Regular/Paper Visa Application Process– Important Guidelines for all applicants
Embassy of India, Paris

Step 1: Complete the Online Regular Visa Application Form

• Begin your visa application by completing the online form on the official website of the Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India. 

( https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/Registration )

• Select the correct Indian Mission (Embassy of India, Paris) and visa category.

• Fill in all required details accurately.

• Print, sign (2 Places), and paste photographs (2 Places), the completed form.

• Photo Guidelines :

        (Photo Guidelines link)

Note: Submitting the online form alone does not complete the application process. You must submit the printed form and supporting documents in person at the Visa Application Centre.

Step 2: Book an Appointment

• After completing the online form, book your appointment on the Embassy’s official appointment portal.(Book online appointment)

• An appointment confirmation email will be sent to you.

Step 3: Pay the Visa Fee

• Please check the applicable visa fee on the official Embassy website prior to your appointment.

• Visa fees are to be paid at the Embassy counter at the time of your scheduled appointment. 

• Applicants are requested to bring the exact cash amount 

Step 4: Visit the Embassy of India,20-22 Rue Alberic Magnard,Paris, France on the date of appointment.

What to Bring:

• Your original passport

• Printed and signed visa application form along with photographs.(as per above specification) 

• All supporting documents (originals and photocopies); please attach supporting documents as mentioned under each category of visa.

Important Guidelines:

• Arrive no earlier than 15 minutes before your appointment.

• Only the applicant/his representative will (unless biometrics is required see Step 5) be permitted inside. One parent may accompany children under 18.

• If you miss your appointment, a new one must be booked after 24 hours.

Step 5: Biometric Data Collection (if required)

All the visa applicants having visa application for more than one year are required to come personally to the Embassy counter for biometric data capture. However, the following applicants are exempted:

i. Applicants below the age of twelve years and above the age of seventy years.

ii. If your finger scans were collected within the last 59 months, then you won’t have to give new fingerprints for your next visa application(s) and personal appearance is not necessary.

• You may be required to submit fingerprints and a photograph at Embassy

• Religious headgear is allowed but your forehead, face, and ears must be visible.

• Avoid light-coloured clothing; bright colours are recommended.

• Ensure your fingertips are free from mehndi, cuts, or markings.

Step 6: Please attach prepaid registered envelope for return of passport/document by post, if you desire so.

Step7: Document Delivery

Applicants must provide a self-addressed registered pre-paid envelope for the return of documents/passport. 

Applicants who have not submitted a self-addressed, pre-paid registered envelope and wish to collect their passport/documents directly from the Embassy may do so during the document collection hours, from 1600 to 1700 hrs, only after one working day of receiving a confirmation email from the VISA system indicating that the visa has been printed. If an applicant wishes to authorize someone to collect the documents on their behalf, the representative must present an authority letter duly signed by the applicant.

Important General Instructions

• Online Visa Application: All visa applications must be filled online, printed, and signed along with two photographs.

• Passport Requirement: Original passport with a minimum validity of 6 months and at least two blank pages must be submitted with the application 

• Accuracy of Information: Personal details must match exactly as mentioned in the passport. Applicant is responsible for accuracy of information.

• Photograph Requirements: Only photographs meeting Indian specifications will be accepted. Please refer to the detailed photo requirements section below.

• Residence Requirement:

• Foreign passport holders must provide a copy of a valid French residence permit.

• Nationals not required holding a French residence permit must submit a recent utility bill (electricity/gas/landline).

• Applicants holding Stateless or Refugee Travel Documents must select their nationality as “Refugee” when completing the visa application form.

• Minor Applicants: Mandatory to fill Consent Form for Minor (Download Here)

• Before Submission: Always check the “Documents required” page before submission.

• The Embassy of India reserves the right to request additional documentation or clarification from the applicant at any stage of the visa application process.

• The grant of a visa is a sovereign right of the Government of India. Submission of a visa application, along with required documents, does not guarantee approval. The visa may be refused without assigning any reason.

• Visa fees, once paid, are non-refundable, except in cases of multiple or excess payments made in error. In such instances, applicants may contact the Nodal Officer Mr. Shankar Nandi at: cons.paris@mea.gov.in.

• Applicants are advised not to make final bookings for air tickets, hotel accommodations, or other travel arrangements until the visa has been granted. 

• Please note that the validity of the visa begins from the date of issue, not from the intended date of travel. Applicants are advised to plan their travel accordingly.

• Travel arrangements must align with the visa’s validity and should be made only after visa issuance.

        Photograph Requirements for Visa Application
        Click here:
        ( PHOTO_GUIDELINES.pdf )

        Note: A self-service photo booth is available at the Embassy of India, Paris office.

Security Procedures

• Random bag checks may be conducted.

• Keep your passport, appointment letter, and receipts ready for inspection.

• Abusive or threatening behaviour towards staff will not be tolerated.

For more information, visit the Embassy's official website or email: visa.paris@mea.gov.in

Visa Processing Time (Minimum Guidelines)

French Passport Holders

• Standard Processing: Minimum 10 working days

Note: Processing may take longer depending on visa category or additional checks.

Non-French Passport or Dual Nationals

• Processing time varies based on nationality.

Important: Do not book travel until the visa has been issued.

Pakistani Nationals/Origin

• Minimum time: 35 working days (may take longer)

• Travel arrangements must align with the visa’s validity and should be made only after visa issuance.

French "Titre de Voyage" Holders

• It will depend upon original nationality of the applicant 

Visa Categories

Diplomatic & Official Visas

Diplomatic & Official Visas – Guidelines for Government and UN Personnel

1. Diplomatic Visa (Type D)

General:

• Issued to diplomats/persons visiting to India for joining

• Foreign embassies or consulates in India

• international organizations 

• For short term visit to India on diplomatic purpose.

• Dependents of diplomats holding diplomatic passports are eligible for Diplomatic Dependent Visas.

Documents Required 

• Visa is issued based on Note Verbale issued from Foreign Office/Embassy/ International organisation.

2. Official Visa (Type O1/O2)

General:

• Issued to officials holding official/service/ordinary passports.

• For officials assigned to a post in India.

• For officials visiting India on short-term official visit or meetings.

• Dependents travelling on official/service passports are eligible for corresponding dependent visas.

Documents required

• Visa is issued based on Note Verbale issued from Foreign Office/ Embassy /International organisation 

3. UN Diplomatic Visa (Type UD)

General:

• Granted to diplomatic representatives of United Nations organizations posted in or visiting India.

• Dependents of UN diplomats are eligible for dependent diplomatic visas.

Documents required

• Appropriate documentation/ and Note Verbale from the respective UN organization is required.

4. UN Official Visa (Type UO)

General:

• Issued to non-diplomatic UN officials.

• Applicable to technical experts, consultants, and staff on assignment or official visits to UN offices in India. 

• Dependents of UN officials are eligible for a UN Official Dependent Visa.

Documents required

• Appropriate documentation/ and Note Verbale from the respective UN organization is required.

• Embassy may seek any additional documents if required.

Tourist Visa 

Tourist Visa Guidelines for Foreign Nationals

1. Eligibility and Purpose

• Foreign nationals, whose sole purpose of visit is recreation, sightseeing, casual visits to friends or relatives, participation in short-term non structured courses, short-duration yoga programmes, or short-duration medical treatment should apply for a Tourist Visa.

2. Important Guidelines

• Continuous Stay Limitation: one can continuously stay maximum duration of 90 days and maximum stay duration shall not exceed 180 days in a calendar year in tourist visa

• No Extension or Conversion: The Tourist Visa cannot generally be extended or converted into any other type of visa while in India.

• Permitted Activities: Foreign nationals entering India on any visa category may engage in activities permitted under a Tourist Visa

• Re-entry Restrictions: Nationals of Afghanistan, China, Iraq, Sudan, foreigners of Pakistani origin, and stateless persons must observe a minimum gap of two (2) months between two visits to India on a Tourist Visa.

Important: 

3. Ineligibility for Tourist Visa

Applicants employed as journalist are required to apply for a Journalist Visa, even if their visit is solely for tourism or personal reasons.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR TOURIST VISA

Business Visa

Business Visa – Guidelines for Foreign Nationals Conducting Business in India

1. Purpose and Eligibility

Foreign nationals intending to engage in business-related activities in India are required to obtain a Business Visa. This visa is applicable to individuals who:

• Intend to establish an industrial or business venture or explore opportunities to set up a business/firm/company in India.(B1)

• Wish to attend technical meetings, discussions, Board meetings, or General meetings in connection with business operations. (B2)

• Are providing business support services, engaging in consultations/business meetings, or participating in other legitimate business activities. (B2)

• Are involved in commercial sports events (e.g., Indian Premier League, Indian Super League, Indian Badminton League), including foreign coaches and sportspersons under contract with remuneration. (B2)

2. Important Guidelines for Business Visa Holders

• Registration Requirement: Business Visa holders must register with the concerned FRRO/FRO (Foreigners Regional Registration Office / Foreigners Registration Office) if their aggregate stay in India exceeds 180 days in a calendar year.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR BUSINESS VISA

Medical Visa

Medical Visa – Guidelines for Foreign Nationals Seeking Treatment in India

1. Purpose and Eligibility

Foreign nationals who intend to undergo medical treatment in India must arrive on a Medical Visa, provided the treatment is to be availed at:

• Recognized/specialized/established hospitals, or

• Accredited treatment centers offering care under Indian systems of medicine (e.g., Ayurveda, Yoga, Unani, Siddha, and Homeopathy), recognized by the Government of India.

        Note:  As of April 2025, the Indian Medical Visa Online Application Form includes a new requirement: The Medical Visa Reference Number. This reference is generated by Indian hospitals through the Indian Government's AYUSH portal. This reference letter needs to be attached along with VISA application.

Accompanying family members or attendants of the patient must arrive on a Medical Attendant Visa.

2. Important Guidelines for Medical Visa Holders

A. Country-Specific Provisions

• Nationals other than Pakistan and Bangladesh:
  Up to two persons may be issued Medical Attendant Visas.

• Bangladeshi nationals:
  Up to three Medical Attendant Visas may be granted.

• Pakistani nationals:
  Only one Medical Attendant Visa is permitted.
  All Pakistani nationals holding Medical or Medical Attendant Visas must register with the concerned Foreigners Registration Office (FRO) within 24 hours of arrival in India.

B. General Requirements and Conditions

• Change of Hospital/Treatment Centre:
  Changes to the hospital or treatment facility listed on the original visa will be allowed only in exceptional cases, subject to submission of documentary proof supporting the change request.

• Registration Requirements:

• For all nationals (except Pakistani citizens):
  If the Medical or Medical Attendant Visa is valid for more than 180 days, the foreign national must register with the concerned FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival.

• For Pakistani nationals:
  Registration with the FRO is mandatory within 24 hours, regardless of visa duration.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR MEDICAL VISA

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR MEDICAL ATTND VISA

Employment Visa

Employment Visa – Guidelines for Foreign Nationals Working in India

1. Purpose and Eligibility

Foreign nationals intending to work in India must obtain a valid Employment Visa. This includes employment in projects (E1), Intra-company transferees (E2), NGO employees (E3), .This visa is granted to individuals who meet the following conditions:

• Are highly skilled and qualified professionals, and

• Are being employed or appointed by:

• An Indian company, organization, industry, or undertaking, or

• A foreign company, firm, or organization executing a project in India.

Special Provision – Employment (E-3) Visa:

Foreign nationals intending to work with Non-Governmental Organizations (NGOs) or Non-Profit Organizations (NPOs) on a voluntary basis, with or without an honorarium, must apply for an Employment (E-3) Visa.

2. Important Guidelines for Employment Visa Holders

• For Company Promoters or Owners:
  Foreign nationals who are promoters or majority shareholders of a company must enter India on a Business Visa, not an Employment Visa.

• No Change of Employer:
  Employment Visas are non-transferable. If a visa holder wishes to change employers, they must exit India and apply for a fresh Employment Visa.

• Notification of Employment Discontinuation:
  In the event of termination or resignation, the concerned FRRO/FRO must be informed immediately.

• Compliance with Indian Laws:
  All foreign employees must comply with:

• Minimum salary and employment conditions,

• Applicable tax regulations, and

• Other legal obligations as prescribed under Indian law.

• Restriction on Multiple Employment:
  A foreign national on an Employment Visa is not permitted to work for more than one organization simultaneously.

Note: Dependents are issued employment-dependent visas.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR EMPLOYMENT VISA

EMPLOYMENT VISA PROFORMA

Student Visa

Student Visa – Guidelines for Foreign Nationals Pursuing Education in India

It is now mandatory to register on the Study in India portal (https://studyinindia.gov.in/about-study-in-india-programme) and submit the required information on the portal. Upon registration, the portal generates a unique ID or ‘SII-ID’ which will be quoted on the student visa application.  Upon registration, the portal generates a unique ID or ‘SII-ID’ which will be quoted on the student visa application.  Applicants can also apply for E-Student visa in Evisa portal ( https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ) using this SII-ID.

1. Purpose and Eligibility

Foreign nationals intending to pursue structured academic, research, or internship programs in India must obtain a Student Visa. The visa includes sub-categories based on the nature of study or training:

• S-1 Visa:
  For higher education in Government of India–recognized institutions, including:

• South Asian University (SAU)

• Nalanda University

• Also applicable to provisional admission in short-term or student exchange programs.

• S-2 Visa:
  For school education at any recognized school in India.

• S-3 Visa:
  For cultural studies, including courses in:

• Yoga, Vedic culture

• Indian classical music and dance

• Buddhist studies
  Must be undertaken at institutions approved by the Government of India.

• S-4 Visa:
  For theological education and students engaged in missionary studies.

• S-5 Visa:
  For research scholars, including:

• Visiting research faculty

• Scholars in bilateral academic exchange programs

• Members of scientific, botanical, or anthropological expeditions

• S-6 Visa:
  For internships in:

• Indian companies

• Educational institutions

• NGOs

• Foreign missions or government organizations in India
  Also includes interns under the French VIE programme

2. Dependent Visa

• Student Dependent Visa:
  Dependents (spouse or children) of foreign students are eligible for a Student Dependent Visa, valid for the duration of the student’s authorized stay in India.

3. Important Guidelines for Student Visa Holders

• Foreign nationals wishing to study in premier Indian institutions can apply under the Study in India (SII) scheme.

• For details, visit: https://studyinindia.gov.in

• Foreign nationals (except Pakistani nationals) holding Student Visas valid for more than 180 days (or as per visa endorsement) must register with the concerned FRRO/FRO within 14 days of arrival.

• If the institution is located in a Restricted or Protected Area, the student must obtain a Restricted Area Permit (RAP) or Protected Area Permit (PAP), as applicable.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR STUDENT VISA

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR INTERNSHIP VISA

Transit Visa

Transit Visa – Guidelines for Foreign Nationals Transiting Through India

1. Purpose and Eligibility

Foreign nationals whose sole purpose is to transit through India en route to a destination outside the country are required to obtain a Transit Visa, unless they qualify for an exemption.

A Transit Visa:

• Is ordinarily valid for a single journey, and

• Permits entry within 15 days from the date of issue, unless specified otherwise.

• Shall not exceed the validity period of the visa for the final destination country.

The visa permits direct transit only and is valid for a stay of no more than 3 days for each visit.

Note: For a stay exceeding 3 days, an appropriate category visa must be obtained.

2. Key Conditions and Limitations

• If the journey is not undertaken within the validity period of the issued Transit Visa, a new visa must be obtained.

• The validity of a Transit Visa is generally non-extendable.

• For stays longer than 3 days, travelers must apply for a visa of the appropriate category.

3. Transit Without Visa – Specific Cases

A. Transit by Air

A Transit Visa is not required if:

• The traveler is in direct air transit through India, and

• Does not leave the specified precincts of the airport while in India.

Note: Travellers are advised to check with the concerned airline regarding any transit visa requirements applicable to their itinerary. 

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR TRANSIT VISA

Entry Visa

Entry Visa – Guidelines

1. Purpose and Eligibility

The Entry Visa is issued under three sub-categories based on the purpose of visit:

• X1 Visa:
  For persons of Indian origin, including their foreign spouse and foreign children of an Indian citizen, person of Indian origin, 

• X2 Visa:
  For foreign nationals coming to India to join recognized institutions and organizations such as:

• Auroville Foundation

• Aurobindo Ashram

• Missionaries of Charity

• Temples and other similar approved religious or charitable organizations.

• X-Misc:

        Visa is issued to foreign nationals whose purpose of visit does not fall under any of the standard visa categories outlined in the Indian Visa Manual like Foreign nationals holding property in India with prior approval from the Reserve Bank of India (RBI).

2. Important Guidelines

• The Entry Visa is specifically designed to facilitate persons of Indian origin and their families, as well as individuals joining recognized religious or charitable organizations in India.

• It also accommodates other special categories or purposes not included in standard visa classifications.(X- Misc)

• Applicants must meet the eligibility criteria corresponding to the sub-category of the Entry Visa being applied for.

• Registration with FRRO/FRO is required if the stay exceeds 180 days or as stipulated in the visa conditions.

• Visa holders are not permitted to engage in employment, formal education, or business activities in India, unless explicitly endorsed.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR ENTRY VISA

Conference Visa

Conference Visa – Guidelines for Attending Events in India

1. Purpose and Eligibility

A Conference Visa is granted to foreign nationals intending to attend:

• International conferences

• Seminars

• Workshops

• Symposia or similar events held in India

The visa is strictly for the purpose of participating in non-commercial, academic, or official discussions and not for paid assignments or professional engagements.

2. Documents required/Guidelines for Conference Visa Applicants

• Invitation Letter:
  Applicants must submit a formal invitation letter from the host organization/institution in India, clearly stating:

• Event name and nature (conference/seminar/workshop)

• Dates and venue

• Purpose of the visit

• Duration of stay

• Proof of registration or delegate status (if applicable)

• Clearance from Ministry of External Affairs (MEA)/Ministry of Home Affairs (MHA) (if applicable).

• No Employment or Commercial Activity:
  Conference Visa holders cannot undertake employment, research, or commercial activities while in India.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR CONFERENCE VISA

Journalist Visa

Journalist Visa – Guidelines for Foreign Media Professionals

1. Purpose and Eligibility

The Journalist Visa is designated for individuals engaged in audio visual/ print media activities as journalist. 

Even if the purpose of visit is tourism or personal travel, individuals working as journalist must apply for a Journalist Visa. They must submit a written declaration stating:

         “I am not visiting India for any professional purpose or assignment and will not engage in any journalistic, photographic, or other media-related work during my stay in India.”

4. Additional Guidelines

• Accreditation: Journalists intending to be stationed in India must seek Press Information Bureau (PIB) accreditation through the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting.

• Project Disclosure: Media professionals coming for journalistic assignments, documentary filming, or interviews must provide:

• Project summary or editorial focus

• Intended locations and interviews

• List of filming equipment and crew (if applicable)

• Restricted Areas: Special permission is required for coverage or filming in sensitive zones, border areas, defence installations, or tribal regions.

• Registration: Required only if the visa duration exceeds 180 days, or as specified on the visa.

• May approach pic.paris@mea.gov.in for further details

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR JOURNALIST VISA

Film Visa

Film Visa – Guidelines for Media and Entertainment Professionals

1. Purpose and Eligibility

The Film Visa is granted to foreign nationals involved in media and entertainment production activities in India. Eligible applicants include professionals associated with:

• Shooting of feature films

• TV and digital web series

• Reality TV shows

• Commercial and documentary films

• Music videos

• Location scouting and pre-production visits

This visa applies to:

• Producers, directors, cinematographers

• Cast and crew members

• Technical and creative professionals essential to the production

2. Important Guidelines for Film Visa Holders

• Project Approval Requirement:
  Prior approval from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting (MIB), Government of India, is mandatory for shooting films in India.

• Application Requirements:
  Applicants must submit:

• Detailed project synopsis

• Shooting schedule and locations

• List of equipment and crew members

• Consent from the Indian production partner (if applicable)

• Duration:
  Film Visas are issued for the duration of the production or pre-approved shooting schedule.

• Registration Requirement:
  Film Visa holders staying over 180 days must register with the FRRO/FRO concerned within 14 days of arrival.

• Prohibited Activities:
  Film Visa holders are not allowed to undertake any activity outside the scope of the approved media project.

DOCUMENT CHECKLIST FOR FILM VISA

APPLICABLE VISA FEE

Additional Forms & Templates