The Top 5 Documents Required for an Indian Visa

Young woman tourist walking on the Great Market square during the morning in Antwerpen, Belgium

Introduction

Applications for an Indian visa must adhere to the specific photo and document requirements issued from the Indian government. Knowing and following the guidelines set out by The High Commission of India and its associated missions is critical in avoiding applications being delayed, or even denied. Before submitting any application, an applicant should ensure that a recent, passport-style photograph is included, taken within the past six months. This should be a clear image of the applicant’s face from the front, with a light beige, cream, or white background. Plain glasses, without tinted or dark glasses, must be worn in the photo, with no other accessories.

What kind of visa do you need to enter India?

The photograph should be printed on matt or glossy paper and should measure two inches in square dimensions or 50 mm x 50 mm. The head should take up 70-80% of the photograph, with the chin positioned at the bottom third. The photograph must show a clear facial outline with eyes alert and mouth closed. The facial expression should appear natural, with no signs of distress. In addition to the photograph, the Indian government requires that several documents be accompanied with visa applications. An Original copy of a birth certificate is needed, as well as the latest copy of a passport, which must remain valid for at least a period of six months from the date of travel. If there is an extension available then this must be included as well. INDIAN VISA PHOTO REQUIREMENTS

Documentation for all dependents must also be included, such as the ID and marriage certificate of the legal guardian. If this is a child, a copy of the child’s passport, birth certificate, and parental authorization documents must also be included. Travel itinerary details for the visit must be provided. Alongside this, current employment documents and proof of address may be necessary as part of the application. It is also important to provide evidence of sponsors in the destination or residence of the applicant.

What are the required documents for an Indian visa application?

In relation to students, applicants must provide a valid student ID, their student visa or residence permit, and a letter of admission or diploma, where applicable. Additionally, an Indian bank account statement may also need to be included in student applications. Failure to provide these documents correctly may cause a delay or rejection in the visa application. It is important therefore to ensure that all documents are included, thanks to the specific visa requirements of the Indian government. INDIAN VISA DOCUMENT REQUIREMENTS

When traveling to India, it is important to be aware of the variety of documents and photos that are necessary to obtain your visa. All travelers seeking entry must provide printed copies of properly sized documents as well as passport-style photos. While there may be some minor variations depending on the type of visa being obtained and individual embassies, the general requirements are outlined below.

 What is the size and format of the photograph required for the Indian visa application?

First, when obtaining a visa to India all passengers must furnish two properly sized and equally sized copies of both a valid passport photo and a visa application form. The passport photos must be recent—ideally within the past 6 months – and appropriately sized to match the requirements of the Indian Embassy. This usually means a picture 2”x 2” with a white or off-white background taken from a front-facing angle. The visa application form must include all the required details, such as full name, birthdate, the purpose of the visit, and length of stay.

In addition to the passport photos and visa application form, the Indian Embassy also requires proof of travel. This can come in the form of confirmed air tickets, a round-trip itinerary, or a signed letter from the travel agency outlining all flight information. Any accompanying minors must also be provided with a duly filled visa application form and passport photo. Additionally, copies of birth certificates or documents proving the identity and relationship of both the parent and child must also be presented.

What to do if you don’t have your original Indian passport

Other important considerations are the documents that are required concerning the nature of the visit. If a traveler is attending a conference, obtaining medical assistance, or attending any other type of event, then written proof from the relevant institutions must be included. All letters must mention the dates of the events or medical assistance, the contact information of the issuing authority, and a signature from their representative. It is also advisable to carry additional documents such as a notarized letter of invitation and proof of finances, either in the form of a bank statement or personal funds. Documents proving any previously issued visas, especially for visiting countries other than India, are also typically requested.

Conclusion

India can be a wonderful destination to explore and take in the sites, and it is important to know all of the visa requirements to make sure that your trip is uninterrupted. With the right paperwork and the right photos, that journey will be a successful one.