For those planning a visit to India, the right visa category ensures a smooth and hassle-free journey. This article aims to be your ultimate guide to the various types of visas offered by the Indian government, shedding light on the details and requirements for each.
Types of Visas
1. Tourist Visa (T)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- Return journey tickets within 90 days.
Note: Tourist visas are non-extendable and non-convertible.
2. Business Visa (B)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- Letter from the company in Sweden/Latvia explaining the nature of business and duration of visit.
- Invitation letter from an Indian company stating the purpose and duration of the visa.
- Proof of financial standing and expertise in the field of intended business.
- Proof of registration of the inviting Indian Company/Incorporation letter.
Note: Business visa holders are required to register if the aggregate stay in India exceeds 180 days during a calendar year.
3. Employment Visa (E)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- Employment contract duly signed by the employer and employee.
- Proof of eligibility with a minimum salary offer of INR 16.25 lakhs per annum.
- Proof of registration/incorporation of the company with the Government of India.
- Copy of degree/diploma/certification/training.
- Resume of the applicant with relevant credentials.
Note: Employment visa is not extendable in Stockholm; extension must be sought at FRRO in India.
4. Student Visa (S)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- A letter from a recognized educational institution in India confirming admission and duration of the course.
- Evidence of financial arrangements made for maintenance in India.
- Proof of completion of graduation/post-graduation (Only for Internship).
Note: Maximum of four entries per academic year is allowed.
5. Transit Visa (TR)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- Copy of confirmed tickets for onward journey.
- Letter from the local company (Sweden/Latvia) for seafarers.
- Letter from the Indian company for seafarers.
Note: Valid for entry within 15 days of the date of issue for direct transit, not exceeding three days of visit.
6. Journalist Visa (J)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- A letter from the employer stating the purpose of travel and detailed program.
- For filming: Application form, undertaking, detailed synopsis, itinerary, bio-profile of the journalist/film-director, brief presentation of the production agency, exact locations with dates for filming, and crew details.
Note: Journalists are granted single-entry visas valid for a maximum stay of three months.
7. Medical/Medical Attendant Visa (Med)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs.
- Current valid passport with a minimum of 180 days validity.
- Copy of person bevis in English for residents in Sweden.
- One local address proof in English for residents of Latvia.
- Proof of payment with applicant’s full name, type of visa, and application ID.
Supporting Documents:
- Visa copy of the primary patient.
- Letter from the hospital/doctor in Sweden/Latvia recommending treatment in India.
- Medical certificate/advice from an established/recognized/specialized hospital in India.
Note: Medical Attendant visa is co-terminus with Medical Visa of the patient.
8. Conference Visa (C)
Basic Documents:
- Duly completed, printed, and signed visa application form.
- Two recent color passport size photographs