The relationship between India and Australia has been longstanding, and in order to foster closer collaboration, travel between the two countries is encouraged and facilitated via the issuance of visas and ports of exit. Indian visas for Australian citizens are available for a variety of purposes, including tourism, business, research and student exchange. Depending on the intended purpose of travel, applicants for a visa to India must follow distinct steps and procedures to enter the country lawfully.
What is an Indian visa?
For those travelling for business, tourism or other reasons, applying for an e-Visa to India is the most convenient option. The e-Visa is available from the Indian government’s Ministry of Home Affairs website, accessible from anywhere in the world, and requires a valid Australian passport and a minimum of six months validity remaining. The application process requires information such as personal details and passport information as well as a copy of a passport-size photograph, and payment of the INR 4000 fee. Once successfully applied, the e-Visa will be valid for one year, allowing multiple entries into India during that period. Indian Visa Port of Exit
Those travelling for the purpose of student exchange, research, or volunteering must apply for a regular visa through the Indian Embassy or Consulate in Australia. Requirements and procedures will vary depending on material considerations such as the type and duration of the visa, however generally applicants will need to provide additional documents such as a recent police check, and specific details of the individual’s study programme or research project.
How do I apply for an Indian visa?
Once a visa has been granted, travellers must pick an appropriate port of exit to ensure their entry into India goes as smoothly as possible. As India is a large country with a number of busy airports, it is difficult to predict which port is best for any individual traveller. However, if arriving in India via air, the busiest and most popular international airports are those in Mumbai, Delhi and Chennai. Travellers entering India via the sea must note that the process can be complicated and slow due to the limited capacity of ports and customs officials at seafront entry points, so travellers are encouraged to plan, research and contact port authorities prior to travelling.
Conclusion
In conclusion, Indian visas for Australian citizens are highly accessible and are available to suit a range of purposes. With the right application process and relevant procedural requirements, Australians can safely and securely visit the ancient and vibrant country of India.
