With a vast cultural diversity, India is fast becoming a popular travel destination for people all over the world.
Keeping in mind the positive response it gets via tourism, the Indian government has announced a 5-years visitor visa
for various countries, including the USA.
The 5-years tourist visa is granted to foreign nationals who wish to visit India for continuous trips.
The maximum number of days the US citizens can stay in India is 180 days per visit.
However, the applicant bearing the FIVE-year visa is allowed multiple entries into India.
The maximum number of days US citizens can stay in a calendar year is 180 days.
The Indian government has further made it easy to apply for the 5-year tourist visa by providing the
facility of an e-visa for five years.
Availing of this, US nationals who wish to visit India can apply for a visa without visiting the embassy or
consulate.
So now US citizens can apply for Indian tourist visa Online from the comfort of their homes.
Indian immigration authority changed its visa policy in September 2019.
To achieve Prime Minister Narender Modi’s vision of doubling the number of tourists coming to India from the
United States, tourists minister Prlahad Singh Patel announced several changes to the Indian online visa process.
From September 2019, a long-term India e-visa is now available to tourists holding US passports who wish to
visit India multiple times in five years.
Processing Time for E Tourist visa for Five Years
There are THREE processing options available for the long-term e-tourist visa.
Select the option carefully while filling out your India tourist visa application form online.
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Normal Processing Time: The processing time of visas under this option is 3 to 5 working days from the date of application.
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Urgent Processing Time: The processing of Visas under this option is 1 to 3 business days with an additional fee.
Some Vital Points to be Noted
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A maximum of 90 days of continuous stay is allowed during each visit to foreign citizens holding a 5-year
tourist visa except for the citizens of the UK, USA, Canada, and Japan.
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For the citizens of the USA, UK, Canada, and Japan, the maximum number of days they can stay in
India shall not be more than 180 days.
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The validity of the visa is accountable from the issuing date and not from the day the applicant enters
India.
5-Year Indian Tourist Visa For US Citizens Allows Multiple Entries
If you are willing to get an Indian Tourist visa valid for FIVE years, an Indian E-Tourist-Visa for five years
with multiple entries is the way to go.
This visa category was initiated in September 2019 and is valid for FIVE years from the issue date.
However, US citizens will not be allowed to stay in India for more than 180 days during each visit.
It is a 5-year-long travel visa and not a FIVE-year stay visa. Overstaying in India during a trip can result
in hefty fines from the Indian government.
But realistically, this visa allows US citizens to enter India multiple times if they
apply for Indian tourist visa for five years.
Documents Needed To Apply For Indian Tourist Visa Online:
The following documents will be required for FIVE years of Indian Tourist visa Application.
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Photograph: Applicant photograph, passport sized colored with white background less than 3 MB in size, must be in PDF, PNG, or JPG file format.
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Scanned Passport Copy: Scanned copy of the passport’s first page. And make sure it is valid for at least six months, and ensure it has at least two blank pages to meet immigration requirements.
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Email ID: A valid email ID of the applicant
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Fee: Debit or credit cards to pay the visa fee.
Click here to learn about Indian e-Visa Documents Requirements.
Activities Permitted Under 5-Year Indian Tourist Visa For US Citizens
Indian tourist visa for US citizens is granted to those who intend to travel to India for one or more of the following reasons:
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For recreation or sightseeing
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Visiting family, relatives, or friends
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Trips to attend camps life like – a short-term yoga program
Read more about Tourist e-Visa for India
Top Places Of Interest For US Citizens In India
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Taj Mahal - The Taj Mahal, an unparalleled symbol of love and devotion, requires no introduction. Agra, home to numerous historical monuments from the Mughal era, is steeped in heritage and culture.
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Ladakh - Renowned for its extraordinary beauty and rich culture, Ladakh, situated in Jammu and Kashmir, enjoys delightful weather, and is adorned with ancient Buddhist monasteries.
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Sikkim - Positioned at the foothills of the Himalayas, Sikkim, one of the smaller and less populated Indian states, is surrounded by breathtaking mountains and reflects a blend of Buddhist and Tibetan cultures.
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Kerala - Boasting beautiful beaches, natural spas, and Ayurveda resorts, Kerala is a must-visit destination for U.S. citizens, perfect for both couples and family vacations.
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Andaman and Nicobar Islands - This tourist destination captivates with breathtaking beaches, delectable seafood, engaging water sports, thrilling elephant safaris, and the unique experience of sea walking.
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Tea Plantations in Darjeeling - Renowned worldwide for its tea and the Darjeeling Himalayan railway, the Happy Valley Tea Estate stands out as another popular tourist attraction, offering the unforgettable flavor and aroma of magical Darjeeling tea.
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Forts and Palaces of Jaipur - Jaipur, renowned for its historical monuments, boasts multiple palaces and forts, including the City Palace, Jantar Mantar observatory, Ajmer and Jaigarh forts—a UNESCO World Heritage site—along with the famed Laxmi Narayan Temple.
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A Spiritual Hub Rishikesh - Nestled at the foothills of the Himalayas, Rishikesh provides an ideal setting for a spiritual experience with its numerous ashrams and temples. The city is also known for yoga camps, particularly popular among Americans. The Maharishi Mahesh Yogi Ashram holds significant historical value, as it was visited by the Beatles in the 1960s.
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Goa: Famous for its pristine beaches, laid-back lifestyle, hippie vibes, and vibrant parties, Goa stands among the top holiday destinations in India. Frequented by U.S. citizens year-round, especially in the pleasant winter weather, the region comes alive during Christmas and New Year celebrations. Seasoned tourists may also explore Goa in the summer for a more economical and peaceful holiday, as the sun-kissed beaches, flea markets, and other attractions are less crowded.
