BorderProofBorderProof
ExploreCompareCountriesJobsUS onlyInsightsOur MissionFind A Visa Sign In
ExploreCompareCountriesJobsUS onlyInsightsOur Mission
Sign InFind A Visa
BorderProof

Discover the world's visas in one place.

Platform

  • Browse Visas
  • Match Finder
  • Compare Options
  • Global Insights
  • Our Mission
  • Contact Us

Legal

  • Privacy Policy
  • Terms of Service
  • Not Legal Advice
© 2026 BorderProof™. All rights reserved. Images by Unsplash/Picsum.
Entry Visa
VisasIndiaEntry Visa
IndiaIndia•Asia
Open

Entry Visa

Work Dependents Allowed

At a Glance

Processing Time

Varies

Estimated Cost

$100 USD

Varies by filing options

Stay Duration

Up to 5 years

Renewable

Renewal

Renewable

Family

Dependents allowed

PR Pathway

None

Sponsor

No job offer needed

Work

Remote not required

Apply Now Official Information

Overview

Long-term visa for people of Indian origin (PIO) and foreign nationals of Indian descent. Preferred option for those with Indian heritage over tourist visa.

The Entry Visa is a long-term visa category specifically tailored for people of Indian origin (PIO) and foreign nationals who have established connections to India but do not fall under other specific visa categories like employment or business. This visa is frequently utilized by individuals who wish to visit India for extended periods for social, personal, or family reasons. It provides a flexible framework for those who maintain strong personal ties to the country, allowing for longer durations of stay compared to standard tourist visas, provided the applicant meets the necessary criteria and documentation requirements set by the Indian government.

To be qualifying for an Entry Visa, applicants must provide clear evidence of their Indian origin or their specific connection to India, such as documentation of previous Indian citizenship, birth certificates, or proof of relationship to an Indian national or OCI cardholder. The application process involves demonstrating the purpose of the visit and, in some cases, meeting financial thresholds or providing an undertaking regarding the stay. Because this visa is intended for long-term visits, holders may be required to register with the Foreigners Regional Registration Officer (FRRO) if their stay exceeds six months, ensuring that their presence in the country remains compliant with local immigration regulations.

Conversion Paths

Visas you can typically switch to from this status.

Employment Visa
India flagIndia

Employment Visa

ValidityUp to 5 years
Processing15 business days
View Visa Details

Requirements

PUBLISHED REQUIREMENTS

Intended for persons of Indian origin (PIO) or foreign nationals with specific connections to India (e.g., joining an ashram, missionary work, or family visits).

Not for tourism or general business purposes.

Passport must have at least 6 months validity.

Must provide proof of the specific purpose of the visit.

REQUIRED DOCUMENTS

Duly filled and signed online visa application form.

Original passport with at least 6 months validity and 2 blank pages.

Recent passport-size color photographs.

Documentary evidence for the purpose of entry (e.g., invitation from an approved organization, proof of Indian origin).

Copy of passport bio-page.

Proof of residence.

Advantages & Considerations

Key Benefits

  • Allows for long-term stays in India for specific non-tourist purposes.
  • Suitable for individuals who do not qualify for or do not wish to apply for an OCI card.
  • Flexible for various categories like missionaries, volunteers, and family members.

Worth Knowing

  • Strictly limited to the purpose for which it was granted.
  • Does not permit employment unless specifically authorized.
  • Requires registration with the FRRO/FRO if staying for more than 180 days.
  • Documentation requirements are highly specific to the category of entry.

Application Process

1

Apply at embassy: Submit Entry visa application showing Indian origin

2

Provide heritage documentation: Submit documents proving Indian ancestry

3

Character certificate: Provide police clearance or reference

4

Visa interview: Attend visa interview at embassy

5

Receive Entry visa: Obtain multi-entry visa valid for years

Application Forms

Go to application portal
Entry Visa Application Form—
Apply Now Official Information

Ready to see if the Entry Visa is your visa path?

Discover how your answers compare with the published requirements. 2 minutes. Free trial.

Start Visa Discovery