The India e-Visa system allows France passport holders to obtain a travel permit to India online, eliminating the need for embassy visits. This saves time and effort, making the application process more efficient and hassle-free. The processing time is generally quick, ensuring timely approval. Let's dive into the essential details of the India e-Visa, your modern ticket to the subcontinent!
Exploring the Types of e-Visas Available for French Passport Holders
Choose the correct e-Visa type to eliminate entry issues:
1. Tourist e-Visa:
- Tourist e-Visa: Valid for 30 days, allows double entry, stay 30 days
- Tourist e-Visa: Valid for 1 year, allows multiple entries, stay 90 days
- Tourist e-Visa: Valid for 5 years, allows multiple entries, with a stay of up to 90 days
For tourism, sightseeing, visiting friends/relatives, and short-term yoga programmes.
2. Business e-Visa
- Validity: 1 year
- Entries: Multiple
- Stay: Up to 90 days
This is for travel related to business purposes or for exploring business opportunities in India.
3. Medical e-Visa and Medical Attendant e-Visa
- Validity: 120 days
- Entries: Triple
- Stay: Up to 60 days
The e-Medical Visa is for individuals seeking medical treatment, consultations, or procedures in India, while the e-Medical Attendant Visa is for the companion supporting the patient.
4. Ayush e-Visa and Ayush Attendant e-Visa
- Validity: 120 days
- Entries: Triple
- Stay: Up to 60 days
The e-Ayush Visa is for seeking traditional Indian medical treatments (Ayurveda, Yoga, etc.), and the e-Ayush Attendant Visa is for the accompanying companions.
5. Conference e-Visa
- Validity: 120 days
- Entries: Single.
- Stay: Up to 30 days
You can attend conferences, seminars, or workshops.
✅ Tip: Each traveller must apply for the e-Visa type that matches the purpose of the visit. Choosing the correct e-Visa ensures a seamless entry and compliance with Indian travel regulations.
Essential Documents Required for Indian e-Visa Application
To ensure a seamless application, ensure that you have the following documents prepared:
- Valid France Passport: Your passport must have a minimum validity of 6 months from the date of your arrival in India and 2 blank pages.
- Digital Photograph: You will need a recent passport-sized photograph that meets the specified requirements. Ensure that the photograph is in digital format and ready for upload during the application process.
India e-Visa Documents Required vary by category. Additional supporting documents, such as business cards, invitation letters, or proof of MEA/MHA clearance (for conferences) or medical letters (for treatment), must be submitted depending on the specific e-Visa type you apply for.
e-Visa Fee and Payment Options: Convenient Online Transactions for French Travellers
Applying for an e-Visa from France is not only convenient but also offers hassle-free online payment options for the visa fee.
Visa Fee:
The Indian e-Visa fee for French citizens applying varies based on the selected processing speed, type of e-Visa chosen, and currency exchange rate.
Payment Options:
French travellers can pay the India e-Visa fee using various payment methods, including credit cards, debit cards, and other options.
Please note that the e-Visa fees and payment options may be subject to change, so it is essential to refer to the Indian e-Visa Fee website for the most up-to-date information.
India e-Visa Processing Time
Select the processing time that aligns with your travel dates:
- Standard Processing: Standard processing delivers your e-Visa within 4-6 Days.
- Expedite Option: In urgent situations, the India e-Visa can be processed within 1-2 Days; additional costs may be charged.
Steps to Obtain Indian e-Visa
The process of applying for an India e-Visa is simple and takes only 10–15 minutes.
Step 1: Complete the Online Application Form
Accurately provide all required personal, travel, and passport information in the India e-Visa Application form. Please review every entry carefully to ensure its correctness before proceeding.
Step 2: Upload Documents and Submit
Attach clear, scanned copies of all necessary supporting documents as specified for your e-Visa type. Once all the documents are uploaded, submit the application for review.
Step 3: Finalise Payment and Receive Your e-Visa
Complete the process by securely paying the e-Visa fee using one of the available payment methods. Once approved, your India e-Visa will be delivered to your email.
Note: Print a copy of your approved Indian e-Visa. A physical copy serves as backup if electronic devices or connectivity fail during travel.
Extending Your Stay in India as a French Traveller
If your travel plans change and you wish to Extend Stay in India, the India e-Visa system offers French travellers the possibility of getting visa extensions.
Cultural Insights: Navigating Indian Customs and Etiquette for French Travellers
For a respectful and enjoyable experience during your visit to India, you must familiarise yourselves with the customs and etiquette of the country.
- Modesty in Dress: Indians value personal space and appreciate modesty, especially when visiting religious sites or rural areas. It is advisable to dress modestly and respectfully.
- Greetings: Greeting others with a warm smile and a namaste (a traditional Indian greeting) is appreciated and showcases your respect for Indian culture.
- Cultural Sensitivity: Be mindful of local customs, such as removing shoes before entering homes or religious places and seeking permission before taking photographs of people or religious ceremonies.
FAQs:
Yes, as long as the course is short-term, like yoga or cultural workshops. Longer programmes require a student visa.
Yes, you can prerequest a wheelchair or senior assistance through your airline, and your e-Visa does not limit or provide this service.
Upon arrival, you will proceed to the dedicated e-Visa counter. An immigration officer will verify your e-Visa stamp and collect your biometric information (fingerprints and photo).
No. The India e-Visa is only valid for entry through designated international airports and a few designated seaports. If you plan to enter India via a land border crossing, you must apply for a regular (paper) visa beforehand.
Note: Details provided here reflect updates as of September 2025. Please confirm with official sources such as embassies, airlines, or government agencies before travelling.