Heading to India? This guide will explain exactly how to apply for an Indian visa from Australia, including what types of visas are available, the costs and processing times, and how to get professional advice.
Do Australians Need an Indian Visa?
India is a popular destination for Australian travellers, whether you plan to visit for a family visit, holiday, business, or personal emergency. But Australian passport holders need to obtain a visa to enter India. Knowing the process of getting an Indian visa from Australia will save you time, money and frustration.
Thankfully, with a few tips and tricks, the process can be fairly simple. Here’s all you need to know.
Indian Visa Types for Australians
When you apply for an Indian visa from Australia, you’ll need to select the type of visa you need for the reason you’re travelling. Here are the most common types of visas:
Tourist visa
A tourist visa is the most common type of visa for Australians travelling to India for holiday, sightseeing or visiting family and friends. Tourist visas can be issued as e-Visas for 30 days, 1 year or 5 years, with single or multiple entries (depending on the length of time chosen).
Business visa
This visa is for people travelling to India for business, trading, conferences or meetings. This type of visa can be issued for up to 5 years, and multiple-entry visas are available. A letter from your employer or an Indian business partner is usually required.
Emergency visa
If you have to visit India in an emergency, such as a family crisis, you can go for an Emergency Visa to gain quick entry to India.
Entry visa
This is for people of Indian origin or who have family members in India on work, student or research visas. The Entry Visa makes it easier for those with close family in India.
Transit visa
If you are flying or travelling by sea to a destination via India, and you want to stay in India, a Transit Visa allows you to transit through India without any problems.
Cost of an Indian Tourist Visa from Australia
When applying for an Indian visa from Australia, the price will vary based on the kind of visa you need and how long you need it for. Here are some examples of the approximate cost of an Indian tourist visa fee from Australia (using the Indian government’s e-Visa rates):
Visa type | Duration | Approx. fee (AUD) |
e-Tourist visa | 30 days | ~AUD 25–30 |
e-Tourist visa | 1 year | ~AUD 40–50 |
e-Tourist visa | 5 years | ~AUD 80–100 |
Regular tourist visa | 6 months – 10 years | ~AUD 100–150+ |
Fees are set by the Indian government and are subject to change. The above fees are approximate.
Visa Processing Times
A common question from Australia is whether there is a delay in processing visas. Here’s a general breakdown:
e-Visa (Internet): 3-5 business days
Normal visa (consulate): 5-10 days
Urgent visa: 1-3 days (if approved)
This period may be extended around the time of travel (October – March) or Indian festivals. We suggest that, as an Australian, you should apply for an Indian visa 4-6 weeks prior to the date you intend to travel, so that you can have time to prepare to travel.
Documents You Need to Get an Indian Visa in Australia
It is good to be ready. Generally, you’ll need:
A valid Australian passport (it must have a validity of at least 6 months on the day you wish to travel)
Recent passport photo (white background)
A completed visa application form.
Evidence of travelling (flight tickets or itinerary)
Evidence of the accommodation in India
Other documents, depending on the visa you are applying for (e.g. a business visa will need an invitation letter from your host in India, or other documents when you are applying for an emergency visa)
Indian Visa Application to Australia in 3 Simple Steps
We have simplified the process of applying for an Indian visa in Australia at Bharat Suvidha, without the agony. Our process goes as follows:
01. Create an account and enter information
Register and provide us with your details. It is a fast, safe and convenient method of initiating your visa application.
02. It is done by our professionals
We view, proofread and correct your application so that you do not commit any mistakes, and so that your application is successful.
03. Application lodged & delivered
We submit your application properly and keep you informed every step of the way, including delivery to your door.
Note:
Bharat Suvidha is an independent private service provider and is not connected with the Indian Ministry of External Affairs, Indian Consulates, High Commission of India in Canberra or any other Government of India authorised service centres.Want to Apply for an Indian Visa?
How to Apply for a Visa
For a smooth application process, check out these tips:
Make sure your name and other information match your passport
Send in clear photos and scans of documents
Don’t delay applying
Keep copies for your records
If you don’t get a response within the anticipated time frame, follow up
Conclusion
By doing the right preparation, gathering the right documents and submitting your application at the right time, you will be on your way to exploring all the beauty India has to offer, from the bustling cities to the peaceful countryside, the rich culture and the delectable cuisine.
If you want to leave it to the experts to do all the work for you, then contact Bharat Suvidha. Our team can help Australians get their Indian visas, so you can enjoy more time on your trip.
