In a significant move to boost international tourism, the Government of India has expanded its e-Tourist Visa (e-TV) program by adding 37 more countries to the list of eligible nations. With this latest inclusion, the total number of countries whose citizens can avail of an e-Tourist Visa to visit India has reached 150.
The expansion is part of India’s broader initiative to enhance its tourism sector by simplifying visa procedures and making travel to the country more accessible. This policy change is expected to attract a greater number of foreign visitors and contribute to India’s economy by promoting its rich cultural heritage, diverse landscapes, and booming hospitality industry.
New Countries Added to the e-Tourist Visa Program
The 37 newly added countries include a mix of European, African, and Caribbean nations, further diversifying the global reach of the e-Visa program.
| Region | Countries Added |
|---|---|
| Europe | Albania, Austria, Bosnia & Herzegovina, Bulgaria, Croatia, Czech Republic, Denmark, Greece, Iceland, Moldova, Romania, San Marino, Serbia, Slovakia, Switzerland |
| Africa | Botswana, Cape Verde, Comoros, Côte d’Ivoire, Eritrea, Gabon, Gambia, Ghana, Guinea, Lesotho, Liberia, Madagascar, Malawi, Namibia, Senegal, South Africa, Swaziland, Zambia, Zimbabwe |
| Asia & the Caribbean | Brunei, Tajikistan, Trinidad & Tobago |
With this expansion, India’s e-Tourist Visa program is now accessible to travelers from multiple regions, offering them a streamlined and hassle-free visa application process.
What is the e-Tourist Visa?
The e-Tourist Visa was introduced by the Government of India on November 27, 2014, to simplify travel formalities for foreign tourists. This electronic visa allows eligible travelers to apply online, eliminating the need to visit an Indian consulate or embassy in person.
The process involves submitting an application on the official government portal (Indian Visa Online), uploading required documents (such as a passport and a recent photograph), and paying the visa fee online. Once approved, the e-Visa is emailed to the applicant, who must present it upon arrival in India.
The e-Tourist Visa is valid for tourism-related visits, including sightseeing, recreation, and short-term medical treatments. It is issued for a validity period of 30 days, one year, or five years, with multiple entry options available. Travelers arriving in India must hold a passport valid for at least six months from the date of arrival.
Why This Expansion Matters
The inclusion of these 37 countries is a strategic move to strengthen diplomatic ties and encourage foreign exchange earnings through tourism. The initiative aligns with India’s broader “Incredible India” campaign, which aims to market the country’s tourism potential on a global scale.
The latest extension of the e-Tourist Visa program is expected to:
- Increase tourist arrivals: By allowing more travelers to apply for a visa online, India aims to attract a larger volume of visitors, especially from regions where travel restrictions and complex visa procedures have previously discouraged tourists.
- Boost foreign exchange earnings: Tourism is a significant contributor to India’s GDP. More tourists mean higher spending on accommodations, food, transport, and local attractions, ultimately benefiting the economy.
- Enhance diplomatic relations: Granting e-Tourist Visas to new countries strengthens India’s ties with those nations, promoting better trade, cultural exchange, and international cooperation.
Current Scope of India’s e-Visa Program
Since its inception, India’s e-Visa facility has grown rapidly, making travel easier for citizens of various countries. Initially introduced for just 43 nations, the program has expanded multiple times, with 150 countries now eligible for an e-Tourist Visa.
India’s e-Visa is divided into multiple categories, including:
- e-Tourist Visa – For leisure travel, sightseeing, and casual visits
- e-Business Visa – For business travelers attending meetings, conferences, or trade events
- e-Medical Visa – For medical treatments and consultations
- e-Medical Attendant Visa – For individuals accompanying medical travelers
- e-Conference Visa – For attendees of conferences or government-approved events
Foreign visitors can apply for an e-Visa online at the official portal: indianvisaonline.gov.in. Upon approval, travelers can enter India through 28 designated airports and five seaports, making it one of the most convenient visa programs in the world.
Tourism Impact and Future Prospects
India’s efforts to expand its e-Tourist Visa program have been widely appreciated by the global tourism community. The initiative has played a key role in positioning India as a tourist-friendly destination.
According to data from the Ministry of Tourism, the implementation of the e-Tourist Visa has led to a steady increase in international arrivals, with millions of travelers opting for this hassle-free visa option. India’s top tourist attractions, including the Taj Mahal, Jaipur’s historic forts, Kerala’s backwaters, and Goa’s beaches, continue to attract visitors from around the world.
To further streamline the visa process, the Indian government is working on additional enhancements, such as expanding the e-Visa to more countries and integrating biometric verification for faster processing.
Conclusion
With the latest inclusion of 37 more countries, India’s e-Tourist Visa program is now accessible to citizens from 150 nations, making travel to India more convenient than ever. By removing visa barriers and simplifying procedures, the initiative is expected to significantly boost tourism, enhance international relations, and contribute to India’s growing economy.
Pankaj Kumar is a journalist at Chandigarh X, covering admit cards, recruitment, and government schemes. His articles provide readers with detailed insights into application processes, eligibility, and exam updates.
Outside of work, Pankaj enjoys traveling, fitness, and cricket, often participating in local matches on weekends.