India Visa · Quick Answer
Can I Get an India Visa for a Conference Without an Invitation?
No. The e-Conference and e-Business visas for formal conferences require an invitation from the organising Indian institution and, where applicable, event approval. Without an invitation, use a tourist e-Visa only if your visit is genuinely tourism — not to attend a formal conference.
- Processing time
- 72 hours to 4 business days (with invitation)
- Cost
- Per visa
- Validity
- 30 days (e-Conference)
- Eligibility
- Delegates with an invitation
- How to apply
- e-Visa portal with invitation
Request the invitation letter from the organiser early — it is mandatory for the e-Conference visa. The e-Business visa is an alternative if you also have business meetings.
Frequently asked questions
Can I attend a conference on a tourist visa without an invitation?
Formal conferences should use an e-Conference or e-Business visa with an invitation; a tourist visa is not appropriate.
What if the invitation arrives late?
Wait for it before applying — the e-Conference visa requires the invitation letter.