India Visa Comparison
India eVisa vs Regular Visa - Which One to Choose
The India e-Visa is an online authorisation for short tourism, business or medical trips by eligible nationalities; a regular (sticker) visa is a physical visa affixed in your passport by an embassy or visa application centre for longer stays, work, study or non-eligible nationalities. Choose the e-Visa for speed and simplicity; choose a sticker visa when the e-Visa cannot cover your purpose or nationality.
Side-by-side comparison
| Aspect | India e-Visa | Regular (sticker) Visa |
|---|---|---|
| Application | 100% online at indianvisaonline.gov.in | In-person at embassy, consulate or visa application centre |
| Processing | 72 hours to 4 business days | 5 to 15 working days |
| Eligibility | 170+ listed nationalities | All nationalities |
| Validity | 30 days, 1 year or 5 years (tourist); 1 year (business); 60 days (medical) | Varies - up to 10 years for some long-term visas |
| Purpose | Tourism, business, medical, conference | Any purpose incl. employment, study, journalism, research |
| Entry | Double (30-day) or multiple | Per the visa granted |
Verdict
Use the e-Visa for short leisure, business-meeting or medical trips if your nationality is eligible. Use a sticker visa for employment, study, long stays, journalism or if your nationality is not on the e-Visa list.
Frequently asked questions
Is the e-Visa cheaper than the regular visa?
For many nationalities the e-Tourist is cheaper and faster; sticker visa fees vary bilaterally and add the visa application centre service charges.
Can I convert an e-Visa to a sticker visa in India?
No. You must leave India and apply for the appropriate visa from your country.
Is the e-Visa accepted at all Indian airports?
Yes, at the 30+ designated e-Visa airports and seaports.