India e-Visa Price: What You Really Pay and How to Avoid Surprises

When you apply for an India e-Visa, a digital travel authorization that lets tourists and business visitors enter India without visiting an embassy. Also known as India online visa, it’s the fastest way to get approved for a trip—no paperwork, no queues, just a few clicks. But here’s the thing: the official price isn’t the whole story. Many travelers end up paying way more because they don’t know what’s included—or what’s a scam.

The India e-Visa comes in three main types: tourist, business, and medical. For most visitors, the tourist e-Visa is the one they need. As of 2025, the base fee is $80 for a 1-year multiple-entry visa. That’s it—no hidden government charges. But if you use a third-party website, they’ll tack on $20, $30, even $50 in ‘service fees’ just for filling out the same form you could do yourself. The Indian government’s official site is indianvisaonline.gov.in. Any other site is a middleman, not a requirement.

Some people get confused between the e-Visa and the older paper visa. The e-Visa is valid for 60 days per entry, with multiple entries allowed over a year. It’s not for long stays, work, or journalism. If you’re planning to trek in the Himalayas, visit temples in Varanasi, or relax on Goa’s beaches, this visa covers you. But if you’re staying longer than 60 days, you’ll need to apply for a different type—no extensions on the e-Visa. Also, make sure your passport has at least six months left and two blank pages. No exceptions.

Processing time? Usually 72 hours. But don’t wait until the last minute. Some travelers apply a week ahead and get approved in under 24 hours. Others wait until the day before their flight and get stuck. You can track your application online with the reference number you get after submission. And yes—you’ll need a recent photo and a scanned copy of your passport page. No blurry selfies. No edited photos. Just a clean, clear upload.

What about vaccines? The e-Visa doesn’t require proof of shots, but that doesn’t mean you shouldn’t get them. Hepatitis A, typhoid, and routine boosters like tetanus are smart for any India trip. You’ll see travelers skip this and end up sick in a hotel room. Don’t be one of them. The visa gets you in the door. Your health keeps you moving.

And don’t forget: the e-Visa only works at 28 designated airports and 5 seaports. If you’re crossing from Nepal or Bhutan by land, you can’t use it. You’ll need a regular visa from an embassy. That’s a common mistake. Check your entry point before you book your flight.

Below, you’ll find real traveler experiences and guides that cover everything from how to avoid visa scams to what to do if your e-Visa gets rejected. We’ve pulled together posts from people who’ve been there—some got it right on the first try, others paid twice and had to start over. Learn from them. Save time. Save money. Skip the stress.