India Visa · Quick Answer
How Early Should I Apply for an India Visa?
Apply for the India e-Visa at least 7 days before travel — the official processing window is 72 hours to 4 business days, and a rejected upload restarts the clock. For sticker visas, apply 3 to 4 weeks ahead because embassy or visa application centre processing and document verification take longer. Early application gives you a buffer to fix any issue.
- Processing time
- e-Visa: 72 hours to 4 business days; sticker: 5 to 15 working days
- Cost
- Same as the visa type
- Validity
- Per visa
- Eligibility
- All applicants
- How to apply
- Apply early via portal or visa application centre
Recommended lead times
- e-Visa: apply 7+ days before departure.
- Sticker tourist visa: 3 to 4 weeks via visa application centre or embassy.
- Business or long-term sticker: 4+ weeks with document verification.
- Emergency travel: contact the nearest Indian mission immediately.
Frequently asked questions
Can I apply for an India e-Visa months in advance?
Yes — the e-Visa is valid for 120 days from issue to enter, so apply up to 4 months ahead.
What if I apply too late and it is not issued in time?
You cannot travel without the issued visa; apply early to avoid this.