Which India eVisa duration is right for your trip?
If you are applying for an e-Tourist visa on a British citizen passport, the choice is usually between 30 days, one year and five years. First make sure that tourism is the correct category for your plans. For business, work, medical treatment or another purpose, use the relevant India eVisa category or regular visa route. Valid OCI or e-OCI holders should travel with that status and the passport they will use, rather than applying for an eVisa.
| Key detail | 30-day e-Tourist | 1-year e-Tourist | 5-year e-Tourist |
|---|---|---|---|
| Valid from | First arrival | ETA grant date | ETA grant date |
| Valid for | 30 days | 365 days | 5 years |
| Entries | Multiple | Multiple Up to 180 days per calendar year | Multiple Up to 180 days per calendar year |
In practical terms: choose the 30-day option for one short trip, the 1-year option if you may return within the next 12 months, and the 5-year option for regular travel over several years. The published conditions on your approved ETA always take priority.
How India eVisa validity dates work
The duration options follow two different validity patterns. A 30-day e-Tourist visa is activated by your first arrival in India. Its ETA issue date confirms that you may travel, but it does not begin the 30-day stay. The 1-year and 5-year e-Tourist visas instead run from the date the ETA is granted, so that grant date begins their 365-day or five-year validity period.
Illustrative 30-day India e-Tourist visa ETA. Check the dates and conditions on your own approved ETA.
On a 30-day ETA, read these fields separately:
- ETA issue date. This confirms that the authority has granted the ETA. It does not start the 30-day stay.
- First entry must be on or before. This is the latest date by which you must make your first arrival in India.
- Permitted Duration of Stay. The 30-day period begins on your first arrival. Confirm the conditions on your ETA and the entry stamp issued on arrival.
For the 1-year and 5-year options: check the ETA grant date and expiry date together. The validity period begins when the ETA is granted, not on first arrival. The approved ETA and the entry decision remain the authority for the conditions of your individual journey.
When can you apply for an India eVisa?
Official India eVisa guidance says eligible travellers can apply for these e-Tourist visa options up to 120 days before their intended arrival and at least four days before travel. This is the application window, not a promise that an ETA will be granted by a particular date. Allow time to check your passport scan, photograph and form before you submit.
Apply for an India eVisa through the official portal
You can apply directly through the official India eVisa portal. The Indian authorities decide whether to grant an eVisa and publish the country-specific government fees.
If you would like help preparing documents, completing the form and planning your application timing, you can apply through 1A Visas. To decide which approach suits you, read our comparison of the official portal and optional assistance services.
Frequently asked questions about India eVisa duration
Do I need an eVisa if I hold OCI or e-OCI status?
No. Use your valid OCI or e-OCI status with the passport you will travel on. You should not submit a second eVisa application for the same journey.
Can I use a tourist eVisa for business?
No. Choose the category that matches the real purpose of your visit. Read the India eVisa guidance for British travellers before applying if you are unsure which category applies.
Where can I check the fee for my e-Tourist visa?
eVisa fees are country-specific and can change. Check the official India eVisa guidance and fee information before you apply.
Related India travel guidance
- India eVisa guidance for British travellers
- Official India eVisa portal and optional assistance services
- India visa, OCI and e-Arrival Card guidance for travellers from the UK
Sources
FCDO India entry requirements; India Visa Online eVisa guidance.
1A Visas is a private service provider, not a government body, embassy or consulate. Always follow the official rules in force for your journey.
| Written by1A Visas Content Editorial Team | Reviewed by1A India Visa Team | Last updated28 October 2026 |