New Delhi Entry Requirements

Visa, immigration, and customs information

New Delhi, the capital of India, welcomes millions of international visitors each year through Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL), one of South Asia's busiest aviation hubs. Entry requirements for India are standardized at the national level, meaning the same visa and immigration policies apply whether you're arriving in New Delhi, Mumbai, or any other port of entry. Most foreign nationals require a visa to enter India, though the country has significantly expanded its e-Visa program in recent years to facilitate tourism and business travel. The immigration process in New Delhi is generally straightforward but can involve queues during peak travel times. Travelers should ensure all documentation is in order before departure, as Indian immigration authorities are thorough in their checks. This includes having a valid visa (or e-Visa), a passport with at least six months validity beyond your intended stay, proof of onward/return travel, and sufficient funds for your visit. First-time visitors should be prepared for biometric data collection including fingerprints and photographs at immigration. India's visa policy varies significantly by nationality, with citizens of most countries able to apply for an e-Visa online before travel, while some nationalities must obtain a traditional visa from an Indian embassy or consulate. The e-Visa system has made visiting India considerably easier, offering tourist, business, medical, and conference visas with varying validity periods. It's essential to apply for the correct visa type based on your purpose of visit, as working on a tourist visa or overstaying your permitted duration can result in fines, deportation, and future entry bans.

Visa Requirements

Entry permissions vary by nationality. Find your category below.

India does not offer visa-free entry to foreign nationals, with very limited exceptions. Nearly all visitors to New Delhi must obtain either an e-Visa before arrival or a traditional visa from an Indian mission abroad. The e-Visa program covers citizens of over 160 countries for tourism, business, medical treatment, and conference attendance.

Visa-Free Entry

No specified limit for Nepalese and Bhutanese nationals

India offers extremely limited visa-free access. Only citizens of Nepal and Bhutan can enter India without a visa.

Includes

Nepal Bhutan

Maldivian citizens previously had visa-free access but now require visas. All other nationalities must obtain a visa before travel.

Electronic Travel Authorization (e-Visa)

Tourist e-Visa: 30 days (double entry), 1 year (multiple entry), or 5 years (multiple entry). Business e-Visa: up to 180 days. Medical e-Visa: 60 days (triple entry)

Citizens of over 160 countries can apply for an e-Visa online before traveling to India. This covers tourist, business, medical, medical attendant, and conference purposes.

Includes

United States United Kingdom Canada Australia New Zealand Germany France Italy Spain Netherlands Belgium Switzerland Austria Sweden Norway Denmark Finland Ireland Japan South Korea Singapore Malaysia Thailand Indonesia Philippines Brazil Argentina Mexico South Africa UAE Israel and over 140 other countries

How to Apply: Apply online at https://indianvisaonline.gov.in at least 4 days before travel (recommended 1-2 weeks in advance). Upload required documents including passport photo page, recent photograph, and supporting documents. Most applications processed within 72 hours. Print the e-Visa approval and present upon arrival.
Cost: Varies by nationality and visa type. US citizens: Tourist e-Visa approximately $80-100 USD. UK citizens: approximately $100-120 USD. Other nationalities range from $10-100 USD depending on reciprocity arrangements. Payment by credit/debit card online.

e-Visa holders can enter through 28 designated airports (including Delhi) and 5 seaports. Must have return ticket, sufficient funds, and passport valid for 6 months from date of arrival. Some nationalities (Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Iraq, Sudan, and others) are not eligible for e-Visa and must apply for regular visa. e-Visa cannot be extended or converted to another visa type.

Visa Required (Traditional/Regular Visa)

Varies by visa type: Tourist visas typically 6 months to 10 years with varying stay limits; Business visas up to 5 years; Employment visas tied to contract duration; Student visas for course duration

Nationals not eligible for e-Visa, or those requiring longer stays, employment, study, or other purposes must apply for a regular visa at an Indian embassy, consulate, or authorized visa application center.

How to Apply: Apply through Indian embassy/consulate or authorized Visa Application Centers (VFS Global or BLS International in most countries). Submit application form, passport, photographs, supporting documents, and fees. Processing typically takes 3-7 business days but can be longer. Some nationalities require security clearance which extends processing time significantly.

Nationals of Pakistan, Afghanistan, China, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, and several other countries must apply for regular visas and cannot use e-Visa. Prior registration requirement applies to nationals of certain countries. All visa types require passport validity of at least 6 months beyond intended stay. Journalist visas require special approval and must be obtained before arrival.

Arrival Process

Upon arrival at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi, international passengers proceed through immigration control before collecting baggage and passing through customs. Terminal 3 handles most international flights. During peak hours, immigration queues can be lengthy, so allow at least 60-90 minutes for the entire arrival process. Indian immigration authorities are thorough, and having all documents readily accessible will expedite your entry.

Disembarkation and Immigration Queue

After leaving the aircraft, follow signs to Immigration. Separate queues exist for Indian nationals/OCI cardholders and foreign nationals. E-visa holders typically use the same queue as regular visa holders. Have your passport, visa, arrival card (if required), and customs declaration form ready.

Immigration Counter

Present your passport with valid visa to the immigration officer. They will verify your documents, ask questions about your visit, scan your passport, and collect biometric data (photograph and fingerprints). First-time visitors to India should expect more detailed questioning. The officer will stamp your passport with entry date and permitted duration of stay.

Baggage Claim

After clearing immigration, proceed to baggage claim. Check screens for your flight number and carousel assignment. Baggage trolleys are available. Report missing or damaged luggage to your airline's desk in the baggage hall before proceeding to customs.

Customs Declaration

Proceed through customs channels. Green channel is for passengers with nothing to declare; Red channel for those with items to declare. Customs officers may conduct random checks even in the green channel. Have your customs declaration form completed if required. X-ray screening of luggage is common.

Exit to Arrivals Hall

After clearing customs, you'll enter the public arrivals area where you can arrange ground transportation, exchange currency, or meet greeters. Pre-paid taxi counters, app-based ride services (Uber, Ola), and metro rail access are available at the airport.

Documents to Have Ready

Valid Passport

Must be valid for at least 6 months beyond your intended stay in India. Must have at least two blank pages for stamps. Damaged passports may be rejected.

Valid Visa or e-Visa

Appropriate visa for your purpose of visit. E-visa holders must carry a printed copy of the e-Visa approval (ETA). Ensure visa type matches your intended activities.

Arrival Card

Disembarkation/arrival card may be distributed on the flight or available at immigration. Fill out completely and accurately. Some information may be collected electronically for e-Visa holders.

Customs Declaration Form

Required if carrying items to declare, currency over threshold limits, or as requested. Available on flight or at customs area.

Return/Onward Ticket

Proof of onward travel out of India. Immigration officers may request to see confirmed return or onward flight booking. One-way ticket holders should have strong documentation of their plans.

Accommodation Details

Hotel reservation confirmation or address where you'll be staying in India. Required for visa application and may be requested at immigration.

Proof of Sufficient Funds

Bank statements, credit cards, or cash to demonstrate ability to support yourself during your stay. Rarely requested but good to have available.

Yellow Fever Vaccination Certificate

Required if arriving from or having transited through yellow fever endemic countries within 6 days of arrival in India.

Tips for Smooth Entry

Have all documents organized and easily accessible in a travel document holder. Keep printed copies even if you have digital versions, as officers may not accept phone displays.

Dress appropriately and be respectful to immigration officers. India has conservative standards, and professional appearance can help create a positive impression.

Answer questions clearly, honestly, and concisely. Avoid volunteering unnecessary information. If you don't understand a question, politely ask for clarification.

Arrive with patience, especially during peak travel seasons (October-March, major holidays). Immigration queues can be long, and processing is thorough.

Double-check your passport stamp before leaving the immigration counter. Verify the entry date and permitted duration of stay are correctly marked. Errors should be corrected immediately.

Keep your e-Visa approval, arrival stamp, and departure card (if issued) safe throughout your stay. You'll need to present them when departing India.

If traveling for business, have supporting documentation (invitation letters, conference registrations) readily available even if not specifically requested.

Exchange a small amount of currency at the airport for immediate expenses (taxis, tips, snacks), but better rates are usually available at city exchange offices or ATMs.

Download offline maps and transportation apps before arrival. Airport WiFi is available but can be congested. Local SIM cards can be purchased at airport shops with passport and visa.

Customs & Duty-Free

Indian customs regulations are enforced at all ports of entry including New Delhi. All passengers must pass through customs inspection after collecting baggage. India operates a dual-channel system: Green Channel for passengers with nothing to declare, and Red Channel for those carrying declarable goods. Customs officers may conduct random inspections in either channel. Penalties for false declarations or smuggling are severe, including heavy fines, confiscation, and imprisonment.

Alcohol

2 liters of alcoholic beverages (wine, beer, or spirits)

Passenger must be 18 years or older. Some Indian states have alcohol restrictions. Carrying alcohol into Gujarat or Bihar (dry states) may be prohibited.

Tobacco

100 cigarettes OR 25 cigars OR 125 grams of tobacco

Passenger must be 18 years or older. E-cigarettes and vaping devices are banned in India and will be confiscated.

Currency

Foreign currency exceeding USD 5,000 (or equivalent) in cash, or USD 10,000 (or equivalent) in total (cash plus traveler's cheques) must be declared on arrival

Indian currency (INR) cannot be brought into India by foreign nationals. Amounts exceeding limits must be declared on Currency Declaration Form (CDF). Keep CDF for departure. No limit on amount that can be brought in if properly declared.

Gifts/Goods

Personal effects and travel souvenirs. Articles up to a value of INR 50,000 (approximately USD 600) are duty-free for tourists

Goods must be for personal use. Professional equipment may require temporary import documentation (carnet). Items of high value should be declared to avoid duty on re-export.

Gold and Jewelry

Male passengers: gold jewelry up to 20 grams (value up to INR 50,000). Female passengers: gold jewelry up to 40 grams (value up to INR 100,000)

Applies to passengers of Indian origin or holding Indian passport who have been abroad for over one year. Other passengers may face duty. Gold bars and coins have different regulations and typically attract duty.

Electronics

One laptop computer, one mobile phone, and other personal electronics for personal use are duty-free

Multiple devices of the same type (e.g., multiple phones or laptops) may attract duty. Drones require special permits and should be declared.

Prohibited Items

Narcotic drugs and psychotropic substances - Severe penalties including long imprisonment
Firearms, ammunition, and explosives - Without proper licensing and authorization
E-cigarettes, vaping devices, e-hookahs, and related products - Banned in India since 2019
Satellite phones - Illegal without special government permission
Indian currency notes (INR) - Foreign nationals cannot bring Indian currency into the country
Beef products - Cow slaughter is banned in many Indian states; beef import is prohibited
Pornographic materials - Books, magazines, films, or digital content deemed obscene
Counterfeit currency or goods - Pirated items, fake branded products
Endangered species products - Ivory, certain animal skins, exotic wildlife products under CITES
Live plants and seeds - Without phytosanitary certificate and import permit

Restricted Items

Gold and silver - Amounts exceeding duty-free allowance require declaration and duty payment. Gold bars/coins have strict regulations
Prescription medications - Allowed in reasonable quantities for personal use with prescription. Certain controlled substances require import license
Pets and animals - Require import permit, health certificate, and vaccination records. Quarantine may be required
Professional equipment - Video cameras, professional photography equipment, laptops for business may require carnet or temporary import documentation
Drones and UAVs - Require permission from Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and must be declared
Antiques - Items over 100 years old cannot be exported from India without clearance from Archaeological Survey of India
Wireless equipment - Certain frequencies require approval; commercial quantities need import license
Plants and plant products - Require phytosanitary certificate from country of origin
Precious stones and jewelry - Amounts exceeding allowances must be declared; commercial quantities require documentation

Health Requirements

India has specific health entry requirements that vary based on your country of origin and travel history. While most travelers from Western countries don't require vaccinations for entry, those arriving from yellow fever endemic areas must present proof of vaccination. It's strongly recommended to consult a travel medicine specialist 4-8 weeks before your trip for personalized advice.

Required Vaccinations

Yellow Fever - Mandatory for travelers arriving from countries with risk of yellow fever transmission, or those who have transited through such countries within 6 days before arrival in India. Valid certificate must show vaccination at least 10 days before arrival. Countries include most of sub-Saharan Africa and tropical South America.

Recommended Vaccinations

Hepatitis A - Recommended for all travelers to India due to potential exposure through contaminated food and water
Typhoid - Recommended, especially for those visiting smaller cities, rural areas, or staying with friends/relatives
Hepatitis B - Recommended for those who might have intimate contact with local population or require medical procedures
Rabies - Consider for travelers with extensive outdoor/rural exposure, adventure travelers, or those working with animals
Japanese Encephalitis - For travelers spending extended time in rural areas, especially during monsoon season
Polio - India was declared polio-free in 2014, but boosters may be recommended depending on your vaccination history
Measles-Mumps-Rubella (MMR) - Ensure routine vaccinations are up to date
Tetanus-Diphtheria - Ensure routine vaccinations are current
COVID-19 - Follow current guidelines from health authorities

Health Insurance

Health insurance with international coverage is strongly recommended but not mandatory for entry. Medical treatment in India can be expensive at international-standard hospitals, though less costly than Western countries. Ensure your policy covers emergency medical evacuation. Some visa types may require proof of health insurance. Keep copies of your insurance policy and emergency contact numbers accessible. Medical facilities in New Delhi are generally good, with several world-class hospitals, but quality varies significantly.

Current Health Requirements: COVID-19 requirements for India have been largely relaxed but can change rapidly. As of late 2024, most COVID-19 testing and vaccination requirements for international arrivals have been suspended, but travelers should check the latest guidelines at https://www.mohfw.gov.in before departure. Some countries may still require negative tests or vaccination proof for return travel. Malaria prophylaxis is not typically necessary for Delhi city itself but may be advisable if traveling to rural areas or other parts of India. Traveler's diarrhea is common; bring appropriate medications and practice food and water safety. Air quality in Delhi can be very poor, especially October-January; those with respiratory conditions should take precautions.

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Important Contacts

Essential resources for your trip.

Embassy/Consulate

Contact your country's embassy or consulate in New Delhi for citizen services, passport issues, or emergencies. Most embassies are located in the Chanakyapuri diplomatic enclave.

Register with your embassy if planning extended stay. Check your government's travel advisory website before departure (e.g., travel.state.gov for US, gov.uk/foreign-travel-advice for UK, smartraveller.gov.au for Australia).

Immigration Authority

Bureau of Immigration, Government of India - Website: https://boi.gov.in | E-Visa portal: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in | Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) Delhi: https://indianfrro.gov.in

For visa extensions, registration requirements for stays over 180 days, or immigration-related queries. FRRO registration is mandatory for certain visa types and nationalities.

Emergency Services

Emergency services number: 112 (unified emergency number for police, ambulance, fire)

Additional numbers: Police: 100, Ambulance: 102, Fire: 101. Tourist Helpline: 1363 or 1800-111-363 (24/7, multilingual). Delhi Police Control Room: 011-2469-3333

Airport Information

Indira Gandhi International Airport: +91-124-337-6000 | Website: https://www.newdelhiairport.in

For flight information, lost baggage, airport services, and ground transportation queries.

Medical Emergency

Major hospitals in New Delhi: AIIMS (All India Institute of Medical Sciences): 011-2658-8500 | Apollo Hospital: 011-7179-1090 | Max Hospital: 011-2651-5050 | Fortis Hospital: 011-4277-6222

Keep your embassy's emergency number and travel insurance provider's contact information readily accessible.

Special Situations

Additional requirements for specific circumstances.

Traveling with Children

Children of all ages require their own passport and appropriate visa (e-Visa or regular visa). Minors (under 18) traveling without both parents should carry a notarized letter of consent from the absent parent(s) authorizing the travel, including contact information and trip details. This is especially important if the child is traveling with only one parent, relatives, or school groups. In cases of sole custody, carry legal documentation. Unaccompanied minors require special arrangements with airlines and may face additional immigration scrutiny. Ensure children's passport validity meets the 6-month requirement. Birth certificates may be requested to prove relationship.

Traveling with Pets

Importing pets to India requires significant advance planning. Requirements include: (1) Import permit from Animal Quarantine and Certification Services (AQCS), obtainable 4-6 weeks before travel; (2) Microchip implantation for identification; (3) Current rabies vaccination (at least 30 days before travel but within validity period); (4) Health certificate issued by licensed veterinarian within 7 days of travel; (5) No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Indian embassy/consulate in country of origin; (6) Quarantine may be required for up to 30 days depending on country of origin and documentation. Only certain airports accept pets (Delhi is approved). Airlines have specific requirements and advance booking for pet transport. Certain dog breeds are restricted or banned. Fees apply for import permit and quarantine. Contact AQCS Delhi: aqcsdel@gmail.com well in advance.

Extended Stays

Tourist e-Visas cannot be extended; you must leave India before expiration. Regular tourist visas may be extended in exceptional circumstances (medical emergency, natural disaster) by applying to FRRO with documentation. For longer stays, consider: (1) Business visa for work-related activities; (2) Employment visa if you have job offer from Indian company (requires government approval); (3) Student visa for academic programs; (4) Research visa for academic/scientific research; (5) Long-term tourist visa (up to 10 years for some nationalities, but with limited stay per visit). Foreigners staying over 180 days on most visa types must register with FRRO within 14 days of arrival. Pakistani, Afghani, Chinese, Iranian, Iraqi, Sudanese, and certain other nationals must register regardless of stay duration. Overstaying your visa results in fines, deportation, and future entry bans. Plan departures carefully and apply for extensions well before visa expiration if eligible.

Business Travelers

Business visitors should obtain a business visa or business e-Visa (not tourist visa) if conducting business activities, attending meetings, conferences, or trade fairs. Required documents include invitation letter from Indian company on letterhead with details of business purpose, duration, and places to visit. Business visas allow multiple entries and longer validity than tourist visas. Employment or paid work is not permitted on business visa - this requires employment visa with government approval. Carry business cards, company documentation, and conference registration if applicable. Some professional equipment may require carnet for temporary import. Business visa holders staying over 180 days must register with FRRO.

Medical Travelers

India is a popular medical tourism destination. Medical visa or medical e-Visa is required for those seeking medical treatment. Requirements include: (1) Letter from recognized Indian hospital indicating treatment plan and duration; (2) Medical records and doctor's recommendation from home country; (3) Proof of financial means to cover medical expenses. Medical visa allows triple entry with 60-day stay per entry. Up to 2 medical attendants can obtain medical attendant visas to accompany the patient. Keep all medical documentation, hospital contact information, and appointment confirmations readily available. Major hospitals in Delhi include AIIMS, Apollo, Fortis, and Max Healthcare. Arrange accommodation near hospital and ground transportation in advance.

Volunteer Work and NGO Activities

Tourist visas do not permit volunteer work or NGO activities, even if unpaid. Engaging in such activities on tourist visa can result in deportation and ban. For volunteer or NGO work, you need: (1) Employment visa with government approval; (2) Registration of the NGO with appropriate Indian authorities; (3) Approval from Ministry of Home Affairs for foreign nationals working with NGOs. Process is lengthy and requires substantial documentation. Religious or missionary work has additional restrictions and requires special visa category. Teaching English or other volunteer teaching also requires proper employment visa. Penalties for working illegally are severe. Plan well in advance and obtain proper authorization before arrival.