If you’re an Indian citizen travelling to countries in the European Union (EU), Schengen Area, and Australia, you’ll need to apply for a visa in advance. Here are the latest changes to Indian eVisas that you need to know about.
What are the latest changes to the Indian eVisa?
As of July 1, 2018, all Indian nationals need a visa to visit the United States. The new visa requirements are specific to India and will not apply to other countries in the Visa Waiver Program (VWP). Indian nationals who currently hold an e-visa or an electronic travel authorization (ETA) will need to apply for a U.S. visa if they want to travel to the U.S. after July 1, 2018. Indian eVisa Airport and Seaports for Entry
Indian nationals who currently hold an e-visa or ETA will need to apply for a U.S. visa if they want to travel to the U.S. after July 1, 2018
The most common type of visa that Indian nationals need is a B1/B2 tourist visa . A B1/B2 tourist visa allows individuals visiting the United States for tourism or business purposes only . Other types of visas that may be required by Indian nationals include visas for work or study in the United States .
E-visas and ETA holders will be able to continue using them until their validity expires , but they must now apply for a U.S. visa if they want to travel after their validity expires
U.S visas cannot be issued online
Applicants should plan ahead and contact the nearest U.S consular office as soon as possible if they have any questions about their eligibility for a U.S visa
For more information about how these changes affect you, Indian eVisa ports allowed for exit
Are Indian eVisa holders affected by the latest changes?
Indian nationals are no longer required to obtain a visa prior to travelling to the United States. However, certain requirements still apply, including that Indian nationals must have a return or onward ticket and present a passport valid for at least six months beyond the date of the intended departure from the United States. Additionally, Indian nationals must be in possession of a visa application form and two passport-style photographs.
The new rules do not affect holders of eVisas. EVisas are now valid for up to 90 days and can be used at any port of entry into the United States, including land and sea ports.
How do I know if I am an Indian eVisa holder?
If you are an Indian citizen and hold a valid Indian eVisa, you are good to go for travel to the United States. If you are traveling as a visitor, your visa should be valid for up to six months from the date of issue. If you are traveling on an employment visa, your visa should be valid for up to one year from the date of issue. You may need to show proof of your Indian citizenship and eVisa when you arrive in the U.S., such as your passport or entry stamp. However, if you have been living in the U.S. for more than six months without having visited India, then you do not need to show proof of your Indian citizenship and eVisa when you arrive in the U.S., but instead will need to provide documentation showing that you have been authorized to live in the U.S. under a specific visa type (e.g., student or tourist).
What are my options if I am an Indian eVisa holder and am not allowed to enter or exit my country?
If you are an Indian eVisa holder and are not allowed to enter or exit your country, there are a few things you can do. First, make sure that the visa is still valid. Indian visas have a validity of six months, so if you have been prevented from leaving your country within the past six months, your visa may still be valid. If your visa is still valid, you can contact the embassy or consulate of your country in India to ask for help. The embassy or consulate can help you get a new visa or find out more about the restrictions on leaving your country. If you cannot get a new visa or if the embassy or consulate does not want to help you, then you may have to leave India. You may be able to stay in India for a short period of time before being forced to leave the country.