india travel passport expiry

Passport Validity for Travel to India [2024 & Beyond]

It’s all set—you’re going to India. You’ve packed your things, prepared the itinerary, you’ve even looked up a few new words to surprise the locals.

And yet, one question is still bugging you—

What’s the minimum passport validity to enter India?

Worry not! This article will discuss all the essentials of traveling to India with a US passport. We’ll also mention different instances to address the holders of other documents.

Here’s what we’ll talk about:

• All you need to know before traveling to India

US passport validity for travel to India

Passport validity for travel to india with oci, travel to india with an indian passport that’s valid for less than 6 months.

Passport near the expiration date? Secure your travel and apply for a new passport today. With our Passport Photo Booth App for iOS or Passport Photo Maker App for Android , you’ll create a 100% compliant picture within minutes and receive it immediately in your email or directly to your door in 3 days!

We’ve discussed more passport-related issues for travelers! Check them out:

• Emergency Travel with an Expired Passport
• Where Can You Travel Without a Visa as a Green Card Holder?
• Can You Travel with a Green Card and an Expired Passport?

Passport validity: All you need to know before traveling to India

Let’s take a look at the general requirements first:

Every tourist, regardless of nationality, must carry a valid passport and visa to enter India. The purpose of their visit and the length of stay is determined by the type of Indian visa they apply for.

Generally, your passport must be valid for at least six months upon arrival to India. Also, it’s recommended that your passport is valid for at least three months when leaving the country.

Now, as you already know—your passport is not the only document necessary for traveling to India. Below, we’ll discuss these cases in more detail.

To answer shortly—your US passport must be valid for at least six months to enter India without any issues.

However, as a US passport holder, you must also apply for an eVisa before traveling to India.

US citizens can choose between three types of tourist visa, depending on their desired stay. These visas can be valid for:

Important : You must apply for an eVisa with a valid passport. If your passport is valid for less than six months before your trip to India, you must apply for a new passport and redo the process of acquiring a tourist visa. See different options to renew a US passport . 

Also, regardless of the time left on your visa—say, it’s still valid for three years—if your passport expires, so does your visa.

The Overseas Citizenship of India (OCI) cards are issued to Indian nationals and their spouses who have or have obtained a different nationality. Since Indian authorities don’t allow dual citizenship, the OCI card permits foreign nationals of Indian origin to live and work in India.

OCI cardholders must also obtain visas before traveling to India—in that case, a 5-year visa is automatically issued.

However, your passport must still be valid for at least six months upon visiting India. Otherwise, you must apply for a new passport.

Technically, an OCI card is a life-long visa. There are some instances, though, in which you’ll have to renew your card . If that’s your case, see how you can prepare and resize your OCI photo effortlessly.

If you’re an Indian passport holder, you can visit India without applying for a visa.

However, even for Indian citizens, the country has a 6-month passport validity rule. That means if your passport is valid for less than six months, you’ll be denied entry to India.

Need a new passport? See how you can renew your expired Indian passport in the US .

Pro tip : Ensure your passport has two blank pages for the Immigration Officer to stamp.

Travel stress-free and always prepared! Get your passport or visa photo quickly with our Passport Photo Booth App for iOS or Passport Photo Maker App for Android , and worry not about your document expiring.

Can I travel to India with less than 6 months on my passport?

Unfortunately, no. Local authorities require every foreigner entering India to carry a passport that’s valid for at least six months at the time of arrival.

Can you travel to India if your passport expires in 3 months?

Unfortunately, no. You must carry a passport that’s valid for at least six months. In any other case, you should apply for a new passport before traveling to India.

How many months of passport validity is required to travel to India?

The minimum passport validity to travel to India is six months. Moreover, it’s recommended that your passport is valid for at least three months when leaving India.

Can I travel to India with a US passport expiring in 3 months with OCI?

Your passport must be valid for at least six months upon arrival to India, even though you carry an OCI card.

Key takeaway

Now you know—

In every case, your passport must be valid for at least six months at the time of entering India.

If you aren’t an Indian passport holder, additionally you’ll have to apply for eVisa—and for that, your passport must also be valid for six months. Renew it early enough before your travel to ensure a stress-free trip.

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Roxana is a writer with 3+ years of experience. As a Master in psycholinguistics, she blends her passion for language and communication with insights from diverse cultures, making her content resonate with a broad audience.

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Consulate General of India San Francisco, California, Serving the States of Arizona, California, Hawaii, Nevada, Utah and Territory of Guam

• Home ›   Consular Services ›   Passport Related Services ›   FAQ's on Passport

FAQs on Passport

Q: How do I apply for a Re-issue of Indian Passport in San Francisco?

• Please follow these steps:
• Visit VFS Global website ( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport ) and read the "Step-by-Step Guide" thoroughly.
• Apply online for Reissue of Passport on the govt. of India website https://embassy.passportindia.gov.in/ and by using the application reference number apply for the same on the VFS Global website.
• Print the application submitted online on both the websites with receipt(s).
• Submit physical copy of application along with the required documents (as per the checklist) and fees (only in form of Cashier Check/Banker Check/ Money Order in favor of "VFS Services (USA) Inc") to VFS Global by Postal mail:

VFS Global – San Francisco Centre 642 Harrison Street, Suite 200, San Francisco, CA 94107.

Q:What is the processing time for re-issue of Indian Passport ?

A:Passport will be issued after confirmation of applicant’s Police Verification Records (PVR) from the system of the Consulate. In the absence of PVR status in the system, the case will be referred to the concerned authorities in India for clearance. Processing time for a Police Clearance Certificate depends on the availability of clear PVR form Concerned authorities in India.

The normal processing time of passport is 3 weeks.

If Police Verification Report (PVR) is not clear or pending, the processing time will be approximately 30 days or more (excluding VFS’s processing time). In such cases, processing time depends on the availability of clear PVR form Concerned authorities in India. Applicants should clearly indicate their address on which the Police clearance could be done, specifically indicating the police station and district with PIN code.

Q:What are the various Passport Services offered by Consulate through VFS Global ?

A:We are offering following passport services:

• Issue of Fresh Passport: You can apply for fresh passport if applying for the first time (e.g. Indian parents can register the birth of their US born child with Consulate, after that they can apply fresh passport through VFS Global).
• Re-issue of Passport: You can apply for re-issue of passport if you want another passport in lieu of an existing passport for any of the following reasons:
• Change in existing personal particulars.
• Validity expired within 3 years/ Due to expire.
• Validity expired more than 3 years ago.
• Exhaustion of pages.
• Damaged passport.
• Lost passport.

Q:An Ordinary Indian Passports booklet contains how many pages ?

A:An ordinary passport has blue cover, and consists of 36 or 60 pages. It is valid for 10 years from the date of issue.

Q:I am Indian Passport holder and my passport has less than 6 months validity, Can I travel with this passport ?

A:For any international travel Passport must by valid for minimum 6 months, so you can not travel on this passport.

Q:I am an Indian Citizen, at present living in San Francisco, USA, last week my visa status has been expired, what should I do to re-issue of my expired Indian Passport ?

A:To re-issue your Indian Passport we need your valid visa status, if you do not have valid visa status you can visit our website   www.cgisf.gov.in and apply for Emergency Certificate (EC). If you already started the process of legalizing your stay in USA with USCIS then please submit your application along with notice of action issued by USCIS (i.e. I-797C etc.) based on this we will issue a Short Validity Passport (SVP), once you get your valid visa status you can apply for Full Validity of Passport (FVP).

Q:What is the definition of minor for issue of passport?

A:Applicants less than 18 years of age are considered as minor for issuance of passport.

Q:What would be the validity of a minor's passport?

A:The validity of a minor's passport is restricted to five years or till they attain the age of 18, whichever is earlier. But the minors aged between 15 to 18 years can apply either for a 10-year validity passport or for a passport which is valid till they attain the age of 18 years. Different fees are applicable depending upon which category they are applying for.

Q:Is it true that passport applications for minors under 18 require consent of either both parents or legal guardian?

A:It is necessary that either parent/legal guardian should give his / her consent while applying for minor's passport. Following documents have to be submitted in the given cases:

Q:I want to apply for my child's passport. Are signatures of both parents mandatory on Annexure D to be submitted along with the application? What if my spouse is refusing to sign the form?

A:Yes, notarized copy of Annexure D with the signature of both the parents is mandatory to be submitted along with the application. If either of the parents is not giving consent, then the parent applying for the minor's passport needs to submit Annexure C.

Q:I wish to apply for a passport for my child who is 12 months old. Can I apply for a 60 pages booklet?

A:No. Only 36 pages passport booklet are issued to minors.

Q:I want to apply for re-issue of Passport for my minor Son/Daughter, should my son/daughter needs to be present at VFS Global center ?

C. STUDENTS

Q:I am a Indian student staying in San Francisco. What proof of residence do I have to furnish?

A:Students studying in Jurisdiction of CGI San Francisco, have to apply of Passport Service thorough VFS Global Website ( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport ).You can submit any one of following as valid US Residence Proof with your application.

1. Driver’s License (front and back page)

2. State ID (front and back page)

3. Utility bill such as gas, electric or water must not be older than 3 months/ Landline telephone Bill.

4. Month to Month Rental Lease agreement or Home Mortgage

5. For College / University Students living on campus in University housing / dormitories, a letter from your institution on the institution letterhead explaining the exact address that you presently reside in.

Q:My passport is getting expired shortly. When can I apply for reissue of the passport?

A:If you are a student, you can get your passport reissued within two years of Expiry of your existing passport (as per the 'Date of Expiry' printed on the passport) by specifying the reason for reissue as 'Validity Expired within 3 Years/Due to Expire'. Other applicants can apply for reissue of passport within one year of expiry of existing passport by specifying the reason for reissue stated above.

Q:Explain citizenship of India by birth, descent, registration, naturalization.

A: a. Citizen of India by birth: You are Citizen of India by birth if you are born in India.

Citizen of India by descent: You are Citizen of India by descent if you are born outside India and either of your parents is a citizen of India at the time of your birth.

Citizen of India by registration/naturalization: You are Citizen of India by Registration/Naturalization if you have been granted Indian Citizenship by Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA), Government of India.

Q:Can an Indian passport be issued to applicants born in USA?

A:Indian passport can be issued to the "Citizen of India by Descent" i.e. person born to Indian parent(s) outside India. First parents need to register the birth of Child in Consulate, please visit our website for more details (https://www.cgisf.gov.in/page/registration-of-birth/)

Q:I recently got married/divorced. How do I change my name on my passport?

A:To change the name in the passport, you have to apply for a "Re-issue" of passport through VFS Global (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport) and get the specified change done in the personal particulars by selecting desired Miscellaneous Service

D. VALIDITY EXPIRED

Q:My passport expired 4 years ago. Can it be reissued? What is the procedure to re-issue it?

A:Please visit VFS Global Website (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport) and apply online for "Re-issue of Passport" under Passport already expired category. After online application please submit the physical copy of submitted application along with required documents to VFS Global Center by Postal Mail.

Q:What are the additional requirements if passport has expired more than three years ago?

A:Fresh police verification would take place if you apply for re-issue of passport after expiry of old passport more than three years ago. Processing time depend on availability of clear Police Verification report from Concerned Authority in India. Applicants should clearly indicate their Indian address with correct Police station, district and phone number for smooth conduct of police  verification and clearance.

Q:I'm 25 now, but my last passport was issued when I was 15. What should I do?

A:You need to apply for "Re-issue" of passport through VFS Global.

Q:What is the definition of damaged Passport?

A:Damaged passport is classified further based on the extent of damage, i.e.:

• Passport number is readable, name is legible and Photo is intact
• Damaged beyond recognition/ mutilated/smudged entries/washed out

Q:What is the procedure to apply for duplicate passport in case of lost or damaged passport?

A:To apply for duplicate passport in case of lost or damaged passport, you have to apply for apply for "Re-issue" of passport in lieu of damaged/lost Passport category through VFS Global. For lost passport police report on loss of passport should also be submitted with other required documents.

E. LOST/STOLEN PASSPORT

Q:I Lost/Damaged my passport, Can I apply it under Tatkal ?

Q:I lost my Indian Passport in San Francisco, how do I reissue my Passport ?

• Loss of passport should be immediately reported to the nearest Police Station and get obtain Police complaint Report. After this, apply for re-issue of passport under lost category through VFS Global (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport). Submit physical copy of application along with Police complaint report and other required documents to VFS Global Center by Walk-in/Mail.
• Visit VFS Global website( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport ) apply for reissue of Passport under lost Category

Q:I am an Indian Citizen living outside California. I lost my Indian passport but I don't have photocopy of the same. What should I do?

A:Photocopy of the old passport is not a mandatory document to be submitted in case of lost/damaged/stolen passport. It should be produced, if it is available. But you will be required to produce, the previous passport details like Passport number, date of issue, date of expiry and place of issue, while filling the passport application form. If you do not have that information, then visit CGI, San Francisco (540 Arguello Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94118) OR Contact CGI, San Francisco

Q:I lost my passport recently. I've applied for a reissue of passport. I want to know if the new passport will have the same number as my old passport, or a new number?

A:The new passport will have a new passport number, with a validity of 10 years.

Q:I recently lost my valid passport, but do not have the details. Will it be possible for the Consulate to trace the details from your system and give me the details for filling my application form for Passport?

A:You need to visit CGI, San Francisco (540 Arguello Blvd., San Francisco, CA 94118) and Provide your details.

Q:What can I do if I have lost my passport and have to travel to India urgently due to an emergency like serious illness or death in the family?

A:Please visit CGI, San Francsico website www.cgisf.gov.in and apply for an Emergency Certificate (EC). EC will be issued for one way travel to India after verification of Indian nationality. Subsequently you have to apply for a new passport to travel back.

Q:I am in USA on B1/B2 visa, I lost my Passport in USA Can I obtain a new Passport ?

A:Visitors from India on B1 /B2 visa who are not normally resident in USA are advised to hold passports which are valid for the period of their visit. In case of lost, where it becomes necessary to obtain new Passport, a Short Validity Passport (SPV) would be reissued after clearance from the original Passport Issuing Authority in India OR an Emergency Certificate (EC) would be issue to applicant so that he will able to return India.

F. EXHAUSTION OF PAGES

Q:The pages in my passport booklet have exhausted, but it has a validity of 5 years. What is the procedure to apply for new booklet?

A:Visit VFS Global Website ( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport ) and apply for "Re-issue" of passport under Passport pages exhausted category. A new passport would be issued with a validity of 10 years.

Q:When an additional booklet/additional pages issued?

My passport is nearly full but is valid for another 4 years, is it possible to add extra pages?

A:Additional pages are not added to a passport booklet. If the pages in the passport booklet have exhausted, you need to apply for "Re-issue" of passport under Passport pages exhausted category through VFS Global Website ( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport ). A new passport would be issued to you.

Q:My passport will expire in 2 years. What should I do?

A:You can apply for a re-issue of passport up to 1 year before the expiry OR within three years after the expiry of the existing passport without fresh police verification, provided there is no change in personal particulars and there is clear police report with respect to your previous passport and there is no adverse entry in the system. You can also apply for re-issue of passport if your previous passport expired more than three years ago, but fresh police verification would take place.

Q:My appearance has changed. What is the procedure to change my photograph in the passport?

A:To change the photograph in the passport, you have to apply for "Re-issue" through VFS Global along with notarized affidavit of Change in Appearance .

G. CHANGE IN NAME

Q:My name has been changed. Can I travel in my previous name? Otherwise how do I change the name on my passport?

A:It is not advisable to travel in your previous name. To change your name in the passport, you have to apply for "Re-issue" of passport through VFS Global. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please visit VFS Global Website (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport).

Q:What documents are required when there is a change in name on account of divorce?

A:Following additional documents have to be submitted:- Court certified copy of Divorce Decree or self attested copy of Divorce certificate. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please visit VFS Global Website (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport)

Q:There is a mistake in the spelling of my name in the passport. What can I do?

A:If you find any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet as per the application form submitted, please visit Consulate and return the passport for necessary rectification. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on merit of the case as decided by the Consulate. If there is a misrepresentation of facts, then penalty could also be imposed. However, applicants are requested to check all details while applying online so that passports are Printed without any typographical errors. If you have done a mistake while filling your passport application form i.e. you have filled your full name in the "Given Name" field, then you will need to re-apply for re-issue of Passport for change in personal particulars through VFS Global.

Q:Explain major and minor change in name?

• Minor change in name - change in name because of spelling discrepancy between passport and documents which phonetically do not result in total change in name.
• Major change in name - Cases other than minor change in name.

H. CHANGE IN DATE OF BIRTH/PLACE OF BIRTH

Q:What is the process to change the date/place of birth in the passport?

A:To change the date/place of birth in the passport, you have to apply for a "Re-issue" through VFS Global and get the specified change done in the personal particulars by choosing required option under Miscellaneous Services. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please visit ( https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport ).

Q:I want to get the DOB changed in the passport since there is a typing error. What should I do?

A:If you find any mistake/error in the particulars printed in the passport booklet as per the application form you submitted, please return the passport for necessary rectification to Consulate. Any additional fees required to be paid would depend solely on merit of the case as decided by the Consulate. If there is a misrepresentation of facts, then penalty could also be imposed. However, applicants are requested to check all details while applying online so that passports are Printed without any typographical errors.

Q:What is the process to endorse spouse's name on my passport?

A:To endorse the spouse's name on your passport, you have to apply for a 'Re-issue' of passport through VFS Global and get the specified change done in personal particulars by choosing required option under Miscellaneous Services. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please visit (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport) .

Q:My spouse is a foreign citizen. What document(s) do I need to submit along with my passport application to include his/her name in my passport?

A:For the applicants whose spouse is a foreign citizen and the name needs to be included in the passport, one of the following documents need to be submitted along with the passport application:

1. Marriage Certificate issued by the Indian Mission/Post abroad.

2. Marriage Certificate issued by Foreign Government, duly attested/apostille either by:

• The Indian Mission/Post in the jurisdiction from where the Marriage Certificate was issued
• Concerned Authority in USA

3. Marriage Certificate issued in India by Indian authorities (Marriage Officer/Registrar of Marriage)

4. Marriage Certificate issued by Foreign Embassy/High Commission/Consulate of that country in USA (to which the foreign spouse is a citizen)

Q:My spouse is a foreign citizen. So while applying for a passport, do I need to add prefix/suffix with his/her name that denotes nationality of the belonging country?

A:While mentioning name of foreign spouse in the passport application form, no prefix/suffix denoting nationality of the spouse should be added. Only the actual name of the spouse needs to be mentioned.

Q:What documents are required for deletion of spouse's name on account of divorce?

A:Following additional documents have to be submitted:- Court certified copy of Divorce decree or self attested copy of Divorce certificate. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please visit (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport) .

I. CHANGE OF ADDRESS

Q:How do I change the address on my passport?

A:To change the address in the passport, you have to apply for a "Re-issue" of passport through VFS Global and get the specified change done in the personal particulars by choosing required option under Miscellaneous Services. To check the complete list of documents to be submitted along with the application form, please visit (https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-passport) .

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Travel Advisory June 23, 2023

India - level 2: exercise increased caution.

Reissued with updates to health information.

Exercise increased caution in India due to crime and terrorism.

Do not travel to:

• The union territory of Jammu and Kashmir (except the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh) due to terrorism and civil unrest .
• Within 10 km of the India-Pakistan border due to the potential for armed conflict .

Country Summary : Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Violent crime, such as sexual assault, has occurred at tourist sites and in other locations.

Terrorists may attack with little or no warning, targeting tourist locations, transportation hubs, markets/shopping malls, and government facilities.

The U.S. government has limited ability to provide emergency services to U.S. citizens in rural areas from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal as U.S. government employees must obtain special authorization to travel to these areas.

Read the country information page for additional information on travel to India.

The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) has determined India has a moderate level of COVID-19.  Visit the CDC page for the latest Travel Health Information related to your travel.

If you decide to travel to India:

• Do not travel alone, particularly if you are a woman. Visit our website for Women Travelers .
• Review your personal security plans and remain alert to your surroundings.
• Enroll in the Smart Traveler Enrollment Program ( STEP ) to receive Alerts and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Follow the Department of State on Facebook and Twitter .
• Review the  Country Security Report for India.
• Prepare a contingency plan for emergency situations. Review the Traveler’s Checklist .

Union Territory of Jammu and Kashmir – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Terrorist attacks and violent civil unrest are possible in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. Avoid all travel to this state (with the exception of visits to the eastern Ladakh region and its capital, Leh). Sporadic violence occurs particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating India and Pakistan, and in tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas .

India-Pakistan Border – Level 4: Do Not Travel

India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Attari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open but confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Northeastern States – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast.

U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without special authorization from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata.

Central and East India – Level 4: Do Not Travel

Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. The Naxalites have conducted frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials.

Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive special authorization from the U.S. consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Visit our website for Travel to High-Risk Areas . 

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Quick Facts

Must be valid for six months beyond date of visa application to obtain a visa.

Two pages required.

Yes. Travelers must enter in either on a paper visa, valid for 10 years for U.S. citizens, or an e-tourist visa.

Required for yellow fever if the traveler is arriving from an infected area; others are suggested.

The possession of satellite phones is prohibited in India; Currency in excess of USD $5,000 must be declared. Please check with the Indian Embassy in Washington if you are planning to carry a large amount of currency into India.

Check local law for reporting requirements for exiting with large quantities of foreign currency and Indian rupees.

Embassies and Consulates

U.s. embassy new delhi.

Shantipath, Chanakyapuri New Delhi - 110021 India Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (11) 2419-8000 Fax: +(91) (11) 2419-0017 [email protected]

The U.S. Embassy, New Delhi   serves American citizens in the Indian states of  Haryana, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, Uttarakhand, and Uttar Pradesh, the union territories of Chandigarh, Delhi, Jammu and Kashmir, and Ladakh, and the country of Bhutan.

U.S. Consulate General Mumbai (Bombay) C-49, G-Block, Bandra Kurla Complex Bandra East, Mumbai 400051 India Telephone: +(91) (22) 2672-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) (22) 2672-4000 If you are calling from within India, but outside Mumbai, first dial 022. Fax: 91-(0)22-2672-4786 [email protected]

The Consulate General in Mumbai provides consular services for the states of Goa, Gujarat, Chhatisgarh, Madhya Pradesh, and Maharashtra, and the union territory of Diu and Daman, and Dadra and Nagar Haveli.

U.S. Consulate General Kolkata (Calcutta) 5/1 Ho Chi Minh Sarani Kolkata - 700 071, West Bengal, India Telephone: +(91) (33) 3984-2400 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: +(91) 99030 42956 or +(91) (33) 3984-2400 then dial "0" Fax: +(91) (33) 2282-2335

The United States Consulate General in Kolkata provides consular services for the states of Bihar, West Bengal, Jharkhand, Nagaland, Mizoram, Manipur, Meghalaya, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, Tripura and Assam. [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Chennai (Madras) 220 Anna Salai at Gemini Circle Chennai, India 600006 Telephone: +(91) (44) 2857-4000 Emergency After-Hours Telephone: (0) 44-2857-4000. Ask for American Citizen Services.(Within India, but outside Chennai, first dial 044. From the United States, first dial 011-(91) (44) ) Fax: +(91) (044) 2811-2020

The Consulate General in Chennai provides consular services for the states of Tamil Nadu, Karnataka, Kerala, and the Union Territories of Andaman and Nicobar Islands, Pondicherry and Lakshwadeep Islands. [email protected]

U.S. Consulate General Hyderabad Survey No. 115/1, Financial District, Nanakramguda Hyderabad, Telangana, 500032 Phone: 040 6932 8000

The Consulate General in Hyderabad provides services to the U.S. citizens in the Indian states of Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Odisha. [email protected]

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Entry, Exit and Visa Requirements

All U.S. citizens need a valid passport as well as a valid Indian visa or an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) card, to enter and exit India for any purpose. Travelers without valid documents or the correct type of visa may be denied entry into India. Indian visa regulations and instructions change frequently, often with little advance notice. Travelers are urged to check the  website of the Indian Embassy in Washington, D.C.  before any travel to India to review the most current information. The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India cannot assist you if you arrive without proper documentation.

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India solely for tourist purposes for stays of less than 60 days may apply for an eVisa at least four days prior to their arrival. Please visit the  Indian government's website for electronic travel authorization for additional information and to submit an application.  

U.S. citizens seeking to enter India as a tourist for longer than 60 days or for any other purpose must apply for a visa from an Indian embassy or consulate. The Government of India has appointed VFS Global to assist with visa services to individuals in the United States. Applicants may apply for Indian visas through the application link https://visa.vfsglobal.com/usa/en/ind/apply-visa .

Diplomatic and Official visa applications are accepted directly at the Indian Embassy and Consulates. All U.S. government employees traveling on official orders, including military personnel, must obtain country clearance for travel to India. Once you have received your visa, check it carefully to ensure that the type of visa and number of entries is appropriate for your travel plans.

Keep copies of your U.S. passport data page, as well as the pages containing the Indian visa and Indian immigration stamps with you at all times. Consider downloading these documents to your mobile phone in case of emergency. If your passport is lost or stolen, copies will help you apply for a replacement passport and an exit visa from the Indian government. Replacing a lost visa, which is required in order to exit the country, may take four or five business days.   

U.S. citizens of Pakistani origin or descent are subject to administrative processing and should expect additional delays when applying for Indian visas.

Foreign citizens who visit India to  study, do research, work, or act as missionaries,  as well as all travelers and residents planning to stay more than 180 days,  are required to register their visit or residency within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO)  closest to where they will be staying in addition  to having the appropriate visa  when they enter India. The FRRO maintains offices in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Bengaluru (Bangalore), Lucknow, Calicut, Goa, Cochin, Trivandrum, and Amritsar. District Superintendents of Police serve as Foreigners Registration Officers (FROs) in all other places. We recommend all U.S. citizens review the entry requirements described on the  Frequently Asked Question (FAQ)  section on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you overstay your Indian visa, or otherwise violate Indian visa regulations, you may require clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs to leave the country. Generally, you will be fined and, in some cases, may be jailed for months. Visa violators seeking an exit permit must visit  the Foreigners Regional Registration Office portal  to submit the application and pay any levied fines. Processing of an exit permit under these circumstances can take up to 90 days and decisions will be made on a case-by-case basis.  

For the most current information on entry and exit requirements, please contact the  Embassy of India  at 2536 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008, telephone (202) 939-9806 or the Indian Consulates in Atlanta ,  Chicago , Houston ,  New York , or  San Francisco . Outside the United States, inquiries should be made at the nearest Indian embassy or consulate.

General information regarding Indian visa and immigration rules, including the addresses and telephone numbers for the FRRO offices, can be found at the  Indian Ministry of Home Affairs Bureau of Immigration website.

HIV/AIDS RESTRICTIONS:  There are no disclosure requirements or restrictions for HIV/AIDS patients who enter India on a tourist visa. Disclosure regarding HIV/AIDS is required of anyone seeking a resident permit in India. Foreign residents found to be suffering from HIV/AIDS will be deported. Please verify this information with the  Embassy of India  before you travel.

Find information on  dual nationality ,  prevention of international child abduction  and  customs regulations  on our websites.

Safety and Security

U.S. citizens should always practice good personal security and situational awareness. Be aware of your surroundings (including local customs and etiquette) and keep a low profile. Monitor local news reports, vary your routes and times in carrying out daily activities, and consider the level of security present when you visit public places, including religious sites, and when choosing hotels, restaurants, and entertainment and recreation venues.

India continues to experience terrorist and insurgent activities which may affect U.S. citizens directly or indirectly. Anti-Western terrorist groups, some on the U.S. government's list of foreign terrorist organizations, are active in India, including Islamist extremist groups such as Harkat-ul-Jihad-i-Islami, Harakat ul-Mujahidin, Indian Mujahideen, Jaish-e-Mohammed, and Lashkar-e Tayyiba. The U.S. government occasionally receives information regarding possible terrorist attacks that could take place in India, monitors such information to determine credibility, and advises U.S. citizens accordingly.  Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive messages from the Embassy automatically.   

Past attacks have targeted public places, including some frequented by Westerners, such as luxury and other hotels, trains, train stations, markets, cinemas, mosques, and restaurants in large urban areas. Attacks have taken place during the busy evening hours in markets and other crowded places, but could occur at any time.  Alerts are usually more frequent around major holidays. The Maoists (also known as “Naxalites”) are the most active insurgent group in India. The Naxalites typically attack Indian government officials, but have also derailed trains, targeted other government buildings such as police stations, and conducted other criminal activity.  In eastern India’s Bihar state, 10 security personnel were killed and five injured in a Naxalite-triggered Improvised Explosive Device blast on July 18, 2016.  In the eastern state of Jharkhand, seven policemen were killed and eight others injured in a landmine blast by Naxalites on January 27, 2016.   

Beyond the threat from terrorism and insurgencies, demonstrations and general strikes, or “bandh,” often cause major inconvenience and unrest. These strikes can result in the stoppage of all transportation and tourist-related services, at times for 24 hours or more. U.S. citizens caught in such a strike may find they are unable to make flight and rail connections, as local transportation can be severely limited. Local media generally give an idea of the length and geographical location of the strike. Large religious gatherings that attract hundreds of thousands of people can result in dangerous and often life-threatening stampedes. Local demonstrations can begin spontaneously and escalate with little warning, disrupting transportation systems and city services and posing risks to travelers. In response to such events, Indian authorities occasionally impose curfews and/or restrict travel. You are urged to obey such curfews and travel restrictions and to avoid demonstrations and rallies as they have the potential for violence, especially immediately preceding and following political rallies, elections, and religious festivals (particularly when Hindu and Muslim festivals coincide). Tensions between castes and religious groups can also result in disruptions and violence. In some cases, demonstrators specifically block roads near popular tourist sites and disrupt train operations in order to gain the attention of Indian authorities; occasionally vehicles transporting tourists are attacked in these incidents. India generally goes on “High Alert” status prior to major holidays or events. You should monitor local television, print media, Mission India’s American Citizens Services  Facebook  page, and enroll with the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program  for further information about the current situation in areas where you will travel.

The U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General in Chennai, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Mumbai will post information about routine demonstrations on the U.S. Embassy and U.S. Consulates General websites, under the heading “Demonstration Notices.” Please monitor our websites regularly for information about protest activities in the country. Please note that the Embassy and Consulates General will issue emergency/security messages for other purposes, as necessary.

Religious violence occasionally occurs in India, especially when tensions between different religious communities are purposefully exacerbated by groups pushing religiously chauvinistic agendas. There are active "anti-conversion" laws in some Indian states, and acts of conversion sometimes elicit violent reactions from Hindu extremists. Foreigners suspected of proselytizing Hindus have been attacked and killed in conservative, rural areas in India in the past. 

Swimming in India:  You should exercise caution if you intend to swim in open waters along the Indian coastline, particularly during the monsoon season. Every year, several people in Goa, Mumbai, Puri (Odisha), off the Eastern Coast in the Bay of Bengal, and other areas drown due to strong undertows. It is important to heed warnings posted at beaches and to avoid swimming in the ocean during the monsoon season. Trained lifeguards are very rare along beaches.

If you visit the Andaman Islands, be aware that there have been reports of crocodile attacks in salt water resulting in fatalities.  Ask local residents about dangerous sea life before swimming and keep a safe distance from animals at all times.

Wildlife safaris:  India offers opportunities for observation of wildlife in its natural habitat and many tour operators and lodges advertise structured, safe excursions into parks and other wildlife viewing areas for close observation of flora and fauna. However, safety standards and training vary, and it is a good idea to ascertain whether operators are trained and licensed. Even animals marketed as “tame” should be respected as wild and extremely dangerous. Keep a safe distance from animals at all times, remaining in vehicles or other protected enclosures when venturing into game parks.

Trekking in India:  Trekking expeditions should be limited to routes identified for this purpose by local authorities. Use only registered trekking agencies, porters, and guides, suspend trekking after dark, camp at designated camping places, and travel in groups rather than individually or with one or two companions. Altitudes in popular trekking spots can be as high as 25,170 feet (7,672 m); please make sure that you have had a recent medical checkup to ensure that you are fit to trek at these altitudes and carry sufficient medical insurance that includes medical evacuation coverage.

Train Travel:  India has the third largest rail network in the world, and train travel in India generally is safe. Nevertheless, accidents and on-board fires are sometimes caused by aging infrastructure, poorly maintained equipment, overcrowding, and operator errors. Train accidents and fires have resulted in the death and serious injury of passengers.

Areas of Instability: Jammu & Kashmir:  The Department of State strongly recommends that you avoid travel to the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir because of the potential for terrorist incidents as well as violent public unrest. A number of terrorist groups operate in the territory targeting security forces, particularly along the Line of Control (LOC) separating Indian and Pakistani-controlled Kashmir, and those stationed in primary tourist destinations in the Kashmir Valley: Srinagar, Gulmarg, and Pahalgam. Since 1989, as many as 70,000 people (terrorists, security forces, and civilians) have been killed in the Kashmir conflict. Foreigners are particularly visible, vulnerable, and at risk. In the past, serious communal violence left the territory mostly paralyzed due to massive strikes and business shutdowns, and U.S. citizens have had to be evacuated by local police. The Indian government prohibits foreign tourists from visiting certain areas along the LOC (see the section on Restricted Areas, below).

India-Pakistan Border:  The Department of State recommends that you avoid travel to areas within ten kilometers of the border between India and Pakistan. Both India and Pakistan maintain a strong military presence on both sides of the border. The only official India-Pakistan border crossing point for persons who are not citizens of India or Pakistan is in the state of Punjab between Atari, India, and Wagah, Pakistan. The border crossing is usually open, but you are advised to confirm the current status of the border crossing prior to commencing travel. A Pakistani visa is required to enter Pakistan. Only U.S. citizens residing in India may apply for a Pakistani visa in India. Otherwise you should apply for a Pakistani visa in your country of residence before traveling to India.

Both India and Pakistan claim an area of the Karakoram mountain range that includes the Siachen glacier. Travel or mountain climbing in this area is highly dangerous. The disputed area includes the following peaks: Rimo Peak; Apsarasas I, II, and III; Tegam Kangri I, II and III; Suingri Kangri; Ghiant I and II; Indira Col; and Sia Kangri. Check with the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi for information on current conditions.

Northeastern states:  Incidents of violence by ethnic insurgent groups, including bombings of buses, trains, rail lines, and markets, occur occasionally in the northeast. While U.S. citizens have not been specifically targeted, it is possible that you could be affected as a bystander. If you travel to the northeast, you should avoid travel by train at night, travel outside major cities at night, and crowds. U.S. government employees at the U.S. Embassy and Consulates in India are prohibited from traveling to the states of Assam, Arunachal Pradesh, Mizoram, Nagaland, Meghalaya, Tripura, and Manipur without permission from the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata. Restricted Area Permits are required for foreigners to visit certain Northeastern states (see the section on Restricted Areas, below.) Contact the U.S. Consulate General in Kolkata for information on current conditions.

East Central and Southern India:  Maoist extremist groups, or “Naxalites,” are active in East Central India primarily in rural areas. The Naxalites have a long history of conflict with state and national authorities, including frequent terrorist attacks on local police, paramilitary forces, and government officials, and are responsible for more attacks in the country than any other organization through an ongoing campaign of violence and intimidation Naxalites have not specifically targeted U.S. citizens but have attacked symbolic targets that have included Western companies and rail lines. While Naxalite violence does not normally occur in places frequented by foreigners, there is a risk that visitors could become victims of violence.

Naxalites are active in a large swath of India from eastern Maharashtra and northern Telangana through western West Bengal, particularly in rural parts of Chhattisgarh and Jharkhand and on the borders of Telangana, Andhra Pradesh, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, West Bengal, and Odisha. Due to the fluid nature of the threat, all U.S. government travelers to states with Naxalite activity must receive authorization from the U.S. Consulate responsible for the area to be visited. U.S. officials traveling only to the capital cities in these states do not need prior authorization.

Restricted/Protected areas:  While the Indian Government has designated that travelers to “portions” of certain areas need special advance permission, actual practice has been to require a permit to enter any portion of certain states or territories. Areas requiring a permit include:

• The state of Arunachal Pradesh
• Portions of the state of Sikkim
• Portions of the state of Himachal Pradesh near the Chinese border
• Portions of the state of Uttarakhand (Uttaranchal) near the Chinese border
• Portions of the state of Rajasthan near the Pakistani border
• Portions of the union territory of Jammu & Kashmir near the Line of Control with Pakistan and certain portions of the union territory of Ladakh
• The union territory of Andaman & Nicobar Islands
• The union territory of the Laccadives Islands (Lakshadweep)
• Portions of the state of Manipur
• Portions of the state of Mizoram
• Portions of the state of Nagaland

More information about travel to/in restricted/protected areas can be found from India’s  Bureau of Immigration .

“Restricted Area Permits" are available outside India at Indian embassies and consulates abroad, or in India from the Ministry of Home Affairs (Foreigners Division) at Jaisalmer House, 26 Man Singh Road, New Delhi. The states of Arunachal Pradesh and Sikkim maintain official guesthouses in New Delhi, which can also issue Restricted Area Permits for their respective states for certain travelers. While visiting Mamallapuram (Mahabalipuram) in Tamil Nadu, be aware the Indira Gandhi Atomic Research Center, Kalpakkam, is located just south of the site and is not clearly marked as a restricted and dangerous area.

For the latest security information, travelers should enroll in  STEP  to receive updated security information and regularly monitor travel information available from the  U.S. Embassy in New Delhi  as well as the U.S. Consulates General in  Mumbai  (Bombay),  Chennai (Madras),  Hyderabad , and  Kolkata  (Calcutta).

CRIME:  Petty crime, especially theft of personal property (including U.S. passports), is common, particularly on trains or buses, at airports, and in major tourist areas. Pickpockets can be very adept and women have reported having their bags snatched, purse-straps cut, or the bottom of their purses slit without their knowledge. If you are traveling by train, lock your sleeping compartments and take your valuables with you when leaving your berth. If you travel by air, be careful with your bags in the arrival and departure areas outside airports. Violent crime, especially directed against foreigners, has traditionally been uncommon, although in recent years there has been a modest increase. Be cautious about displaying cash or expensive items to reduce the chance of being a target for robbery or other crime, and be aware of your surroundings when you use ATMs. ATM card scams have been used to clone credit card details to withdraw money.

Sexual Assault:  Travelers should be aware that there have been reported cases of sexual assault, including rape, of U.S. citizens traveling throughout India. U.S. citizens, particularly women, are cautioned not to travel alone in India. Women traveling in India are advised to respect local dress and customs. Customary everyday dress for Indian women throughout the country is conservative, and even more so in non-urban areas,  with women wearing clothing that covers their legs and shoulders. Exceptions are vacation resorts catering to foreign clientele and some neighborhoods of the major cities of New Delhi and Mumbai. Western women, especially those of African descent, continue to report incidents of verbal and physical harassment by individuals and groups of men. Known locally as “Eve-teasing,” these incidents of sexual harassment can be quite frightening and can quickly cross the line from verbal to physical. Sexual harassment can occur anytime or anywhere, but most frequently has happened in crowded areas such as in market places, train stations, buses, and public streets. The harassment can range from sexually suggestive or lewd comments to catcalls to outright groping. The Government of India has focused greater attention on addressing issues of gender violence. One outcome has been greater reporting of incidences of sexual assault country-wide, and Indian authorities report rape is one of the fastest growing crimes in India. Among large cities, Delhi experienced the highest number of reported crimes against women. Although most victims have been local residents, recent sexual attacks against female visitors in tourist areas across India underline the fact that foreign women are at risk and should exercise vigilance.

Women should observe stringent security precautions, including avoiding use of public transport after dark without the company of known and trustworthy companions, restricting evening entertainment to well-known venues, and avoiding isolated areas when alone at any time of day. Keep your hotel room number confidential and make sure hotel room doors have chains, deadlocks, and peep holes. Travel with groups of friends rather than alone. In addition, only hire reliable cars and drivers and avoid traveling alone in hired taxis, especially at night. Use taxis from hotels and pre-paid taxis at airports rather than hailing them on the street. If you encounter threatening situations, call “100” for police assistance (“112” from mobile phones).

Scams:  Major airports, train stations, popular restaurants, and tourist sites are often used by scam artists looking to prey on visitors, often by creating a distraction. Beware of taxi drivers and others, including train porters, who solicit travelers with "come-on" offers of cheap transportation and/or hotels. Travelers accepting such offers have frequently found themselves the victims of scams, including offers to assist with "necessary" transfers to the domestic airport, disproportionately expensive hotel rooms, unwanted "tours," unwelcome "purchases," extended cab rides, and even threats when the tourists decline to pay.  There have been reports of tourists being lured, held hostage and extorted for money in the face of threats of violence against the traveler and his/her family members.

You should exercise care when hiring transportation and/or guides and use only well-known travel agents to book trips. Some scam artists have lured travelers by displaying their name on a sign when they leave the airport. Another popular scam is to drop money or to squirt something on the clothing of an unsuspecting traveler and use the distraction to rob them of their valuables. Tourists have also been given drugged drinks or tainted food to make them more vulnerable to theft, particularly at train stations. Even food or drink prepared in front of the traveler from a canteen or vendor could be tainted.

Some vendors sell carpets, jewelry, gemstones, or other expensive items that may not be of the quality promised. Deal only with reputable businesses and do not hand over your credit cards or money unless you are certain that goods being shipped are the goods you purchased. If a deal sounds too good to be true, it is best avoided. Most Indian states have official tourism bureaus set up to handle complaints.

There have been a number of other scams perpetrated against foreign travelers, particularly in Goa, Jaipur, and Agra that target younger travelers and involve suggestions that money can be made by privately transporting gems or gold (both of which can result in arrest) or by taking delivery abroad of expensive carpets, supposedly while avoiding customs duties. The scam artists describe profits that can be made upon delivery of the goods, and require the traveler to pay a "deposit" as part of the transaction.

India-based criminals use the internet to extort money from victims abroad.  In a common scam, the victim develops a close romantic relationship with an alleged U.S. citizen they meet online. When the “friend” travels to India, a series of accidents occur and the victim begins to receive requests for financial assistance, sometimes through an intermediary.  In fact, the U.S. citizen “friend” does not exist; they are only online personas used by criminal networks. Victims have been defrauded of thousands of dollars in these schemes. Do not send money to anyone you have not met in person and carefully read the Department of State’s advice on  international financial scams . 

U.S. citizens have had problems with business partners, usually involving property investments. You may wish to seek professional legal advice in reviewing any contracts for business or services offered in India. The U.S. Embassy and/or consulates are unable to provide legal advice or intervene on behalf of United States citizens with Indian courts on civil or criminal matters.  A list of local attorneys is available on the Embassy and Consulates General  websites .

In another common scam, family members in the United States, particularly older people, are approached for funds to help callers claiming to be grandchildren or relatives who have been arrested or are without money to return home. Do not send money without contacting the U.S. Embassy or Consulate General to confirm the other party’s situation. You can also call our Office of Overseas Citizens Services at 888-407-4747 (from overseas: 202-501-4444). Review our information on  Emergency Assistance to Americans Abroad . 

See the  Department of State  and the  FBI  pages for more information on scams.

Don’t buy counterfeit and pirated goods, even if they are widely available. Not only are the bootlegs illegal in the United States, if you purchase them you may also be breaking local law.

Victims of Crime:  U.S. citizen victims of sexual assault should first contact the local police, then inform the U.S. Embassy or local Consulate.

Report crimes to the local police by calling “100” or “112” from a mobile phone.                      

Remember that local authorities are responsible for investigating and prosecuting the crime.

See our webpage on  help for U.S. victims of crime overseas .

• help you find appropriate medical care
• assist you in reporting a crime to the police
• contact relatives or friends with your written consent
• explain the local criminal justice process in general terms
• provide a list of local attorneys
• provide our information on  victim’s compensation programs in the U.S.
• provide an emergency loan for repatriation to the United States and/or limited medical support in cases of destitution
• help you find accommodation and arrange flights home
• replace a stolen or lost passport

Please note that you should ask for a copy of the police report, known as a “First Information Report” (FIR), from local police when you report an incident. Local authorities generally are unable to take any meaningful action without the filing of a police report. 

If your passport is stolen, you should immediately report the theft or loss to the police in the location where your passport was stolen. A FIR is required by the Indian government in order for you to obtain an exit visa to leave India if the lost passport contained your Indian visa. Although the Embassy or Consulate General is able to replace a stolen or lost passport, the Ministry of Home Affairs and the Foreigners Regional Registration Office (FRRO) are responsible for approving an exit permit. This process usually takes three to four working days, but can take longer.

In cases of sexual assault or rape, the Embassy or Consulates General can provide a list of local doctors and hospitals, if needed, to determine if you have been injured and to discuss treatment and prevention options for diseases and pregnancy. You should be aware that in order for evidence of an assault to be submitted in a court case, Indian authorities require that the medical exam be completed at a government hospital. Therefore, if a victim goes to a private hospital for treatment, the hospital will refer them to a government hospital for this aspect of the medical process. 

There are a number of resources in India for victims of rape and sexual assault. The specific toll-free Women’s Helpline Service number in Delhi is 1091; in Mumbai it is 103; in Kolkata, 1090; in Chennai, 1091 or 2345-2365; and in Hyderabad one can dial 1-800-425-2908 or 1098 for crimes in general.

The local equivalent to the “911” emergency line in India is “100.” An additional emergency number, “112,” can be accessed from mobile phones.

Please see our  information for victims of crime , including possible victim compensation programs in the United States. 

Domestic Violence:  U.S. citizen victims of domestic violence may contact the Embassy for assistance.

Tourism:  The tourism industry is unevenly regulated, and safety inspections for equipment and facilities do not commonly occur.  Hazardous areas/activities are not always identified with appropriate signage, and staff may not be trained or certified either by the host government or by recognized authorities in the field.  In the event of an injury, appropriate medical treatment is typically available only in/near major cities.  First responders are generally unable to access areas outside of major cities and to provide urgent medical treatment.  U.S. citizens are encouraged to purchase medical evacuation insurance.  See our webpage for more  information on insurance providers for overseas coverage.

Local Laws & Special Circumstances

Criminal Penalties:  You are subject to local laws. If you violate local laws, even unknowingly, you may be expelled, arrested, or imprisoned. 

Furthermore, some activities are crimes under U.S. law and can be prosecuted in the U.S. regardless of whether they are allowed under local law.  For examples, see our website on  crimes against minors abroad  and the Department of Justice website.

Arrest Notification:  If you are arrested or detained, ask police or prison officials to notify the U.S. Embassy immediately. See our  webpage  for further information.

Alcohol: Each of India’s states has independent regulations concerning alcohol purchase and consumption. Legal drinking ages range from 18 to 25 and can vary by beverage type. Some states permit alcohol use for medicinal purposes only, others require you to hold a permit to buy, transport, or consume alcohol. Penalties for violation can be harsh.

Drugs:  Several U.S. citizens have been arrested at Indian airports for attempting to smuggle illegal drugs from India.  All claimed that they did not realize they were carrying narcotics.  Never transport or mail packages that do not belong to you and maintain direct control of your luggage at all times.

Beef and Cow Hide: Several states in India impose various types of prohibition on beef.  In some rural areas, cow protection vigilantes have attacked people they suspected of selling or consuming beef, or possessing items made with cow hide.

SPECIAL CIRCUMSTANCES:

Dual nationality: India does not permit its citizens to hold dual nationality. In 2006, India launched the "Overseas Citizens of India" (OCI) program, which does not grant Indian citizenship but is similar to a U.S. "green card" in that you can travel to and from India indefinitely, work in India, study in India, and own property in India (except for certain agricultural and plantation properties). If you are a U.S. citizen and obtain an OCI card you will not become a citizen of India; you will remain a citizen of the United States. An OCI card holder does not receive an Indian passport, cannot vote in Indian elections, and is not eligible for Indian government employment. The OCI program is similar to the Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card except that PIO holders must still register with Indian immigration authorities, and PIO cards are not issued for an indefinite period. U.S. citizens of Indian descent can apply for PIO or OCI cards at the Indian Embassy in Washington, or at the Indian Consulates in Chicago, New York, San Francisco, Atlanta, and Houston. Inside India, U.S. citizens can apply at the nearest FRRO office (please see “Entry/Exit Requirements” section above for more information on the FRRO). U.S. citizens are required to travel on a U.S. passport when traveling in and out of the United States.

Religious activities and faith-based travelers:  See the Department of State’s International Religious Freedom Report .  If you plan to engage in religious proselytizing you are required by Indian law to have a "missionary" visa. Immigration authorities have determined that certain activities, including speaking at religious meetings to which the general public is invited, may violate immigration law if the traveler does not hold a missionary visa. Foreigners with tourist visas who engage in missionary activity are subject to deportation and possible criminal prosecution. The states of Odisha, Chhattisgarh, Gujarat, Himachal Pradesh, Madhya Pradesh, and Arunachal Pradesh have legislation that regulates or places restrictions on conversion from one religious faith to another. If you intend to engage in missionary activity, you may wish to seek legal advice to determine whether the activities you intend to pursue are permitted under Indian law.

Tourists should also be mindful of restrictions and observances when planning to visit any religious establishment, whether Hindu temples, mosques, churches, or other locations considered sacred by the local population. Many individual temples and mosques do not permit non-members to enter all or parts of the facilities, and may require the removal of shoes, the covering of the head, or have other specific requirements for appropriate attire.  

Customs restrictions: Before traveling to or from India, you are urged to inspect all bags and clothing thoroughly to ensure they do not inadvertently contain prohibited items. Several U.S. citizens have been arrested or detained when airport security officials discovered loose ammunition (even spent individual bullets and casings) or weapons in their luggage. If you are found to have loose ammunition or bullets (including empty bullet shells used in souvenirs) on your person or in your bags, you could be charged with violation of the Indian Arms Act, incarcerated, and/or deported from India.

In addition, U.S. citizens have been arrested for possession of satellite phones. Satellite phones, personal locator beacons, and hand-held GPS devices are illegal in India.

Indian customs authorities enforce strict regulations concerning temporary importation into or export from India of such items as, antiquities, electronic equipment, currency, ivory, gold objects, and other prohibited materials. Permission from the Government of India is required to bring in restricted items, even if you are only transiting through India. If you do not comply with these regulations, you risk arrest or fine or both and confiscation of these items. If you are charged with any legal violations by Indian law enforcement, have an attorney review any document before you sign it. The Government of India requires the registration of antique items with the local police along with a photograph of the item. It is advisable to contact the Embassy of India in Washington or one of India's consulates in the United States for specific information regarding customs requirements. More information is available from the Indian Central Board of Excise and Customs .

Indian customs authorities encourage the use of an ATA (Admission Temporaire/Temporary Admission) Carnet for the temporary admission of professional equipment, commercial samples, and/or goods for exhibitions and fair purposes. ATA Carnet Headquarters, located at the U.S. Council for International Business , 1212 Avenue of the Americas, New York, NY 10036, issues and guarantees the ATA Carnet in the United States. For additional information call (212) 354-4480, or email USCIB for details. Please see our section on Customs Information for more information.

Natural disaster threats: Parts of northern India are highly susceptible to earthquakes. Regions of highest risk, ranked 5 on a scale of 1 to 5, include areas around Srinagar, Himachal Pradesh, Rishikesh and Dehra Dun, the northern parts of Punjab, northwest Gujarat, northern Bihar, and the entire northeast. Ranked 4 (high damage risk) is an area that sweeps along the north through Jammu and Kashmir, Eastern Punjab, Haryana, Northern Uttar Pradesh, central Bihar and the northern parts of West Bengal. New Delhi is located in zone 4. Severe flooding is common in hilly and mountainous areas throughout India. Flooding in 2013 in Uttarakhand, Himachal Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and other areas left thousands of people presumed dead and temporarily stranded dozens of U.S. citizens.

Typhoons/cyclones and subsequent flooding are common along the Indian coasts, in particular the Eastern coastal states of Tamil Nadu, Andhra Pradesh, Odisha and West Bengal, and have at times resulted in massive loss of life.  Tourists and residents in areas prone to these events should remain vigilant during severe weather, monitor local media for latest developments, and heed all municipal warnings.  Residents in these areas should have contingency plans for loss of power and inavailability of goods and services, including supplies for multiple days after a severe weather event.

Accessibility: While in India, individuals with disabilities may find accessibility and accommodation very different than what you find in the United States. Despite legislation that all public buildings and transport be accessible for disabled people, accessibility remains limited. One notable exception is the Delhi metro system, designed to be accessible to those with physical disabilities.

Women Travelers: Please review our travel tips for  Women Travelers .

Students:  See our   Students Abroad  page and FBI travel tips .

LGBTQI+ Travelers:  Section 377 of India’s penal code makes same-sex sexual acts illegal in India. On September 6, 2018, the Supreme Court of India declared unconstitutional the application of Section 377, barring discrimination on the basis of sexual orientation, effectively legalizing homosexuality in India. Reports of widespread discrimination and violence against LGBTQI+ persons, particularly in rural areas, persist. See our LGBTQI+ Travel Information page and section 6 of our Human Rights report for further details.

Zika is present in India. See the Centers for Disease Control’s website for more information.

The quality of medical care in India varies considerably. Medical care in the major population centers approaches and occasionally meets Western standards, but adequate medical care is usually very limited or unavailable in rural areas.

We do not pay medical bills. Be aware that U.S. Medicare does not apply overseas. 

Medical Insurance: Make sure your health insurance plan provides coverage overseas.  Most care providers overseas only accept cash payments. See our webpage for more information on insurance providers for overseas coverage . 

We strongly recommend supplemental insurance (our webpage) to cover medical evacuation.

If traveling with prescription medication, check with the government of India to ensure the medication is legal in India.  Always, carry your prescription medication in original packaging with your doctor’s prescription. 

Vaccinations: Be up-to-date on all vaccinations recommended by the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

If you are arriving in India from Sub-Saharan Africa or other yellow-fever areas, Indian health regulations require that you present evidence of vaccination against yellow fever. If you do not have such proof, you could be subjected to immediate deportation or a six-day detention in the yellow-fever quarantine center. If you transit through any part of sub-Saharan Africa, even for one day, you are advised to carry proof of yellow fever immunization.

Dogs and bats create a high risk of rabies transmission in most of India. Vaccination is recommended for all prolonged stays, especially for young children and travelers in rural areas. It is also recommended for shorter stays that involve occupational exposure, locations more than 24 hours from a reliable source of human rabies immune globulin and rabies vaccine for post-exposure treatment, adventure travelers, hikers, cave explorers, and backpackers. Monkeys also can transmit rabies and herpes B, among other diseases, to human victims. Avoid feeding monkeys. If bitten, you should immediately soak and scrub the bite for at least 15 minutes and seek urgent medical attention.

Influenza is transmitted from November to April in areas north of the Tropic of Cancer (north India), and from June through November (the rainy season) in areas south of the Tropic of Cancer (south India), with a smaller peak from February through April; off-season transmission can also occur. All travelers are at risk. Influenza vaccine is recommended for all travelers during the flu season.

Outbreaks of avian influenza (H5N1 virus) occur intermittently in eastern India, including West Bengal, Manipur, Sikkim, Andhra Pradesh, Telangana, and Assam. For further information on pandemic influenza, please refer to the Department of State's 2009-H1N1, Pandemic Influenza, and H5N1 Fact Sheet .

Malaria prophylaxis depends on time of year and area the traveler is visiting. Please consult the CDC website for more information. Dengue fever presents significant risk in urban and rural areas. The highest number of cases is reported from July to December, with cases peaking from September to October. Daytime insect precautions such as wearing long-sleeved shirts and mosquito repellent are recommended by the CDC.

Tuberculosis is an increasingly serious health concern in India. For further information, please consult the CDC’s Travel Notice on TB .

Further health information:

• World Health Organization
• U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC)

Air pollution is a significant problem in several major cities in India, and you should consult your doctor prior to travel and consider the impact seasonal smog and heavy particulate pollution may have on you.  The air quality in India varies considerably and fluctuates with the seasons.  It is typically at its worst in the winter. Anyone who travels where pollution levels are high is at risk. People at the greatest risk from particle pollution exposure include:

• Infants, children, and teens
• People over 65 years of age
• People with lung disease such as asthma and chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD), which includes chronic bronchitis and emphysema;
• People with heart disease or diabetes
• People who work or are active outdoors

Current air quality data can be found on the Embassy’s Air Quality page . The data on this site are updated hourly.

Rh-negative blood may be difficult to obtain as it is not common in Asia.

For emergency services, dial 112 from a cell phone; from a land line, dial 100 for police, 102 for ambulance (108 in parts of South India), and 101 for fire. Ambulances are not equipped with state-of-the-art medical equipment, and traffic does not yield to emergency vehicles. Injured or seriously ill travelers may prefer to take a taxi or private vehicle to the nearest major hospital rather than wait for an ambulance. Most hospitals require advance payment or confirmation of insurance prior to treatment. Payment practices vary and credit cards are not routinely accepted for medical care.

Medical Tourism: Medical tourism is a rapidly growing industry. Companies offering vacation packages bundled with medical consultations and financing options provide direct-to-consumer advertising over the internet. Such medical packages often claim to provide high quality care, but the quality of health care in India is highly variable. People seeking health care in India should understand that medical systems operate differently from those in the United States and are not subject to the same rules and regulations. Anyone interested in traveling for medical purposes should consult with their local physician before traveling and refer to the information from the CDC . Persons traveling to India for medical purposes require the proper “medical” visa. Please check with the nearest Indian embassy or consulate for more information.

Despite reports of antibiotic-resistant bacteria in hospitals, in general travelers should not delay or avoid treatment for urgent or emergent medical situations. However, health tourists and other travelers who may be contemplating elective procedures in this country should carefully research individual hospital infection control practices.

Surrogacy: Commercial surrogacy is illegal for foreigners in India, subject to complex local regulation.  For additional information, visit the Government of India’s official information on foreigner surrogacy . 

The U.S. Embassy and Consulates General in India maintain lists of local doctors and hospitals, all of which are published on their respective websites under "U.S. Citizen Services." We cannot endorse or recommend any specific medical provider or clinic.

Travel and Transportation

Road Conditions and Safety:  Travel by road in India is dangerous. India leads the world in traffic-related deaths and a number of U.S. citizens have suffered fatal traffic accidents in recent years. You should exercise extreme caution when crossing streets, even in marked pedestrian areas, and try to use only cars that have seatbelts. Seatbelts are not common in three-wheel taxis (autos) and in taxis’ back seats. Helmets should always be worn on motorcycles and bicycles.Travel at night is particularly hazardous.

On Indian roads, the safest driving policy is always to assume that other drivers will not respond to a traffic situation in the same way you would in the United States. Buses and trucks often run red lights and merge directly into traffic at yield points and traffic circles. Cars, autos, bicycles, and pedestrians behave only slightly more cautiously. Use your horn or flash your headlights frequently to announce your presence. It is both customary and wise.

Inside and outside major cities, roads are often poorly maintained and congested. Even main roads frequently have only two lanes, with poor visibility and inadequate warning markers. On the few divided highways one can expect to meet local transportation traveling in the wrong direction, often without lights. Heavy traffic is the norm and includes (but is not limited to) overloaded trucks and buses, scooters, pedestrians, bullock and camel carts, horse or elephant riders en route to weddings, bicycles, and free-roaming livestock.

Public Transportation: Buses, patronized by hundreds of millions of Indians, are convenient in that they serve almost every city of any size. However, they are often driven fast, recklessly, and without consideration for the rules of the road. Accidents are quite common.

Traffic Laws: Traffic in India moves on the left. It is important to be alert while crossing streets and intersections, especially after dark as traffic is coming in the "wrong" direction. Travelers should remember to use seatbelts in both rear and front seats where available, and to ask their drivers to maintain a safe speed.

In order to drive in India, you must have either a valid Indian driver’s license or a valid international driver’s license. Because of difficult road and traffic conditions, you may wish to consider hiring a local driver.

If a driver hits a pedestrian or a cow, the vehicle and its occupants are at risk of being attacked by passersby. Such attacks pose significant risk of injury or death to the vehicle's occupants or risk of incineration of the vehicle. It could be unsafe to remain at the scene of an accident of this nature, and drivers may instead wish to seek out the nearest police station. Protestors often use road blockage as a means of publicizing their grievances, causing severe inconvenience to travelers. Visitors should monitor local news reports for any reports of road disturbances.

Please refer to our Road Safety page for more information.

Emergency Numbers: The following emergency numbers work in New Delhi, Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad, and Kolkata:

• Fire Brigade 101
• Ambulance 102

AVIATION SAFETY OVERSIGHT: The U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) has assessed the Government of India’s Civil Aviation Authority as being in compliance with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) aviation safety standards for oversight of India’s air carrier operations. Further information may be found on the  FAA’s safety assessment page . Travelers are urged to use caution while booking private helicopters for travel, especially in the northeast. 

For additional travel information

• Enroll in the  Smart Traveler Enrollment Program (STEP)  to receive security messages and make it easier to locate you in an emergency.
• Call us in Washington, D.C. at 1-888-407-4747 (toll-free in the United States and Canada) or 1-202-501-4444 (from all other countries) from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m., Eastern Standard Time, Monday through Friday (except U.S. federal holidays).
• See the  State Department’s travel website  for the  Worldwide Caution  and  Travel Advisories .
• Follow us on  Twitter  and  Facebook .
• See  traveling safely abroad  for useful travel tips.

India was cited in the State Department’s 2023 Annual Report to Congress on International Child Abduction for demonstrating a pattern of non-compliance with respect to international parental child abduction. Review information about International Parental Child Abduction in  India . For additional IPCA-related information, please see the  International Child Abduction Prevention and Return Act ( ICAPRA )  report.

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• Passports, travel and living abroad
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Entry requirements

This advice reflects the UK Government’s understanding of current rules for people travelling on a full ‘British citizen’ passport from the UK, for the most common types of travel.

The authorities in India set and enforce entry rules. If you’re not sure how these requirements apply to you, contact the  High Commission of India in London or another Indian consulate in the UK .

COVID-19 rules

There are no COVID-19 testing or vaccination requirements for travellers entering India.

Passport validity requirements

Make sure your passport is valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India.

Your passport must also: - have 2 blank pages for your visa

Check with your travel provider that your passport and other travel documents meet requirements. Renew your passport if you need to

You will be denied entry if you do not have a valid travel document or try to use a passport that has been reported lost or stolen.

Visa requirements

Apply for the right type of visa for the purpose of your travel.

You need a visa to travel to India unless you are an Overseas Citizen of India (OCI) cardholder.

India has a number of visa categories. Make sure you get the right visa for the purpose and duration of your travel.

Penalties for having the wrong visa can include refusal of entry or deportation. This may also include not being allowed to enter India in the future.

For latest information on Indian visas and immigration requirements, see the  e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office), the  Bureau of Indian Immigration website  and  Indian Ministry of External Affairs website .

Applying for a visa or e-visa

Find out how to apply for a visa from the Indian Bureau of Immigration Depending on your requirements you may be able to apply for:

• regular (paper) visa
• e-visa (make sure to check the website’s ‘FAQs’ for restrictions on airports and seaports of entry)

Check your eligibility and any restrictions before you apply and allow plenty of time for your application to be processed.

More information is available from the website of High Commission of India in London .

Applicants of Pakistani origin

If you are of Pakistani origin, a British-Pakistan dual national, or holding a National Identity Card for overseas Pakistanis (NICOP), the visa processing time will be substantially longer than other visa applications. More information is available from the High Commission of India in London .

If you are a British-Pakistan dual national, you must apply for an Indian visa on your Pakistani passport. If you have renounced your Pakistani nationality or cancelled your Pakistani passport, you will need to submit documentary proof of this.

Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) cardholders

If you hold a valid Overseas Citizens of India (OCI) card, you can use this, along with your valid British passport to visit India. You do not need a visa. If you have a Persons of Indian Origin (PIO) card, you will need to convert it to an OCI card. More information is available from the  High Commission of India in London  and the  Indian Bureau of Immigration .

Arrival, registration, and extensions

If you plan to stay in India for more than 180 days and do not hold an OCI card, register within 14 days of arrival with the Foreigner Regional Registration Office (FRRO) . You could be denied permission to leave if you do not do this. Check if you are required to  register your arrival .

Overstaying in India on a visa is an offence. Make sure you leave the country before your visa expires or get an official extension if needed. More information is available on the Indian Bureau of Immigration website.

If you’re hospitalised

If you or someone you’re travelling with has a short-term Tourist Visa and is hospitalised, you may be able to extend or ‘convert’ to a Medical Visa .

Exit requirements

You will pass through immigration as you depart India. Officials will check when you entered the country. If you do not have an entry stamp, for example if you have a newly issued passport, you will need to apply for special exit visa before you travel. This must be done online and can take between five and fifteen working days for straightforward applications. Factor this into your timeframe to leave India when you are booking flights. For further information see the  e-FRRO online portal (part of the Indian Foreigners Registration Office).

Vaccination requirements (other than COVID-19)

At least 8 weeks before your trip, check the vaccinations and vaccination certificates you may need on TravelHealthPro (from the UK’s National Travel Health Network and Centre).

Depending on your circumstances, these may include:

• yellow fever

The Indian Ministry of Health and Family Welfare also provides  vaccination guidance and data .

Accommodation

By law, hotels, hostels and other accommodation providers must register the stay of foreign guests with the Foreigners’ Regional Registration Office (FRRO) using a “C Form”.  Please ask your accommodation provider to ensure they have done so.

Customs rules

There are strict rules about goods that can be brought into and taken out of India . You must declare anything that may be prohibited or subject to tax or duty.

Satellite phones and listening devices

It is illegal to possess and operate satellite phones in India without a licence. British nationals have been arrested for bringing them into the country without prior permission. You can contact the Indian Department of Telecommunication to request a licence .

You may also need prior permission from the Indian authorities to bring equipment like listening or recording devices, radio transmitters, powerful cameras, or binoculars into India. You can ask the High Commission of India in London for advice.

Taking money into India

There are restrictions on bringing Indian rupees into India.

Visitors, including tourists, must not bring any amount of Indian currency into the country. If you’re resident in India, you can bring up to 25,000 rupees into the country.

If you’re visiting India, you can bring cash, travellers’ cheques (in pounds sterling or another foreign currency) or a bank card with you and exchange or withdraw rupees once in India.

You must declare any amount above 5,000 US dollars in notes, or 10,000 US dollars in notes and travellers’ cheques combined.

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Can I travel to India with an expired passport?

No. The passport you use to enter India must be valid for no less than six months from the intended arrival date. In case your passport is about to expire, you can neither apply for an Indian visa nor enter the country. Therefore, it’s better to renew your passport if it expires within six months. Additionally, this passport should have at least two blank pages for stamping by the Immigration Officer.

When traveling to India, the India eVisa and a valid passport are essential documents. Both must meet all requirements to ensure a smooth and hassle-free journey. To guarantee a pleasant travel experience, it is essential to ensure that the information on these documents matches accurately. That’s why applicants are strongly advised to double-check all the data they provided on the visa application form when applying for an Indian visa online. Immigration authorities verify your visa application information against your passport details, and both must align to gain entry into the country. In case there is any unmatched information between the passport and visa, travelers may not be allowed to enter India. 

Last but not least, if you have dual citizenship, you must travel to India with the passport you used to apply for the e visa . Otherwise, the Immigration Officer at the airport can deny your entry.  

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This is a commercial/Private Website, NOT an official website of the government.

This is a commercial website to apply eVisa to India through Indian Government Website, you will be charged a fee. To book a landing visa under our process, we will charge a service fee for providing consultancy, submitting applications and informing the status and results.

Our fee will be higher than you apply directly on Indian Government Website or at Indian Embassies in your country.

Can I travel to India if my passport expires in 3 months or less?

aipassportphoto.com / 2023-01-29

What regulations apply to the validity of a U.S. passport for travel to India ?

Let's first clarify the meaning of the 6-month passport rule in practice. This is the minimum validity period for your passport that allows you to enter the country. This means that your passport's remaining validity cannot be less than six months from the date you return from your trip.

If you are planning a weekend trip in December, your passport must be valid for the duration of your travel plus six months thereafter, which would make it valid until June. This period can be extended or decreased by some countries, such as the EU Schengen nations.

India does not fall within the 6-month or 3-month passport club. This means that your passport must be valid for the entire duration of your trip. The majority of countries, including the United States, advise travelers to India to use passports that have a validity period of at least 180 days from the date they are issued. This refers to the time before your passport expires and not its issue.

You can enter India with a passport that will expire within 3 months

While it is not recommended and it is better to be cautious, technically, you can enter India with less 180 days remaining on your passport until the expiration date. This  applies only to certain circumstances .

A valid visa is required for every entry into the Indian territory by holders of a U.S passport. Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months after the date of application to obtain an Indian visa.

Some visas are available for as long as 120 days before the intended arrival date.

You might be in the following scenario: you applied for a visa three months ahead of your travel date, but your passport was still six months away from expiration. Your visa will still be valid if your passport is not up to date after the 120-day period has passed. You should still be allowed to enter Indian territories in this case, as long as you do not have travel plans that exceed the expiration date of your passport.

No matter what your circumstances, it is best to have a passport that is valid for at least 180-days beyond your travel dates. After all, the immigration officer at border control has final say. You may not be allowed entry if your passport expires too soon.

Is it possible to travel to India if your passport is about expire?

There is another category of travel that you can choose from, besides the usual and extraordinary reasons to visit India. It's called emergency.

Bad things can happen and they happen every day. Therefore, anyone could find themselves in a situation that requires immediate action. You may find yourself in a situation where you need to travel fast because of all the international ties.

At such a time, the passport expiration date can prove fatal. However, for this particular situation, the U.S. government has prepared emergency travel passports.

Emergency passport

An emergency passport is a category of travel pass that is used for situations that require urgent international travel. A family member's death or serious illness can all be considered an emergency. You can apply at any one of the 26 regional passport offices if you are in urgent need of a passport.

To be eligible for an emergency passport, you must provide a compelling reason for your travel. This can be confirmed by a signed doctor's note or death certificate. You must convince passport agents that you have to leave the country immediately. You may receive your passport within 24 hours if you are eligible for this service.

Get your new passport photo quickly

You should check out our passport photo tool if you need a passport for an upcoming trip or just want to speed up your passport renewal process.

Aipassportphoto  allows you to quickly and easily obtain your passport photo. PPO uses advanced algorithms to determine if your photo meets the requirements for a passport photograph. It also adjusts it by using a plain background and cropping.

Take a soon-to expire passport with you to India - Summary

We have one tip for you: Don't travel with an almost expired passport.

It is best to have a passport with at least 180 days remaining if you plan to travel to India. If you really need to travel urgently and your passport is not suitable, you can apply for an emergency passport or use the process to quickly renew your passport.

Simply  Take a photo at home  and upload it on Aipassportphoto . You'll see why so many people love this quick and reliable way of getting passport photos. You can upload as many photos you like, and you only pay when you are satisfied.

Can I travel to India if my passport has less than six months?

You must be a U.S. citizen to enter India. Your passport must be valid at least six months after the date of your visa application in order to get the visa.

If my U.S. passport expires within 3 months, can I still travel to India?

To be permitted to travel to India, you must have a U.S. passport. This requires that your passport has at least six months validity at the time you apply for a visa.

How long should my passport be valid when traveling to India?

Your passport must remain valid for the duration you are traveling in the destination country. However, the recommended validity period for passports is 180 days after your arrival to India.

Is there a minimum validity period for Indian passports?

India does not have minimum passport validity requirements, unlike some other countries. This means that you can enter India as long as your passport is valid. To enter India, travelers from the United States must have a valid visa. Your passport must also be valid for at most 6 (or six) months.

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US passport less than 6 months expiration - India Forum

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US passport less than 6 months expiration

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Has anyone recently traveled to india on a US passport with less than 6 months expiration and an OCI?

I know it’s better to have it renewed but I need to travel urgently this week and don’t have a way to renew it at such a short notice.

Thanks in advance

I don't think it is feasible. Sorry, I don't have more expertise. Hope someone with better knowledge comes along to answer this.

See this link: https://www.indiainnewyork.gov.in/index.php/pages?id=WEEvaENpL3VyK3BxTER3cTFYYVJqUT09&subid=WXJDQ3lrelBNL1pqM3hwRWFobHQ2dz09&nextid=OVl6anJmcGhUYmFwNmNTbWtRcHM1dz09

This topic has been closed to new posts due to inactivity.

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Guide to the 6-month passport rule — what is it?

Editor's Note

It may sound trivial, but one of the best rules you can follow as an international traveler is to remember to check your passport validity before you book flights and hotels.

Why? Because the requirements for entry differ from country to country. In the midst of planning my 2024 travel, I realized my U.S. passport expires in April, which could mess with my plans abroad.

Thankfully, I use a travel checklist to avoid disruptions to my travel itinerary.

I immediately started the passport renewal process online and had my photo taken at my local Walgreens — although you can DIY your passport photo if you prefer — so I could send out my application as quickly as possible. I also opted to expedite the processing time for an additional $60 fee and sent my application on its way.

If you're also in the middle of planning 2024 travel or simply want to know the ideal time to begin getting ready to renew your passport, the TPG team has you covered.

We collected information from the U.S. Department of State website and the United Kingdom's government website to create a one-stop cheat sheet examining a range of nations that typically require you to have a passport that lasts longer than your trip — whether by one, three or six months.

Note that certain countries deviate from the standard six-month requirement. These findings are also only related to passport validity dates — we're not covering visa requirements here. Those can vary depending on where you're going and where you're coming from.

Schengen countries in Europe

Many European countries are signers of the Schengen Agreement . As a result, they follow the 3+3 Rule, meaning your passport must be valid for three months beyond your three-month entry visa or for a total of six months, regardless of the duration of your initial stay.

While some Schengen countries only require passports to be valid for three months beyond your intended stay, others assume you may stay the full 90 days of your visa validity — thus the six-month time period.

The signers of the Schengen Agreement are Austria, Belgium, the Czech Republic, Denmark, Estonia, Finland, France, Germany, Greece, Hungary, Iceland, Italy, Latvia, Liechtenstein, Lithuania, Luxembourg, Malta, the Netherlands, Norway, Poland, Portugal, the Slovak Republic, Slovenia, Spain, Sweden and Switzerland. Bulgaria and Romania will join the group March 31, 2024.

The countries listed below abide by the usual six months of passport validity unless otherwise noted.

Non-Schengen countries in Europe, Asia and the Middle East

Abide by the usual 6 months of passport validity.

• Bosnia-Herzegovina
• New Caledonia
• North Korea
• Saudi Arabia
• Turkmenistan
• Turkey (British passports must be valid for at least 150 days from the date you arrive in the country)
• United Arab Emirates
• West Bank/Gaza Strip

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond the scheduled departure date

Passport must be valid 1 month beyond the date of your intended stay, passport only needs to be valid for the proposed duration of your stay.

• Central African Republic
• Cote d'Ivoire
• Democratic Republic of the Congo
• Equatorial Guinea
• Morocco (British passports must be valid for at least three months on the date of entry)
• Sao Tome and Principe
• South Africa (passports must also have 30 days beyond your intended date of exit from the country)
• South Sudan

Canada, Mexico and the Caribbean

• Antigua and Barbuda
• Dominican Republic
• Trinidad and Tobago

Central and South America

• El Salvador

Passport must be valid 3 months beyond arrival

• Brazil (British passports need to be valid six months beyond arrival)

South Pacific

• American Samoa
• French Polynesia
• Marshall Islands
• Papua New Guinea
• New Zealand

Bottom line

When examining the rules, note that some countries have a slight distinction: They may require validity to be either six months from the date of entry or six months from the date of intended departure . For simplicity, we've taken the conservative approach and assumed that for any country with a six-month rule, like most of the ones above, you should ensure your passport is valid six months past the date of intended departure just in case.

Of course, the list above only includes just a few popular destinations worldwide. If your intended destination isn't on the list, it's always best to check with your relevant passport issuer.

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Home » Passport » Passport Validity in India

𝑷𝒂𝒔𝒔𝒑𝒐𝒓𝒕 𝑽𝒂𝒍𝒊𝒅𝒊𝒕𝒚 𝑰𝒏𝒅𝒊𝒂: How Much Validity Is a Passport?

Last Updated -- February 24th, 2024

Passport validity in India is a topic of conversation for many citizens of the country. A valid passport is one of the most important documents that a person needs to travel abroad. The Indian government has imposed various regulations and laws to ensure all Indian citizens have valid travel passports. The Government of India has set a validity period of 10 years for all passports issued to citizens of India. This period can be extended if the passport holder applies for a renewal before the expiry of the validity period. The renewal process requires submitting the same documents submitted at the time of application for the original passport.

The Government of India also allows citizens to apply for a passport of shorter validity. Such passports are issued for a period of 5 years or 1 year. These passports are generally issued to citizens with a valid reason for needing a shorter validity period. Such reasons may include travel for education, business, or medical reasons. In addition to the passport validity period, there are also certain restrictions that the Government of India places on Indian citizens traveling abroad. For example, Indian citizens are not allowed to stay in a foreign country for more than 6 months without a valid visa.

In today’s blog, we shall learn about the duration of the Indian Passport validity and what one should be doing once the passport gets expired. 

Table of contents

What to do with the expired indian passport, renew fees for passport, faq’s about passport validity in india.

Indian passports are valid for up to 10 years from the date of issuance. However, the validity of the passport may be reduced depending on the age of the passport holder. For example, passports issued to minors aged 15 and below are valid for five years. In addition, those aged 16 and 17 are issued passports valid for seven years. After the passport expires, it may be renewed by applying for a new passport. 

ICAO (International Civil Aviation Organization) requires India passport validity to ensure the safety of international air travel. ICAO requires India to ensure that all travelers entering or leaving the country have valid passports that meet ICAO standards. This helps to ensure that travelers have valid documents and that their identities can be verified by airport personnel.

The MEA (Ministry of External Affairs) currently issues Machine Readable Passports (MRP). A machine scan of a machine-readable passport (MRP) scans all of the information on the passport at once, and the program can perform logic-based tests on the data. Holders holding these passports are required to obtain a new machine-readable passport.

Also, people’s addresses change frequently, and the Home Address on passports becomes invalid. People’s facial features fluctuate as well. Bearing this in mind, it is preferable that the validity term be limited to 10 years.

An expired Indian passport cannot be renewed. You must apply for a new passport , submit the necessary documents and fees, and appear for an interview at the passport office. You can find more information about the process on the official website of the Indian Ministry of External Affairs. To renew your passport, follow the below-mentioned steps- 

Step 1: Create a Passport Seva Online Portal account. https://www[dot]passportindia[dot]gov[dot]in/AppOnlineProject/welcomeLink

Step 2: To enter the Passport Seva Online Portal, enter your registered Login Id.

Step 3: Choose the “Apply for a New Passport/Reissue a Passport” link.

Step 4: Complete the required information and submit the form.

Step 5: To schedule an appointment, navigate to the “View Saved/Submitted Applications” tab and select the “Pay and Schedule Appointment” button.

Online payment is now needed for all PSK/POPSK/PO appointments. Online payments can be made using any of the ways listed below:

• Credit/Debit Card (Visa and MasterCard)
• Banking on the internet (Banks associated with SBI and Other Banks)
• Bank SBI Challan

Step 6: Click the “Print Application Receipt” link to obtain the application receipt containing the Application Reference Number (ARN)/Appointment Number.

Please keep in mind that bringing a printout of the Application Receipt is no longer required. An SMS providing your appointment information is also admissible as proof of appointment during your trip to the Passport Office.

Step 7: Carry your original documents during your visit to the Passport Seva Kendra (PSK)/Regional Passport Office (RPO) wherein your appointment has been booked.

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Renewing your Indian passport can be a tedious and time-consuming task, but it’s necessary to maintain a valid travel document. In India, passport renewal charges depend on the type of passport and its validity period. Here is an overview of the charges for renewing an Indian passport:

• For an ordinary passport valid for 10 years: The passport renewal fee for an ordinary passport valid for 10 years is Rs. 1500.
• For an ordinary passport valid for 5 years: The passport renewal fee for an ordinary passport valid for 5 years is Rs. 1000.
• For a Diplomatic passport: The renewal fee for a Diplomatic passport is Rs. 2000.
• For an Emergency Certificate: The passport renewal fee for an Emergency Certificate is Rs. 500.
• For a Travel Document: The passport renewal fee for a Travel Document is Rs. 500.
• For a Special Passport: The passport renewal fee for a Special Passport is Rs. 3000.
• For an Official passport: The passport renewal fee for an Official passport is Rs. 2000.

Q1. Is a passport valid for 20 years?

In general, it is effective for a period of ten years from the date of issue for adults and can be reissued. Minors’ passports have a five-year validity period or until they reach the age of 18, whichever comes first.

Q2. Can I travel in if my passport expires in 3 months in India?

You can not travel internationally if your passport expires in 3 months.

Q3. Which countries need 6 months on the passport?

Countries like Russia, Kuwait, Saudi Arabia, Vietnam, Cambodia, Mainland China, Mongolia,  Laos, Thailand, India, Nepal, Pakistan, Malaysia, Singapore, Indonesia, Burma,  Bahrain, Qatar, Jordan, Israel, Egypt, the United Arab Emirates, Oman,  and Turkey need 6 months on the passport.

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Indian-origin Foreign Citizens Must Ensure New Criteria of OCI Card Validity before They Visit India

Recently, the Consulate General of India worldwide released a press release circulating a new update for the Overseas Citizen of India card . The OCI card holders – foreign citizens of Indian origin – are required to comply with the new criteria regarding validity of their OCI cards before they book their travel to India. The new criteria of the OCI card validity came into effect this November 1.

The OCI card holders within the age bracket of 20 years are required to get their OCI cards reissued each time when their passport is reissued , according to the Consulate General of India. Those above 20 years of age are exempted from ensuring this criterion of validity.

Reissue of the OCI card is not compulsory along with reissue of the passport for those within the age bracket of 21 to 50 years . But they have to carry their old passport which their OCI card was issued on, in order to prove the card validity. They do also have to carry the current passport.

Those above 50 years of age are required to get their OCI cards reissued only once when their passport is renewed after they turn 50. It is also recommended in the Consulate General of India’s press release that the Overseas Citizen of India card holders must always carry the expired passport along with the current/new passport and the OCI card while traveling to India.

Also Check: Revised Rules for Gaining New OCI Cards

The government of India has also decided to allow the OCI card holders’ investment in the tax-saving national pension scheme (NPS), adding value to the OCI card beyond its primary use as a lifelong visa to India for multiple entries.

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73 thoughts on “ indian-origin foreign citizens must ensure new criteria of oci card validity before they visit india ”.

Most people then prefer using visa for India visit

Not that easy! 1 year Visa will cost you $69 (Service fee) + US$ 130 (Government & admin fee for UK / USA) – are you ready my friend?

https://www.indianimmigration.org.in/visa-fees

This is crazy…

This is insane. We were sold a fake bill of goods for the $250+ we spent on the OCI when we first applied. It was supposed to replace the need for a visa. Now we have to go back thru the daunting process of uploading docs and paying even more money to the government and CKGS for something that was to be a one time process when first introduced.

Yeah it’s literally daunting. They don’t make this process easy and of course even the most techie person can’t figure out their stupid website.

This is not a good move. I applied for the OCI card in New York. We have to wait out on the pavement of the outsourced office and the entire process is so difficult. It’s another way of getting money out of us.

you are right, It is like changing rules in the middle of game as it fit to their goal . That may be helping to fill the gap in inefficiency in running government business.

I agree the demonization was the biggest eye opener. The oci card claims parity with nri but they simply wrote off all the money and most nri did not complain. Granted it is a few hundred dollars but that is not the point here you have to abide by rules and not change goal post to suit your needs

Friends, this is our Proud Indian Policies. When they brought OCI as you also said in your posts, this supposed to be lifelong. And process of getting any thing done in CGI, New York is horrible. So much paper work, copies etc. and moreover processing fees etc and dealing with 3rd party for the processing. Can’t these people work more as compare to celebrate events in the office, taking all Indian and American holidays off. Just compare the process of getting a passport in USA, what a difference. Looks like it will take ages for them to make things simpler for Indians whether it is in India, USA or anywhere else. Just my comments.

I totally agree. Not sure when Indian Government and Consulate will learn to make things simple. Dealing with any Consulate/Agency is horrible. When we spent lot of Money and time for OCI, it was supposed to be only one time process. Even OCI card itself states lifelong. This is totally cheating and way to continuously get our money and unnecessarily harass people. And then they make propaganda that “Come visit India !!!”

Bunch of Idiots. whats the point of getting it then for children below 20. its much easier getting the e-visa

Update the Picture on New OCI cards, You don’t have to update any documents. Just old OCI card and New US passport and FEES is only $25,

Hi Manisha, is there a link for this? when we check misc. service.. it’s almost a new OCI process.

I believe the Indian consulate offices are managed by IFS (Indian Foreign Service) graduates who are supposed to be highly intelligent. Well, this is what we get for their intelligence! A community college graduate in USA can do a better and more efficient job than these crooked bureaucrats.

This is crazy. They are singling out people over 50. Why discrimination with people above 50? Do they know the meaning of ‘lifelong’

I just got stopped at Delta Counter from RDU, and they would not let me on-board the flight. I have an OCI card with an old passport number. I had checked in online before boarding the flight and there was no warning.

I did not see or noticed the press release. Not sure how you are supposed to find out. Can you imagine the panic & the stress? The counter agent did not care or gave a sh.. She was f….following the rules. She was rude and no concern whatsoever that I have meetings scheduled on Monday in Bangalore.

Fortunately, I live close to the Airport and was able to ask my wife to bring the old passport. Fortunately, I kept the old passport and did not shred it. I was able to board the flight without any issues after showing my old passport.

I went through immigration in Bangalore and not a word about showing the old passport. I guess they have not seen the fu…. Press release either.

Thanks for sharing this information. They in fact asked us to shred / surrender Indian passport when I got US passport after which I got my OCI. This whole thing is BS and rip-off. They forget the fact that lot of people have life emergencies and not everyone goes to India for a vacation every time!

This is documented clearly. You need to keep the original passport with OCI VISA if it’s not transferred to new passport.

VERY VERY FRUSTRATING!! Where can we collectively complain about this?

Yes India should make it simple! Even country like USA do not bother about what passport you are holding. Their Green Card is valid for 10 years and it is not required to reissue if passport is renewed ! Actually they do not stamp any visa on the passport. Indian Government should understand the facial features may change over years but not the FINGER PRINTS! Why not use fingerprint to verify the true identity of the OCI card holder? India has still long way to go……..!

For OCI, they have started collecting the finger print now

I agree with you, once OCI is issued, it should be valid lifelong. They say if OCI is issued after the age of 50, it is not renewed but at the same time they ask to upload a recent picture and passport copy. The frustrating part is the Indian Embassy people in Chicago as well as Washington cannot clarify if people who got OCI after age of 50 need to load passport copy and recent photo. Hypothetically if a person got OCI at 55, and renewed passport at 60, why should that person be asked to upload picture?

The Indian Government can do away with the renewal of OCI card after age 50 and endorse a new photograph on the OCI card by charging a one time fee of $50 or so for the administration fee. That would eliminate all the duplication of paperwork needed. The same can be adopted for all minors too . That way you just hold on to one OCI card for life

Having attended the camp for OCI I was told that I am over 70 and do not require to renue my OCI and I have to carry my old passport plus the new passport. Is it ok?

Hi , If we have the old Indian passports which match the passport number on the OCI card ,

Is it good enough to travel to India ?

Appreciate any guidance

Any one traveled recently on OCI and not carrying old passport?

Yes I only had my new passport and no where did it say to carry the old passport. The emirates counter in Orlando did not let me board the flight and were extremely rude and my old passport was in New York and no way of getting it before the flight left. They did not offer any help watched me cry, offloaded my luggage and never warned me that my return ticket will not be valid for me to come back to the states. If you do not travel your first leg your return gets automatically canceled. Basically spent 6000 dollars in tickets and emirates did not give a F..K. I Had not seen my family in a year and this was so stressful as I only got 2 weeks off work to visit them. Spent a ton of money and time all because emirates staff were assholes. When I finally landed in India no one asked me about my old passport Immigration was a breeze. My advise please do carry your old passport with the new passport and do not fly Emirates!!

Very good. It is really informative blog. Thank you for sharing this..

Great Post! This is an amazing article. Thanks for Sharing such a great post. Keep Posting!!

No need to renew OCI (as it says, VISA for Life) just carry all the (OLD and New) US Passports.

Not sure I understand. OCI must be carried while travelling in and out of India. Carry the current passport always.

– If OCI references the OLD Passport, Carry OLD passport and New Passport+OCI

– If OCI references only the new Passport, then OCI + New Passport is good enough.

Follow the rules of OCI renewal and get your OCI renewed soon(before June 2021).

I have OCI card (lifelong visa on old PP) and just turned 51 with renewed US passport. I have an emergency to go to India and not sure if I need visa since I do not have a renewed OCI (above age 50 rule)? I have tried to reach consulate general for the past three days and unsuccessful. Flight is in a week and not sure if I am able to travel. Any suggestions?

Hello Sir! You are able to able because the deadline for reissuance of OCI cards based on renewed US passports is June 30, 2021. Wish you safe and hassle-free travel!

Hi, you should have written to External affairs ministry, Passport department, New Delhi, India. They are taking immediate action regarding renewal of OCI card. It is my experience.

I have a OCI (lifelong visa on a old passport). Iam 55. I had renewed my passport when I was 49. I am travelling to India end of March. I do not have the renewed OCI stamp on my new passport. Will I be able to travel to India without the renewed OCI on my new passport?I will be taking both my old and new passport and the OCI card with me.

Hello Sir! Since June 30, 2021 is the deadline for reissuance of OCI cards, you can travel. Please be advised to check with the consulate/embassy for a more definite answer to your satisfaction.

regarding the new OCI rules, I understand that if I am over 50 I need to renew my OCI but Is it only when I renew my passport? for example: my passport doesn’t expire until next year but I am planning on going to india end of this year. Would I still need to renew my OCI even if my passport doesn’t expire until next year?

Hi Dixita! You can travel to India with your existing OCI card and passport. You will be required to get your OCI card reissued only when you renew your passport.

I got my OCI when i was already 54 years old. I renewed my US passport in 2019. do I need to get my OCI renewed? My understanding of rules is that if one got OCI before the age of 50 and then when their US passport is renewed after the age of 50 years, OCI card needs to be renewed once. However, I was already 54 years when I got OCI.

Hi Kamalesh! Probably not. Besides, OCI cardholders with the old passport number on the OCI card can travel to India till December 31, 2021. Please be advised to check with the consulate or embassy for a more definite answer.

What happens after December 31, 2021?

my wife is pregnant due on Jun end and she haven’t got her h4 approved yet. Can we apply OCI for baby with my approved H1 and her H4 receipt notice?

Hi Johny! You can to the best of our knowledge. Please be advised to check with a visa and immigration expert.

some one please help me. I have oci on my British passport, but now I just became us citizen,i know i have to transfer oci to my new passport but I do not have time to,because iam flying out in a week. so can I travel on with British passport and on my return to US Present my US passport.

Hi Dineshchandra! As far as we know, you can most probably travel to India irrespective of any foreign passport you hold. However, please be advised to check with the consulate as well.

Hello, I’ve got a question. I am required to renew my OCI but I need to travel to India urgently and won’t be able to renew my OCI that soon. Would I still be able to travel with my old OCI that was issued to me in 2007 and yes along with the old password the OCI was issued with? Thanks!

Hi Behlah! The rules are relaxed until December 31, 2021 for the entry of OCI cardholders into India with the old passport with the OCI number and the new passport. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/relief-for-oci-card-holders/

Hi, I have one question I will turn 50 year on May 16. My US passport will expire in 2030. If I am applying for New OCI card now then when I have to renew my OCI card. I am little confuse should I get OCI card or Entry visa since fees are almost same and don’t want to spend more money in a year because I will turn 50 in 5-6 months.

Hello Mam! As per the regulations, you must get your OCI card reissued once you turn 50.

Agree it took me almost 3 days with daily 4 hours and also online help from collogue daily of an hour and half and finally able to submit my new US passport information as well as my passport picture & my signature sign on OCI miscellaneous service cause i already have OCI card issued me in 2011 when I was 53-year-old so I just need to upload my new USA Passport, i believe that’s all.

It is frustrating and least to say also disappointing as well.

I am Physician practicing here in USA for 30 years, and never saw this non sense on any USA Federal Government site for any documents to submit including recently issuance of new USA Passport to me for which I did online application with vey ease.

I thought our beloved PM has vision of everything to be DIGITAL, but this OCI site is full of CRAP.

Plus, after when I have done with the last part of uploading the new USA passport details on this OCI miscellaneous site & after hit the upload button, I expected it will say completed thanks, but nothing happens!

So, you really still don’t know it has accepted & now completed?

I haven’t yet received any email regarding it either. What a waste of time, energy and headache! I am sure it has raised my BP tremendously.

Is this what we expect from PM Modi ji Government Service??

I am an avid fan of PM Modi ji, but surely lost confidence of his government services especially for NRI, who have always welcome him in USA with Love, Vigor, Enthusiasm & respect.

I hope and wish I can write him directly to make him acknowledge that how difficult it has been for NRIs like me to visit family & friends!

We need to abolish the “BABU” controlling the government services & be friendly and helpful attitude to his NRI clients.

Hi Folks I have a burning question regarding the new rules of OCI card holder as well as Visa policy to visit India ok. I have OCI card issued in 8/2011 when I was 53-year-old then. My OCI card at that time linked with my USA passport. It says I have lifelong and multiple Visa for India. Now My old USA passport expired in 3/2021 and I received the new USA Passport in 8/2021. I just realize, while was booking the air tickets to visit India in late 1/22. My Agent says I need to upload my new USA Passport online to OCI miscellaneous services. Now here the confusion, frustration, pain, agony starts! It is such an unfriendly, ridiculous, time consuming, slow, an unresponsive service, that anyone with the Coolest mind would lose patience, & gets angry, furious. Firstly, after all painstaking task you do that took me almost 3 days, & when I reached the final step of uploading the new passport, and hit upload then submit nothing happens like one can expect that it would say completed thanks right? Nope but it didn’t happen! Only email I have received says “Thank you for completing Part-B of OCI- Application on 18/Nov/2021 01:48 IST”. Your File-number is “such & such ” for all future reference. Please upload relevant documents as it is mandatory for complete OCI-registration. Please ignore if already uploaded. Now this email doesn’t say or mention that yea thanks we have received all necessary information & your application now completed. So, with such an ambiguity, you don’t know that you’re ok to buy air fare tickets before the prices goes up? I know it is very long post, but I hope someone here can comment on it, help me and likewise others who may be having same issue. Thanks to all who bother to read review and reply to it.

Hi, I got my OCI at the age of 60. My new Canadian pp expires in 2027. My wife got her OCI at the age of 57. Her pp also expires in 2027. We are travelling to Mumbai first and then to Dubai returning to Mumbai. So we enter Mumbai twice. We always travelled with the old and new passports to avoid any issues. Under the new rules can we continue travel with both old and new passports? Both are Canadian seniors. Is it required to have our OCI reissued as our passports only expire in 2027? Please advise Thanks

Hi Richard! If your passport was renewed after you became 50 years old, you should get the OCI card reissued. We think both of you got the OCI card issued (the first time) on the current passports which will expire in 2027. If yes, then no worries. Both of you can travel to India. You can also carry your old passports.

How much does it cost to get it re-issued?

Sharma, 12/15/2021 at 5:45 p.m. Hello, I received my OCI card when I became 60 years old. I have an OCI card issued on luly12, 2012. My OCI card at that time was linked with my USA passport ( it says: U Life Long Visa Multiple Entries) that expired on June 2021 and I received my new passport in Sept 2021. I need guidance on what exactly I need to do with my OCI card. What’s the process. I’ve read so many times the OCI Misc. Services section. I understand I have to renew or update my new passport information before Dec.31, 2021. Please guide me step by step. I want to travel in March 2022. Thank you so much in advance.

Hi Madhu Sir! You need to get your OCI card reissued with the new passport information.

I applied for my OCI in 2010 while I was 4 months short of 50 years of age and got it. I have been travelling to India several times since then. Now I hear stories about renewing my OCI card as I have not completed 50 years when I applied for my OCI. My current passport is due for renewal in 2026. Can anyone advise me whether I can travel to India using my current OCI card?

Hi Mercy! As per the rules, you are required to get your OCI renewed after 50 years of age.

My daughter’s OCI issued in 2016 and she is turn 19 and she have new passport, does she require to have reissue new OCI Thanks, Janak

Hi Janak! She needs to get the OCI card reissued only once after she turns 20. All she needs to do now is to upload a copy of the passport and a recent photograph on the OCI card service website.

I am 54 years age. I have a need to travel to India in 15 days. I have not applied for new OCI and new passport number is not same as in OCI. If I apply for new OCI now, I don’t think I will receive it in time. What are my options? Anyone’s help will be greatly appreciated.

Hi Uday! You can travel with the existing OCI card, the new passport and old passport. This relaxation is extended through December 31, 2022. Please go through https://www.indianeagle.com/travelbeats/relief-for-oci-card-holders/

My 2 daughters ( 9 yrs and 4yrs ) have OCI cards, their US passports will expire this year. We have plans to visit India later this year, so we are going to renew their US passports.

Do we need to renew their OCI card as well?

Hi Pinki! No need to renew the OCI card up to 20 years of age. All they need to do is upload a copy of the new passport and a copy of the latest photograph to the OCI website.

Sorry if I’m asking the same question. My daughter is 12 yrs and we are planning to go to India in first week of June. She has OCI card, but her Passport is new. Do we need to post Physical copies as well? Usually how long the process takes for approvals?

Hi Sree Devi! No need to post physical copies. Everything is done online.

Hi all – i am 79/80 years old born Indian (Mysore 1943) without any OCI or Indian passport – i am a US citizen now – if i want to go back to India do i have to get the OCI or can i just go to India – does anyone really know who can advise me – i just want to go back home – that’s all – please advise anyone – i am tired of living in the US – no family – no friends – nobody – i want to go back home (but even there i have no one living anymore all passed away) what can i do anyone please

Hi Fazel! The OCI card is good for you. If you have an OCI card, you can stay in India for any duration.

Fazel, if you don’t have OCI card, you can go to India on a tourist visa and stay there upto 6 months on that visa. Please apply for a visa before you leave on this site: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/

If you want to live in India for a longer time, you will need to apply for OCI. Good luck.

If you want to go to India and spend the rest of your life there then you’ll have to get OCI. You will have to prove that you’re of Indian origin. Previous Indian passport Birth certificate. Parents documents etc.

Hope you have all the documents. After applying it will take 3 months or so.

With OCI you can go to India and stay there once and for all.

Hopefully you will have had your OCI by now.

Hi! If I got my OCI 10 14 years ago (when I was 22 years old) do I need to apply for new OCI? I read that you need new OCI card every 10 years. I did get a new passport 3 years ago so I know I have to carry OCI card, Old passport and new passport when traveling to India. However, can someone tell me if I need to apply for new OCI card too?

Hi Rosh! Once you cross the threshold of 21 years, you are required to get your OCI card renewed. This requirement is relaxed only till December 31, 2022.

If you got your OCI for the first time after you have had a foreign passport after the age of 20, or after having a foreign passport renewed after your 20th birthday, that OCI is a permanent document as of current government of India rules. However when you have a foreign passport renewed after you turn 50, then you have to update your photos and nationality status on the OCI website. To the other comments from Overseas nationals who were once upon a time Indian citizens and no complain, they should stop moaning. People in India travel far more and are harassed by other high commission and embassies more often.

My daughter OCI was issued when she was 12 years old. She got her new passport when she was 17 years old in year 2016 and still valid until 2026. She was not 20 when the new passport was issued in 2016. Does she need to have OCI reissued or just update the passport details with photo- online?

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