If you’re a South African citizen planning a trip to India—for tourism, business, medical treatment, or attending a conference—the India eVisa offers a quick and convenient way to get your travel authorization. There’s no need to visit an embassy or handle physical paperwork. Everything is done online, making it ideal for a hassle-free travel experience.
The India eVisa for South Africa offers South African travelers a simple and fast way to obtain a visa for tourism, business, medical, or conference visits to India—all through an easy online application without needing to visit an embassy.
1. What Is the India eVisa?
The India eVisa is an electronic travel authorization issued by the Indian government. Once approved, the visa is emailed to you as a PDF document. At immigration in India, it’s either stamped in your passport or electronically verified. The process is entirely online—from application to approval.
2. Who Can Apply?
South African citizens are eligible to apply for various categories of India eVisas, including:
- Tourist
- Business
- Medical
- Medical Attendant
- Conference
- Student or Ayush (for studies related to Indian traditional medicine)
Applicants must hold a valid South African passport with at least six months of validity and at least two blank pages.
3. Types of eVisa and Validity
Here are the main eVisa categories available for South African nationals:
| Visa Type | Purpose | Validity | Entries | Max Stay |
| Tourist eVisa | Leisure, sightseeing, family visit | 30 days / 1 year / 5 years | Double / Multiple | Up to 90 days per year |
| Business eVisa | Meetings, trade, etc. | 1 year | Multiple | 180 days per visit |
| Medical eVisa | Medical treatment in India | 60 days | Triple | 60 days |
| Medical Attendant | Accompanying a medical traveler | 60 days | Triple | 60 days |
| Conference eVisa | Attending official events | 30 days | Single | 30 days |
4. How to Apply for an India eVisa
The eVisa process is straightforward and completed in five basic steps:
- Fill out the application form online
- Upload required documents, such as a passport-style photo and a scanned copy of your passport
- Pay the visa fee using a debit or credit card
- Receive your eVisa by email (ETA – Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Travel to India and present your eVisa at immigration
5. Processing Time
- Standard processing takes 3–5 working days
- Urgent processing is available in some cases and may take 1–3 days
To avoid delays, apply at least a week before your departure. You can apply up to 120 days in advance.
6. Fees
Visa fees vary depending on the category and duration. Tourist eVisas, for example, may range from short-term (30-day) to long-term (5-year) options, each with different fee brackets. All fees are non-refundable.
7. Photo and Document Guidelines
To ensure your application is accepted:
- Submit a recent, color photo with a plain light background
- Provide a clear scan of your passport’s bio page
- Ensure both files are in the correct format and size as specified during the application
8. Ports of Entry
eVisa holders must enter India through designated international airports and seaports. These include major entry points such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kochi, among others. Land border crossings are not permitted with an eVisa. You can exit India from any authorized immigration check post.
9. Important Conditions
- eVisas are non-extendable and non-convertible
- For business travel exceeding 180 days, registration with local authorities may be required
- Dual citizens or individuals of Indian or Pakistani origin may have additional requirements
10. Common Issues and Solutions
- Haven’t received your eVisa? Check your spam folder or re-download using your application ID
- Payment problems? Try a different browser or clear your cache
- Photo rejected? Retake it to meet exact specifications
- Overstay? Penalties apply—always leave India before your visa expires
11. Arriving in India
At immigration:
- Present a printed or digital copy of your eVisa along with your passport
- Ensure you enter through one of the approved eVisa ports
- Your passport and visa will be verified and stamped on arrival
12. Practical Travel Tips
- Apply before booking non-refundable travel arrangements
- Always carry both printed and digital copies of your eVisa
- Check your passport’s validity before applying
- Bring supporting documents like invitation letters for business or medical purposes
- Each traveler, including children, must have a separate eVisa
13. Frequently Asked Questions
Can I extend my eVisa while in India?
No, eVisas cannot be extended or converted.
Can I use the eVisa to travel to neighboring countries?
No, the eVisa is valid only for entry into India.
Do children need separate eVisas?
Yes, every traveler—including minors—must apply individually.
14. Final Thoughts
The India eVisa is a convenient option for South African citizens planning short visits for tourism, business, or medical purposes. With no need to visit an embassy, you can apply from anywhere, get approved quickly, and enjoy a smooth arrival in India. Just make sure you follow the requirements carefully, apply early, and respect the visa’s conditions.
Travel confidently—your journey to India starts with the right preparation.
