Due to the recent influx of Australians on Indian soil, there is an increasing demand to get an India visa for Australian citizens. However, these visas are not easy to come by, as they require a lot of painstaking and time-consuming work that could otherwise be done by human beings.
What is an India Visa for Australian Citizens?
An India visa is a type of travel visa that allows Australian citizens to visit India for tourism or business purposes. The visa is valid for three months and can be extended once for an additional three months.
To apply for an India visa for Australian citizens, you will need to submit a completed visa application form and supporting documentation to the Indian embassy or consulate in your country of residence. You must also provide your passport, proof of health insurance coverage, and a valid return air ticket.
If you are traveling to India as part of a tour group, you will need to provide proof of registration with the tour operator. You should also contact the Indian embassy or consulate in your country of residence if you have any questions about applying for an urgent India visa.
Which India Visa Should I Apply For?
There are several types of visas available, depending on your purpose of travel and your nationality. Here’s a rundown of the most common Indian visas:
1. Tourist Visa: This visa is for visitors who are coming to India for leisure purposes and do not intend to work or study in the country. It granted for up to six months and costs £60 ($90).
2. Working Holiday Visa: This visa is for Australians who want to work in India during their holiday. You must have a job offer from an Indian company and be able to provide proof of income. The visa is valid for one year and costs £140 ($200).
3. Student Visa: If you’re a student planning to study in India, you need a student visa. This visa allows you to stay in the country for up to six months and costs £120 ($180).
4. General Visa: If you’re not sure which type of visa you need. Or if you just want a general overview of all the options, you can apply for a general visa.
Fees for the Visa
Here are some of the most common fees that you may need to pay:
- Application fee: A non-refundable application fee of $220 (AUD) is required. This fee must paid in cash or through a bank wire transfer. You may also required to provide a letter of invitation from a person or organization in India.
- Visa processing fee: The visa processing fee is $134 (AUD). Must paid in cash or by bank wire transfer. This fee covers the costs associated with your visa application. Such as issuing a visa and conducting background checks on you.
- Visa extension fee: If you wish to extend your tourist visa, need to pay an extension fee of $94 (AUD). Payments must be made in cash or by bank wire transfer.
Once you have paid all of the applicable fees, you can submit your visa application online. You will then receive a notification confirming that your application has been processed
What are the Time Frames to Obtain a Visa?
In general, the visa application process can take between two and six weeks. However, depending on your nationality and the time of year you apply, the processing time may be shorter or longer.
Your application will be processed through the Australian Embassy or Consulate in your home country. If you are not a citizen of Australia, your application will be processed through the Australian Embassy or Consulate in your destination country.
Please note that there may be additional requirements that you must meet before applying for a visa. For example, if you are traveling to India for tourism purposes, you may need to provide evidence. You have planned your trip in advance and have sufficient funds to cover expenses while in India.
Wrapping Up
If you are an Australian Citizen or Permanent Resident and want to travel to India for tourism or business purposes, you may be eligible for an Indian visa. However, there are a few things you need to know in order to qualify for a visa.
