Whether you are an Indian resident or an Indian citizen, getting an Indian visa can be a complicated process, especially if you are not well-versed with Indian immigration laws and regulations. But we are here to help! Here’s what you need to know about applying for an Indian visa from Singapore as well as Russia.
1. What documents are required?
A passport is valid for at least six months after the intended stay. A passport-style photograph (white background). Copy of return air ticket. A written invitation from the Indian national sponsor along with a copy of his/her Indian Residence Permit (called NOC). If the applicant is a minor (below 18 years), he must be accompanied by a parent or legal guardian who will take full responsibility for his stay in India; The letter must state the name, relationship, occupation, and home address of the parent/guardian; A photocopy of passport is also required. Copy of marriage certificate or birth certificate where applicable. Letter from employer stating current position and salary, with original stamp signed by the employer, if employed. Indian Visa for Russian Citizens
2. Where can I get a visa?
There are four basic types of Indian visas: tourist, business, medical and employment. Before traveling to India on a visa other than a tourist visa, you must apply in advance at an Indian embassy or consulate. Generally speaking, it’s best to plan to give yourself at least two weeks before your departure date to secure your visa. Also note that you cannot get a visa at the border crossing or airport – if you show up without a visa in hand, they will not allow you to enter India. If your passport is about to expire (within six months), be sure to check out our helpful guide on how to renew it. Once you secure your Indian visa from one of their authorized outlets, don’t forget about travel insurance!
3. How long will it take?
Indian visas can take anywhere from a few days to a few weeks. It all depends on your country of birth, how long you are visiting and what type of visa you are applying for. For example, Russian-Singaporean travelers applying to enter as businessmen or Indian nationals applying to work in India may have their visa process take about three weeks; Regular Russian tourists hoping to spend a week in Goa can only wait a few days. It can be quite confusing when all is said and done, but there is no substitute for doing some research beforehand so that you know what type of Indian visa you should be looking for.
4. When do I apply?
Generally, you can apply for a visa up to 90 days before your travel date. However, it’s best not to delay—you should apply at least one month before your planned trip. If you don’t, you may struggle to get everything organized in time, which could result in your visa being refused or worse, rejected. All Indian visas must be booked online through VFS Global if you are traveling after August 31, 2016. Indian Visa for Singapore Citizens
What should I expect during the application process?
To get a visa, you need to apply in person at the High Commission or Indian Embassy. It is wise to call ahead and schedule an appointment. In some cases, you may need to submit your passport six weeks before your trip is scheduled. Depending on where you live, it can take anywhere from a week or two to several months for your visa application status to be updated online. You should expect multiple visits as applicants will go through security checks each time they make an appointment.
5. Tips for getting Indian Visa
If you are visiting India, you will need to secure a visa before your trip. Nowadays, getting an Indian visa is quite easy. It is one of only three countries that does not require a visa before arrival (Ecuador and the Maldives are the other two). That said, if you plan to spend more than 30 days in India, you must apply for a tourist visa before arrival. Once there, you can either pick up your official e-Visa or opt for a traditional paper passport stamp while in the country. If this seems like too much to do all at once, remember that tourist visas are usually issued on arrival at all international airports – just bring your passport along with the completed application form.
