Indian Visa Fees for US Citizens - 2025 Costs & How to Apply

India e‑Visa is the most common way for US citizen travelers to enter the country without visiting an embassy. The big question on every budget‑travel forum is: how much does it actually cost? In 2025 the base fee sits at around Indian visa cost of $100 USD for a short‑term tourist stay, but the final price can swing depending on the visa type, processing speed, and extra services like insurance. Let’s break down every line item so you know exactly what to expect before you book that flight to Delhi.

Visa categories that matter to US travelers

India offers four main e‑Visa categories for Americans: Tourist, Business, Medical, and Conference. Each one has a distinct fee structure, allowed duration, and purpose restriction.

• Tourist e‑Visa: Ideal for sightseeing, cultural tours, and short stays up to 60 days.
• Business e‑Visa: Lets you attend meetings, conferences, or explore commercial opportunities for up to 180 days.
• Medical e‑Visa: Designed for patients and accompanying relatives seeking treatment; validity up to 60 days, extendable.
• Conference e‑Visa: Issued for participation in a specific event; usually 30‑day validity.

All these are processed through the Electronic Visa (e‑Visa) System managed by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. The system automatically converts the fee into Indian rupees at the current exchange rate, then adds a small service surcharge.

Base fee breakdown for US citizens (2025)

The "processing surcharge" covers the secure online gateway used by the Visa Application Center. Some travelers pay extra for faster processing (24‑hour priority) - that adds another $20‑$30 on top of the total.

How exchange rates affect your final price

Because the fee is set in Indian rupees (INR) and then converted, the USD amount can shift daily. In August 2025 the conversion was 1 USD ≈ 82 INR. If the rupee strengthens to 78 INR, the same visa could cost roughly $103 instead of $100. Most applicants lock in the rate at the moment of payment, so it’s wise to apply when the market is favorable. A quick tip: use a reputable currency‑tracker app and set a price alert around the $100‑$120 range.

Step‑by‑step: applying and paying the fee

1. Visit the official India e‑Visa portal (run by the Indian Ministry of External Affairs).
2. Create an account using your US passport number and a valid email address.
3. Select the visa category that matches your travel purpose.
4. Enter personal details, travel itinerary, and upload a recent passport‑size photo (white background, 2×2 inches).
5. Review the fee breakdown displayed on the summary page. The amount shown already includes the conversion to USD.
6. Pay using a credit/debit card or PayPal. The portal adds a small service surcharge automatically.
7. After payment, you’ll receive an electronic authorization (e‑Authorization Number). Print it and keep a digital copy.
8. Upon arrival in India, present the e‑Authorization, your passport, and a copy of your return ticket at the immigration desk. The officer will stamp the visa.

If you need a physical visa sticker (rare for US citizens), you can submit the e‑Authorization at the Consulate General of India in New York, Washington, D.C., or Chicago. That option adds an extra $30‑$50 service fee and a mailing charge.

Extra costs you might overlook

• Travel insurance: While not mandated for an e‑Visa, many airlines and Indian immigration officers ask for proof of coverage. Expect $15‑$30 for a 30‑day policy.
• COVID‑19 vaccination proof: As of 2025 India requires a completed vaccination schedule for most travelers. If you need a booster, factor in the $20‑$40 cost of the shot.
• Passport renewal: Your passport must be valid for at least six months beyond your intended departure. If renewal is needed, US passport fees are $165 for an adult.
• Priority processing: For an extra $25 you can get a 24‑hour turnaround, useful if your flight is imminent.

Saving tips for the budget‑savvy

1. Apply early. Early applications lock in the current exchange rate and give you time to spot any price spikes.

2. Choose single‑entry unless you’re certain you’ll need multiple passes. The multiple‑entry surcharge adds $40‑$50.

3. Use a credit card with no foreign transaction fees. Some US cards waive the 3 % fee, shaving $3‑$5 off the total.

4. Combine insurance with your travel credit card. Many cards offer free coverage for trips under 30 days, eliminating the separate insurance purchase.

5. Watch the INR/USD rate. If the rupee trends lower for a week, wait to submit your payment.

Quick checklist before you click ‘Pay’

• Passport expiration > 6 months
• Correct visa category selected
• All required documents uploaded (photo, itinerary, vaccination proof)
• Fee amount matches the table above
• Payment method ready (card or PayPal)
• Print or email the e‑Authorization for airport check‑in

Frequently Asked Questions

Bottom line: for a typical US traveler a single‑entry tourist e‑Visa will cost about $110 USD, give or take a few dollars for exchange‑rate shifts or optional priority service. Knowing the exact fee breakdown lets you budget your trip without nasty surprises at the airport.