Sail to India with Ease: Apply for an Indian e-Visa for Cruise Ship Travelers

Embarking on a cruise is an experience unlike any other — a perfect blend of comfort, excitement, and discovery. Cruising to India lets you uncover the country’s breathtaking coastlines, colorful ports, and rich traditions, offering a fresh and unforgettable way to experience its beauty.

To visit India on a cruise ship, travelers are required to obtain an Indian Tourist e-Visa, specifically designed for cruise ship passengers. This convenient online visa allows you to enter India and experience its rich heritage, vibrant culture, and stunning coastal destinations.

Types of Indian e-Tourist Visas for Cruise Ship Passengers

1. 30-Day Indian e-Tourist Visa: Valid for 30 days from the date of arrival in India and allows two entries. Ideal for cruise passengers making one or two port stops during their voyage.
2. 1-Year Indian e-Tourist Visa: Valid for one year from the date of issue and allows multiple entries. Perfect for travelers who plan to visit India three or more times within a year or take multiple cruises including Indian ports.
3. 5-Year Indian e-Tourist Visa: Valid for five years and allows multiple entries. Suitable for frequent travelers or cruise enthusiasts who plan to explore India’s ports over several years.

Applying for an Indian e-Visa for Cruise Ship travel is simple and entirely online — there’s no need to visit an Indian Embassy or Consulate in person. Before you begin the application, make sure you meet the following Indian e-Visa requirements for cruise ship passengers:

• Valid Passport: Your passport must be valid for at least six months from your date of arrival in India.
• Return or Onward Ticket: Proof of a return ticket or confirmed onward journey is required.
• Financial Means: You must have sufficient funds to cover your expenses during your stay in India.
• Recent Photograph: A passport-sized photo that meets official Indian visa photo requirements must be uploaded with your application.

When Can You Apply for a Visa to India for Cruise Ship Passengers?

• You can apply for the Indian e-Visa for Cruise Ship Passengers if you meet the eligibility conditions set by the Government of India.
• To be eligible, you must be a citizen of a country eligible for the Indian e-Visa and your cruise ship must depart from and stop only at authorised Indian seaports.
• The authorised seaports include Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Mormugao (Goa), and New Mangalore (Mangalore). These are the only ports where cruise ships are permitted to arrive or depart under the Indian e-Visa scheme for cruise passengers.
• Ensure your cruise itinerary matches the authorised seaports; otherwise, you may need to apply for a traditional or paper Indian Visa, which can be a longer and more time-consuming process.
• When applying for a Visa to India as a cruise ship passenger, apply for the Tourist e-Visa, intended for sightseeing and recreational purposes.
• If your cruise makes only one or two stops in India, apply for the 30-Day Tourist e-Visa, which allows you to stay for up to 30 days from entry and permits double entry.
• The date of expiry mentioned on the 30-Day Tourist e-Visa refers to the last date by which you must enter India, not the date by which you must leave.
• If your cruise makes more than two stops in India, apply for the 1-Year Tourist e-Visa, valid for 365 days from the date of issue and allows multiple entries during its validity period.
• The 1-Year Tourist e-Visa validity starts from the date of issue, not from your entry date, and remains valid for 365 days thereafter.

Documents Required

• A scanned copy of the biographical page of your passport (valid for at least 6 months from your date of entry into India).
• A recent passport-style colour photo of your face (can be taken with a smartphone if clear and meets photo requirements).
• A working email address to receive visa updates and approval.
• A debit or credit card to pay the visa application fee online.
• Travel details for your trip within India and your cruise itinerary.
• A return or onward ticket showing your departure from India.

Biometric data is no longer required for cruise ship passengers, making the process simpler and quicker.

Eligibility

• You must be a citizen of a country eligible for an Indian Visa.
• Your cruise ship must leave from and make stops at authorised seaports such as Mumbai, Chennai, Cochin, Mormugao (Goa), and New Mangalore (Mangalore).

Which e-Visa to Apply For?

• If your cruise has only one or two stops in India, apply for the 30-Day Tourist e-Visa.
• If your cruise has more than two stops in India, apply for the 1-Year Tourist e-Visa.

Applying for an Indian Visa is a straightforward process. If you meet the eligibility conditions and requirements, you can apply and get your visa without any difficulties. However, if you need any help or guidance, feel free to contact our helpdesk.