India has officially expanded its e-Visa program in 2025, introducing four new eVisa categories to simplify entry for tourists, filmmakers, mountaineers, transit passengers, and individuals with Indian ties. The new visa types — e-Transit, e-Mountaineering, e-Film, and e-Entry — make it easier than ever to apply for an India visa online without visiting an embassy or consulate.
This upgrade strengthens India’s digital immigration system and supports tourism, adventure travel, filmmaking, and diaspora connections.
New e-Visa Categories Introduced in 2025
1. e-Transit Visa (For Travelers Passing Through India)
The India e-Transit Visa is designed for travelers whose journey requires them to pass through India en route to another country.
Key Features:
- Valid for 30 days from the date of ETA (Electronic Travel Authorization)
- Allows two entries
- Requires a confirmed onward flight ticket
- Ideal for international passengers with connecting flights through Indian airports
2. e-Mountaineering Visa (For Trekkers & Climbers)
India has launched the e-Mountaineering Visa to support adventure tourism in destinations like the Himalayas, Ladakh, Uttarakhand, and Northeast India.
Key Features:
- Single-entry visa
- Valid for up to six months
- Requires approval/clearance from the Indian Mountaineering Foundation
- Suitable for mountaineering, trekking, hiking, and expedition activities
3. e-Film Visa (For Film Crews & Production Teams)
The new India e-Film Visa aims to attract global filmmakers by simplifying permissions for shooting movies, documentaries, and OTT content.
Key Features:
- Multiple-entry visa
- Valid for one year
- Requires approval from the Ministry of Information & Broadcasting
- Designed for directors, actors, crew, and production professionals
4. e-Entry Visa (For People of Indian Origin & Family Members)
The e-Entry Visa benefits individuals with close connections to India.
Key Features:
- Multiple-entry visa
- Valid for three months from first entry
- Available to:
- People of Indian Origin (PIO)
- Spouses of Indian citizens
- Dependents of long-term visa holders
How to Apply for the New India e-Visa Online
Applying for the new India e-Visa categories is 100% online and takes just a few minutes.
Steps to Apply:
- Visit the official Indian e-Visa portal
- Choose your correct visa category
- Fill out the online form
- Upload required documents (passport, photo, approval letters if applicable)
- Pay the e-Visa fee
- Receive your Electronic Travel Authorization (ETA) by email
Upon arrival at the airport, travelers will complete biometric verification, after which the visa is stamped into the passport.
Processing Time for India e-Visa 2025
The processing time remains fast and efficient:
⏱ 24 to 72 hours for most applications
This rapid turnaround makes the e-Visa system ideal for last-minute travel plans.
Why the Expanded e-Visa Program Matters
India’s 2025 e-Visa expansion aims to:
- Boost international tourism
- Attract film productions and media projects
- Support adventure tourism and mountaineering
- Strengthen connections with the global Indian diaspora
- Simplify immigration through a fully digital, paperless system
This modernization positions India as one of the most accessible destinations for global travellers.