➡ 2024 UPDATE
As of 2024, India offers three types of e-Visas for international visitors: the tourist visa, business visa, and medical visa. India remains a top destination for digital nomads due to its affordable cost of living and rich cultural experiences. The introduction of the e-Tourist visa, which allows for extended stays compared to the conventional tourist visa, enables visitors and nomads to immerse themselves fully in India’s vibrant lifestyle, savoring its exquisite cuisine and exploring its stunning architectural wonders.
Nomad Visa India 2024
The Indian eVisa represents a streamlined, online method for obtaining travel authorization to India. This electronic visa system allows applicants to quickly secure their travel documents by filling out a digital form with their personal details and passport information. This simplified process not only expedites the visa acquisition but also enhances the accessibility of visiting India.
The eVisa, while not specifically a “digital nomad visa,” facilitates remote work within India. It’s crucial to note that the e-tourist visa comes in one-year and five-year options. Holders of this visa can stay in India for up to 90 days in a single visit, or up to 180 days for US and Japanese nationals. After reaching these limits, travelers must exit the country and may re-enter for another similar period.
This visa allows for multiple entries during its validity period, and travelers are required to carry proof of onward or return travel each time they enter India to ensure compliance with the duration of stay rules.
Eligibility for the Indian Digital Nomad Visa
Not everyone can apply for this visa due to temporary restrictions affecting certain countries, including Canada, China, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Iran, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Macau, Malaysia, Qatar, Saudi Arabia, Sri Lanka, Tajikistan, the United Kingdom, and Uzbekistan. If you are not from these restricted nations, you are eligible to apply for the e-Tourist visa. Moreover, a longer ten-year visa is available exclusively to US and Japanese citizens.
Application Process for the Indian Digital Nomad Visa
The application is straightforward:
- Choose between a one-year or five-year multiple entry visa.
- Complete the online application.
- Pay the visa fee.
- Receive your Electronic Travel Authorization via email, print it, and present it upon arrival at an Immigration Check Post in India.
For any inquiries during the application process, the official eVisa website offers a comprehensive FAQ section.
Required Documents
- Full name as in passport
- Date and place of birth
- Contact details and address
- Passport information
- Nationality
- Marital status
- Profession
- Travel itinerary within India
- Expected port of entry
- Religion (if applicable)
- Educational qualifications
Cost of the India Digital Nomad Visa
The fees vary by country, ranging from around $50 for most countries to about $80 for nationals from the USA, Russia, and Ukraine. The cost is significantly lower for a single-entry, 30-day visa compared to a multiple-entry, 5-year visa. A detailed fee chart is available on the visa application portal.
Timeline
The visa application process is notably quick due to its electronic nature, typically taking just three business days. Applicants should apply at least four days before their intended arrival in India but can submit their applications up to 120 days in advance.
India for digital nomads
This visa is highly beneficial for digital nomads who prefer flexibility and minimal planning. Once the decision is made to travel to India, the entire process can be completed swiftly, allowing travelers to embark on their Indian adventure promptly. Whether you’re drawn to the tech hubs of Bangalore, the tranquil beaches of Goa, or the spiritual pathways of Rishikesh, the e-tourist visa facilitates an enriching and seamless experience of living and working in India. However, the requirement to leave periodically offers an opportunity to refresh and plan subsequent visits.