India Business E-Visa for US Citizens
If you are planning to visit India for short-term professional purposes, the India Business E-Visa (e-BV) is the required entry document. For U.S. citizens, the e-BV provides the fastest and most efficient way to secure the necessary visa for your business trip.
The India e-BV serves to streamline foreign entry for professional purposes (e.g., meetings, trade fairs, seminars, training, etc.) and offers foreign businesspeople the flexibility of multiple entries over one year.
This guide provides the facts you need to know and the steps you must take to obtain your India Business E-Visa quickly and accurately.
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What is the India Business E-Visa?
The India Business E-Visa (e-BV) is an official, electronic visa category strictly intended for individuals visiting India for specific business purposes.
Do I Need an India Business E-Visa?
As a U.S. citizen, yes, you need an e-BV to enter India for any professional activities. The Business E-Visa is the mandatory document for commercial travel.
You must get an e-BV if your purpose is for short-term business activities such as:
- Attending business meetings or trade fairs.
- Establishing contacts or exploring partnerships.
- Technical, sales, or pre-investment discussions.
Note: The e-BV is not for employment, paid work, or long-term residence. Separate, non-electronic visas are required for those purposes.
e-BV Features: Validity and Stay Limits
The India Business E-Visa is granted with generous limits tailored for frequent commercial travel.
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Validity Period | 1 year (365 days) from grant date. |
| Entries | Multiple entries allowed during the validity period. |
| Maximum Stay per Visit | Up to 180 days per visit. |
| Extension | Not extendable or convertible to any other visa type. |
Important Registration Requirement
If you intend to stay in India for more than 180 days on that one-year visa, you must register with the FRRO / FRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office) within two weeks (14 days) after you cross the 180-day limit.
Applying for Your E-Visa: Direct vs. Assisted
When obtaining your India Business E-Visa, you have two main pathways. The process requires specific supporting documentation related to your business activities.
- Applying Directly (DIY): For travelers comfortable navigating the official government portal, applying directly is the most cost-effective method. You must be prepared to submit all required business documentation electronically.
- Using an Assisted Service (iVisa): For travelers who prefer a simplified process and expert review, a dedicated service is a great option. iVisa simplifies the process with a clear interface and provides an expert review of your application before it's submitted. This helps eliminate common mistakes that could lead to delays or denial. You also get 24/7 multilingual support, flexible payment options, and the ability to manage documents for hundreds of destinations worldwide.
In a hurry? Apply online to get your visa, e-visa, ETA or eVOA fast.
The Official India Business E-Visa Process: A 3-Step Guide
The e-BV application must be completed entirely online via the official government portal.
| Requirement | Details |
|---|---|
| Government Fee (U.S. Citizens): | Around $80 USD (plus an additional 2.5% bank transaction charge). |
| Processing Time (Standard): | Typically 3–5 business days. Apply at least 4 days before travel. |
| Use: | Multiple entries allowed during the validity period. |
Step 1: Get Your Information Ready
- Your valid U.S. passport (at least 6 months validity from your date of arrival and 2 blank passport pages).
- A digital photograph (recent, white background).
- Scanned copy of the passport's bio page (PDF format).
- Invitation letter from the Indian company or business partner.
- Your business card or a letterhead of your U.S. company.
- Proof of onward/return travel and sufficient funds for your stay.
Step 2: Complete the Online Application
- Access the official Indian government portal or use an accredited service like iVisa.
- Select the e-Business Visa category.
- Fill out the form with personal details. Upload all required documents, including the business-specific letters.
Step 3: Pay and Receive Your E-Visa
- Pay the non-refundable government fee (approx. $80 USD, plus bank charge). Payment must be made at least 4 days before your arrival date.
- Submit your application.
Confirmation: Once approved, you will receive the e-BV document via email. While the E-Visa is digitally attached to your US passport, you must print this document and carry it with you to present to the immigration officer upon arrival.
Beyond the E-Visa: Other India Entry Requirements
The e-BV is your official travel permit, but it does not guarantee entry. Immigration officers retain the final authority on admission.
Be prepared to show:
- Printed e-BV: A physical, printed copy of your approved e-BV (from your confirmation email).
- Passport Validity: Your passport must be valid for a minimum of 6 months beyond your date of arrival and have two blank pages.
- Return/Onward Ticket: Proof of your ticket for departure from India.
India E-Visa Entry Points
You must arrive through one of the designated 30+ airports or 5 seaports where the e-Visa system is operational. You can exit from any authorized Immigration Check Post (ICP) in India.
India Business E-Visa Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
A: No. The Business E-Visa is strictly for non-remunerative business activities (meetings, technical training, sales discussions). It is not a work permit or employment visa.
A: No. The Business E-Visa is not convertible to any other visa type. You must leave the country once your maximum stay expires.
A: You are permitted to stay in India on an e-BV for up to 180 days on any single visit. Since the visa is valid for one year and multiple entries, you may re-enter after leaving India, subject to the continuous stay rule.
A: Registration with the FRRO/FRO is only required if your continuous stay in India exceeds 180 days. You must register within 14 days of crossing that 180-day limit.
A: You must apply for an e-BV a minimum of 4 days in advance of your travel date, but since the application window is up to 120 days, it is best to apply 1–2 months before your trip.
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