Transit Visa Document Requirements

Purpose of an India Transit Visa

The primary purpose of an Indian transit visa is to allow travellers from other countries to pass through Indian airports on their way to another destination. The Indian government introduced this visa category as a convenient option for travellers who do not intend to stay in the country but only have a layover or connecting flight in an Indian airport.

Without this visa, travellers would not be allowed to enter or exit an Indian airport, even if it is just for a few hours. Therefore, having an approved transit visa can save you from unwanted delays and stress during your travel.

Another important purpose of the transit visa is to ensure security measures for both the traveller and the country. By issuing these visas, authorities can keep track of all individuals entering and leaving the country’s borders. This helps maintain security protocols and prevents any potential threats.

Furthermore, an approved transit visa also proves that you have valid travel arrangements and documents required for your onward journey. It also shows that you have sufficient financial means to cover your expenses during your stay at the airport.

Document Requirements for an India Transit Visa

If you are planning to travel through India to reach your final destination, it is important to understand the document requirements for an India transit visa.

1. Valid Passport: A valid passport is the first and most important document required for an India transit visa. Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your intended entry into India. It should also have at least two blank pages for the visa stamp.
2. Completed Visa Application Form: You must fill out an online application form on our official website. The form requires personal information such as your name, address, contact details, purpose of visit, and details of your journey through India.
3. Flight Itinerary/Proof of Travel Arrangements: A flight itinerary or proof of travel arrangements is necessary to demonstrate that you will travel through India to another country. This can be in the form of confirmed flight tickets, or a letter from your airline stating that you have booked onward travel from India.
4. Two Recent Passport-Sized Photos: You will need two recent passport-sized photos with a white background and matte finish when submitting your application form online or in person at an Indian consulate/embassy.
5. Proof of Sufficient Funds: You must prove you have enough funds to cover your stay in India during transit. This could be in the form of bank statements showing sufficient balance or credit card statements with high credit limits.
6. Visa Fee Payment Receipt: Once you submit your visa application form, you will be required to pay a non-refundable fee depending on the type/duration of transit visa you are applying for. The fee can be paid online or at the Indian consulate/embassy.
7. Additional Documents: Depending on your circumstances, you may be asked to provide additional documents such as a letter of invitation from your final destination country, proof of hotel reservations in India (if staying overnight), and a copy of your valid visa for the final destination.

It is important to note that the document requirements for an India transit visa may vary depending on your nationality and purpose of travel. It is always recommended to check with the Indian embassy/consulate in your country for specific guidelines before submitting your application. With all the necessary documents, you will have a smooth and hassle-free experience obtaining an India transit visa.

Types of Transit Visas for India

If you are planning on passing through India on your way to another destination, it is important to understand the different types of transit visas available and their specific requirements.

Direct Airside Transit Visa (DATV)

The DATV is for passengers who stay in the airport’s international transit area during their layover in India. This type of visa allows you to stay in the airport for up to 24 hours before continuing your journey. It is suitable if you are connecting flights with no change in airports or airlines

To apply for a DATV, you will need a valid passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of entry into India, confirmed onward tickets, and proof of financial means.

Transit Visa

If your layover involves changing airports or airlines in India or exceeds 24 hours, then you will require a regular transit visa. This type of visa allows you to leave the airport but restricts your travel within India. You can only travel between two points and make no stops along the way.

To obtain a transit visa for India, you will need all the documents required for a DATV and an Indian address where you will be staying during your layover.

Tourist Visa

If you plan on leaving the airport and exploring some of India’s famous tourist destinations during your layover, you must apply for a tourist visa. The process and requirements for obtaining this type of visa are more extensive than those listed above.

A tourist visa allows single or multiple entries into India within its validity period (usually six months) and enables visitors to stay up to 90 days at a time. To obtain this type of visa, applicants must provide detailed information about their trip itinerary and the purpose of the visit.

Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA)

An ETA is an electronic travel authorization that allows citizens of eligible countries to enter India for tourism, business, or medical purposes. It is valid for a single entry and a maximum stay of 30 days.

Applicants must have a passport with at least six months’ validity from the date of arrival in India, confirmed return tickets, and sufficient financial means to cover their expenses during their stay.

Understanding India’s different types of transit visas is essential to ensure a smooth layover experience. Check your eligibility and carefully review all the requirements before applying for any visa. With the proper documentation, you can make the most of your transit time in India and even explore some of its beautiful destinations.

Can I visit India from any country in the world?

Yes, you can enter India from ANY country in the world into India. You need not be living in that country as a resident.

However, there is a limitation on which ports you can enter from and which ports you can exit from. Airports and Seaports are allowed for Entry into India on eVisa. While Airports, Seaports, Railway Ports and Land Ports are allowed for Exit from India on eVisa.

Frequently Asked Questions about India Transit Visa Document Requirements