application at indianvisaonline.gov.in
  2. 2Print application form and gather documents
  3. 3Submit at Indian Embassy/Consulate or VFS Global center
  4. 4Pay visa fee
  5. 5Wait for processing (typically 5-15 working days)
  6. 6Collect passport with visa stamp

⚠️ Restrictions

  • •Requires in-person visit to embassy or visa center
  • •Longer processing time than e-visa
  • •Must submit original passport
  • •Protected/Restricted areas need additional permits

💡 Tips

  • •Necessary for some nationalities not eligible for e-visa
  • •US citizens should consider 10-year visa for best value
  • •Apply through VFS Global for faster processing in many countries
  • •Keep proof of return travel and accommodation ready

📊 Quick Facts

CapitalNew Delhi
CurrencyINR (₹)
LanguageHindi, English
TimezoneUTC+5:30
Last UpdatedDec 1, 2025

🔗 Official Resources

Immigration BureauEmbassy Website

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Does India have a dedicated digital nomad visa?
As of 2025, India does not have a specific digital nomad visa. Goa state has been advocating for one but it has not been implemented. Digital nomads typically use the e-Tourist Visa (1 or 5 years) or e-Business Visa. The e-Business Visa is more appropriate if your activities involve any business-related work, as remote work on a tourist visa is technically not permitted though enforcement is minimal.
Can I work remotely for a foreign company while on a tourist visa in India?
Technically, remote work is not permitted on a tourist visa. However, enforcement is minimal for those working remotely for foreign clients without earning income in India. The e-Business Visa is a more appropriate choice if you want to be on safer legal ground, as it covers business-related activities. Many digital nomads use the 1-year or 5-year e-Tourist Visa and work discreetly from coworking spaces in Goa, Bangalore, and other hubs.
What happens if I overstay my visa in India?
Overstaying is taken seriously in India. Consequences include fines, detention, and requirement to obtain an Exit Permit from the Ministry of Home Affairs through the FRRO. Processing an exit permit can take up to 90 days. Overstayers may face difficulty obtaining future visas. Always track your days carefully and apply for extensions before your visa expires if needed.
What are the internet speeds like for remote work in India?
India has improved significantly with 5G rollout. Average mobile download speeds are around 56-100 Mbps (varies by location) and fixed broadband averages 60-100 Mbps. Major cities like Bangalore, Mumbai, and Delhi have excellent connectivity. Goa can be inconsistent in some areas. Jio and Airtel are the main providers. Coworking spaces typically offer reliable high-speed internet. Always have a backup mobile hotspot.
How difficult is it for foreigners to open a bank account in India?
Foreign tourists can open NRO (Non-Resident Ordinary) accounts for up to 6 months with valid passport and visa. For longer stays with employment or business visa, resident savings accounts are possible but require additional documentation including FRRO registration and proof of address. Many digital nomads use international options like Wise, Revolut, or Payoneer instead. UPI payment system works with some international cards.
What is the cost of living for digital nomads in India?
India is very affordable. Budget digital nomads can live on USD 400-600/month in smaller cities. A comfortable lifestyle in popular hubs like Goa or Bangalore costs USD 800-1,200/month including accommodation, food, coworking, and transport. Rent for a 1-bedroom in city center ranges from USD 300-500 in Bangalore to USD 500-700 in Goa during peak season. Local food is extremely cheap (USD 2-5 per meal).
What are the tax implications of staying in India as a digital nomad?
You become a tax resident if you stay 182 days or more in a financial year (April-March). Residents are taxed on worldwide income under progressive rates (5-30%). Non-residents are only taxed on India-sourced income. India has Double Tax Avoidance Agreements with 90+ countries. If you earn only from foreign clients and stay under 182 days, you typically have no Indian tax liability. Consult a tax professional for your specific situation.
Is India safe for tourists and digital nomads?
India is generally safe for tourists with normal precautions. The US rates it Level 2 (Exercise Increased Caution). Avoid border areas with Pakistan and the state of Manipur. Petty theft can occur in tourist areas. Solo female travelers should take extra precautions. Major cities and tourist destinations have good infrastructure. Natural disasters like monsoon flooding (June-October) and heatwaves can occur. Always have travel insurance.
What are the best cities in India for digital nomads?
Goa is the most popular for beach lifestyle and growing nomad community (Anjuna, Assagao areas). Bangalore is the tech capital with excellent coworking (Koramangala, Indiranagar). Rishikesh offers spiritual/yoga focus with mountain setting. Dharamshala/McLeod Ganj for Himalayan tranquility. Udaipur for romantic lakeside setting. Pondicherry for French colonial charm. Jaipur for culture and heritage. Each offers different vibes and price points.
Do I need to register with FRRO and how does it work?
Registration with FRRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) is mandatory if you stay more than 180 days on certain visa types (Employment, Student, Research, Medical). It must be done within 14 days of arrival. The process is now online through the e-FRRO portal (indianfrro.gov.in) - faceless, cashless, and paperless. You will need passport, visa, photos, and proof of accommodation. Tourist visa holders under 180 days do not need to register.
⚠️

Important Disclaimer

Visa requirements can change frequently. This information is provided for general guidance only and should not be considered legal advice. Always verify current requirements with the official embassy or immigration authorities before making travel plans. Last updated: December 1, 2025

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