Indian e-Visa Available for Visitors from 172 Nations

India has expanded its e‑Visa programme to cover nationals from 172 countries, enabling easier entry for tourism, business, medical treatment, study, conferences, and other purposes. The facility is valid at 32 designated international airports and six major seaports, the Lok Sabha was informed on Tuesday.

Minister of State for Home Affairs Bandi Sanjay Kumar said the scheme now offers 13 sub‑categories, including e‑Tourist, e‑Business, e‑Medical, e‑Student, e‑Ayush, conference, film, and mountaineering visas. All applications are processed online through the Electronic Travel Authorization system.

The government first introduced e‑Visas in November 2014 for 43 countries and has steadily expanded the programme, with the latest additions including Bahrain, Kuwait, and Mauritania.

To boost inbound tourism, India also offers a 30‑day, double‑entry e‑Tourist Visa for US $25, with an off‑season rate of US $10 from April to June. Officials say visa policy decisions are based on security considerations, reciprocity with other nations, and the potential to attract tourists, investors, and skilled professionals.

The broadened coverage is part of India’s push to enhance global connectivity, streamline entry procedures, and strengthen its position as a competitive destination for travel, trade, and cultural exchange.