Complete the application at indiavisa.travisaoutsourcing.com. Each application is different, depending on your reason for going to India.
Gather supporting documents. You must have a passport that is valid for at least the next six months from the time you apply for your visa. If you're passing through India, on the way to another destination, you'll need a transit visa. For a transit visa you must show proof that you'll be leaving India within 15 days. Tourists staying longer must show that they have the financial means to support themselves. If you need a business visa, you must have a letter from the organization that's sponsoring you. Applicants for student visas need to show an admissions letter from a recognized university or institution, and proof of financial support. And if you're going to India for a conference or workshop, you'll need an invitation letter from the event's organizer.
Take two passport-size photographs. They can be either color or black and white, and they must have been recently taken.
Submit the application, documentation, fees and your passport. Fees vary depending on the type of visa you're applying for. As of September 2009, a tourist visa ranges from $73 to $184. That fee is based on the length of time you'll be staying in India, and whether you mail the application or bring it in to a Travisa office.
You must also submit your actual passport, not a copy. If you're submitting everything by mail, Travisa offers return delivery via Federal Express, so you'll be able to track your passport. If you'd prefer to bring your application in, there are Travisa offices in New York, San Francisco, Washington DC, Chicago and Houston. When you start your application, you'll be directed to the facility closest to you.
Wait to receive your visa. If you bring your application in to the Travisa office, you can get a visa the same day. Applications sent by mail will be processed in three to five business days.
