Regular - paper (stamped) visa is obtained by submitting the application along with your passport at the Embassy. Applicants may note that, it is not an e-VISA* which can be obtained online by directly applying at e-visa portal. For regular - paper visa, an applicant must apply at the official government website: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/Registration. Detailed steps for applying for the regular - paper visa are explained below (Hyperlink to be generated for Section B: Steps).

*e-visa: While the regular visa services are provided by the Embassy/ Consulate, the e-Visa facility is an alternative facility where the entire process is online. The Embassy has no role in its processing, and for any e-visa related queries, applicants are advised to write to: indian-evisa@gov.in or contact at (+91) 827808 7808 or +91 11 24300666. Applicants should use the only authorized Indian e-visa portal/website which is: 

https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html

A1. Visa Application: An applicant first needs to login and fill application at online official visa platform: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/Registration. Please see the steps below to undertand the complete process.

A2. Passport Requirement: Original passport with a minimum validity of six monthsat the time of submitting visa application for grant of visa and at least two blank pages must be submitted with the application.

(Note: If the validity of a passport of a French national is less than 6 months, she/he can obtain an emergency passport and can apply on this emergency passport for regular - paper visa)

A3. Accuracy of Information: Personal details must match exactly as mentioned in the passport. Applicant is wholly responsible for accuracy of information.

A4. Photograph Requirements:Only photographs meeting Indian specifications will be accepted. Please refer to the link for photo requirements Click here: PHOTO_GUIDELINES.pdf 

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

A5. Residence Requirement:

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

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

Note: Applicants holding Stateless or Refugee Travel Documents must select their nationality as “Refugee” while filling the visa application form.

A6. Minor Applicants:Parents/Guardians of Minor Visa applicants are required to submit duly signed ‘Minor Travel Authorization form’ along with visa applications of Minors. (Download Minor Travel Authorization form Here)

A7. Fees Refund: Your payment allows you to deposit a visa application. The latter can be accepted, refused or modified by the Embassy of India in its full right. Visa fee once paid is non-refundable, even in a case of a visa refusal or canceling of an application except in cases of multiple or excess payments made in error. In case of excess or multiple payments, the excess payment will be refunded. One has to apply to the nodal Consular officer at: cons.paris@mea.gov.in for the refund of excess payment within three months of such excess / multiple payment with proof.

A8. Travel Arrangements: 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.

Note: 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 of visa. The visa may be refused without assigning any reason.

Step B1: Complete the Online Regular Visa Application Form

1. Begin your visa application by completing the online form on the official website of the Bureau of Immigration, Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India, i.e. https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/Registration

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

3. Fill in all required details accurately.

4. Take a print out of the visa application form submitted online, sign (at two places), and paste photographs (at two places) in the completed form.

Note: Submitting the online form alone does not complete the application process. You must submit the printed visa application form along with supporting documents in person at the Indian Embassy at 20-22 Rue Alberic Magnard 75016 Paris and pay the corresponding visa fees, after taking an online appointment

Step B2: Book an Appointment

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

2. An appointment confirmation email will be sent to you.

Step B3: Visit the Embassy of India at 20-22 Rue Alberic Magnard, Paris, France, on the Date of Appointment

What to Bring:

1. Your original passport

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

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

Step B4: Pay the Visa Fees

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

2. Visa fees is to be paid at the Embassy counter on the day of your scheduled appointment after submission of print out of visa application and supporting documents.

3. Visa fees payments could be done either with bank cards or in cash.

Step B5: After the submission of visa application:

1. Applicants could check the status of their visa applications on the following link: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/StatusEnquiry

2. Applicants should also regularly check their emails provided in the visa application for any emails sent by Embassy regarding any requirements for the visa application.

3. Once the status of the visa application shows “Granted and Printed” applicant could visit Embassy on any working day from 2 PM to 0430 PM for collection of their passports and registration of Biometrics.

(NOTE: There is no requirement of an appointment for collection of passport)

Step B6: On the day of your appointment:

• Arrive no earlier than 10 minutes before your appointment.

• Keep your passport, appointment letter and receipts (for collection of passports) ready for inspection while entering the Embassy.

• Only the applicant or his/her authorized representative will be permitted inside. One parent may accompany minors under 18.

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

[Note on Security Procedures: Security checks of bag and other belongings would be conducted before entry into the Embassy Premises]

Step B7: Registration of Biometrics

1. It is mandatory for all the visa applicants to visit the Embassy in-person for submitting of application as well as the biometrics (Photograph and finger prints). It may be noted that, submission of biometrics is a mandatory requirement. However, applicants below the age of 12 years and above the age of 70 years are exempted from registration of biometrics.

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

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

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

Step B8:Document Delivery

Applicants should collect their passport/documents directly from the Embassy (On any working day from 2 PM to 0430 PM) only after the status on the visa status link: https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/visa/StatusEnquiry shows ‘Granted and Printed’.

Issued to: Diplomats/persons visiting to India for joining foreign embassies or consulates or international organizations in India; or are on a short term visit on a diplomatic mission; dependents of diplomats holding diplomatic passports are eligible for Diplomatic Dependent Visas.

Documents Required: Visa is issued based on Note Verbales and invitation letters issued from Foreign Office/Embassy/ International organisations.

Official Visa (Type O1/O2)

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 and invitation letters issued from Foreign Office/Embassy/International organisations

Issued 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.

Issued to: Non-diplomatic UN officials which is 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.

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.

whose sole objective of visiting India is recreation, sightseeing, casual visit to meet friends or relatives, attending a short term yoga programme, short duration medical treatment including treatment under Ayush systems/ Indian systems of medicine, short term courses on local languages, music, dance, arts & crafts, cooking, medicine etc. which should not be a formal or structured course/ programme (courses not exceeding 6 months duration and not issued with a qualifying certificate/ diploma etc.), and voluntary work of short duration (for a maximum period of one month, which do not involve any monetary payment or consideration of any kind in return). etc. and no other purpose/ activity;

Important Guidelines: Continuous Stay Limitation: one can continuously stay for a maximum duration of 90 days, and maximum stay duration shall not exceed 180 days in a calendar year on 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.

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

Document checklist for tourist visa

Eligibility and Purpose: 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)

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

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.

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

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.

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 attendant visa

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.

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 

SII ID requirement: It is now mandatory for foreign students visiting India 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 E-Visa portal ( https://indianvisaonline.gov.in/evisa/tvoa.html ) using this SII-ID.

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. These courses must be undertaken in 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

• 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.

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

S-5 Visa Application

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. It 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 three days for each visit.

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 three days, travelers must apply for a visa of the appropriate category.

Transit Without Visa – Specific Cases

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. However, travellers are advised to check with the concerned airline regarding any transit visa requirements applicable to their itinerary. 

Document checklist for transit visa

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).

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

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.

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) (as applicable).

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

Document checklist for conference visa

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

If a journalist is traveling for tourism purpose or any other personal travel, he/she must apply for a Journalist Visa. Further, an applicant 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.”

Additional Guidelines

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

An applicant may write to pic.paris@mea.gov.in for further details.

Document checklist for journalist visa

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

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, and 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

Declaration Form

Minor Travel Authorization

Visa Application Cancellation Form

• French Passport Holders: Minimum time is 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.

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

• Pakistani Nationals/Origin: Minimum time is 35 working days (may take longer)

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

• French Titre de Voyage Holders: Processing time varies based on nationality