India Visa · Quick Answer
Why Was My Indian Visa Rejected?
Indian visas are usually rejected for a non-compliant photo, a passport under 6 months validity, a name mismatch between the form and passport, an unclear bio-page scan, the wrong visa category, or an adverse background check. The refusal note or portal status explains the cause; most refusals are fixable by correcting the issue and reapplying.
- Processing time
- Reapplication follows normal timelines
- Cost
- Fee is non-refundable on refusal
- Validity
- n/a
- Eligibility
- All applicants
- How to apply
- Reapply on portal or visa application centre
Most common rejection causes
- Photo with a coloured or patterned background, or wrong file size.
- Passport valid less than 6 months from arrival.
- Name on the form does not match the passport exactly.
- Bio page scan blurred, sideways, or over 300 KB.
- Wrong category - e.g., e-Tourist for business meetings.
Frequently asked questions
Can I reapply after an India visa refusal?
Yes - after correcting the cause. The earlier fee is not refunded.
Is a refusal permanent?
No. Most refusals are fixed with corrected documents and the right category.
How do I find out why I was refused?
Check the status message on the e-Visa portal or the refusal note from the embassy or visa application centre.