Indian Visa Options for Family Visits

Overview of Visa Types

The Indian government offers various visa types for different purposes and durations of travel.

<ul><li>e-Tourist Visa (30 days): For short trips, holidays, and visiting friends/relatives. Double entry.</li><li>e-Tourist Visa (1 year): For multiple leisure trips. Multiple entry; Canadian citizens are commonly allowed up to 180 days per visit.</li><li>e-Tourist Visa (5 years): For frequent tourism or family visits. Multiple entry.</li><li>e-Family Visa: Specifically for dependents travelling with a student or visiting a close relative who is an Indian citizen or OCI cardholder.</li><li>Regular (Paper) Visa: Required for purposes like work, long-term study, journalism, or missionary work.</li></ul>

How to Apply

To apply for an Indian eVisa, follow these steps:

1. Determine Your Visa Type: Choose the category that best fits your purpose and duration of travel.
2. Apply Online: Complete the application on the official Indian eVisa portal (indianvisaonline.gov.in).
3. Receive ETA: Once approved, you will receive an Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email.
4. Travel: Present your ETA and Canadian passport at Indian immigration. The eVisa is not a visa on arrival.

Important Note:
Your passport must be valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India and contain at least two blank pages.

Last Verified: October 26, 2026