Traveller's Information (India)

Visa: All foreign tourists visiting to India (barring nationals of Nepal and Bangladesh) must posses a valid visa. Visas are not issued on arrival. The cost of the visa is approximately, US$: 30 for upto six months, US$: 50 for upto one year and US$: 100 for more than a year and upto five years. Contact the Indian Embassy or Consulate in your country with the required documents for issuance of visas. A tourist visa is valid for three to six months. The multiple entry tourist visas simplify your visits to neighboring countries. You will be required to fill in a disembarkation card on your way to India, which is required to be submitted at the immigration counters at the entry airport.

Transit Visas: Transit visas are granted by Indian Missions abroad for a maximum period of 15 days.

Photography Restrictions: Photography is prohibited in places of military importance, railway stations, bridges, airports and other military installations.

Foreign Currency: Foreign exchange / currency brought into India must be declared at customs if the value of foreign currency exceed US$: 2,500 or the aggregate value of the foreign exchange including currency notes exceeds US$: 10,000/- or equivalent. You can exchange money at International Airports where 24-hour exchange facilities are available, through banks and government approved money changers. You can also change money at nationalized banks and other commercial banks in the country.

Money Matters: The Indian Currency is the Rupee and it is a fully convertible currency. The Rupee notes are available in denominations of 500, 100, 50, 20, 10, 5, 2, and 1. Coins are available in the denominations of 5, 2, and 1 (rupee) and 50 and 25 paisa (Rupee 01 = Paisa 100).

Documents / Formalities: All travelers to India must possess a valid visa (Single / Multiple Entry) depending on the number of visit(s). It is advisable to carry your passport during your travel while in India for possible identification requirements.

Travel Insurance: All travellers to India must bring a travel insurance policy that covers theft and loss or a medical insurance as per your requirements from your home country.

Customs: There are two channels for customs clearance at international terminals in India airports. Green channel and Red channel.

1. Green Channel: This is for unhindered exit from the airport. You can walk through the green channel if you are not carrying goods which attract customs duty.

2. Red Channel: For those who love anything to declare including money worth more than US 2,500.