Indian e-Film Visa
The information below applies to all foreign nationals visiting India for professional filming purposes and outlines the required approvals, conditions, and compliance obligations.
What is the India e-Film Visa?
The Indian e-Film Visa serves as a government-authorised travel permit for eligible foreign nationals undertaking approved, project-specific filming activities in India, subject to prior approval by the Government of India.
Key Points Explained:
- Purpose of the Visa: Issued for feature films, commercial TV serials, reality TV programmes, web shows, and web series that are produced or filmed in India as part of an approved project.
- Who it Applies to: Covers actors, directors, producers, production teams, and technical crew directly involved in the filming project, not limited to on-screen performers.
- Project-Specific Approval: Each e-Film Visa is project-specific and is issued only after the filming proposal has been approved by the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
- Mandatory Permissions: The e-Film Visa does not replace the Government of India filming permissions. All filming activities must comply with the approved locations, schedule, and conditions.
- Script and Content Compliance: Filming must be carried out exactly in accordance with the script approved by the Government of India. Any changes may require fresh approval.
- Regulated Filming: Filming activities are governed by central and local regulations. Additional clearances may be required for filming in restricted, protected, border, or sensitive areas, or for projects involving sensitive subjects.
- Equipment Declaration: A detailed list of filming equipment to be temporarily imported into India must be submitted in advance for approval.
Who is Eligible for the India e-Film Visa?
Eligibility for the Indian e-Film Visa is determined by the country that issued your passport. Applicants should verify that their passport appears on the List of Countries Eligible for the India e-Visa before starting the application process.
Validity, Stay Duration, and Entry Type of the Indian e-Film Visa
- Validity
- 1 year (365 days) from the date of the grant of the ETA
- Stay Duration
- Up to the approved filming period, within the maximum validity of 1 year.
- Entry Type
- Multiple Entries
What Documents are required for the India e-Film Visa Application?
Every applicant applying for the Indian e-Film Visa must submit digital copies of the following documents:
- Passport Copy: A clear copy of the passport page showing personal details.
- MIB Clearance Letter: An official approval letter from the Ministry of Information and Broadcasting.
- Letter of Intent: A signed letter explaining the filming plan, including:
- Shooting schedule
- Details of the cast and crew travelling to India
- Selected filming locations
- List of filming equipment (if any)
- Any other relevant project information
Applicants are advised to review the complete list of Documents Required for the India e-Visa and ensure all documents are accurate, complete, and ready for submission.
Application Process of India e-Film Visa
The application process is entirely online, with 24/7 support from visa experts. Once the application is submitted for processing, our team regularly sends status updates to the registered email address.
Indian e-Film Visa Fee and Processing Time
The Indian e-Film Visa fee includes the visa fee, applicable service charges, and any optional expedited processing fees selected during the application. The India e-Visa application platform offers 2 processing options:
- Normal/Standard Processing: 3 to 6 days
- Urgent Processing: 1 to 3 days
To avoid delays or unexpected charges, applicants should understand the India e-Visa Fee structure and processing timelines and select the most suitable option based on their travel plans.
Extension of the India e-Film Visa
Extension of the Indian e-Film Visa may be considered only for valid filming-related reasons and is not automatic. Extensions may be granted for up to 1 additional year, subject to approval by the concerned FRRO/FRO, and must be supported by relevant approvals and justification, in accordance with Government of India regulations and guidelines.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes. Every individual involved in the filming project, including minors, must hold their own approved visa.
No. Filming activities may only commence after visa issuance and receipt of all required permissions.
No. Entry is permitted exclusively through the Airports and Seaports in India for the e-Visa notified by the Government of India.
Disclaimer: Information is current as of January 2026. Travellers should verify all entry and travel requirements with official sources prior to departure.
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