India Expands E-Visa Program to Include Transit, Mountaineering, Film, and Entry Categories

Indian Government Broadens E-Visa Scope

The Indian government has announced a significant expansion of its electronic visa (e-visa) program, introducing new categories for transit, mountaineering, film, and entry purposes. This initiative, effective as of November 21, 2025, aims to further liberalize and streamline the visa regime, facilitating easier access for a wider range of international visitors. The e-visa system now encompasses 13 distinct sub-categories, available to nationals from 172 countries.

New E-Visa Categories Detailed

The newly introduced e-visa types cater to specific travel needs:

• e-Transit Visa: Designed for individuals passing through India en route to another destination, this visa requires a confirmed onward journey ticket. It permits two entries into India and is valid for 30 days from the date of Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) issuance.
• e-Mountaineering Visa: This single-entry visa is for foreign nationals undertaking mountaineering expeditions. Applicants must first secure clearance from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation. It grants stays of up to six months from the ETA's issue date.
• e-Film Visa: Aimed at boosting film production in India, this multiple-entry visa requires prior clearance from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting. It allows stays of up to one year from the ETA's issue date.
• e-Entry Visa: This multiple-entry visa is intended for persons of Indian origin, spouses of Indian nationals, or spouses and children of foreign nationals holding specific types of visas. It is valid for three months from the date of first entry into India.

Streamlined Application Process and Benefits

The application process for these new e-visa categories remains entirely online for eligible individuals, requiring an approved Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA). Upon arrival in India, foreign nationals will complete biometric procedures and have the e-visa stamped in their passports. The processing time for e-visa applications is anticipated to range between 24 and 78 hours, aligning with other existing electronic visa categories.

This expansion is part of the Indian government's ongoing commitment to enhance immigration processes and promote various sectors, including tourism, adventure sports, and the film industry. The e-visa facility allows entry through 32 designated international airports and six major seaports across the country.