The Indian Government has quietly revised and raised the fees of some of its electronic visas (e-Visa), even as it makes travel a little easier in other ways.
The decision to increase fees for some e-Visas comes just weeks after the authorities extended the entry window for the 30-day e-Tourist Visa. Travellers now have 120 days to enter India instead of the earlier limit. That move was clearly meant to make trip planning more flexible.
At the same time, India has raised visa fees for longer stays and business travel. While short trips are easier to plan, longer or work-related visits are becoming more expensive.
India eVisa Fees Changes
The biggest change affects the one-year e-Business Visa. The standard fee has gone up from US$80 to US$120. That alone is a noticeable jump. For many travellers, the increase is even steeper.
Depending on nationality, applicants now pay different amounts:
| Country | One-Year e-Business Visa Fee (USD) |
|---|---|
| New Zealand | US$130 |
| Ukraine | US$130 |
| United States | US$140 |
| Poland | US$145 |
| France | US$165 |
| Czech Republic | US$190 |
| Thailand | US$200 |
| Australia | US$215 |
| Saudi Arabia | US$215 |
| Philippines | US$220 |
| Ecuador | US$240 |
| United Kingdom | US$242 |
| United Arab Emirates | US$415 |
These differences are not random. India follows a country-by-country pricing system, often based on reciprocity or existing agreements. In simple terms, visa fees can reflect the amount that Indian citizens pay to enter those countries.
Five-Year e-Tourist Visa Also Sees a Big Hike
The five-year e-Tourist Visa has also become more expensive. Its standard fee has jumped from US$80 to US$200. For frequent travellers, this changes the maths completely.
Some travellers face much higher costs. Citizens of the United Kingdom and related territories such as Jersey, Guernsey, and the Isle of Man now pay US$484 for the same visa.
For long-term visitors who rely on this option, the increase is hard to miss.
Which Indian e-Visa Fees Stay the Same
It is important to mention that not all visa categories are affected. Several popular options remain unchanged, which will be a relief for many travellers.
No fee changes apply to:
- 30-day e-Tourist Visa
- 1-year e-Tourist Visa
- e-Conference Visa
- e-Medical Visa and e-Medical Attendant e-Visa
- e-Ayush Visa and e-Ayush Attendant e-Visa
For short trips, medical visits, or conferences, costs remain exactly as before.
Four New e-Visa Categories
In addition to the increased e-visa fees for some categories, India recently announced four new categories for e-visa applicants. This makes it easier for more types of travellers to visit the country without the hassle of consulate paperwork. The new e-visa categories include:
- Entry
- Transit
- Mountaineering
- Film
What This Means for Travellers
India’s message is mixed but clear.
Short-term tourism is being encouraged with more flexible entry rules. Longer stays and business travel now come at a higher price, especially for certain nationalities.
If you are planning a business trip or a long-term visit, it is worth checking the latest e-Visa fee before applying. The difference could be significant, and budgeting early will save surprises later.
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