I was just wondering - how long can one stay on just a 'normal' visit? I am not going to India to work or be a student. I would like to visit a friend for an extended period of time. In most other countries, you are allowed to stay for up to 3 months. Is that also the case for India?
That's actually quite generous! I have travelled to Germany recently, and you are only allowed to stay up to 3 months within a 6 month period.
So Americans can get a 10 year visa but still only stay for six months maximum each visit? I'm not sure I understand how that works. Why wouldn't ten years actually mean ten years?
That's a very good question. I think they do that because it would be irritating to have to get a new visa every time you want to travel, so they give you 10 years off the bat. But you can only stay for a limited time each visit.
I'm also an American interested in an extended stay. This information isnteresting, but confusing as well. I wonder about the requirements for a longer visa period. Just paperwork, a fee, proof of funds? I'm also wondering about the logistics of resetting your six months - how long do you have to stay outside India before re-entering? Cheers, Melanie
Every country has their own immigration rules and this particular rule the one which most of the countries around the world follow. They grant a 5 or 10 year visa but one has to leave the country before he completes 3 months. He/ she doesnot have any restriction about re-entering the country with in the validity of the visa. Same rule does apply for the Indians visiting the United States with a visit(B1/B2) visa. They convenience of such type of visa is that it is multiple entry visa and you donot have to keep reapplying if you plan to visit a certain country over and over again.
You've got it! For casual tourists like yourself, visas to India offer stays comparable to other countries, with options for extended visits: e-Visa (Tourist): This electronic visa is ideal for shorter extended stays, allowing up to 60 days in India. Apply online beforehand for a smooth process [refer to Indian government websites or travel advisories for application details]. Regular Tourist Visa: For longer visits with your friend, a regular tourist visa grants a stay of up to 180 days (6 months). Apply through an Indian embassy or consulate in your home country. Remember, these are the most common options. It's always wise to double-check the latest visa information with the Indian government or embassy closest to you to ensure you have the most up-to-date details.